All About Japan

Discover Japanese Woodwork Traditions at Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum

This Kobe museum features the traditions and technology of Japanese carpentry and tool artisanship that are used in buildings from simple tea houses to complex temple designs.

Nine Treasures of Japan You NEED to See. Here’s How!

Japan classifies certain precious objects as "National Treasures." Each has so much to teach us about Japanese history and culture. How many do you already know?

An Ancient Japanese Legend Restored to View: Prince Shotoku in 8K

A new use of technology gives us better access to fragile treasures from Japan's past. See how, in a very special Tokyo museum.

How to See Japan's Imperial Treasures

A little known museum in central Tokyo offers a peerless collection of Japanese art, and a fascinating glimpse into the elegant and cultured lives of Japan's Imperial Family.

Winter at the Adachi Museum of Art: Superb Rosanjin Collection in Shimane

Best known for its gardens and collection of nihonga painting, the Adachi Museum of Art now has a hall dedicated to epicure Kitaoji Rosanjin.

A Visit to Japan's Keith Haring Collection

The only museum in the world dedicated to the works of Keith Haring, the legendary king of 1980's New York City street art, is is nestled in the forests of Yamanashi Prefecture.

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!

Why I Love Imari Ware (and Want You to Love It Too)

Arts writer Alice Gordenker shares her appreciation for the Japanese porcelain that has captivated the world for more than 400 years.

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 Tour of Fukuoka City

A long-time resident shares her knowledge of mouth-watering local food spots, great shopping and open green space in one of Japan's most fascinating regional capitals.

Hayabusa2 Capsule on Display at Museum

A capsule of Japan’s Hayabusa2 space explorer is put on display at a museum near Tokyo. The container returned to Earth in December, bringing back materials from the asteroid Ryugu.

The Life of Hokusai, As Seen in the Collection of a Remarkable Museum

Master of invention (and reinvention): the great Japanese artist Hokusai changed his style as often as he changed his name. Learn little-known facts about one of Japan's most well-known artists at this Shimane museum.

Time Travel with Japan's "Warlord" Clocks

Tokyo's Daimyo Clock Museum showcases unique Japanese clocks and the old way of measuring time used in the Edo period.

Why I Love Nihonga (and Want You to Love It Too)

Nihonga is a genre of modern Japanese painting that uses natural materials and draws inspiration from nature and traditional themes in Japanese culture. Find out more, including the best museums in Japan to experience the unique beauty of nihonga.

The Mesmerizing Art of Munakata Shiko

A major retrospective looks at how "time" and "place" shaped famous 20th c. printmaker Munakata Shiko.

A 'New' Museum for Your Kyoto Bucket List

Near the famous bamboo forest: a new museum in Kyoto's beautiful riverside Arashiyama district has an amazing collection of Japanese paintings and is not to be missed!

7 Must-Visit Spots in and around Matsue

Experience Japan's rich culture and history without the crowds of major tourist destinations in Matsue, Shimane Prefecture.

Worms, Sewers, and Mummies! Tokyo’s 7 Weirdest Museums

In a city with hundreds of museums, it's easy to overlook Tokyo's smaller museums. But bigger doesn't always mean better! From parasites to sewer pipes, Tokyo's museums offer something for everyone!

Tokyo Corners: The Unique Style of Sculptor Asakura Fumio's Museum

A visit to sculptor Asakura Fumio's former studio and residence, now a museum, in historical Yanaka, offers a look at one man’s vision of art and life

The Perfect Weekend in Okayama

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.

know-before-you-go