Breathe in that Fresh Nenba Air
Japanese Countryside Yamanashi
Look out Shirakawa-go and Gokayama! There's a new village that has thatched-roof farmhouses that are only a day trip from Tokyo!
The City of Photo Props
This Chiba town is proud of its long history—and its face cutout photo prop opportunities!
6 Foreigners Making Waves in the Countryside
Japanese Countryside Deeper Japan
Most of the subjects of this story didn't see themselves where they are now—but all of them found something incredible in the Japanese countryside, leading each to develop a unique and indelible bond to the local community.
5 Classic Cultural Activities in Saitama
Located just north of Tokyo, Saitama Prefecture has preserved beautiful pockets of traditional Japan. While there's much to see, there's just as much that you can try out first-hand!
Hike the 'Road to Laputa'
High atop Mount Aso in Kumamoto Prefecture lies a hidden, winding path that leads you to a picture-perfect Ghibli-like view.
8 Reasons to Live in the Japanese Countryside
From the quiet to the space to the cheaper price of pretty much everything—not to mention better air and access to outdoor activities—there are plenty of great reasons to love the countryside!
Japan's Top 3 Flower Parks
Being cocooned by sweet floral scents among a palette of bright colors will leave your nose and eyes calling out for more!
The 5 Most Beautiful Villages in Kyushu
Explore Southern Japan's rural charm as we take a mini-tour of Kyushu's beautiful villages.
Top 6 Flower Spots in Saitama
Saitama is one of the best spots in Japan to experience the nation's stunning flower parks and botanical gardens.
Home Movies of Pre-War Hiroshima
This home movie from American Marlin D. Farnum offers a glimpse into ordinary citizens' lives in Hiroshima back before World War II.
Promoting the Healing Power of Nature
The Kaminoyama Onsen Kurort project is a wellness and leisure spot in Yamagata Prefecture that focuses on medical science-based healthy outdoor walks and invigorating visitors through local culinary and hot spring resources.
6 Awesome Things to See & Do in Chichibu
Chichibu is located in western Saitama, just 90 minutes from central Tokyo. A popular tourist destination full of temples and shrines, it's known as a spot for delicious food and sightseeing.
6 Great Innovations from Japan's Countryside
From urban planning and fish farming to food recycling and the re-invigoration of traditional techniques, a number of great ideas have come out of Japan's smaller towns and cities.
Interview with Kurashiki Mayor Kaori Ito
The city of Kurashiki in Okayama Prefecture is maintaining its path of developmental growth even as it attracts crowds of visitors from other parts of Japan and abroad.
What's Japan's Best Rural Area to Live in?
Publisher Takarajimasha addresses this question in a survey that shows some shocking results. Who knew the top four spots would all be on the same island?
Video: 1,840 km of Japan in 14 Days
From Hiroshima to Nikko and all points in between, this four-minute video covers a whole lot of ground!
3 Chiba Ramen Shops to Hit by Bike
Brian MacDuckston from Ramen Adventures has assembled a few Ramen Riders to go check out ramen shops by motorcycle—and Chiba is a fine candidate for bike-based slurping.
3 Cool Countryside Day Trips from Tokyo
World Heritage Japanese Countryside
We all need a break from the city sometimes. Experience the other side of Japan with these three day trips to the countryside right outside Tokyo.
A Taste of Green Tourism in Traditional Japan
Despite their combined population of only 900, the villages of Shunran no Sato drew 11,000 visitors in 2014, attracted by the prospect of experiencing traditional Japanese life from locals only too happy to share.
5 Stunning Walks in the Japanese Countryside
Japanese Countryside Tohoku Resorts
Locals share secret trails with incredible views of the Japanese countryside!
