All About Japan

The Association of the Most Beautiful Villages

The Association of the Most Beautiful Villages in Japan is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and preserving the most interesting and beautiful rural towns in Japan. There are truly some hidden gems on this list!

New Year, New Swords

Bladesmiths in central Japan show visitors the traditional method for making Japanese swords.

A Luxury Train From Tokyo to Izu

JR East unveils the Saphir Odoriko, a luxury train connecting Tokyo with Izu, a popular tourist destination in Shizuoka Prefecture, starting March 14.

Making Japanese Washi Paper from Food Waste

An established paper maker in central Japan has come up with a new type of washi that’s also eco-friendly. Craftswoman Masami Igarashi has 25 years of experience manufacturing washi and related products. She now makes paper from vegetable and fruit waste.

Touch of Tradition with Modern 3D Cutter Cabin

This remarkable wooden cabin was constructed locally in the mountains of Japan using a Shopbot 3D wood cutter, with minimal impact on the environment. Click to learn more.

All About Japanese Guesthouses

Guesthouses are a great way to enjoy an authentic and affordable stay in Japan and interact with locals. Join us as we take an inside look at the Japanese guesthouse industry with two guesthouse owners!

The 5-Hour Wild Boar Chase in Niigata

Police officers in the city of Tsubame, about 300 kilometers north of Tokyo, spent five hours chasing a wild boar after the animal was spotted roaming near rice paddies.

Manned Flying Car Goes on Test Flight

A Japanese venture company successfully conducts a test flight of an experimental flying car with one person on board.

Travel to Toyama to Peek the Japanese Alps

Who knew Japan had its very own Alps? And they are right in the heart of the nation.

Mt. Fuji Gets First Snowcap

Mt. Fuji got its first snowcap of the season, two days earlier than usual.

Designers' Office Roof Has a Few Holes

When it came time to design their own office in 2018, the architects at Studio Velocity in Aichi carried out their usual vision, albeit with a slightly more precarious footing.

Global Warming Behind Japan’s Extreme Weather

A panel of experts at the Japan Meteorological Agency say global warming is contributing to torrential rain, flooding and heat waves in the country.

Japan Weather to Remain Unstable After Typhoon

Typhoon Haishen is moving away from Japan, but the weather is expected to remain unstable for a while.

Exploring Japan's Three-Star Road

Japan's Three-Star Road is home to a host of Michelin-recognized sites and wonders, comprising a compact area that covers four prefectures. With the new Three-Star Ticket option, exploring this stretch of Japan is easier than ever before.

Visit Japan’s Least Populous Prefectures!

In a post-COVID-19 world, the concept of travel can still be quite daunting. But as things get back up and running in Japan, people may still want to avoid the crowds. If that's the case, why not try visiting one of Japan's least populous prefectures?

Roadtrip 5 Awesome Spots on the Noto Peninsula

Discover the secrets of the Noto Peninsula, situated on the wild northwestern coast of Honshu. Although remote, this area has it all; beautiful natural sights, historical architecture, fine handicrafts and relaxing hot spring resorts!

Discover an Alpine Land of Natural Beauty

Home of the northern Japanese Alps, Chubusangaku National Park is a fantastic destination for lovers of the outdoors!

Experience the 'Heartbeat' of Japan in Gifu

This breathtaking new promotional video of Japan's heartland, Gifu, highlights the sights and traditions of this under-visited prefecture, all from the comfort of your own home!

The Queen of the Night Blooms Only Once a Year

Visitors gather in Aichi Prefecture, in central Japan, to get a glimpse of a special flower, the "Queen of the Night," a cactus flower that only blooms once a year in the evening, and withers by morning.

Giant Rice Cake Specially Made for the Gods

Farmers in central Japan were busy pounding giant rice cakes for Atsuta Shrine at the end of the year.

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