All About Japan

Niigata: The 'Ricebasket' of Japan

Located on the Sea of Japan in northwest Honshu, Niigata City is one of Japan’s most fertile farming areas. But there are plenty of things to see other than rice!

Pulling Back the Curtain on the Ninja World

Discover the secrets of these shadow warriors and practice your ninja star throwing skills at 'The Ninja' exhibit at Tokyo's Miraikan.

3 Earthy Things to Do in Kumamoto

Here are three great options in the Kumamoto area if you're looking to reconnect with creatures past and present, as well as the earth below!

The Ancient Ninja Strongholds of Iga & Koka

The Sengoku Period was the golden age of ninja in Japan, with Iga in Mie Prefecture and Koka in Shiga Prefecture emerging as the bastions of the shadow warrior.

A Visual Love Letter to Japan

There are Japan videos, and then there are things like this. Set to Yuzo Koshiro's sweeping "Cerulean Woodlands," this 10-minute piece of art is truly a love letter to Japan.

World's First Snoopy Museum Opens in Tokyo

Get your dancing paws ready for a Snoopy-tastic experience in Tokyo's Roppongi district!

Top 3 Things to Experience in Takamatsu

From art islands to ancient gardens and intricate traditional lacquerware, there's plenty to enjoy in and around this Shikoku city.

Budgeting for a Weekend Away from Tokyo

Tokyo’s great, but it’s nice to get away from time to time. Fortunately, from the capital, the short-trip traveler has access to some great weekend-away spots. We've selected some of the classics, and assess their travel budgets.

Netsuke: Ancient Pocket Charms from Edo Japan

Take a look inside the beautiful and historical world of Japanese 'netsuke.'

Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter

The immaculately preserved Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter is recognized as one of the most charming merchant’s quarters in all Japan. Located in Okayama Prefecture, local museums also feature masterpieces by El Greco, Monet and Picasso.

Tsukuba: City of Science & Nature

In addition to being a 'science city,' Tsukuba is also home to one of Japan's oldest shrines, located at the foot of a twin-peaked mountain associated with the origins of the Japanese people.

An Incredible Adieu to Kansai

Hien Tran walks us through a moving farewell to the Kansai area, from the classic temples and shrines to the little things like festivals, ice cream, cat cafés and farewell parties. Just try not to be moved!

Get Your Ghibli On!

Couldn't get tickets for the Ghibli Museum? Head over to the Ghibli Exhibition in Roppongi Hills instead—but you'd better hurry since it's only open for a limited time!

The Bicycle Culture Center Museum in Tokyo

Calling all bike lovers! Ever been to the Bicycle Culture Center in Tokyo? If not, you'll be surprised to learn it's actually a uniquely designed museum showcasing the history of bicycles in Japan!

Spring in Nagoya

The majestic Mount Fuji from shinkansen window, cherry blossoms at its peak, and Nagoya-jo is a nice way to enjoy spring in Japan.

Celebrate Mount Takao’s Earthly Delights

Opened at the foot of Mount Takao in summer 2015, the Takao 599 Museum welcomes visitors with an exciting array of natural exhibitions, as well as a well-pruned lawn complete with avant-garde benches, a terrace and a café.

Travel Back in Time to the Early 20th Century

Slip back into the Taisho Period when you slip on one of these stunning kimono.

Impressions on Kyoto Manga Museum

Have you ever heard of the Kyoto International Manga Museum? Here's a sneak peek!

Aomori's Stunning 'Tsugaru-nuri' Lacquerware

Looking for a unique souvenir from Japan that isn’t food? Tsugaru-nuri, a type of lacquerware local to Aomori Prefecture, may be the elegant souvenir you’ve been waiting for.

Tottori's Amazing Sand Sculpture Museum

Picture the Sapporo Snow Festival, just a little sandier.

know-before-you-go