Small Spaces, Part III: Japanese Ideas for Small and Tiny Homes
The third of a series on innovative, space saving methods from Japanese architecture that can be used in any home. The theme is bringing the exterior into the interior to broaden horizons.
Onomichi: The Japan Inland Sea Town That Saved Its Own Life, Part II
The second part of a series on a Japanese town and the citizens that have used innovative sustainable lifestyle choices to revitalize the community for residents and visitors.
Jindaiji Temple and Environs: Hidden Historical Gem Not Far From Central Tokyo
A short hop from central Tokyo is the neighborhood of Jindaiji, a pleasant green area with Japan's second oldest temple, appealing soba shops, and a shop celebrating the beloved artist Mizuki Shigeru.
Tokyo's 10 Best Outdoor Dining Spots
Noted food critic Robbie Swinnerton picks his favorite places in Tokyo where you can enjoy the outdoors and dine extremely well.
Hope for Fukushima’s Hamadori Coast, Part II: New Ventures Bring Vitality
Fukushima Prefecture’s Hamadori region, which faces the Pacific Ocean, suffered greatly from the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and the resulting tsunami and nuclear disaster. Those living within a 20 km radius of the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Powerplan
Hakko Department: One-Stop Shop for All Things Fermented in Trendy Shimokitazawa
How one man is aiming to change the world with Japan's fermentation culture.
Tokyo Midtown Yaesu: The City's Trendy New Dining/Shopping Spot
This new complex boasts high-end shops, gastronomic delights, prime office space and the first Japan outpost of Bulgaria Hotel.
A Samurai History Tour: Japan’s Most Famous Battlefield and a Remarkable Castle
The Battle of Sekigahara in 1600 was a decisive clash of warlords that led to the unification of Japan. Today, you can visit significant historical spots, including a state-of-the art museum about the battle, and a castle dating from those dramatic times.
The Most Important Japanese Shrine You've Never Heard Of
While Usa Jingu Shrine is the most prestigious shine of the Shinto religion after Ise Jingu Shrine, it is little known, even among many Japanese. But it is an important part of Japan's religious history, and gateway to the fascinating Kunisaki peninsula.
Onomichi: A Japanese Inland Sea Town That Saved Its Own Life
Cycling Sustainable Development Goals
How sustainability efforts have remarkably revitalized the Inland Sea town of Onomichi by attracting new residents and tourists—with an emphasis on cycling.
Japan's Open Air Folk House Museum: Fascinating, Photogenic, Foreigner-Friendly
Historic homes and rural lifestyles are the focus of this sprawling outdoor museum near Tokyo.
Running an Innovative Guesthouse in Japan's Mountain Sanctuary
An interview with Ryochi Takai, the owner of a guesthouse in Koya-san, the renowned Buddhist temple sanctuary in the mountains of Wakayama prefecture.
Small Spaces, Part 1: Japanese Ideas for Small and Tiny Homes
Innovative, space-saving methods from traditional and modern Japanese architecture that can be used in any home, regardless of size. The first of a series.
Okinawa's Top 5 Wellness Oils: Nature's Best-kept Secrets
Introducing some lesser known essential oils of the island of Okinawa, where the locals have long known that health is a harmonic state of body, mind and spirit.
Kobe: Japan’s Jazz Capital Celebrates 100 Years of Great Music
Kobe has been Japan's jazz capital for 100 years, and the scene remains lively with a healthy schedule of performances at bars and clubs, and annual jazz festivals.
Small Spaces, Part II: Japanese Ideas for Small and Tiny Homes
Traditional Japan Architecture
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.
Why I Love Imari Ware (and Want You to Love It Too)
Arts writer Alice Gordenker shares her appreciation for the Japanese porcelain that has captivated the world for more than 400 years.
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.
The Perfect Weekend in Okayama
One of a series of Perfect Weekends in Japanese cities. Lovers of art, food, history, and nature will all find something to help them spend a fantastic weekend in Okayama.
Hope for Fukushima’s Hamadori: Preserving the Past for the Sake of the Future
The coastal area of Fukushima is undergoing a resurgence of hope with the return of displaced residents. We take a look at memorials to the disasters of March 2011 in this first part of a two-part series.
