All About Japan

Crown Prince Next in Line of Succession

Emperor Naruhito proclaimed his younger brother, Crown Prince Fumihito, as the first in line to Japan’s Chrysanthemum Throne on November 8.

The Oldest Business in the World

Founded over 1,400 years ago, Kongo Gumi is a Japanese temple-building company that's responsible for a number of the most famous structures in the Kansai area.

Imperial Couple's Summer Vacation

Emperor Emeritus Akihito and Empress Emerita Michiko visit a community of returnees from postwar Manchuria in Nagano.

Top 6 Castles Around Tokyo

These six castles, all easily accessible from the Tokyo area, are more than enough to slake your thirst for the days of the samurai.

An Oasis in the Middle of Tokyo

If you need a little fresh air in the middle of metropolitan Tokyo, why not check out Hibiya Park?

New Emperor Ascends to Chrysanthemum Throne

Emperor Naruhito proclaims his enthronement to the Japanese people and the world in a ceremony with 400 dignitaries from around the globe in attendance.

Miniature Edo Castle

A miniature model of the former Edo Castle is on display at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.

Jogging the Tokyo Imperial Palace

The circuit around the Tokyo Imperial Palace is almost exactly 5 kilometers long, making it an excellent running course with a spectacular view.

Empress Masako at Nightingale Medal Ceremony

Empress Masako pins prestigious medals on two Japanese nurses at the Florence Nightingale Medal Ceremony in Tokyo.

Emperor Wishes for Bright Future on Birthday

Japan’s Emperor Naruhito expresses his hope for a brighter future following the coronavirus pandemic at a press conference held on the occasion of his 61st birthday.

Imperial Couple Visits Ise Jingu

Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako visit Ise Jingu Shinto shrine to mark the completion of enthronement ceremonies including November's Daijosai.

The Big Tokyo Travel Guide

Tokyo is a city of old and new, where modern skyscrapers rise up from the remains of centuries-old castle walls. The Big Tokyo Travel Guide will help you find whatever you're looking for in Japan's capital city.

7 Samurai Spots in Tokyo & Surrounding Areas

Relive the Edo days with our selection of samurai-related spots in and near Tokyo... with two special bonuses!

Japan Marks 75th Anniversary of End of WWII

Organizers scale back the event to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II amid the novel coronavirus epidemic.

5 Best Cheap & Free Tours in Tokyo

The best things in life are indeed free! Experience Tokyo at its best without having to pay an arm and a leg for the fee!

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.

5 Instagram-Worthy Castles for Every Season

Winter, spring, summer or fall, you'll fall in love with these sites, and snap a photo as you do!

Former Emperor Akihito Turns 86

Japan's Emperor Emeritus Akhito turns 86 years old.

Conquer Tokyo in One Day with the SKY BUS

SKY BUS TOKYO offers guided and hop-on tours all around Tokyo via their open-top double-decker buses. For those that have limited time, you can see all of Tokyo's must-visit landmarks quickly and efficiently—leaving your schedule open for more activities.

Abe Resigns As PM Over Health

Japanese Prime Minister Abe Shinzo is not resigning for the first time. He also stepped down due to a chronic illness 13 years ago.

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