All About Japan

Top 20 Power Spots in Japan

Japan seems to be overflowing with so-called 'power spots.' Here are 20 of the best, many of them tied to mountain worship, ancient shrines, and the very origins of Japan.

Visit the Golden Pavilion in Kyoto

The intense shine of the Golden Pavilion reflects on calm waters, reminding us why this temple is considered a part of our World Heritage.

7 Samurai Spots in Tokyo & Surrounding Areas

Relive the Edo days with our selection of samurai-related spots in and near Tokyo... with two special bonuses!

Venture out to the LGBT-Friendly City of Osaka

It's well known that opinions about same-sex marriage and rights are still divided in Japan. But Osaka seems to be ahead of the curve.

21 Top Spots Outside Japan's 'Golden Route'

Many tourists concentrate on the so-called 'Golden Route' connecting Tokyo to Kyoto and Osaka. But what do you do if you want to get off the principal tourist highway and see the best of the rest? Here are Japan's 21 best off-the-Golden-Route spots!

The Many Sides of Kitakata

We've traveled around the Tohoku region with Nick, checking out some of the great moments from his travels. But this time, we'll join the intrepid writer as he revisits his old stomping grounds, getting a deeper look at the city of Kitakata!

Embracing the Warmth of Tohoku in Hachinohe

My journey to northern Japan led to an immersion in the rich culture and hospitality of the residents and regions of Hachinohe, Aomori.

Top 30 Spots Across Japan Ranked by Tourists

Travel website TripAdvisor has just listed this year's hot spots in Japan as selected by overseas visitors and we can't wait to see what's at number one!

The Hill of Buddha — An Architectural Marvel

Outside the city of Sapporo, hidden by the beautiful, natural landscape of Hokkaido, rests an awe-inspiring statue.

Top 10 Museums as Chosen by Overseas Tourists

These collections of samurai armor, ancient artifacts and futuristic technology are sure to pique your interest.

Kyoto Temple Offers Rare Autumn Illumination

Mark your calendar, because this year the stunning Rurikoin will be open for public viewing only from Sunday, November 1 through Monday, November 30.

Discover Kanzanji Temple in Shizuoka

Head to central Japan to recharge your batteries at this incredible power spot, and have the best freshwater eel you've ever tasted while there!

All About ADMT: Advertising Museum Tokyo

To commemorate the 100th birthday of Hideo Yoshida, the fourth CEO of Japanese advertising conglomerate Dentsu, an NPO group called Yoshida Hideo Memorial Foundation opened a museum in December 2002 dedicated to the history of advertising in Japan.

3 Reasons to Visit Kyoto in May

There’s never a bad time to visit Japan’s former capital of Kyoto, but May is an especially good time for these three exceptional reasons!

A Quick Guide to the Sights of Nara

Visit Nara, the city where you’ll find one of Japan’s largest and most famous bronze Buddha statue, its second-tallest pagoda, and hundreds of friendly deer!

World Heritage in Okinawa: Shuri Castle

Shuri Castle is one of the most popular destinations in Okinawa's capital—and one of the five most-visited castles in Japan!

Starbucks Opts for Tradition in Kyoto

Century-old teahouse starts new life with tatami floors and 'zabuton' cushions for customers at this American café chain.

Historic Photos of Japan Brought to Life by AI

A new technique developed by researchers at Waseda University is giving old photographs a vibrant and colorful new life.

Legendary Katana Now On Display in Tokyo

The legendary crescent moon katana, one of Japan's Five Swords Under Heaven, is now on display and is a hit with history buffs and video gamers alike.

Japan's 12 Most Famous Samurai

You probably know Miyamoto Musashi, but how many other real-world samurai can you name? Here are 12 of the most famous samurai in Japan!

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