Test Your Ninja Skills
For the first time ever, Koga City's ninja exam was held in Tokyo and test takers dressed in ninja cosplay to earn an extra 10 points on the exam.
Dress as a Fox Bride at This Studio in Kyoto
One photo studio in the historical Arashiyama neighborhood is offering a makeover/photo package you won’t find anywhere else.
Hands-On Fun Along the Shoryudo Dragon Route
After experiencing the unforgettable Ukiyo-e Route of the Shoryudo (Rising Dragon Road), we made our way up north to learn all about the treasures of Chubu, Japan's central region.
Global Stars Shine Light on Tohoku-Made Goods
Yamagata casting is considered one of the national treasures among traditional Japanese crafts, as seen on the TV program 'Streets to Tohoku and Hokkaido, Japan.' But thanks to online shopping, you don't have to fly to Japan to own a piece of history.
16 Authentic 'Japan' Experiences around Tokyo
How do you get an 'authentic Japan' experience in the Tokyo area? It depends on what you mean by 'authentic,' and what you mean by 'Japan!' Here are 16 'real Japan' options around Tokyo, running the gamut from the very old to the very new!
Enter the 'Womb' of Mount Fuji
This system of caves beneath the surface of Mount Fuji are believed to represent the womb of Konohana Sakuya-hime, the goddess of the mountain. And you can climb right inside!
Taiko-Lab: Learn to Drum in 60 Minutes
Located just north of Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, Taiko-Lab offers a chance to learn the basics of 'taiko' drumming in about 60 minutes—an essential part of any Japan experience!
Kaya no Sato: Life in Thatch
This association on the edge of Mount Fuji is working to preserve the thatching techniques needed to preserve many of Japan's historic structures, including the 'praying hands' houses of Shirakawa-go.
Togawa Oshi House: Lodging for Fuji Pilgrims
'Oshi' houses traditionally provided lodging for worshippers preparing to ascend Mount Fuji. Reaching their peak in the 19th century, a number of these houses can still be seen in Kamiyoshida in Yamanashi Prefecture.
Hanagasa Matsuri: Grab Your Flower Hat!
While Yamagata Prefecture may be locally known as the land of cherries, it's also home to a rather unique flower hat festival!
Undiscovered Japan: Fukushima & Miyagi
While Fukushima and Miyagi prefectures were both badly hit by the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami, the region has now largely recovered, and is looking to see travelers flock in once again.
360° VR Video Transports You to Japan
Swish the camera around and take a virtual tour of famous sightseeing spots as if you were in Japan, all in the comfort of your own home.
Zuzuya: Ink Talismans at a Fuji Pilgrim's Inn
With a history of some 400 years, Zuzuya is one of only two pilgrim's lodgings in Kamiyoshida still offering rooms to Fuji worshippers preparing to climb their sacred mountain. It's also a great spot to make an ink talisman from an Edo Period wood block!
Drink With Geisha For an Affordable Price
Foreign guests welcome at lobby lounge function that sidesteps the cost and pretense of orthodox geisha services.
Stay in 'Real Japan' at this Traditional Home
If you want to set foot in 'real Japan,' the ideal accommodation is waiting for you in Inami, a small rustic town in Toyama Prefecture where more than 200 active carvers chisel wood.
Experience Being a Temple Maiden for a Day
Ever wondered what it would be like to do the work of a shrine maiden? Well, at a shrine in Hyogo Prefecture you can actually dress up and experience all the work 'miko' do!
Capturing Tohoku's Summer Passion
In 2017, All About Japan sent a team up to Tohoku to capture some this northern region's summer vibe. From its craggy coasts and crater lakes to plunging falls and samurai festivals, there was plenty of energy to go around!
TripAdvisor's Top 10 Ryokan of 2017
Looking for a more traditional place to stay in Japan? Well, look no further than this listing from TripAdvisor!
The 5 Biggest Snow Festivals in Tohoku
Check out Tohoku's Five Great Snow Festivals and see how the region's long history of culture and tradition brings the frozen to life!
Japan vs. China — Preserving Traditional Roots
Japan and China share traditional roots, but Japan preserves those roots to the present day.
