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Japan's First Foreign Female Shogi Pro

A chat with Karolina Styczynska, Japan's first professional foreign-born female shogi player.

The Ephemeral Art of Japanese Bathhouses

The artists who specialize in painting Japanese bathhouses are few in number, but their enduring artistic spirit ensures the profession lives on.

"Fall" for this Incredible Coloring Technique

Japanese artist and Twitter user Kotetsu combines illustration, photography, and the Japanese art of kirie to create breathtakingly beautiful artwork.

Discover Your Spiritual Side at Koyasan

Mount Koya is one of Japan’s most sacred spots, and the perfect place to experience an overnight stay in a Buddhist temple.

Pokémon Personal Seals: Gotta Stamp 'Em All!

Why just say “I accept the terms of this transaction,” with a personal seal when you can say “I accept the terms of this transaction," and also "PIKA!?"

PM Abe Helps Explain the Name of the New Era

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe gives his take on naming the Imperial era that starts next month, the Reiwa era.

6 Awesome Day Trips from Kyoto

Although Kyoto has tons to explore on its own, it's also a perfect hub for a day trip into another part of the Kansai region. Read on to find out some of the best places to explore around Kyoto!

A Gourmet Train Journey to Sample Shinshu

Rokumon is a sightseeing train run by the Shinano Railway that puts you in touch with the Shinshu region’s culture and cuisine. Take a ride and spend a leisurely time enjoying stunning scenery and delicious dishes.

All About's Guide to Sapporo

Sapporo is Hokkaido Prefecture's vibrant and eclectic capital city. Its varied climate and laid back-vibe make it one of the nation's most interesting tourist destinations in any season!

Hiking Japan’s Ancient Roads

Follow in the footsteps of pilgrims, samurai and royalty on these historic Japanese highways.

An Avant Garde Twist on Traditional Culture

Two Japanese artists have been making humorous art that subverts Japanese traditions for an astounding 25 years!

Add Studio Ghibli Magic to Your Personal Seal

These adorable Studio Ghibli name stamp stands will make you want to stamp your name on everything in sight!

Telling the Tales Behind Historical Sites

World Heritage Site listings and the designation of Cultural Properties are primarily intended to protect sites. But Japan Heritage introduces the stories and historical context behind local Tangible and Intangible Cultural Properties.

All About's Guide to Kamakura

Head out of the Tokyo metropolis to find history, food, beaches and stunning views—all of which are waiting for you in nearby Kamakura. We're here to help you plan an epic day trip, complete with all the hot spots and money-saving travel advice.

Ringing in Reiwa

See how people from across the country rang in the new Reiwa Era.

The Intricate Detail of Kirie Paper Cutting

The Japanese artist Masayo Fukuda has practiced 'kirie,' the art of cutting pictures from paper, for over 25 years. Take a look at her self-proclaimed greatest masterpiece from 2018, an incredibly detailed octopus cut from a single piece of paper.

Calligraphy Artist Speaks with Her Brush

Japanese calligrapher Nobuko Obata has pursued her lifelong passion for calligraphy, despite an accident that left her without hands from a young age.

Memory Game Uses Japanese Manhole Art

A Japanese design firm has developed a distinctly Japanese version of the classic memory game, Concentration, using the awesome art found on manhole covers throughout the country!

From Tokyo to Okayama with Zooming Japan

Join Jasmine from Zooming Japan as she does what she best—travels to locales around the country, getting up close and personal with local sights, food and culture!

Uji: An Awesome Day Trip from Kyoto

Home to some of the best green tea and one of the most recognizable temples in Japan, Uji is a destination that shouldn't be missed if you're exploring Kyoto and the rest of the Kansai area!

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