All About Japan

Deep in Snow Country - Yuzawa and Minakami

Join us as we search for onsen and winter scenery through the Yuzawa and Minakami regions of central Japan.

The Perfect Weekend in the City of Niigata

The first of a series introducing a local insider’s ideal weekend in their home town.

Global Warming Behind Japan’s Extreme Weather

A panel of experts at the Japan Meteorological Agency say global warming is contributing to torrential rain, flooding and heat waves in the country.

Fall Leaves Redder than Usual in Central Japan

Visitors to Mount Norikura in central Japan can now enjoy fall foliage. And wow are they in for a treat this year!

Trekking Ancient Trails Along Tokamachi's Amazing Rice Terraces

The terraced rice fields of Tokamachi Tanada have been called one of the most beautiful scenic spots in Japan. Here's a hike that follows ancient trails through the spectacular landscape.

Mt. Fuji Gets First Snowcap

Mt. Fuji got its first snowcap of the season, two days earlier than usual.

Central Japan's Husband-Throwing Festival

You won't believe this wacky winter ritual where locals throw a married man down a snowy hill to his wife.

Discover an Alpine Land of Natural Beauty

Home of the northern Japanese Alps, Chubusangaku National Park is a fantastic destination for lovers of the outdoors!

Brit Amelia Hiorns is Working to Save Japan’s Bear Population

Amelia Hiorns has one of the most unusual jobs in Japan. As a member of the Picchio Wildlife Research Center’s Bear Team, she works with black bears, Karelian bear dogs, and humans, all in an effort to promote wildlife conservation.

Exploring Japan's Three-Star Road

Japan's Three-Star Road is home to a host of Michelin-recognized sites and wonders, comprising a compact area that covers four prefectures. With the new Three-Star Ticket option, exploring this stretch of Japan is easier than ever before.

Discover Gems of Japan in the Mount Fuji Area

Mount Fuji peeks between high-rises across the Greater Tokyo Area. Though magnificent even from afar, the sacred mountain begs a closer look! One of the best ways to explore it is by roaming around Shizuoka, Yamanashi, and Kanagawa prefectures.

A Visit to Japan's Keith Haring Collection

The only museum in the world dedicated to the works of Keith Haring, the legendary king of 1980's New York City street art, is is nestled in the forests of Yamanashi Prefecture.

All About Japanese Guesthouses

Guesthouses are a great way to enjoy an authentic and affordable stay in Japan and interact with locals. Join us as we take an inside look at the Japanese guesthouse industry with two guesthouse owners!

Niigata Craft Gin to Promote Sustainability

A man in central Japan is working on promoting sustainability and boosting local tourism by making gin.

Travel by Train to Superb Sakura Viewing Spots

Some lesser-known but magnificent hanami spots in Japan’s eastern and northern regions and tips on how to reach them using the excellent railroad passes.

The City of Salmon – A Day in Murakami

Murakami, in northern Niigata, is home to the eerie tradition of hanging salmon. It is also famous for tea, sake, wagyu, and more!

The 5-Hour Wild Boar Chase in Niigata

Police officers in the city of Tsubame, about 300 kilometers north of Tokyo, spent five hours chasing a wild boar after the animal was spotted roaming near rice paddies.

Mount Fuji Sports First Snow Cap of the Season

An essential part of the transition from summer in Japan, Mount Fuji has finally donned its iconic snow cap.

Bear Attacks in Japan: There Is A Solution

Tried and True Ways to Coexist as told by a bear conservationist

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