All About Japan

Kyoto Temple Offers Rare Autumn Illumination

Mark your calendar, because this year the stunning Rurikoin will be open for public viewing only from Sunday, November 1 through Monday, November 30.

World Heritage in Okinawa: Shuri Castle

Shuri Castle is one of the most popular destinations in Okinawa's capital—and one of the five most-visited castles in Japan!

Test Your Ninja Skills

For the first time ever, Koga City's ninja exam was held in Tokyo and test takers dressed in ninja cosplay to earn an extra 10 points on the exam.

Historic Photos of Japan Brought to Life by AI

A new technique developed by researchers at Waseda University is giving old photographs a vibrant and colorful new life.

The Hill of Buddha — An Architectural Marvel

Outside the city of Sapporo, hidden by the beautiful, natural landscape of Hokkaido, rests an awe-inspiring statue.

Embracing the Warmth of Tohoku in Hachinohe

My journey to northern Japan led to an immersion in the rich culture and hospitality of the residents and regions of Hachinohe, Aomori.

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!

Top 30 Spots Across Japan Ranked by Tourists

Travel website TripAdvisor has just listed this year's hot spots in Japan as selected by overseas visitors and we can't wait to see what's at number one!

Japan's 12 Most Famous Samurai

You probably know Miyamoto Musashi, but how many other real-world samurai can you name? Here are 12 of the most famous samurai in Japan!

The Many Sides of Kitakata

We've traveled around the Tohoku region with Nick, checking out some of the great moments from his travels. But this time, we'll join the intrepid writer as he revisits his old stomping grounds, getting a deeper look at the city of Kitakata!

Discover Kanzanji Temple in Shizuoka

Head to central Japan to recharge your batteries at this incredible power spot, and have the best freshwater eel you've ever tasted while there!

3 Reasons to Visit Kyoto in May

There’s never a bad time to visit Japan’s former capital of Kyoto, but May is an especially good time for these three exceptional reasons!

Starbucks Opts for Tradition in Kyoto

Century-old teahouse starts new life with tatami floors and 'zabuton' cushions for customers at this American café chain.

A Walk Through Sendai to Remember

Following the aftermath of the 2011 Tohoku Earthquake and subsequent tsunami, the residents of Sendai are standing on their feet once again and ready to share the lessons they've learned about disaster prevention and preparation.

All About ADMT: Advertising Museum Tokyo

To commemorate the 100th birthday of Hideo Yoshida, the fourth CEO of Japanese advertising conglomerate Dentsu, an NPO group called Yoshida Hideo Memorial Foundation opened a museum in December 2002 dedicated to the history of advertising in Japan.

Top 10 Museums as Chosen by Overseas Tourists

These collections of samurai armor, ancient artifacts and futuristic technology are sure to pique your interest.

21 Top Spots Outside Japan's 'Golden Route'

Many tourists concentrate on the so-called 'Golden Route' connecting Tokyo to Kyoto and Osaka. But what do you do if you want to get off the principal tourist highway and see the best of the rest? Here are Japan's 21 best off-the-Golden-Route spots!

Top 20 Power Spots in Japan

Japan seems to be overflowing with so-called 'power spots.' Here are 20 of the best, many of them tied to mountain worship, ancient shrines, and the very origins of Japan.

Kamakura’s Top 10 Fall Foliage Spots

With autumn colors available at temples close to Kita-Kamakura and Kamakura Stations, even a short trip will do!

Legendary Katana Now On Display in Tokyo

The legendary crescent moon katana, one of Japan's Five Swords Under Heaven, is now on display and is a hit with history buffs and video gamers alike.

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