The Perfect Weekend in the City of Niigata
The first of a series introducing a local insider’s ideal weekend in their home town.
Good Reads: "War on Wheels" and Keirin Cycling
A review of the fascinating new book on Japan's unique sport: "The War on Wheels – Inside the Keirin and Japan’s Cycling Subculture" by Justin McCurry
From the Way of the Warrior to the Way of Tea
Randy Channell Soei is a tea ceremony master living in Kyoto. He tells us how he came to follow the Way of Tea, its connection to martial arts, and the benefits of Japan's time-hon...
Osechi: The Festive Cuisine of New Year's Day
Japan's unique, colorful New Year dishes are part of the traditional celebration of this auspicious day. Here's the story behind the holiday and the dishes that are enjoyed through...
Japan through the Eyes of the First Tourists
Historical Site Traditional Japan
Enrich your travel experience by adding travelogues from the Meiji and Taisho eras to your reading list.
7 Must Visit Winter Illuminations Near Tokyo
Illumination season is here! Heat up the hot chocolate and get your mittens, beanie, and sweater ready. To put you in the holiday spirit, AllAbout Japan has compiled a list of the...
In Samurai Footsteps: The 47 Ronin Tour
One of the most famous stories of historical times is the saga of the 47 ronin, a group of samurai who avenged their deceased lord in a famous vendetta. Tokyo has several spots whe...
Inside Super Nintendo World
Super Nintendo World in Osaka opened earlier this year after a series of delays. All About Japan has all the hints, tips, and tricks to enjoy your day with one of Japan's most famo...
The Isolated Attractions of Shikoku's "Tibet"
Some dedicated people are intent on saving the small village of Kito, and the last 20 bears that live in the surrounding mountains.
10 Amazing Things I Can Do at My Local Konbini
Offering everything from underwear to fresh vegetables, Japan's convenience stores are an indispensable part of daily life. Here is why.
5 Japanese Cooking YouTubers You Must Watch
Interested in learning how to cook some simple (and not so simple) Japanese dishes? A few of the best cooking YouTube channels can be a great start.
Why I Switched My Family’s Diet to Washoku
Ichiju-Sansai Healthy Japanese Food
Learn how one family made a big impact on their diet by switching to Japanese-style home cooking.
New Library Dedicated to Haruki Murakami
Everything you want to know about author Haruki Murakami's new Kengo Kuma-designed, Uniqlo-funded library
Japan Anime's Take on Star Wars at Disney+
Lightsabers in katana sheaths, a Jedi turned pop star, and Japanese-speaking droids, oh my. Star Wars: Visions is Japan's anime offering on the popular science fiction universe.
Snowshoe Adventures in Japan’s Powder Snow
Looking for a way to enjoy Japan’s winter wonderland besides skiing? Snowshoe trekking offers you the freedom to leave the trails and explore Japan’s unspoiled mountain landscapes.
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
Make Your Own Japanese Fruit Sandwiches
A café staple for years, the fruit sandwich (furutsu sando) is back in the news, as new gourmet versions have caught the attention of sweet lovers. Here's a primer on making your o...
The Vibrant Island Art of Tanaka Isson
The Japanese painter Tanaka Isson fled mainland Japan for one of the country’s most beautiful southern islands—Amami Oshima. There he labored for years in obscurity, creating large...
Pokémon Manhole Covers Adorn Japan's Streets
The roads of cities and towns throughout Japan are now dotted with colorful Pokémon manhole covers, creating a tantalizing treasure hunt for fans!
Discovering Fukuoka's Autumn Treasures
Looking for an underrated time of year to explore Kyushu? This autumn, come to the city of Fukuoka for seasonal fun & feasting for the whole family!
