All About Japan

Onomichi: The Japan Inland Sea Town That Saved Its Own Life, Part II

The second part of a series on a Japanese town and the citizens that have used innovative sustainable lifestyle choices to revitalize the community for residents and visitors.

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

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

Kumamon Invites You to The Perfect Weekend in Kumamoto City

A insider's guide to the perfect weekend in this vibrant and fascinating city, home to Kumamon, the celebrity character.

The Shonan Coast's Best Brew Pubs and Taprooms

The scenic stretch of shoreline just southwest of Tokyo has become a significant center for craft beer. Here are some of the best.

5 Awesome Rides Up Japan’s Mountain Peaks

Japan is known for its soaring mountains and breathtaking views. But hiking isn't the only way to experience their high-altitude thrills. Introducing five spectacular mountains that can be accessed by cable car, chair lift, or ropeway.

A Perfect Weekend in Gifu

Easily accessible from Tokyo, Kyoto, Nagoya and Osaka, Gifu is the perfect location for a perfect weekend. Enjoy this local expert's tour itinerary to the unique art of cormorant fishing, a large gold statue of Buddha, and the classic Gifu Castle.

Walking Japan's 1,000km Michinoku Coastal Trail

Ten years after one of Japan’s most deadly disasters, a region is reborn--and it is home to the best hiking trail you’ve never heard of.

Abroad in Japan: A Book Review

Influencer Chris Broad's chronicles his experiences in Japan—and his immensely popular Youtube channel—in a new, best-selling book.

Pioneers of Sustainable Living in Japan: The Remarkable People of Kamikatsu

The second of a series about the inspiring zero-waste Japanese town of Kamikatsu. Joy Jarman-Walsh introduces the people who want to make sustainability compatible with a good life.

Hope for Fukushima’s Hamadori Coast, Part II: New Ventures Bring Vitality

Fukushima Prefecture’s Hamadori region, which faces the Pacific Ocean, suffered greatly from the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and the resulting tsunami and nuclear disaster. Those living within a 20 km radius of the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Powerplan

Good Reads: A Passion for Japan

In this new book, 31 foreigners who have made Japan their long-term home share their passions, from sumo to baseball, traditional festivals, martial arts, the tea ceremony, and many more.

7 Wild Winter Adventures in Japan's Outdoors

When winter sends temperatures plummeting, Japan's outdoors are full of fun things to do, from the usual skiing and snowboarding to ice fishing, ice climbing and even dog sledding or bicycling through the snow.

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!

Fukui: A Self-Care Sanctuary Just A Train-Ride Away from Tokyo

With the post-Covid travel boom, Kyoto has become too crowded for temple-trotting and Wakayama's Koyasan is too far from a Tokyo travel base. Good thing that Fukui, Japan's ultimate power spot and zen haven, is so accessible!

WWOOF! Work on Organic Farms in Japan for Bread and Board

The WWOOF organization is an international organization that connects organic farmers with volunteers willing to work for their food and board. Here's one volunteer's account of her time spent helping out a local Japanese farm.

A Pilgrimage to Japan’s Remarkable Zero-Waste Town of Kamikatsu

This secluded mountain town in central Shikoku has been an inspiration to people from around the world who come to experience its innovative programs and world-class sustainable travel choices.

Trekking Ancient Trails Along Tokamachi's Amazing Rice Terraces

The terraced rice fields of Tokamachi Tanada have been called one of the most beautiful scenic spots in Japan. Here's a hike that follows ancient trails through the spectacular landscape.

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.

Aizu Wakamatsu Lives by the Code of its Samurai Past

A visit to Aizu Wakamatsu is a chance to study the samurai code that emphasized honor, respect and ethical behavior.

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.

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