MERCHANT DISTRICT

The best place to experience authentic sumo wrestler culture is at Kokugikan Street in Ryogoku. You can learn about sumo wrestling, watch a sumo match, and even eat like a sumo wrestler.

Akita tends to be pretty far off the beaten path, even for those who do make it to Tohoku. However, Akita is rich in both history and natural beauty, well worth a visit.

Miyagi is a place where traditional Japanese culture is still alive with wooden kokeshi dolls to mountain hot spring towns there is something for everyone.

While some ancient castles may be hard to find in Japan today, many of their surrounding villages are still standing strong.

These shops near one of Shinto’s holiest shrines will make you feel as though you have slipped back into the feudal period.

The immaculately preserved Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter is recognized as one of the most charming merchant’s quarters in all Japan. Located in Okayama Prefecture, local museums also feature masterpieces by El Greco, Monet and Picasso.

Take a casual stroll around Bikan, the well-preserved historical quarter of Kurashiki.