A 5-Day Pilgrimage on the Kumano Kodo Nakahechi Route

Hiking Wakayama

The Kumano Kodo Nakahechi course is a majestic pilgrimage trail in Wakayama Prefecture where you can explore historic temples and shrines, dine on local delicacies, and rejuvenate in soothing hot springs.

Great Kansai Craft Beer Breweries and Taprooms

Food & Drink Craft Beer

The Kansai region of central Japan is enjoying a craft beer boom. Here is a six-pack selection of some of the best local breweries and taprooms.

Recent Non-Fiction Books About Japan That You Must Read

Japan 101 Life in Japan

Looking for your next great read about Japan? Here's a selection of some of the best non-fiction books—from memoirs to culinary explorations—published in the 2020s.

Running an Innovative Guesthouse in Japan's Mountain Sanctuary

Accommodation Mountains

An interview with Ryochi Takai, the owner of a guesthouse in Koya-san, the renowned Buddhist temple sanctuary in the mountains of Wakayama prefecture.

The Perfect Weekend in Okayama

Food & Drink

One of a series of Perfect Weekends in Japanese cities. Lovers of art, food, history, and nature will all find something to help them spend a fantastic weekend in Okayama.

Play Ball! Japan's 5 Best Baseball Parks

Sports

If you love sports, don't miss a game at one of Japan's raucous baseball parks. Each one offers a unique experience that reflects the local character and food as well as the high-quality brand of baseball.

The Road to Koyasan: A One-Day Pilgrimage with Kobo Daishi

Pilgrimage Wakayama

Follow in the footsteps of pilgrims on this day hike up Japan's Mt. Koya, home to over 100 temples.