In & Around Tokyo: Off the Beaten Track
A typical trip to Japan would likely include Kyoto, Osaka and Tokyo or a perhaps day trip to the countryside. However, from ancient treasures to modern marvels, there's richness and rewards for those, like André Mazzone, who take the road less traveled.
Untraveled Japan: Tokyo Day Trips & More
You don’t have to go far from Tokyo to experience Japan like no one has before!
16 Authentic 'Japan' Experiences around Tokyo
How do you get an 'authentic Japan' experience in the Tokyo area? It depends on what you mean by 'authentic,' and what you mean by 'Japan!' Here are 16 'real Japan' options around Tokyo, running the gamut from the very old to the very new!
Tokyo's Beautiful 'Sakura' Winter Wonderland
As spring snow fell in the nation's capital, the cherry blossoms turned into beautiful snow-capped buds.
Outer Tokyo's 5 Best Fall Foliage Spots
Outer Tokyo awaits those who want a quick getaway from the city or (sometimes) an evening trip to soak in a few lesser-known spots.
12 Photogenic Spots Perfect for a Tokyo Trip
There are many cool places to visit with fantastic photo opportunities in and around the Tokyo area.
Top 8 Best Areas to Live in and Around Tokyo
What are the best areas in and around Tokyo to live? Tokyo’s much-ballyhooed Kichijoji only makes it to No. 3, while an outsider with easy access to Tokyo takes the top spot!
A YouTuber's First Time in Japan
Follow New York-based filmmaker and YouTuber Kraig Adams as he spends one fascinating week in and around Tokyo.
5 Cheap Shopping Stops Near Famous Japan Sites
Ginza, Omotesando and Shibuya are not the only places to shop in Japan. In some Tokyo suburbs, there are places worth a stop; outside Tokyo, you may just score even better deals!
Starbucks Blends into Edo Japan
Blending seamlessly into this old castle town just north of Tokyo, Starbucks' new Kawagoe location will let you enjoy your coffee with a side of Edo-style charm.
4 Rock-Climbing Paradises Right in Tokyo
Tokyo isn’t known for nature. But if you visit the western part of the prefecture, you'll run into Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park, an excellent getaway for both the avid hiker and the extreme mountain climber!
Odawara Castle: Last Stand of the Old Order
Located just south of Tokyo, Odawara Castle was known as an impregnable fortress—until it was taken down by a party!
Hakone Sekisho: Historical Checkpoint
The Hakone Sekisho was one of 53 checkpoints used by the Tokugawa Shogunate to maintain control over Japan's population. Now faithfully reconstructed, it makes for a pleasant visit while in Hakone, offering a nice view of Mount Fuji on a clear day.
Kitchen-Haven Kappabashi Has More Than Knives
Previously, we've published articles about buying knives in Kappabashi, but this 'shotengai' has more on offer than just cutlery! Let's take a tour together and see a sharper side of this shopping street.
The Historical Stores of Ginza
Ginza has been associated with wealth ever since a silver coin mint was established here early in the Edo Period. Quite a few old shops got their start here, making Ginza a great center for some historical shopping!
12 Instagram-Perfect Spots Just Outside Tokyo
Tokyo is great, there’s no doubt about that, but sometimes you just want to escape and see another side of Japan. And we’re here to help you do just that with these easy day-trips from Tokyo that are perfect for your Instagram feed.
10 Shockingly Cheap Tokyo Ramen Shops
Trying to find a ramen bowl that’s in-budget, but still mouth-wateringly delicious can be frustrating.
Tokyo Vegan Guide Offers 50 Restaurant Reviews
With reviews of over 50 vegan and vegan-friendly restaurants, 'Tokyo Vegan Guide' will show you not only how to survive in Japan while keeping to a plant-based diet, but how to thrive on delicious meals and snacks in the city!
Hakone Shrine: Home of the Nine-Headed Serpent
The mountains of Hakone have been worshipped for at least 2,500 years. Hakone Shrine venerates the three most important deities of the region: two legendary ancestors of the Japanese imperial line, and the goddess of Mount Fuji herself!
Finding Bargains in Kanto's Posh Neighborhoods
Japan has 'shotengai,' or shopping streets, where you can find most anything, including food, kimono, gifts, home items, novelty goods, clothes, shoes and what have you. While 'shotengai' abound in Japan, we'll introduce you the best of the best.