Mark Schreiber
Day Walk of Ryogoku: Sumo, Swords, Souvenirs, and Wild Boar
Tokyo's Ryogoku district is closely associated with sumo, but there's plenty more to see and do here in this traditional area of downtown Tokyo.
Jindaiji Temple and Environs: Hidden Historical Gem Not Far From Central Tokyo
A short hop from central Tokyo is the neighborhood of Jindaiji, a pleasant green area with Tokyo's second oldest temple, appealing soba shops, and a shop celebrating the beloved artist Mizuki Shigeru.
Japan's Open Air Folk House Museum: Fascinating, Photogenic, Foreigner-Friendly
Historic homes and rural lifestyles are the focus of this sprawling outdoor museum near Tokyo.
A Day Trip Exploring Japan's Feudal History in Mito City
The city of Mito is within easy access of Tokyo or Narita Airport, perfect for a day trip.
The Old Town of Sawara: The Ideal Day Trip from Narita Airport
From centuries-old buildings to botanical gardens and picturesque canals, the Edo-era town of Sawara is a joy to discover—and a short distance from Tokyo’s Narita Airport.
A Walk Through Tokyo History: Yotsuya to Shinjuku on the Koshu Kaido Road
Historical Site Tokyo Day Trips
A guide to walking through the center of Tokyo on the course of the Koshu Kaido road, one of the five routes that connected the old city of Edo with the provinces. Among the modern buildings and bustling streets are remnants of a remarkable past.
Shimbun Nishiki-e: The Meiji-era Origins of Japan’s Lurid Tabloids
In the Meiji Era (1868--1912), some enterprising woodblock artists used their traditional skills to bring a mix of news and entertainment to the masses.
Nostalgic Trip to a Beloved Tokyo Neighborhood
The Shibamata neighborhood on the outskirts of Tokyo retains the essence of the city’s “everyman” past. An iconic films series has helped to preserve its charms.
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 where fans of the story can visit to pay homage to the dedicated warriors.
What is Japan Reading?
Japan has long been known as a nation of avid readers, and books of all kinds—from manga to novels, self-help, and kids-oriented books—are a part of daily life. Here’s a look at the best-selling printed books of the first half of 2021, according to the Da
