
Japan Expands State of Emergency
The Japanese government expands its state of emergency over the coronavirus to seven prefectures such as Osaka and Kyoto in addition to the four in the greater Tokyo area that was originally included.

10 Best Day Trips From Kobe
Sandwiched between the blue sea and the verdant Rokko Mountains, the bustling city of Kobe is a must-visit destination in Japan. Find our list of best day trips from Kobe, Japan, below.

Japanese Supercomputer Is World's Fastest
Japan’s Fugaku supercomputer, developed jointly by Riken and Fujitsu, has been ranked the fastest in the world.

University Finds New Uses for Tuna Skin
Kindai University is working with businesses to find new uses for the skin of its farmed tuna.
Hot Spring Towns Expand Horizons
Some sleepy hot spring towns are coming up with innovative local products and activities to attract new visitors.
5 More Fantastic Kansai Hikes
Kansai is home to some amazing hiking spots that offer both interesting trails and stunning views. So what are you waiting for? Grab those shoes and get trekking!
Mixed Reactions Over End of State of Emergency
People in Osaka, Hyogo and Kyoto in western Japan where the coronavirus state of emergency was lifted show mixed reactions over the move.
A Fan's Guide to the 2019 Rugby World Cup
The wait is almost over! In less than a year the 2019 Rugby World Cup will kick off, and the Land of the Rising Sun is gearing up in a big way.
Soar in the Sky at Japan's Castle in the Sky
Known as the "Castle in the Sky," the ruins of Takeda Castle mesmerize visitors to western Japan year after year.
Supercomputer Shows How Coronavirus Is Spread
Researchers in Japan used the supercomputer Fugaku to simulate how the novel coronavirus spreads, looking at a case in which four people are sitting at a dining table and talking without masks on.
Enjoy Flower Fun at the Tanto Tulip Festival
Every April the countryside town of Tanto in Hyogo Prefecture holds the Tanto Tulip Festival, which displays over one MILLION tulips of some 300 varieties.
A Perfect Weekend in Kobe
Kobe is Kansai's best-kept secret. Its foreign influence is a great attraction, while often overlooked is its ancient history and natural beauty. This guide sets you on track for an awesome weekend getaway.
Crowning This Year's 'Luckiest Man in Japan'
Men from around Japan take part in a race at Nishinomiya Shrine in a bid to become this year’s "Luckiest Man."
Looking for Luxury? Japan Has You Covered!
As international customers rush to discover Japan's many charms, efforts are being made to attract affluent tourists looking for high-end luxury experiences.
State of Emergency Will Not Disrupt Services
Japan declares a state of emergency, but it will be business as usual for public infrastructure, major banks, and convenience stores.
Discover Japanese Woodwork Traditions at Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum
This Kobe museum features the traditions and technology of Japanese carpentry and tool artisanship that are used in buildings from simple tea houses to complex temple designs.
Japan's State of Emergency: What Does It Mean?
If you were thinking of traveling to Japan, there are new restrictions to heed.
Takeda Castle Floating in the Sky
Thanks to a natural phenomenon, the ruins of Takeda Castle (in Hyogo Prefecture) often appear to be floating in the sky!
Kobe: Japan’s Jazz Capital Celebrates 100 Years of Great Music
Kobe has been Japan's jazz capital for 100 years, and the scene remains lively with a healthy schedule of performances at bars and clubs, and annual jazz festivals.
Kinosaki Onsen Celebrates 1300th Anniversary
2020 is the 1300th anniversary of Kinosaki Onsen, a historic onsen town in Hyogo Prefecture, with seven bathhouses located within walking distance of each other.