All About Japan

Take the Chichibu 34 Kannon Pilgrimage

The Chichibu Valley is home to beautiful mountains and rivers—and a centuries-old temple pilgrimage unlike any other in Japan.

Ultimate Itinerary: Koyasan in Wakayama

Whether you’re planning a day trip or a full stay, read on to discover how you can get the most out of this magical and spiritual destination. Welcome to the ultimate itinerary for a trip to Koyasan in Wakayama, from Osaka.

The Road to Koyasan: A One-Day Pilgrimage with Kobo Daishi

Follow in the footsteps of pilgrims on this day hike up Japan's Mt. Koya, home to over 100 temples.

Take the Path of Faith to Discover Nature

Rediscover yourself in mystical places deep in the mountains.

Highway to the Gods: In the Footsteps of Oyama Pilgrims

Mt. Oyama, a peak to the southwest of Tokyo, has long been the goal of pilgrims eager to pay their respects to the gods. Today, visitors can follow in their footsteps on a short, fun trip out of the city.

Finding Anime in Real Life: 10 Tokyo Locations

The folklorist that I am, I decided to choose ten anime featuring creatures from Japanese myth (but with a little Western thrown in as well). Keep reading to check out if your favorite anime is included on my list!

Mount Fuji's Northern Gateway

Said to date all the way back to the year 110, Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine marks the entrance to the Yoshidaguchi climbing trail on the north side of Mount Fuji.

Hiking Japan’s Ancient Roads

Follow in the footsteps of pilgrims, samurai and royalty on these historic Japanese highways.

12 Great Hikes in Japan's National Parks

You can follow the trails through Japan's national parks to mountain peaks and coastal views—and sometimes both at the same time!

A Walk Through Tokyo History: Yotsuya to Shinjuku on the Koshu Kaido Road

A guide to walking through the center of Tokyo on the course of the Koshu Kaido road, one of the five routes that connected the old city of Edo with the provinces. Among the modern buildings and bustling streets are remnants of a remarkable past.

A Backpacker's Guide to Kochi

Join Stephen Schreck from A Backpacker's Tale as he visits Kochi Prefecture to do what he does best—learn the ins and outs of the region, and what makes it a fantastic destination for those looking to get off the beaten path!

Japan—Where Tradition Meets the Future

Centered around a slick video of 45 locations across three regions of Japan, the JNTO's new European campaign is a beauty to behold.

A Taste of the Kumanokodo Pilgrimage

Join the runAway Japan team as they take on the Magose Toge Trail, the most popular portion of the UNESCO-recognized Kumanokodo Pilgrimage.

6 Reasons You Have to Visit Ehime

Filled with history, culture and mikan, Ehime is a must-add to your Japan itinerary.

A Guide to the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trails

Winding through the Kii Peninsula, these are the only UNESCO World Heritage pilgrimage trails in Japan.

In the Footsteps of Japan’s Yamabushi Ascetics

Visit this isolated village in central Japan for a glimpse of Japan's ancient ascetic traditions that are still being practiced today.

Japan's 20 UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Every traveler to Japan should be sure to visit at least a few of the nation's stellar World Heritage Sites, ranging from 1,000-year-old temples and shrines to breathtaking natural biospheres.

Discover Your Spiritual Side at Koyasan

Mount Koya is one of Japan’s most sacred spots, and the perfect place to experience an overnight stay in a Buddhist temple.

Top 10 Natural Power Spots of Kansai

Japan is a haven for beautiful nature, and Kansai is one of the best places to experience just that.

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