Japan's 1st Transgender Man Elected to Office
In March 2017, Japan elected its first openly transgender man to public office who drew on his own experiences of isolation during his campaign.
Secret Sakura Spots in Residential Areas
Not all cherry blossom trees are planted in Yoyogi, Shinjuku Gyoen, Inokashira or Sankeien. You'd be surprised to know that a lot of regular neighborhood areas in and around Tokyo also have Instagram-worthy spots for the perfect sakura shot.
12 Things to Do in Ibaraki in Autumn
Incredible flowers bloom in Ibaraki even as the leaves on the trees begin to turn yellow, orange and red.
9 Things to Do in Tochigi in Summer
Nature and history are among the many wonderful things you can enjoy during a Tochigi summer.
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!
Japan Gets Its 1st Umami Burger Resturant
The hit California burger chain, Umami Burger, opens its first restaurant in the land of the rising sun.
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.
The Best 'Hanami' Spots in Each Prefecture
Enjoy the best of the cherry blossom viewing season with this list of the top spots to see sakura around the country.
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!
Sumida: Where Japan’s Past & Future Collide
As cherry blossom season shifts into high gear around the country, join our writer Nick as he spends time in Tokyo’s historic Sumida Ward, enjoying the surrounding beauty and a variety of immersive cultural experiences!
12 Things to Do in Gunma in Spring
Gunma offers its cherry blossoms combined with daffodils, mountain phlox, converted tramcars, feudal warriors and even a World Heritage Site.
12 Things to Do in Ibaraki in Winter
Warm your heart this winter with these exciting activities in Ibaraki.
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.
Enjoy Nighttime Sakura Petals in an Onsen
Dip your feet into these baths as cherry blossom petals tickle your toes.
JR Explained
When talking about Japanese trains, surely Japan Railways (JR) comes to mind. But did you know that JR isn't one single company, but six?
11 Things to Do in Gunma in Summer
Blessed with numerous mountains, lakes and rivers, Gunma offers a wealth of outdoors activities in the summertime. Try mountain climbing, rafting, canyoning, canoeing and more—then rest your weary bones in one of the region's celebrated hot springs.
What's the Difference Between Tokyo & Osaka?
Debating between visiting Japan's two most prominent cities? Tokyo's got the bright lights, but Osaka's got the character. Here's a comparison to help you choose between the two!
Tokyo Side Trips for Every Type of Traveler
While Tokyo alone could satisfy your craving for a yin and yang experience—say, a taste of city life in Shibuya coupled with the greenery of Shinjuku Gyoen—there's more to enjoy beyond the city limits of Tokyo!
9 Things to Do in Tochigi in Spring
Tochigi is full of colorful delight as spring brings a wide swathe of flora across the prefecture.
9 Things to Do in Tochigi in Winter
Don't let the snow keep you indoors! There's so much to do Tochigi in the wintertime.
