All About Japan

Full List—Japan's Intangible Cultural Heritage

Beyond its 20 spectacular World Cultural Heritage Sites, Japan has 21 traditions recognized by UNESCO as elements of Intangible Cultural Heritage.

The Natural Beauty of 'Satoyama'

While Japan's countryside always offers breathtaking views of nature, these man-made farms built near mountains are true wonders to behold in rural communities.

A New Year, A New Character Harvest

Audrey Hepburn and Osamu Tezuka's characters get the rice paddy treatment in Aomori Prefecture as rice fields spring up in their likeness.

The 3 Most Beautiful Villages in Shikoku

Shikoku is the smallest of Japan's four main islands, and the most rural. Take a look with us at the most scenic small villages on the island, tucked between mountains and along river banks.

Bear Attacks in Japan: There Is A Solution

Tried and True Ways to Coexist as told by a bear conservationist

Experiencing 2 Days of Rural Life in Iwate

Get out of the big cities and experience the thrilling rural life in Iwate Prefecture.

Are Fukushima's Vegetables Safe to Eat?

In the wake of the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami of 2011, there are still concerns out there regarding the safety of produce grown in Fukushima Prefecture. We talked with a farmer who hopes to set the record straight.

Wasabi—Japan’s Fiery, Flavorful Root

Wasabi is Japan’s signature condiment. There is no substitute for the pleasurable burn on your palate of the grated goodness of this herb!

Discover Fruit & Fossils in Fukushima!

Welcoming visitors with open arms, Fukushima Prefecture offers strawberry picking, a fresh tomato theme park, and a fossil museum where you can try your hand at archaeology.

Emperor Naruhito Harvests First Rice

Emperor Naruhito harvests rice from paddies at the Imperial Palace for the first time since becoming emperor.

8 National Records in the North Kanto Region

From the world's biggest standing bronze statue to the nation's highest bungee jump, the North Kanto region sets records on both a national and global scale!

Zen Pilates & Yoga Retreat at Lake Biwa

Practice Pilates near the serenity of Lake Biwa.

We Eat Mushrooms, But What Do Mushrooms Eat?

While wild mushroom hunting is a well-known hobby in Japan, not many of us know how mushrooms are farmed. Come take a closer look at the cultivation process for one of Japan's most famous mushrooms, the earthy, meaty shiitake.

5 Fun & Fruity Activities to Do Around Tokyo

There's more to Kanto than trains, amusement, food, shopping and temples. There are several 'juicy' fruit-related activities to do when in Tokyo or nearby towns, such as fruit picking, fruit carving, jam making and more. Why not enjoy them when in Japan?

Undiscovered Japan: Fukushima & Miyagi

While Fukushima and Miyagi prefectures were both badly hit by the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami, the region has now largely recovered, and is looking to see travelers flock in once again.

Stunning Photos of Japan That Are Free to Use

Whether you need to find breathtaking visuals for a website or pamphlet, or just want to lose yourself in the natural beauty of Japan, this is the place to do it!

Buying Direct from Farmers Popular in Pandemic

Purchasing fresh produce directly from farmers is gaining popularity in Tokyo as the method can help avoid close human contact amid the coronavirus pandemic.

The Isolated Attractions of Shikoku's "Tibet"

Some dedicated people are intent on saving the small village of Kito, and the last 20 bears that live in the surrounding mountains.

Get Hands-on in Rural Japan: Akita Farm Stay

By giving people unique first-hand experiences, green tourism can help revitalize and re-popularize the lifestyles and customs of rural Japan.

WWOOF! Work on Organic Farms in Japan for Bread and Board

The WWOOF organization is an international organization that connects organic farmers with volunteers willing to work for their food and board. Here's one volunteer's account of her time spent helping out a local Japanese farm.

know-before-you-go