All About Japan

Discovering My Inner Samurai in Aizuwakamatsu

British travel blogger and freelance writer Emily Luxton spent some time in "Samurai City" Aizuwakamatsu, in Fukushima Prefecture. There, she explored the area's rich culture and history, and discovered her inner samurai!

Tokyo's Top 5 Winter Illumination Events 2019!

Tokyo's winter illuminations are some of the highlights of the calendar year. People flock from far and wide to catch a glimpse of these dazzling visual displays! Here are 5 of our favorites!

Aomori Nebuta Festival

The Aomori Nebuta Festival enthralls millions of visitors every year from August 2 to 7, with brightly lit, intricate and boldly colored floats known as nebuta.

Battling Child Poverty One Offering at a Time

Nearly 1,000 temples throughout Japan are banding together to help combat child poverty thanks to devotional offerings and the charitable organization, the 'Otera Oyatsu Club.'

From France to Tokyo: Working in Japan

Frenchwoman Samantha Lassaux is a sales manager for Meiji Shrine’s event hall, known as the 'Meiji Kinenkan.' Lassaux talks about her work at the historic venue, which was built in the Meiji Period and originally served as a state guesthouse.

Shaping Things That Endure

Australian potter Euan Craig has shaped his craft in Japan for decades, following a folk craft tradition that blends creativity and beauty with utility.

Enter the Samurai Time in Aizuwakamatsu

Visit Aizuwakamatsu, where travelers can gain an understanding of how its rich samurai history still plays a part in almost every aspect of modern daily life. Ancient traditions, castles, martial arts, traditional food and more are waiting in Aizu!

Tiny Island Proves Japan is Full of Surprises

This small island in Iwate Prefecture is walkable, and it's so much more than just a beautiful landmark. Home to an adorable red lighthouse and a shrine for the Shinto goddess of the sea, it's just one example of why Japan is a great place to explore!

Ghostly Tales from Japanese Folklore

Japan has many old ghost stories that are still being told today. With Halloween on the horizon we thought it would be appropriate to share some of the best of these spooky tales handed down throughout the ages!

New Wave Japanese Tea Shops in Tokyo

Although tea has always been a big deal in Japan, recently there's been a boom of new ways to enjoy it. Here are some new, modern shops in Tokyo that specialize in Japanese Tea!

Kyoto's Aoi Matsuri (May 15)

The Aoi Matsuri is one of Japan's most enduring festivals. Held every year in Kyoto on May 15, it has an enduring history that dates back to the Heian Period.

Where to Enjoy International Theater in Tokyo

Tokyo is chock-full of places were you can get your theatrical fix, even if you don't speak Japanese. With live performances, broadcasts, translated theater, non-verbal shows and improv groups, the options go on and on! Here's what you need to know...

All About's Guide to Yokohama

Tokyo's next door neighbor Yokohama is the second largest city in Japan! We're here to help you discover the sights, sounds and scenery of one of Japan's most vibrant port cities.

Top 10 Onsen in Tokyo

Love hot springs but don't want to leave the big city? Our resident hot spring expert has put together a list of the top 10 onsen and onsen hotels in the Tokyo area, so start planning your next luxurious getaway now!

Ryokan 101

There's a lot to learn and consider when it comes to staying at 'ryokan,' traditional Japanese inns.

Do's & Don'ts: Japanese New Year

Ringing in the New Year in Japan is an awesome experience, but it does come with some unique challenges. If you're going to be here over the winter holiday, find out what to expect!

The Last Samurai of Aizuwakamatsu

In the Japanese city of Aizuwakamatsu, the last samurai fought to defend their way of life. On a visit to Aizu, you can experience samurai life yourself. Join travel blogger extraordinaire Michael Turtle as he does just that.

10 Reasons to Visit Yamaguchi

Yamaguchi Prefecture is an incredible travel destination that is overlooked far too often. With a rich cultural identity, incredible landscapes and architectural marvels, delicious food and more, check out why it should be at the top of your itinerary!

6 Shrines for Strange Wishes in Tokyo

In Japan it's common to visit shrines to pray for good luck. But where do you go if you have a more specific wish, like to lower your golf handicap or tame your unruly hair? These 6 shrines can help fulfill your oddly specific hopes & dreams!

10 Unique #BucketList Goals in Kyoto

If you're planning a visit to Japan's ancient capital, check out this list of unique, Kyoto-only experiences!

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