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Shiga: Lakes, Ziplines, Water & Castles

Take a zipline above Japan's largest lake!

Top 10 Cheap Activities In Osaka

A city with a long history as a merchant center, Osaka has a bit of a reputation for wheeling and dealing. So it's only natural that there would be plenty of cheap things to do in the city!

Top 10 Castles in Tohoku

Spared many of the fierce territorial battles of the Warring States Period, the castles of northeastern Japan are a little different from those you'll find to the south and west.

The Oldest Business in the World

Founded over 1,400 years ago, Kongo Gumi is a Japanese temple-building company that's responsible for a number of the most famous structures in the Kansai area.

The 4 Forts & Castles of Hokkaido

Hokkaido has only one castle; the rest of its fortifications are actually relatively modern forts. And in the late 1860s, they were the site of the last hurrah of the Tokugawa Shogunate.

The 'Combini' in the Castle

Exploring a castle can be thirsty work. So why should you have to leave the grounds when you want to recharge with a cool drink or a tasty snack?

Time Travel in Kitakyushu

The varied history of this port town has endowed it with a unique combination of ancient castles, modern gardens, and elegant turn-of-the-century architecture.

The Legend of Kinojo: The Demon Castle

This Okayama castle is literally called, 'Castle of a Demon.' Find out why!

Ise Azuchi Momoyama Bunkamura

Check out this historical theme park that recreates the golden age of samurai!

9 Castles to Hit in Hyogo after Himeji

What do you do once you've seen the big attraction and still want more castle action? We've got nine answers right here!

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.

8 Things Not to Miss in Okinawa

Known for its beautiful beaches, Okinawa is one of the most famous resort destinations in Japan. Here are eight things you don't want to miss while you're there!

5 Best Cheap & Free Tours in Tokyo

The best things in life are indeed free! Experience Tokyo at its best without having to pay an arm and a leg for the fee!

Key Castle Vocabulary

Don't know a 'tenshu' from a 'hori'? We're here to help!

Top 5 Free Tour Guide Services in Japan

Just about to book that expensive tour guide to show you around Japan? No need! There are hundreds of free volunteer guides all over the country. Here are our top groups and organizations!

4 Great Reasons to Visit Sendai

The largest city in Tohoku, Sendai is steeped in the history of Date Masamune, known as the 'one-eyed dragon.'

5 'Castle in the Sky'-Inspired Bento

Can't get enough of Castle in the Sky? Why not try eating some!

Get a 3-D Puzzle of Odawara Castle

Want a piece of history? How about a detailed 1/175 replica of Odawara Castle?

The Kumamoto Castle Reconstruction Efforts

Take a look at some photos from the reconstruction efforts for one of the most time-sensitive projects: restoring the Iidamaru Gokai Yagura, a five-story guard tower that was at risk of imminent collapse.

Folding Lego Samurai Not Included

This eye-popping Lego pop-up book is a pretty accurate representation of one of Japan's most beloved castles!

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