12 Things to Do in Ibaraki in Spring
From plum blossoms to cherry blossoms and hydrangea, there are wonderful things to discover in Ibaraki from February to late June.
Top 5 Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots in Hyogo
When viewing the cherry blossoms in the Kansai region, it would be easy to get lost in the beauty of Kyoto and Osaka and forget Hyogo Prefecture. But these sites are well worth traveling to as well. Check out our Top 5 picks!
12 Things to Do in Ibaraki in Autumn
Incredible flowers bloom in Ibaraki even as the leaves on the trees begin to turn yellow, orange and red.
Hikone Castle: A National Treasure at 410
2017 marks the 410th birthday of Hikone Castle, one of just 12 remaining original-construction castles in Japan. Join us as we take a look inside!
History of Same-Sex Samurai Love in Edo Japan
Thinking about samurai conjures up images of swords, honor, battles and blood. Chances are, homosexual relationships didn't enter your mind... until now.
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!
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.
10 Things to Do in Gunma in Winter
In addition to being one of Japan's major ski and snowboard centers, Gunma offers hot springs, winter illumination and cultural activities to warm up the colder months.
Same-Sex Couples Can Now Be Foster Parents
One of the most populous cities in Japan has granted a same-sex male couple the right to raise a foster child. Is this a one-off, or has the precedent been set?
The Eccentric Artwork of Kawanabe Kyosai
Nothing was off limits for this eccentric 19th century Japanese artist, including cute cats, landscapes, the occult and eroticism.
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.
Go Back in Time on Historic Streets of Gion
Gion, the traditional entertainment and geisha district of Kyoto, is famous for its streets and picturesque alleys that retain the atmosphere of the past.
10 Picture-Perfect Views in Kanazawa, Japan
Since the 2015 opening of the Hokuriku Shinkansen line, the Hokuriku area of Japan has been getting much more attention from tourists. Kanazawa in Ishikawa Prefecture is especially popular with its abundant nature and rustic environment.
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.
#Followmeto Couple Capture the Beauty of Japan
This well-known Instagram duo is leading us by the hand on a spectacular journey to some of Japan’s most famous sights.
11 Things to Do in Gunma in Autumn
Gunma is a hiker's paradise, and autumn is the ideal time to visit. As the leaves change color, discover one of the Three Great Scenic Wonders of Japan, beautiful marshes, waterfalls, hot springs and more!
5 Unique Hot Springs Around Japan
Beyond enjoying the healing benefits of hot spring water, there are many unique hot springs in Japan offering wacky experiences for extraordinary travel memories!
A Quick Guide to the East Tokyo Neighborhoods
With 23 central city wards and multiple towns and villages west of the city center under a singular administration, it will take a while before you can call yourself a 'Tokyo Guru.' For a start, let us take you across the eastern neighborhoods!
Sumida: Where Japan’s Past & Future Collide
As cherry blossom season shifts into high gear around the country, join our writer Nick as he spends time in Tokyo’s historic Sumida Ward, enjoying the surrounding beauty and a variety of immersive cultural experiences!
Fun & Weird Temples in Kyoto
Already done all the big spots in Kyoto—or just sick of the crowds? These fun and weird temples and shrines are definitely not going to be listed in your typical tourist guide!
