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Savor Local Japanese Life in Hiroshima

Attractive accommodation options in nature-rich Shobara and the port city of Onomichi make ideal bases for savoring the charms of Hiroshima prefecture at a leisurely pace while connecting with the local culture.

The Isolated Attractions of Shikoku's "Tibet"

Some dedicated people are intent on saving the small village of Kito, and the last 20 bears that live in the surrounding mountains.

Best 2021 Year of the Ox Holiday Card Designs

Sending cards to celebrate the New Year is a long-held tradition in Japan, and Spoon & Tamago is bringing you some of their favorite designs to ring in the Year of the Ox.

Naohiko Shimoda's Creative Corner Kamidana

Kamidana are miniature altars that can be found in many Japanese homes. However, architect Naohiko Shimoda came up with one that highlights the corners of rooms, blending traditional and modern aesthetics.

Century-Old Candy Maker's Covid-Safety Sweets

Founded in 1901, Tohoen has survived the 1918 pandemic and is now making it through the current one offering limited-edition sweets focused on staying safe.

Discover Japanese Woodwork Traditions at Takenaka Carpentry Tools Museum

This Kobe museum features the traditions and technology of Japanese carpentry and tool artisanship that are used in buildings from simple tea houses to complex temple designs.

How I Learned to Wield a Samurai Sword

Spending a few hours, or even a day, at Meihodo, a complex of Edo-style buildings and gardens in the Mt. Aso caldera of Kyushu's Kumamoto Prefecture, is a wonderful way to immerse yourself in samurai culture.

Annual Bean-Tossing Events Held Across Japan

In a way to welcome good fortune and drive out the bad, Setsubun festivities were held in various parts of Japan on February 2 with limited participants amid the coronavirus pandemic.

6 of Japan's YouTubers that Will Have You Hooked

These Japan-based Youtubers have become global phenomenons, with a spicy mix of day-in-the-life stories, travel tips, and plenty of insight into all things Japanese. Find out why they're being watched by millions of fans worldwide.

Bamboo: the Secret to Takachiho’s Iconic Cuisine

The scenic valley of Takachiho in Miyazaki Prefecture is known for its bamboo cuisine. Here are three of the most popular dishes.

Why I Love Nihonga (and Want You to Love It Too)

Nihonga is a genre of modern Japanese painting that uses natural materials and draws inspiration from nature and traditional themes in Japanese culture. Find out more, including the best museums in Japan to experience the unique beauty of nihonga.

Japan's Himekuri Calendars: Amazing Almanacs

Japan's traditional page-a-day himekuri calendars are fascinating windows into traditional ways of keeping track of everything from seasonal events to festivals and lucky days.

Colorful Couture Inspired by Jomon-Era Pottery

A fashion student is representing traditional Japanese pottery with his haute couture dressed that share more than a passing resemblance to ancient Jomon design.

Ancient Ukiyo-e Battle Comes to Life

The "Folding Screen of Painted Sekigahara Landscapes" is welcoming visitors to Japan with an animated look at one of the nation's biggest battles.

Small Spaces, Part II: Japanese Ideas for Small and Tiny Homes

The second of a series on innovative, space-saving methods from traditional and modern Japanese architecture that can be used in any home, regardless of size.

Have Fun Surviving Japan's Hot Summers!

Here are a few ways to stay cool and have fun while surviving the high temperatures that mark Japan's summers!

Pioneers of Sustainable Living in Japan: The Remarkable People of Kamikatsu

The second of a series about the inspiring zero-waste Japanese town of Kamikatsu. Joy Jarman-Walsh introduces the people who want to make sustainability compatible with a good life.

Japan through the Eyes of the First Tourists

Enrich your travel experience by adding travelogues from the Meiji and Taisho eras to your reading list.

Central Japan's Husband-Throwing Festival

You won't believe this wacky winter ritual where locals throw a married man down a snowy hill to his wife.

Celebrate Summer in Japan Like a Local: Bon Odori Dances and Fireworks Festivals

Discover the magic of summer’s fabulous Bon Odori festivals and hanabi taikai fireworks festivals!

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