Long Lost Samurai Sword Returns to Japan
Progressive samurai Yoshida Shoin was denied his dream of crossing the ocean, but his 'tanto' still made it to California.
An 8-Day Journey Through the 'Rising Dragon'
Travel through the 'Rising Dragon' region of Japan, where you'll find ancient shrines, exquisite gold leaf, top-ranked gardens, incredible festivals, panoramic mountain views, plus markets, museums, kabuki and more!
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.
We Eat Mushrooms, But What Do Mushrooms Eat?
While wild mushroom hunting is a well-known hobby in Japan, not many of us know how mushrooms are farmed. Come take a closer look at the cultivation process for one of Japan's most famous mushrooms, the earthy, meaty shiitake.
11 Lesser-Known Sporting Competitions in Japan
While the Tokyo Marathon may get a lot of attention, there are a number of other prime sporting events you can watch or take part in throughout the year, from triathlons and trail running to snowboarding and surfing.
Atami & Shuzenji Hot Spring Resorts
If you're looking for an intimate view of Mount Fuji, Atami and Shuzenji present a compelling alternative to Hakone.
Top 5 Multiple-Hot-Spring Hotels
Sometimes one 'onsen' just isn't enough—which is why these places have numerous hot spring baths to soak in!
Shoryudo — Rising Dragon of Japan
Have you ever made soy sauce by hand? Neither had Rachel! Follow her journey through the 'Rising Dragon' of Japan, a route that travels through Shizuoka, Aichi, Ishikawa, Gifu and Nagano Prefectures.
Top 10 Zoos in Japan
Get your fill of Japan's wildest and cutest animals courtesy of these excellent zoos.
Shunkado: 130 Years of Sweets
Shunkado's flagship confection, the Unagipie Pastry, has been known for over 50 years as the signature souvenir of Shizuoka Prefecture. Eel extract never tasted so good!
Experiencing 'Overseas' Resorts in Japan
Exotic resorts abroad are popular with Japanese tourists, but not everyone can make the trip overseas. We did some sleuthing and found four faux-'foreign' resorts you can stay at right in Japan!
Wasabi—Japan’s Fiery, Flavorful Root
Ingredients Healthy Japanese Food
Wasabi is Japan’s signature condiment. There is no substitute for the pleasurable burn on your palate of the grated goodness of this herb!
Shoryudo: Knockout Destinations
From ropeways and waterfalls to castles and historic gardens, the 'Rising Dragon Road' through central Japan does everything to catch your eye!
The 11 Best Things to See in Golden Week
Golden Week is the biggest holiday of the year in Japan, and these 11 spots and events each offer something unique that can only be experienced at this time of year. You don't want to miss them!
The Top 11 Hot Spring Hot Spots in Japan!
Before modern medicine was invented, onsen (hot springs) were revered as sacred places blessed with magical healing properties. During the Edo Period, sick patients would soak in the onsen for weeks to leave the pools feeling healthy and refreshed!
The Earliest Blooming Sakura on Mainland Japan
People around the country are sharing stunning photos of the early blossoming sakura in full bloom.
7 Bugs Lurking in the Japanese Countryside
What would you do if you spotted one of these on your towel—after you'd used it?!
UNESCO Sites in the Tokyo Area
Tokyo is great for food, shopping and relaxation. But you should know there are also a handful of stellar World Heritage Sites right in the area!
All About Manneken Waffles
Love that fresh-baked-bread smell? In the Kansai area, you can savor the scent of freshly fried waffles at 18 train stations thanks to the famous Mannekin chain. Read on to learn all about these amazing waffles!
11 Record-Setting Sites in Japan
Venture out and discover these 11 spots that break records in Japan, from the tallest building to the deepest lake. Or how about the city that eats the most ice cream?!
