All About Japan

All About John Asano
I'm a blogger, traveler and freelance writer living in Gifu, Japan. Originally from Melbourne, Australia, I have lived in Japan now for over 12 years.
What I like about Japan
I love nothing better than picking up my camera and exploring all the amazing sights and attractions that Japan has to offer. I write about the must-see sights and attractions in Japan on my travel website Japan Travel Advice, as well as about Japanese culture and modern life on my blog Japan Australia.
Japan’s Three Famous Castles

Japan’s Three Famous Castles

Called 'sanmeijo' in Japanese, the three castles on this list have been chosen based on their significance to history and culture, as well as their scale and grandeur.

Inuyama Castle: King of the Hilltop

Inuyama Castle: King of the Hilltop

Inuyama Castle is a National Treasure, and one of the oldest original castles still standing in Japan.

Full List: Japan’s UNESCO Shrines & Temples!

Full List: Japan’s UNESCO Shrines & Temples!

Japan is home to thousands of historic shrines and temples, and a good few of them are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. A visit to just one can give insight into Japanese culture.

Getting a Visa for Japan

Getting a Visa for Japan

Want to come to Japan but don't know where to start? Here's our quick overview of the visa process. Check it out, apply, and pack your bags!

Top 5 Hanami Spots in the Tokai Area

Top 5 Hanami Spots in the Tokai Area

Want to see some beautiful cherry blossoms this year? Then check out these Top 5 sites that promise some gorgeous pictures and fantastic views!

Japan's Magnificent Maglev

Japan's Magnificent Maglev

Japan's fast and super-efficient rail services have been the envy of the world for years, but the nation's newest train makes the speedy Shinkansen look like a tortoise.

All About Drones in Japan

All About Drones in Japan

Do you think drones are just toys, or the wave of the future? See how some people have caused a stir in Japan with drones—and what the government is doing about it!

3 Ninja Spots in Nagano

3 Ninja Spots in Nagano

Ninja-related history, experiences and fun await in the forests of Nagano!

The Ancient Ninja Strongholds of Iga & Koka

The Ancient Ninja Strongholds of Iga & Koka

The Sengoku Period was the golden age of ninja in Japan, with Iga in Mie Prefecture and Koka in Shiga Prefecture emerging as the bastions of the shadow warrior.

The Top 6 Beers in Japan

The Top 6 Beers in Japan

With all the great beers available in Japan, it's difficult to sort and enjoy only the best. We've done the research for you and chosen these six for your drinking pleasure!

10 Signature Sweets of the Tokai Region

10 Signature Sweets of the Tokai Region

The center of Japan is renowned for its landscapes, culture, and most deliciously, its sweets. Check out these 10 dessert items and just try to resist them!

Top 5 Gold Cosmetics from Kanazawa

Top 5 Gold Cosmetics from Kanazawa

Did you know gold is a fantastic antioxidant for your skin? Check out these five products that keep your skin looking tight, firm, and youthful!

Top 3 All-Natural Beauty Products from Gifu

Top 3 All-Natural Beauty Products from Gifu

Famous for its mountains and idyllic landscapes, Gifu Prefecture also produces many natural beauty and health products from its natural springs. Try any of these three products and feel rejuvenated in the comfort of your home!

Top 6 Flower Spots in Saitama

Top 6 Flower Spots in Saitama

Saitama is one of the best spots in Japan to experience the nation's stunning flower parks and botanical gardens.

5 Gorgeous Reasons to Visit Takayama

5 Gorgeous Reasons to Visit Takayama

Takayama is a picturesque mountain town that's beautiful to visit all year round!

The Michelin Guide's Top 6 Beaches in Okinawa

The Michelin Guide's Top 6 Beaches in Okinawa

Michelin has some great ideas about where to travel, and their recommendations for Okinawa do not disappoint.

Japan’s Top 20 Three-Star Michelin Spots

Japan’s Top 20 Three-Star Michelin Spots

Japan is one of the best travel destinations on the planet. Here’s why.

The World’s Largest Toilet

The World’s Largest Toilet

Take a peek under the big lid in Chiba.

6 Amazing Features of Japanese Toilets

6 Amazing Features of Japanese Toilets

Japanese high-tech toilets are awesome! If you've never used one before, you're in for a fun surprise or two.

Better Know Your Bento Boxes

Better Know Your Bento Boxes

There are many different types of bento boxes that vary in shape and material, each with its own unique history.

know-before-you-go