All About Japan

The Best 'Hanami' Spots in Each Prefecture

Enjoy the best of the cherry blossom viewing season with this list of the top spots to see sakura around the country.

12 Things to Do in Ibaraki in Autumn

Incredible flowers bloom in Ibaraki even as the leaves on the trees begin to turn yellow, orange and red.

Japan's 1st Transgender Man Elected to Office

In March 2017, Japan elected its first openly transgender man to public office who drew on his own experiences of isolation during his campaign.

10 Things to Do in Tochigi in Autumn

Autumn in Japan is a magical, colorful time, and Tochigi is no exception with its beautiful leaves and myriad of fun activities to do in the cool weather.

Secret Sakura Spots in Residential Areas

Not all cherry blossom trees are planted in Yoyogi, Shinjuku Gyoen, Inokashira or Sankeien. You'd be surprised to know that a lot of regular neighborhood areas in and around Tokyo also have Instagram-worthy spots for the perfect sakura shot.

12 Things to Do in Gunma in Spring

Gunma offers its cherry blossoms combined with daffodils, mountain phlox, converted tramcars, feudal warriors and even a World Heritage Site.

12 Things to Do in Ibaraki in Winter

Warm your heart this winter with these exciting activities in Ibaraki.

9 Things to Do in Tochigi in Spring

Tochigi is full of colorful delight as spring brings a wide swathe of flora across the prefecture.

Japan Gets Its 1st Umami Burger Resturant

The hit California burger chain, Umami Burger, opens its first restaurant in the land of the rising sun.

11 Things to Do in Gunma in Autumn

Gunma is a hiker's paradise, and autumn is the ideal time to visit. As the leaves change color, discover one of the Three Great Scenic Wonders of Japan, beautiful marshes, waterfalls, hot springs and more!

Tokyo Side Trips for Every Type of Traveler

While Tokyo alone could satisfy your craving for a yin and yang experience—say, a taste of city life in Shibuya coupled with the greenery of Shinjuku Gyoen—there's more to enjoy beyond the city limits of Tokyo!

Sumida: Where Japan’s Past & Future Collide

As cherry blossom season shifts into high gear around the country, join our writer Nick as he spends time in Tokyo’s historic Sumida Ward, enjoying the surrounding beauty and a variety of immersive cultural experiences!

Enjoy Nighttime Sakura Petals in an Onsen

Dip your feet into these baths as cherry blossom petals tickle your toes.

JR Explained

When talking about Japanese trains, surely Japan Railways (JR) comes to mind. But did you know that JR isn't one single company, but six?

10 Things to Do in Gunma in Winter

In addition to being one of Japan's major ski and snowboard centers, Gunma offers hot springs, winter illumination and cultural activities to warm up the colder months.

What's the Difference Between Tokyo & Osaka?

Debating between visiting Japan's two most prominent cities? Tokyo's got the bright lights, but Osaka's got the character. Here's a comparison to help you choose between the two!

8 National Records in the North Kanto Region

From the world's biggest standing bronze statue to the nation's highest bungee jump, the North Kanto region sets records on both a national and global scale!

9 Things to Do in Tochigi in Summer

Nature and history are among the many wonderful things you can enjoy during a Tochigi summer.

9 Things to Do in Tochigi in Winter

Don't let the snow keep you indoors! There's so much to do Tochigi in the wintertime.

11 Things to Do in Gunma in Summer

Blessed with numerous mountains, lakes and rivers, Gunma offers a wealth of outdoors activities in the summertime. Try mountain climbing, rafting, canyoning, canoeing and more—then rest your weary bones in one of the region's celebrated hot springs.

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