All About Japan All About Japan

Fresh start every Monday!

Handmade Knives in Yamagata

See how Shimada Cutlery Works carries on a blade-making tradition dating back to the year 1365.

Castles, Temples & Tofu— Oh My, Miyagi!

Come along on a trip to Sendai Castle, Shiroishi Castle and Saiho-ji.

Steam Bun-Flavored Kit Kats Are Now Available

The new Kit Kat flavor draws inspiration from a specialty snack traditionally found at Japanese hot springs.

A One-of-a-Kind Pottery Adventure in Miyagi

When you're ready to take a break from the sparkling winter snow, why not try making Japanese pottery in Miyagi.

Encounter History & Nature in Magical Miyagi

Follow along with our resident Japanese history buff who spent two 'cool' days exploring Miyagi Prefecture in the northeastern area of Tohoku, checking out the nature, cultural experiences and, of course, the rich history of this gorgeous region of Japan.

Make the Most of Your Time in Sendai!

Available now, the new Sendai City Guidebook is your one-stop shop for planning the perfect trip to Miyagi Prefecture!

A Whirlwind Weekend in Miyagi

Head out to northeastern Japan with Selena for a magical weekend away from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo.

5 Great Things to See in Akita City

Akita City is not often at the top of anyone's list of places to visit, but that's unfortunate because it has a rich history and culture that includes a lively festival and a famous artist.

22 Animals to See in Japan's National Parks

While Japan may have an image as a land of trains and modern technology, the nation's 34 national parks offer a wealth of wildlife waiting to be discovered.

Beauty Beyond Be-‘leaf’ in Matsushima

Gorgeous throughout the year, Matsushima offers an incredible nighttime illumination of autumn leaves that has to be seen to be believed!

15 Beautiful Beaches in Japan's National Parks

Japan offers countless stunning beaches along its nearly 30,000 kilometers of coastline. Some are directly accessible by train from Tokyo, while others are surrounded by 1,000 kilometers of open sea!

Are Fukushima's Vegetables Safe to Eat?

In the wake of the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami of 2011, there are still concerns out there regarding the safety of produce grown in Fukushima Prefecture. We talked with a farmer who hopes to set the record straight.

Diamond Route Japan Shows Off Hidden Treasures

This stunning video tourism project will leave you ready to plan your next trip north of Tokyo!

Top 9 Photogenic Heart-Shaped Spots In Japan

Love is in the air! Whether found in nature or built by design, your heart will be filled to bursting when you catch a glimpse of these heart-shaped spots throughout the country, just begging to be photographed!

Top 6 Places to Visit in Akita

Akita tends to be pretty far off the beaten path, even for those who do make it to Tohoku. However, Akita is rich in both history and natural beauty, well worth a visit.

Flying the Nest Heads to Miyagi for Winter Fun

Stephen and Jess head to Miyagi for a winter wonderland full of powdery snow, winter sports and even a crafting experience.

14 Stunning Sunrise & Sunset Spots in Japan

It's a tradition to watch the sunrise on the first day of the year in Japan. And the nation's national parks offer countless breathtaking options for both sunrise and sunset at any time of year!

See, Do & Eat It All in Miyagi Prefecture

If you're interested in experiencing nature, culture and food while traveling around Japan, but don't have a lot of time to hop from city to city, Miyagi Prefecture may be the perfect place for you!

World's 3 Snowiest Cities All in Japan!

If you've never lived in Japan, you may now know the nation has sort of a thing for snow. How much snow? Well, the world's three snowiest cities are all in Japan! Can you guess which ones they are?

5 Places to Visit Namahage on Oga Peninsula

Believe it or not, some fierce-looking legendary ogres can be found on Oga Peninsula in Akita Prefecture, an area so far off the beaten path that it doesn't even appear in most English guidebooks!

know-before-you-go