Shine on at the Yamaga Lantern Festival
Witness one thousand women dancing with gold and silver lanterns on their head, reenacting an ancient mythical tale.
Delicious Wagyu in Japan’s Volcanic Heartland
Known for its smoldering craters, Aso also offers an exotic stop-over for the gourmand seeking to experience the best Japanese ingredients.
'Shooting Star' Bullet Train
A beaming bullet train running through the Kyushu area was created to mark the 10th anniversary of the Kyushu Shinkansen.
Support Kumamoto by Purchasing a Kit Kat
After the devastating Kumamoto Earthquake in 2016, Kit Kat has teamed up with the region's mascot, Kumamon, and local farmers to produce a unique Kit Kat flavor.
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.
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.
Sweet, Sour, and Everything In Between: The Aromatic World of Japanese Citrus
Get a primer on Japanese citrus beforeWith over a hundred varieties grown throughout the country today, citrus has plenty of uses in Japan, from fruit snacks to alcoholic drinks.your next trip to the supermarket!
People Are Grabbing Paper for Health
People scramble to grab pieces of “sacred” paper from a demon at a Shinto shrine in southwestern Japan.
An Incredible World in Miniature
A short journey from Kumamoto or Oita prefectures will bring travelers to Aso-Kuju National Park, a beautiful area that is one of the first official national parks in Japan.
Homeowners Open Public Bath Under Their House
As thousands had been displaced in the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake, the disaster revealed one of the flaws of the community: there were no public baths. Until now!
30 Stunning Flowers in Japan's National Parks
From June hydrangeas to September spider lilies, here are 30 reasons for flower fans to fall in love with Japan's 34 flower-filled national parks!
Offbeat Japan: Water & Greenery in Kumamoto
Join Jordy Meow as he traverses the idyllic, natural side of Kumamoto.
Japan PM Vows Aid to Rain-Battered Kumamoto
Japanese Prime Minister Abe Shinzo visits the disaster-stricken areas of Kumamoto Prefecture. Japan’s southwestern region has been devastated by torrential rains and flooding.
Hospital Supports Pregnant Women in Need
A hospital that operates Japan’s only baby hatch, where mothers can place their unwanted babies anonymously, has started taking in pregnant women of lesser means to help them give birth, in what is believe to be the first such attempt in the country.
200-Year-Old Soy Sauce Manufacturer Rebuilds
Kumamoto Earthquake Historical Shops
In April of 2016, a powerful earthquake rocked Kumamoto, toppling parts of Kumamoto Castle and damaging many other historical sites. One of those was 200-year-old soy sauce maker Hamada Shoyu. This is the story of their historic redesign by Kengo Kumo.
Sightseeing & Sports Around Japan
Learn about some of the sights and local charms around Tokyo, and in areas in Kyushu that live and breathe sports!
Kumamoto Castle's Renovation Observation Path
Kumamoto Castle is letting visitors have a backstage pass to see how the renovation work is proceeding after the major 2016 earthquake.
Take Your Prefectural Pride on the Road
These stylish license plates feature iconic imagery from prefectures throughout Japan, so you can show off your prefectural pride every time you hit the road!
14 Stunning Sunrise & Sunset Spots in Japan
Japanese Countryside Great Outdoors
It's a tradition to watch the sunrise on the first day of the year in Japan. And the nation's national parks offer countless breathtaking options for both sunrise and sunset at any time of year!
Kumamoto Remembers Quake Victims Amid Pandemic
Kumamoto Earthquake Deeper Japan
A memorial ceremony to mark the 4th anniversary of the Kumamoto earthquake was downsized to prevent the spread of the new coronavirus.
