Japan's 20 UNESCO World Heritage Sites
World Heritage Temples & Shrines
Every traveler to Japan should be sure to visit at least a few of the nation's stellar World Heritage Sites, ranging from 1,000-year-old temples and shrines to breathtaking natural biospheres.
12 Great Hikes in Japan's National Parks
You can follow the trails through Japan's national parks to mountain peaks and coastal views—and sometimes both at the same time!
Japan—Where Tradition Meets the Future
World Heritage Temples & Shrines
Centered around a slick video of 45 locations across three regions of Japan, the JNTO's new European campaign is a beauty to behold.
Top 10 Natural Power Spots of Kansai
Japan is a haven for beautiful nature, and Kansai is one of the best places to experience just that.
Highway to the Gods: In the Footsteps of Oyama Pilgrims
Mt. Oyama, a peak to the southwest of Tokyo, has long been the goal of pilgrims eager to pay their respects to the gods. Today, visitors can follow in their footsteps on a short, fun trip out of the city.
6 Reasons You Have to Visit Ehime
Filled with history, culture and mikan, Ehime is a must-add to your Japan itinerary.
Take the Path of Faith to Discover Nature
Temples & Shrines The Wonder 500
Rediscover yourself in mystical places deep in the mountains.
Discover Your Spiritual Side at Koyasan
Mount Koya is one of Japan’s most sacred spots, and the perfect place to experience an overnight stay in a Buddhist temple.
Mount Fuji's Northern Gateway
Said to date all the way back to the year 110, Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine marks the entrance to the Yoshidaguchi climbing trail on the north side of Mount Fuji.
The Road to Koyasan: A One-Day Pilgrimage with Kobo Daishi
Follow in the footsteps of pilgrims on this day hike up Japan's Mt. Koya, home to over 100 temples.
A Guide to the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trails
Winding through the Kii Peninsula, these are the only UNESCO World Heritage pilgrimage trails in Japan.
Take the Chichibu 34 Kannon Pilgrimage
The Chichibu Valley is home to beautiful mountains and rivers—and a centuries-old temple pilgrimage unlike any other in Japan.
Finding Anime in Real Life: 10 Tokyo Locations
The folklorist that I am, I decided to choose ten anime featuring creatures from Japanese myth (but with a little Western thrown in as well). Keep reading to check out if your favorite anime is included on my list!
A Walk Through Tokyo History: Yotsuya to Shinjuku on the Koshu Kaido Road
Historical Site Tokyo Day Trips
A guide to walking through the center of Tokyo on the course of the Koshu Kaido road, one of the five routes that connected the old city of Edo with the provinces. Among the modern buildings and bustling streets are remnants of a remarkable past.
Ultimate Itinerary: Koyasan in Wakayama
Whether you’re planning a day trip or a full stay, read on to discover how you can get the most out of this magical and spiritual destination. Welcome to the ultimate itinerary for a trip to Koyasan in Wakayama, from Osaka.
In the Footsteps of Japan’s Yamabushi Ascetics
Visit this isolated village in central Japan for a glimpse of Japan's ancient ascetic traditions that are still being practiced today.
A Taste of the Kumanokodo Pilgrimage
Join the runAway Japan team as they take on the Magose Toge Trail, the most popular portion of the UNESCO-recognized Kumanokodo Pilgrimage.
A Backpacker's Guide to Kochi
Join Stephen Schreck from A Backpacker's Tale as he visits Kochi Prefecture to do what he does best—learn the ins and outs of the region, and what makes it a fantastic destination for those looking to get off the beaten path!
Hiking Japan’s Ancient Roads
Follow in the footsteps of pilgrims, samurai and royalty on these historic Japanese highways.
