The city of Kurashiki in Okayama Prefecture is maintaining its path of developmental growth even as it attracts crowds of visitors from other parts of Japan and abroad.

Most of the subjects of this story didn't see themselves where they are now—but all of them found something incredible in the Japanese countryside, leading each to develop a unique and indelible bond to the local community.

Tochigi Prefecture's Utsunomiya City hopes to become a haven for cyclists with its unique topography and climate.

Just an hour north of Tokyo via bullet train, Tochigi Prefecture is famed for the temple-rich historical environs of Nikko, as well as its hot springs resort towns.

Coming to Koysan 18 years ago, Swiss national Kurt Kubli Genso became a Buddhist priest, and now guides visitors around this three-star World Heritage Site in five different languages.

Mount Fuji is recognized as both a World Heritage Site and a three-star Michelin spot. But how do you protect a natural site from the erosive forces of its own popularity?

Setsubun is the last day of winter in the traditional Chinese calendar, which is celebrated on February 3 each year in Japan. Find out how to celebrate with sushi!

Ayuko Akiyama’s Buddha Bellies cooking class offers hands-on courses in Japanese cuisine—including advanced courses in cutting sushi and sashimi.