Japan's 12 Best Keepless Castles
These castles may not have keeps, but many of them are much older than any of Japan's so-called "original construction" castles.
Flower Vases Made From Repurposed Wormy Wood
Wood is a subject of taste — from the beetles who enjoy eating it, to the designers who enjoy reusing it.
Spend a Night in a Historic House
Built to withstand and even take advantage of their environment, these singulse structures known as gassho-zukuri can only be found in two villages in Japan. So why not spend the night in a UNESCO-recognized farmhouse?
Japan's 3 Great Mountain Castles
Prior to the Warring States Period (1467-1590), most castles in Japan were 'yamajiro,' or mountain castles, and they were the pinnacle of defense for Japan's clashing warlords. Trek into the countryside to find out more about them!
Inuyama Castle: King of the Hilltop
Inuyama Castle is a National Treasure, and one of the oldest original castles still standing in Japan.
How to Find the Remains of Zeze Castle
Many castles in Japan are easy to find, as they are official landmarks treasured by the country. However, there are also some hidden gems that are less frequently visited, but worth the venture if you know where to find them!
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.
Nothing Says Love Like a Self-Harvested Pearl
Pluck out your very own pearl from one of the famous pearl oysters of Mie. Then make an elegant accessory as a special souvenir of your time in Ise!
Toyama: The Environmentally Friendly City
The Environment Ministers Meeting was also held in Toyama on May 15th and 16th. This article covers the reason why the meeting was hosted in Toyama, and the reason itself may reveal the charm of Toyama as a tourism destination.
3-D Printing Café in Gifu
Try your hand at 3-D scanning and 3-D printing in a café that celebrates Gifu's woodworking traditions.
The Salt of Life
Salt from the sea and other essential goods were hauled along Salt Road from Japan’s coastal areas to the mountainous territories inland—and delivered even to mortal enemies in need.
Full List: Japan’s UNESCO Shrines & Temples!
World Heritage Temples & Shrines
Japan is home to thousands of historic shrines and temples, and a good few of them are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. A visit to just one can give insight into Japanese culture.
Clear Your Mind & Fill Your Stomach in Toyama
Try your hand at this Buddhist meditative activity at Oiwasan Nissekiji Temple in Toyama—then try the food!
All About the World Cosplay Summit
The World Cosplay Summit began in 2003, with countries sending the winners of their respective qualifying tournaments to Nagoya in Aichi Prefecture. The biggest cosplay event on the globe, the Summit is where the world’s top cosplayers are crowned.
This Lawson Station is an Actual Station!
While Lawson convenience stores are usually called 'Lawson Station,' this store in south-central Gifu Prefecture takes the name literally!
A National Who’s Whooo of Owl Cafés
Who wouldn’t want to snuggle up and nestle down in an owl café? We’ve lined up eight adorable and outstanding branches where you can unruffle in peace.
List: Japan's 12 Original-Construction Castles
While Japan is home to over 300 castles, there are only 12 that still retain their original castle keep. These 12 so-called 'original construction' castles are the cream of the crop.
3 Classic Souvenirs from Toyama
When shopping for souvenirs on your first tour of Toyama, you may not be able to make a quick decision about which to select. Here are three representative Toyama souvenirs that can help you make your choice!
Let the Beef Come to You
This restaurant in Mie Prefecture is serving cuts of premium Matsusaka beef in a rather roundabout way.
The Wedded Rocks: Meoto Iwa
These 'wedded rocks' near Ise Grand Shrine are tied to the origin story of Japan.
