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

8 Free Things to Do on a Rainy Day in Tokyo
When it rains in Tokyo, it rains a lot. We've found eight unique ways to spend an entertaining rainy day in the metropolis.

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!
World's First Snoopy Museum Opens in Tokyo
Get your dancing paws ready for a Snoopy-tastic experience in Tokyo's Roppongi district!
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.
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!
Visit Elsa's Frozen Castle in Hokkaido
Even though this museum bears a striking resemblance to Elsa's crystal palace in the Disney movie "Frozen," it was actually built a little over a decade before the film premiered!
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.
Netsuke: Ancient Pocket Charms from Edo Japan
Take a look inside the beautiful and historical world of Japanese 'netsuke.'
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.
Tottori’s Winter Season: Lights & Sand Dunes
When most Japanese people think of Tottori, the first thing that pops into their minds is the famous Tottori Sand Dunes. The summer is a great time for sand—but Tottori also has some unique offerings in winter, too!
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.
Travel Back in Time to the Early 20th Century
Slip back into the Taisho Period when you slip on one of these stunning kimono.
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.
5 Classic Cultural Activities in Saitama
Located just north of Tokyo, Saitama Prefecture has preserved beautiful pockets of traditional Japan. While there's much to see, there's just as much that you can try out first-hand!
Suit Up and Prepare for Battle!
You can't help but get into the samurai spirit after visiting the Samurai Museum in Shinjuku's Kabukicho district!
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!
Tottori's Amazing Sand Sculpture Museum
Picture the Sapporo Snow Festival, just a little sandier.
3 Stress-Free Layover Tours from Narita
Narita Airport is one of the most-visited gateways to Asia. Make the most of your layover time there and try one of these guided tours offered by the Narita Transit Program.