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Life-Size Dolls Enliven Girls' Festival Event

Life-size “Hina” dolls are on display at a historic inn in Shizuoka Prefecture, southwest of Tokyo, for the doll festival on March 3.

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.

Experience the 'Heartbeat' of Japan in Gifu

This breathtaking new promotional video of Japan's heartland, Gifu, highlights the sights and traditions of this under-visited prefecture, all from the comfort of your own home!

Travel to Toyama to Peek the Japanese Alps

Who knew Japan had its very own Alps? And they are right in the heart of the nation.

A Luxury Train From Tokyo to Izu

JR East unveils the Saphir Odoriko, a luxury train connecting Tokyo with Izu, a popular tourist destination in Shizuoka Prefecture, starting March 14.

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!

Bear Attacks in Japan: There Is A Solution

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

Visit Japan’s Least Populous Prefectures!

In a post-COVID-19 world, the concept of travel can still be quite daunting. But as things get back up and running in Japan, people may still want to avoid the crowds. If that's the case, why not try visiting one of Japan's least populous prefectures?

Adorable Capybaras Enjoy Relaxing Soak

In search of a spirit animal? Check out these capybaras as they enjoy a hot bath at an animal park in Shizuoka Prefecture, southwest of Tokyo.

The Association of the Most Beautiful Villages

The Association of the Most Beautiful Villages in Japan is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and preserving the most interesting and beautiful rural towns in Japan. There are truly some hidden gems on this list!

Touch of Tradition with Modern 3D Cutter Cabin

This remarkable wooden cabin was constructed locally in the mountains of Japan using a Shopbot 3D wood cutter, with minimal impact on the environment. Click to learn more.

Delivering Holy Stones to a Mountaintop Shrine

Shinto priests are on a mission to deliver holy stones to a shrine on the summit of Mount Tsurugi in central Japan.

Ceramics Workshop Designed by Kengo Kuma

Star architect Kengo Kuma puts his signature stamp on yet another building with this ceramics museum and workshop in Komatsu.

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.

Japan Weather to Remain Unstable After Typhoon

Typhoon Haishen is moving away from Japan, but the weather is expected to remain unstable for a while.

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.

Making Japanese Washi Paper from Food Waste

An established paper maker in central Japan has come up with a new type of washi that’s also eco-friendly. Craftswoman Masami Igarashi has 25 years of experience manufacturing washi and related products. She now makes paper from vegetable and fruit waste.

Giant Rice Cake Specially Made for the Gods

Farmers in central Japan were busy pounding giant rice cakes for Atsuta Shrine at the end of the year.

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.

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