All About Japan

HIROSHIMA

Is Japan Boring Outside of Tokyo?

Tokyo certainly has charm and no one could doubt the convenience of living or staying in the major city. However, there’s so much more to see outside of Tokyo and I'm happy to give you a few examples... it’s literally my job to promote the entire country.

30 Spectacular Flower Spots in Japan

Seasonality is an important part of life in Japan, especially in spring. Flowers bloom throughout the country and create a colorful, unforgettable landscape for floral fans, nature enthusiasts and anyone in between!

10 Best UNESCO World Heritage Sites In Japan

Ranging from historical to natural to cultural, these 10 incredible UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Japan will make you want to travel there now!

Taking Denim Beyond the Jean Jacket

Hiroshima is known for its denim. But the denim being made here may not be the kind of denim you know!

Using the ili Translator in Rural Japan

Our writer Robert went on a cycling trip around western Japan and had an opportunity to test out the ili translation device in a few rural areas. Let's see how it works!

Guide to the Shimanami Kaido Cycling Route

Come along for a ride along the Shimanami Kaido cycling route and experience 70 kilometers of incredible views and glorious fresh air.

Island Hopping: 4 Days on the Seto Inland Sea

This magical trip on the Seto Inland Sea is guaranteed to make you want to rent a boat and hit these gorgeous islands yourself!

7 Major Otaku Areas Outside Tokyo

Tokyo is famous for 'otaku' hotspots like Akihabara, Ikebukuro and Nakano. But where do you go if you're not in the Tokyo area? We've got your 'otaku' needs covered in seven other major cities around Japan!

Cycle to the Hidden Beaches of Shimanami Kaido

Get a bicycle and make your way through some of the best beaches on the Shimanami Kaido, a gorgeous island-hopping route connecting Japan's main island to Shikoku.

Top 10 Historical Hotels & 'Ryokan' Inns

Stay at an accommodation that once served Japanese feudal lords or one that has been around since the Edo Period!

Endless Design Possibilities: Fukuyama Denim

Specialists in every step of denim manufacture—spinning, dyeing, weaving, washing—abound in Fukuyama, a leading producer of denim in Japan. The locale is a driving force behind the worldwide appeal of Japanese denim.

21 Top Spots Outside Japan's 'Golden Route'

Many tourists concentrate on the so-called 'Golden Route' connecting Tokyo to Kyoto and Osaka. But what do you do if you want to get off the principal tourist highway and see the best of the rest? Here are Japan's 21 best off-the-Golden-Route spots!

Top 10 Museums as Chosen by Overseas Tourists

These collections of samurai armor, ancient artifacts and futuristic technology are sure to pique your interest.

All About the Local Creators' Market

Launched by Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), the Local Creators’ Market focuses on five Japanese locales noted for producing exquisite traditional handicrafts.

All Aboard This Luxurious New Shinkansen

This new bullet train from JR West will allow passengers to travel in comfort like never before, with six unique cars that cater to the needs of different types of travelers.

Top 30 Spots Across Japan Ranked by Tourists

Travel website TripAdvisor has just listed this year's hot spots in Japan as selected by overseas visitors and we can't wait to see what's at number one!

4 Awesome Fireworks Festivals Outside Tokyo

Tokyo may be the heart of Japan, but to see amazing fireworks this summer, you'll need to venture out of the capital.

Starbucks Opening at Two Surprising Locations

The global coffeehouse chain has two stunning stores planned close to these world-famous tourist spots.

What is Okonomiyaki?

Okonomiyaki is a famous Japanese-style pancake or crepe. Taste the difference between the Kansai- and Hiroshima-style varieties!

12 Great Hikes in Japan's National Parks

You can follow the trails through Japan's national parks to mountain peaks and coastal views—and sometimes both at the same time!

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