The Salt of Life
Salt from the sea and other essential goods were hauled along Salt Road from Japan’s coastal areas to the mountainous territories inland—and delivered even to mortal enemies in need.
The Many Meanings of 'Mottainai'
Something you might hear everyday in Japan is the word 'mottainai.' And without mincing words, we present to you three ways to use this useful expression!
June 1: The Day the Uniforms Change
In Japan, there's a custom observed in June known as 'koromogae,' which involves the changing of school uniforms and work clothes to accompany the change of the seasons.
Treasures on Land, Riches from the Sea
Studded with small bays and inlets, the peninsula known as Ise-Shima—the venue for the 2016 G7 Summit—is a utopia for those seeking a glimpse of classical Japan, from the expansive environs of the sacred shrine of Ise Jingu to the bounty of the ocean.
Clear Your Mind & Fill Your Stomach in Toyama
Try your hand at this Buddhist meditative activity at Oiwasan Nissekiji Temple in Toyama—then try the food!
Tour Ise-Shima with the KINTETSU RAIL PASS
While the Ise-Shima area is best known for Ise Jingu, the area also offers picturesque scenery and gourmet food. And you can access this resort region easily from Osaka using the KINTETSU RAIL PASS!
5 Amazing Things to Experience in Ise
Canadian 'rakugo' storyteller Katsura Sunshine tries out some of the amazing things you can do only in the Ise area—including some that happen just once every 20 years! Check the list to make sure you don't miss out!
The 6 Main Types of 'Omamori'
Temples & Shrines Life in Japan
These good luck charms can provide you with all kinds of special help!
10 Events to Attend During Golden Week 2016
2016 is a golden year for Japan's big Golden Week holiday. Not only can you catch a few traditional annual Golden Week events, but also some pretty rare ones as well!
4 Beautiful Castles Home to Terrible Ghosts
Ancient buildings almost always seem to come with a ghost story, and Japanese castles are no exception.
10 Things You Didn't Know About Geisha
Have you ever wondered why geisha paint their face white, or who dresses a geisha? Well, be prepared to drop some knowledge on your friends about the whimsical world of geisha.
10 Iconic Japanese Gods
Between its traditions of Shinto and Buddhism, Japan has a rich pantheon of gods and goddesses. Here are 10 that you're likely to encounter while shrine and temple hopping around the country!
The Custom of Communal Cleaning
While the spirit of cleaning is taught in Japanese schools, the principle very likely originated in Zen Buddhism, and continues on into adulthood.
What Exactly Is Golden Week?
Find out about the nation's most popular holiday!
Pulling Back the Curtain on the Ninja World
Discover the secrets of these shadow warriors and practice your ninja star throwing skills at 'The Ninja' exhibit at Tokyo's Miraikan.
Japanese Alcohol: From Hokkaido to Okinawa
There are more than 1,800 sake breweries and shochu distilleries in Japan. Highlighting Japan has profiled nine leading representatives from Hokkado to Okinawa.
The Force Has Got Your Back
Look good you will in these 'Star Wars'-inspired traditional Japanese jackets and shirts.
The Ins & Outs of 'Omotenashi'
'Omotenashi' is often defined as the spirit of hospitality, but it encompasses so much more.
All About the World Cosplay Summit
The World Cosplay Summit began in 2003, with countries sending the winners of their respective qualifying tournaments to Nagoya in Aichi Prefecture. The biggest cosplay event on the globe, the Summit is where the world’s top cosplayers are crowned.
Twinkle, Twinkle Little Drones
Two dozen LED-illuminated drones dance to 'shamisen' music above a sleeping Mount Fuji. Trust us—this is one you'll want to see.
