Day Walk of Ryogoku: Sumo, Swords, Souvenirs, and Wild Boar
Tokyo's Ryogoku district is closely associated with sumo, but there's plenty more to see and do here in this traditional area of downtown Tokyo.
Small Spaces, Part IV: Japanese Ideas for Small and Tiny Homes
The fourth of a series on innovative, space-saving methods from traditional and modern Japanese architecture that can be used in any home, regardless of size.
Idyllic Etajima: Inland Sea Getaway
This inland sea island flies under the radar of most travelers, making it the perfect place to escape.
Volcanic Playground: Exploring Kyushu’s Fiery Shimabara Peninsula
The Shimabara Peninsula is a little-touristed corner of Nagasaki with something for everyone: volcanic hikes, hot springs and beaches, eye-popping vistas and historical sites.
JAPAN MASTERY COLLECTION: Showcasing Japan’s regional luxury brands
The Japan Mastery Collection has been opened at Haneda Airport Terminal 3 last year. The collection features garments, artworks, household items, and other products that represent the refined skills, and history of different regions across Japan.
Exploring Azabudai Hills, Tokyo’s Latest Luxe Urban Microcosm
Mixing office, residential, retail and culture, Azabudai Hills is a bid to enhance Tokyo’s status as a competitive global city and a remarkable gamble in an era when remote work has become a serious challenge to traditional downtown office real estate.
Aizu Wakamatsu Lives by the Code of its Samurai Past
A visit to Aizu Wakamatsu is a chance to study the samurai code that emphasized honor, respect and ethical behavior.
Fukui: A Self-Care Sanctuary Just A Train-Ride Away from Tokyo
With the post-Covid travel boom, Kyoto has become too crowded for temple-trotting and Wakayama's Koyasan is too far from a Tokyo travel base. Good thing that Fukui, Japan's ultimate power spot and zen haven, is so accessible!
From Ancient Ruins to 20th Century Homes: Five Historical Parks in Japan
Japan has a number of historical parks that feature buildings and items from prehistorical times to reconstructed Meiji-era neighborhoods. Here are five of the best historical parks!
How to See Japan's Imperial Treasures
A little known museum in central Tokyo offers a peerless collection of Japanese art, and a fascinating glimpse into the elegant and cultured lives of Japan's Imperial Family.
Recent Non-Fiction Books About Japan That You Must Read
Looking for your next great read about Japan? Here's a selection of some of the best non-fiction books—from memoirs to culinary explorations—published in the 2020s.
Road to Recovery: Hiking the Fukushima Coastal Trail
A new 200-km trail connects Fukushima Prefecture to the Michinoku Shiokaze Trail.
How to Beat the Crowds in Japan as Tourism Booms
Here are a few tips on how to enjoy the best Japan has to offer as tourism to the country increases in leaps and bounds.
A 5-Day Pilgrimage on the Kumano Kodo Nakahechi Route
The Kumano Kodo Nakahechi course is a majestic pilgrimage trail in Wakayama Prefecture where you can explore historic temples and shrines, dine on local delicacies, and rejuvenate in soothing hot springs.
The City of Himeji: More than Just a Castle
Himeji is a major destination for many visitors to Japan thanks to its spectacular castle, but there is far more to experience in this compact city, filled with history, regional foods, and friendly locals!
Japan's Finest Glamping Spots
the beauty of glamping (a term derived from the words "glamorous camping") is that all the hard work has been done before the camper even arrives. Here's a guide to some of Japan's best spots for this enjoying the outdoors in luxury.
An Early Spring Spectacle: 10 Spots in and Around Tokyo for Plum Blossom Viewing
While cherry blossoms often take the spotlight in late spring, plum blossoms are their lesser-known, early-blooming cousin that are equally appealing!
Water, Rocks, Plants, and More: Five Types of Japanese Gardens
There’s more to Japanese gardens than beautiful landscaping. Come stroll through the history of five types of gardens you should explore on your next trip.
Abroad in Japan: A Book Review
Influencer Chris Broad's chronicles his experiences in Japan—and his immensely popular Youtube channel—in a new, best-selling book.
Eco-Tourism in the Ogasawara Islands: Composting toilet Lessens Inbound Impact
Protecting the natural habitat of a remote Japanese island chain requires dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to controlled development. Joy Jarman Walsh traveled to Hahajima and talked to islanders about their work preserving the ecosystem, and th