Telling the Tales Behind Historical Sites
Historical Site World Heritage
World Heritage Site listings and the designation of Cultural Properties are primarily intended to protect sites. But Japan Heritage introduces the stories and historical context behind local Tangible and Intangible Cultural Properties.
Driven Aloft: From Surgeon to Astronaut
Life in Japan Working in Japan
Learn about Chiaki Mukai, the first Japanese female astronaut to join a space shuttle mission.
The Origins of the Tough G-SHOCK Watch
Over a hundred million G-SHOCK wristwatches have been shipped for sale to customers around the world since the brand debuted in 1983. This shockproof line of timepieces is a prime example of Japan’s high-quality manufacturing.
PM Abe Helps Explain the Name of the New Era
Life in Japan Traditional Japan
Prime Minister Shinzo Abe gives his take on naming the Imperial era that starts next month, the Reiwa era.
The Akiyoshidai Fire Festival
People come to the Akiyoshi Plateau in Yamaguchi Prefecture to watch rolling grasslands burn with strips of open flame, and to explore the famous giant cave and fascinating geology of the Quasi-National Park.
A Look Behind the Yen Makeover
Japan's currency is getting a big makeover for 2024. Learn a little bit more about the reasoning and process behind the change!
Interactive Map of Real Life Ukiyo-e Locations
Ever been curious about where in Japan your favorite iconic ukiyo-e print is actually depicting? Wonder no more!
Awesome Ways to Spice up the Night in Kyoto
Kyoto is known for its iconic cultural landmarks and enduring place in Japan's history. But when the sun goes down, there's still plenty of opportunity to explore and have fun!
Show Us the Money: Japan's Currency Redesign
The Ministry of Finance has revealed new designs for the Japanese yen banknotes set to debut in 2024, and they look awesome! Check out the new designs, as well as their inspirations.
Men Bare Souls (& Bodies) for Good Fortune
This winter festival in Aomori sees a few dozen men strip down to pray for good health and a good harvest!
122-Year-Old Video Shows How Tokyo Has Changed
Jump back into history with this awesome video of Tokyo from a hundred years ago. Many of the people in the video spent their early lives living in a Japan that was ruled by a shogun!
Become a Ninja at Odawara Castle
The castle closest to Tokyo expands its English explanations and adds a Fuma ninja clan infilitration experience!
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.
Hiking Japan’s Ancient Roads
Follow in the footsteps of pilgrims, samurai and royalty on these historic Japanese highways.
All About's Guide to Sendai
If you're looking to explore a different side of Japan, there's no better place to visit than the northern region of Tohoku! As the region's largest city, Sendai has something to offer every type of traveler.
The Battle of Kawanakajima Rages on in Mie
The legendary feud between prolific samurai Takeda Shingen and Kenshin Uesugi rages on in Mie! 100 people don armor and wield weapons to reenact the ferocious Battle of Kawanakajima.
Time-Lapse of Recovery: Ofunato
This time-lapse video of Ofunato, in Iwate Prefecture, helps show how far Tohoku has come in its recovery efforts, and how far it still has to come.
Omotenashi of English-Speaking Geisha in Kyoto
The “flower town” district of Gion in Kyoto is where geiko and maiko in glamorous kimono enchant people with their talents, elegance and grace. One geiko in particular shines through her use of two languages; a unique dialect of Japanese, and English.
From Tokyo to Okayama with Zooming Japan
Join Jasmine from Zooming Japan as she does what she best—travels to locales around the country, getting up close and personal with local sights, food and culture!
Discover 'Hell' on Earth in Kyushu
Kyushu's Oita Prefecture is home to a collection of incredible onsen that are literally too hot to handle, and referred to collectively as the "Hells of Beppu."
