All About Japan

Japan through the Eyes of the First Tourists

Enrich your travel experience by adding travelogues from the Meiji and Taisho eras to your reading list.

Nanzoin: Discover Fukuoka's Reclined Buddha

Fukuoka has a well-earned reputation as one of Kyushu's culinary hotspots, but it's also home to an incredibly unique temple! Hop on a train from Hakata Station to see the largest reclining bronze Buddha in the world tucked into a Kyushu mountainside!

Englishwoman, Buddhist Priest, Country Mom

Victoria Yoshimura went from English teacher to Buddhist priest at a rural Kyushu temple, with many adventures on the way

An Enchanting Autumn Light-up at Saito Villa

Niigata City's historic Saito Villa holds an annual autumn light-up event to flaunt the garden's magnificent foliage!

Miniature Edo Castle

A miniature model of the former Edo Castle is on display at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.

From Ancient Ruins to 20th Century Homes: Five Historical Parks in Japan

Japan has a number of historical parks that feature buildings and items from prehistorical times to reconstructed Meiji-era neighborhoods. Here are five of the best historical parks!

12 Things to Do in Charming Kanazawa

Kanazawa, the capital city of Ishikawa Prefecture, sits on the Sea of Japan, bordered by scenic mountain ranges and national parks, has well-preserved art and culture. Read on for a list of 12 things you can do in Kanazawa.

Roadtrip 5 Awesome Spots on the Noto Peninsula

Discover the secrets of the Noto Peninsula, situated on the wild northwestern coast of Honshu. Although remote, this area has it all; beautiful natural sights, historical architecture, fine handicrafts and relaxing hot spring resorts!

Ketchup and Cabbages: In Search of Japan’s Most Unusual Monuments

Should there be a monument to cabbages? How about eyeglasses? Well they already exist in Japan, along with many other unusual tributes.

Top 5 Sights in Izu

Whether you like surfing, exploring history, petting capybara or just relaxing in a hot spring, the Izu Peninsula has you covered!

Top 10 Things To Do In Yokosuka

Read on to discover the top things to do in Yokosuka, Japan, if you want to experience this seaside community firsthand!

A Walk Through Tokyo History: Yotsuya to Shinjuku on the Koshu Kaido Road

A guide to walking through the center of Tokyo on the course of the Koshu Kaido road, one of the five routes that connected the old city of Edo with the provinces. Among the modern buildings and bustling streets are remnants of a remarkable past.

Getting to Know Japan's Daikannon

Some of Japan's tallest and most interesting statues represent the deity Kannon. The Goddess of Mercy is the centerpiece of many religion sites in Japan, several of which are easily accessible from Tokyo, and are perfect for a day or weekend trip!

Japan’s Ancient UFO: The Tale of Utsuro-bune

The utsuro-bune legend has has been a source of intrigue in Japan for over 200 years. Read on to discover what is behind the legend.

Onomichi: A Japanese Inland Sea Town That Saved Its Own Life

How sustainability efforts have remarkably revitalized the Inland Sea town of Onomichi by attracting new residents and tourists—with an emphasis on cycling.

Soar in the Sky at Japan's Castle in the Sky

Known as the "Castle in the Sky," the ruins of Takeda Castle mesmerize visitors to western Japan year after year.

A Perfect Weekend in Kobe

Kobe is Kansai's best-kept secret. Its foreign influence is a great attraction, while often overlooked is its ancient history and natural beauty. This guide sets you on track for an awesome weekend getaway.

The Perfect Weekend in the City of Niigata

The first of a series introducing a local insider’s ideal weekend in their home town.

The Perfect Weekend on the Yokohama Waterfront

Yokohama is often overlooked by the bigger, brighter lights of Tokyo and Osaka. Big mistake! Japan’ second largest city has developed a unique identity influenced by Western and Chinese culture. We’ve complied a guide for the perfect two day trip.

The Association of the Most Beautiful Villages

The Association of the Most Beautiful Villages in Japan is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and preserving the most interesting and beautiful rural towns in Japan. There are truly some hidden gems on this list!

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