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.
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.
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!
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.
Say Hello to Kansai's New Cup Noodle Factory
Nissin, manufacturer of Japan's original instant ramen, Cup Noodle, is opening a new, state-of-the-art factory in Shiga Prefecture
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.
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?
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!
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.
New Sake Season, New Cedar Ball
Tenryou Sake Brewery in Gero, in Gifu Prefecture announces its new sake with a yearly event - hanging a cedar ball.
Head to This Hotel if You're Keen on Katana
If you want to see Japanese swords and armor, and you don’t happen to have a time machine, usually you’ll need to head to a museum. However, we recently came across an astounding collection of katana not in any museum or gallery, but inside a hotel.
Imperial Couple's Summer Vacation
Tokyo Imperial Palace , Nagano
Emperor Emeritus Akihito and Empress Emerita Michiko visit a community of returnees from postwar Manchuria in Nagano.
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.
Iga Ninjas Clean Up the Town
The town of Iga in Mie Prefecture was home to a renowned clan of shadow warriors. In conjunction with their annual Ninja Festival, the garbage men donned shinobi garb to get in on the action!
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.
Unmanned Stations, Gorgeous Scenery
Unmanned stations on Japan's smaller train lines are becoming an increasingly popular tourist attraction, and one glimpse at the views some of them offer is all you'll need to understand why!
Mount Fuji Sports First Snow Cap of the Season
An essential part of the transition from summer in Japan, Mount Fuji has finally donned its iconic snow cap.
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.
The Association of the Most Beautiful Villages
Historical Site , Natural Japan
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!
Tourists Flock for a Glimpse of Old Japan
Townscapes that preserve the atmosphere of Japan's yesteryear are attracting more international visitors than ever before.
