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 Samurai Spirit of Aizu Lacquerware
This reflective video from Emmy Award-winning filmmaker Taylor Hawkins introduces us to three artisans in the former samurai town of Aizu-Wakamatsu, who continue to work together to bring a beautiful, heartfelt tradition to life.
8 Ways to Go Deeper (& Cheaper!) in Kanazawa
While you can just take the shinkansen from Tokyo to Kanazawa, why not take your time and take in some culture on the way? Then we've got some tips for how to save money while you're there!
Legendary Katana Now On Display in Tokyo
The legendary crescent moon katana, one of Japan's Five Swords Under Heaven, is now on display and is a hit with history buffs and video gamers alike.
11 Things to Do in Gunma in Autumn
Gunma is a hiker's paradise, and autumn is the ideal time to visit. As the leaves change color, discover one of the Three Great Scenic Wonders of Japan, beautiful marshes, waterfalls, hot springs and more!
Pay to Stay at a Real Japanese Juvenile Prison
Spend the night in a former 700-person prison in Nara. Of course there will be extra added amenities like a café and bar!
Astonishingly Beautiful Hand-Cut Paper Art
One Japanese artist is showing off her mad cutting skills with these intricate works of art.
17 (Non-Otaku) Presents to Buy a Japan Fan
Looking for something for that Japan fan who's already got it all? We've got 17 suggestions!
Mouthwatering Miniature Models
These miniature models of Japanese food have us craving the real McCoy!
10 Things to Do in Tochigi in Autumn
Autumn in Japan is a magical, colorful time, and Tochigi is no exception with its beautiful leaves and myriad of fun activities to do in the cool weather.
Hakone Yosegi Zaiku: World of Woodcraft
Hakone 'yosegi zaiku' is a kind of woodworking technique typically used to make puzzle boxes with elaborate opening mechanisms. Not only do they make a great gift—at the Hakone Trick Museum you can even make one of your own!
Tenjin-san Flea Market
If you're visiting Kyoto around the 25th of any month, be sure to stop by one of the largest shrine markets in the Kansai area and get yourself a souvenir! You'll be surprised at what's in store for you!
5 Weird & Wonderful Tokyo Cafés
Go fishing, do some handicrafts or just enjoy a nice cuppa with hedgehogs at these delightfully odd cafés.
Get Crafty in Tohoku by Making 'Kokeshi'
Travel to Sendai and learn all about 'kokeshi,' the traditional wooden dolls that come from the Tohoku region, before getting a chance to make one of your very own!
Kaya no Sato: Life in Thatch
This association on the edge of Mount Fuji is working to preserve the thatching techniques needed to preserve many of Japan's historic structures, including the 'praying hands' houses of Shirakawa-go.
10 Reasons to Visit Tohoku in Spring
There's a lot to love about Japan's northern region of Tohoku, no matter the season. Travel along with Nick to find out why the area really shines in spring.
Exploring the Culture of Miyagi
Miyagi is a place where traditional Japanese culture is still alive with wooden kokeshi dolls to mountain hot spring towns there is something for everyone.
12 Things to Do in Ibaraki in Winter
Warm your heart this winter with these exciting activities in Ibaraki.
Otherworldly Art Explores the Duality of Life
Japanese artist Yoshitoshi Kanemaki creates mesmerizing, contemplative wooden sculptures that ask big questions about our complicated world.
10 Things to Do in Gunma in Winter
In addition to being one of Japan's major ski and snowboard centers, Gunma offers hot springs, winter illumination and cultural activities to warm up the colder months.
