Don't Be Too Proud to Ask
Learning Japanese First Time in Japan
Learning a new language has its own lessons in humility. AAJ writer Nicholas Rich learned the tough way why he shouldn't be too proud to say, "Once more, please."
The Oldest Beech Trees in Asia
With bright blue ponds and an 8,000-year-old biosphere, we invite you to witness the unspoiled splendor of one of Japan's first UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Shirakami-Sanchi!
Yamagata: Rivers of Ice & Snowy Onsen
Established in the 1400s as a silver mine, Ginzan Onsen reached its height in the 1600s. After the silver was gone, the population thinned, but the hot springs were still known as a place for therapeutic bathing.
The 4 Most Awesome Burgers North of Tokyo
Head north of Tokyo for a prize-winning 'yakisoba' and potato burger—or all the way up to Hokkaido for a mouth-watering jumbo scallop burger! Yum!
Revitalizing Fukushima One Shoe at a Time
Keep a centuries-old tradition alive on the streets by wearing 450 years of history on your feet.
Top 10 Castles in Tohoku
Spared many of the fierce territorial battles of the Warring States Period, the castles of northeastern Japan are a little different from those you'll find to the south and west.
This Ryokan Has an Onsen You Can Stand In
Feel the water rush up from below in this 1.25-meter-deep hot spring carved out of solid rock!
Japan's Top 4 'Best 3' Sightseeing Spots!
Historical Site World Heritage
Witness the best sightseeing spots Japan has to offer in four official, comprehensive lists.
47 Souvenirs from All 47 Prefectures!
Traveling around Japan but don't know what souvenir to buy from each region? We've got you covered with this crazy list of our Top 47 'omiyage' from each of the nation's 47 prefectures!
4 Great Reasons to Visit Sendai
The largest city in Tohoku, Sendai is steeped in the history of Date Masamune, known as the 'one-eyed dragon.'
Follow the Footsteps of Poet Matsuo Basho
Pack your hiking boots and get ready for an adventure as we take you to the most fascinating and beautiful spots of Japan's deep north by way of the poet Matsuo Basho.
The 11 Spookiest Spots in Japan
Whether they’re haunted, abandoned or just plain old creepy, these spots will definitely show you a chilly side of Japan you may never yet have known.
All the Best Fall Color Spots in Tohoku
Check out these famous fall color spots and their nearby hot springs in each of northeastern Japan's six prefectures.
Enjoy Winter to its Fullest at Mukaitaki Inn
Savor the fantastic sight of candles in the snow, the natural springs flowing through the baths, and the delicate local cuisine of Aizu.
Tohoku's 3 Great Summer Festivals
Summer Festivals Tohoku Resorts
Head to northern Japan this summer for huge glowing floats, giant poles covered in lanterns and streets festooned with positive wishes for the future.
4 Lesser-Known Tohoku Summer Festivals
Summer Festivals Tohoku Resorts
Head north to see hundreds of riders in samurai armor recreate 1,000-year-old training techniques!
How Akita Warms the Winter
See life in Akita through the eyes of elementary school students as this snowbound town prepares for its winter balloon festival. If you've ever lived in small-town Japan, we challenge you not to cry.
The Poster Spring for Japan Rail
Located deep in the mountains of Miyagi, this hot spring hotel is all about healing. Its outdoor 'onsen' is so picturesque that it's been featured in posters for JR.
Catch a Glimpse of Daily Life in Akita
Family and nature both feature prominently in this stirring glimpse of a day spent far away from the bright lights of Tokyo.
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.
