All About Japan

5 Great Things to See in Akita City

Akita City is not often at the top of anyone's list of places to visit, but that's unfortunate because it has a rich history and culture that includes a lively festival and a famous artist.

Basic Etiquette at Japanese Temples & Shrines

Wondering what to do at a Japanese temple or shrine? This quick video will walk you through the basics!

10 Ways to Enjoy a Rainy Day in Japan

Don't let rainy weather dampen your day—there are still plenty of ways to have a good time!

14 Stunning Sunrise & Sunset Spots in Japan

It's a tradition to watch the sunrise on the first day of the year in Japan. And the nation's national parks offer countless breathtaking options for both sunrise and sunset at any time of year!

Traditions in Tokushima

Join our writer Nick down in Shikoku as he takes a deeper look at some of Tokushima Prefecture's most enduring pieces of history.

Starbucks Blends into Edo Japan

Blending seamlessly into this old castle town just north of Tokyo, Starbucks' new Kawagoe location will let you enjoy your coffee with a side of Edo-style charm.

How to Sit on a Japanese Cushion

If you live in Japan, there's a good chance you'll eventually have to sit on a Japanese cushion, or 'zabuton.' So how do you do it? There's more to it than just plopping down your bum!

How Are Men's & Women's Kimono Different?

While traditional Japanese clothing may look the same to the average person, there are some variances between men's and women's kimono. See if you can spot some of the differences.

5 Fun Things to Do in Nara

A former capital city just a stone's throw from Kyoto and Osaka, Nara is known for its stunning temples, friendly deer, souvenirs and more. With so much to do, we're here to help you start planning!

Beyond Shibuya: How to Get Away in Tokyo

Tokyo is a familiar tourist destination, and with good reason. It has incredibly diverse neighborhoods, history and technology side by side, great food, shopping and more. But it also has crowds! Want to get away? Here's how!

Japanese Manholes: Art Under Your Feet

There is so much to see in Japan. You can look up at the skyscrapers of Tokyo, look in the distance to see the peak of Mount Fuji, look along every one of Kyoto's ancient cobbled streets. But did you know that there is a lot to see right under your feet?

5 Places to Visit Namahage on Oga Peninsula

Believe it or not, some fierce-looking legendary ogres can be found on Oga Peninsula in Akita Prefecture, an area so far off the beaten path that it doesn't even appear in most English guidebooks!

Shrine Maidens Turned Off-Road Racing Queens

In this newest commercial from Toyo Tires, these girls literally drive away ogres during Japan’s annual Setsubun bean-throwing festival.

Temple Stays Made Simple with Terahaku

Experiencing life in a Buddhist temple in Japan is about to get a whole lot easier! Thanks to the website Terahaku, users can book their very own temple accommodations online.

5 Japanese Activities to Do Indoors

Shake off the rainy season blues by taking up one or more of these 5 traditional Japanese activities!

5 Reasons to Visit Tohoku in Summer

Summer is the season where things really heat up in Japan's northern region of Tohoku. Here's why you definitely don't want to miss it!

Students Get Choices For Their Uniform

One brand new middle school is letting students of any gender wear whatever uniform components they feel comfortable in out of consideration to LGBT+ youths.

Experience the Beauty of Japan in 8K Video

From the rugged mountains of Hokkaido and verdant forests of Kyushu to spectacular festivals of Aichi and the Tokyo skyline, this video stunningly captures the beauty of Japan in under three minutes.

5 Fun Festivals in Japan's National Parks

Japan's national parks are not only sites of natural beauty, but long-inhabited locales where the local people have developed both new and longstanding traditions for showing their thanks for nature's bounties.

Rainy Season: Things to Know When You Go

Sure, rainy season comes with the occasional soaked pair of shoes, and it can feel hard to work up the motivation to leave the house. But here are a few tips to help you make the best of it!

know-before-you-go