All About Japan

My First Time at a 'Ryokan'

The Japan Guy gives us his first impressions of a traditional Japanese inn in a refreshingly humorous way!

Step into a Japanese Classroom at This Izakaya

With themed rooms and waiters who act as teachers and nurses, you’ll never want to leave elementary school again!

Visit the World-Record-Holding Oldest Hotel

This hotel has been recognized by Guinness World Records as the oldest hotel in the world, and is just a prefecture away from Tokyo!

Experience the Onbashira Festival—Safely!

This Nagano festival frequently results in deaths when it’s held every six years. Now you can experience the ride firsthand—and safely—at any time of year.

Hike to these 3 Hidden Temples & Shrines

For the brave pilgrim, here are three awesome temples and shrines that are certainly off the beaten path in Tottori, Shizuoka and Oita.

Japan's Largest Ferris Wheel—With Glass Floors

For those brave enough to ride it, the new Redhorse Osaka Wheel features VIP carriages, glass windows and... glass floors.

Stunning Ryokan Views in Shizuoka

Indulge in incredible 'ryokan' getaways in the area the emperor chose for his villa.

5 Family-Friendly Typhoon Day Activities

Check out five tried and tested family-friendly typhoon day activities, from window coloring to tabletop games and sofa forts.

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.

Top-Notch Ryokan Puts All Others to Shame

This Japanese inn shows guests the true meaning of hospitality by coming out to greet you as you arrive and leaving a thank you note by your shoes when you leave.

Okinawa Blue Cave Snorkeling & Kayaking Tour

Enjoy the tropical waters of Okinawa on a private, guided tour!

Spend a Star-Studded Evening at Kurokawa Onsen

Awarded two stars by the Michelin Green Guide Japan in 2009, Kurokawa Onsen Town is an amazing place to unwind with 24 hot spring baths you can enjoy even as a day visitor, some with very surprising features.

3 Bridges in Okinawa Offering Gorgeous Views

Even people who suffer from gephyrophobia won't be able to resist crossing these bridges to see the pristine blue waters below and a baby blue sky above.

Traditional Ryukyu Glassblowing Lesson in Naha

Learn to make beautiful, traditional Ryukyu glass during your trip to Okinawa!

Top 10 Best Ryokan of Japan

If you're looking for traditional Japanese-style lodging, look no further than these ten Japanese inns.

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.

Mount Fuji Tourist Info

Find out when to climb, where to climb from, and what else you can do in the area! Oh—and don't miss the fireworks!

Trek up Tokyo Tower—Only 600 Steps!

Think you handle all 600 (literally) breathtaking steps of Tokyo Tower? We took the challenge, with photographic evidence.

Texan in Tochigi!

How can you not be fascinated by something called the 'Kanman-ga-Fuchi Abyss'? As our favorite Texan in Tokyo proves, Nikko has something for everyone, rain or shine!

Fresh Cherry Picking in Numata

Nothing beats the flavor of fresh cherries: ripe and full of juice!

know-before-you-go