All About Japan

3-D Printing Café in Gifu

Try your hand at 3-D scanning and 3-D printing in a café that celebrates Gifu's woodworking traditions.

7 Incredible Events at Japanese Castles

The castles dotting Japan's landscape no longer host battles and political upheavals, but they're not boring relics. Many were the backdrop to some pretty unbelievable stories!

A National Who’s Whooo of Owl Cafés

Who wouldn’t want to snuggle up and nestle down in an owl café? We’ve lined up eight adorable and outstanding branches where you can unruffle in peace.

A Goth's Dream Doll

These porcelain figures would no doubt have been the go-to dolls for Emily Strange.

47 Souvenirs from All 47 Prefectures!

Traveling around Japan but don't know what souvenir to buy from each region? We've got you covered with this crazy list of our Top 47 'omiyage' from each of the nation's 47 prefectures!

Spend a Night in a Historic House

Built to withstand and even take advantage of their environment, these singulse structures known as gassho-zukuri can only be found in two villages in Japan. So why not spend the night in a UNESCO-recognized farmhouse?

Top 3 All-Natural Beauty Products from Gifu

Famous for its mountains and idyllic landscapes, Gifu Prefecture also produces many natural beauty and health products from its natural springs. Try any of these three products and feel rejuvenated in the comfort of your home!

The 3 Great Cherry Trees of Japan

The only thing more jaw-dropping than their beauty is just how long these cherry trees have been around!

Top 5 Hanami Spots in the Tokai Area

Want to see some beautiful cherry blossoms this year? Then check out these Top 5 sites that promise some gorgeous pictures and fantastic views!

Japan's 12 Best Keepless Castles

These castles may not have keeps, but many of them are much older than any of Japan's so-called "original construction" castles.

Beautiful Japanese Pottery

The seven most beautiful pottery cups from The Wonder 500™.

Wonders of Japan: Harmony with Nature

Experience a traditional recycling-oriented lifestyle.

Central Japan's 11 Best Edible Souvenirs

Chubu is the central region of Japan's main island, Honshu. No visit to the beautiful, historic region is complete without bringing home some of its most delectable souvenirs.

Day Trip to Hirayu Onsen

Follow a couple on a day trip to Hirayu Onsen in Gifu Prefecture!

10 Signature Sweets of the Tokai Region

The center of Japan is renowned for its landscapes, culture, and most deliciously, its sweets. Check out these 10 dessert items and just try to resist them!

Beautiful Ogaki Castle

Watch this enchanting video of Ogaki Castle and its surroundings.

Bus Down the Three-Star Road

In the snow belt between Hokuriku and Gifu's Hida Mountain Range, take a bus tour down a road lined with three-star tourist spots listed in the Michelin Green Guide Japan.

Japan's 8 Prefectures with the Most Snow

Find the top eight places to visit for snow!

Ekiben: Symbols of Colorful Local Culture

There was a time in Japanese history when each domain acted practically as its own country. So it's hardly surprising that each area developed its own culture and customs, giving a distinctive flavor and flair to each region.

7 Exquisite Bowls from Different Materials

From wood and lacquerware to porcelain and glass, Japanese artisans have used a number of innovative materials to produce some of the most wonderful creations.

know-before-you-go