Venture out to the LGBT-Friendly City of Osaka
It's well known that opinions about same-sex marriage and rights are still divided in Japan. But Osaka seems to be ahead of the curve.
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!
A Quick Guide to the Sights of Nara
Visit Nara, the city where you’ll find one of Japan’s largest and most famous bronze Buddha statue, its second-tallest pagoda, and hundreds of friendly deer!
Visit the Golden Pavilion in Kyoto
The intense shine of the Golden Pavilion reflects on calm waters, reminding us why this temple is considered a part of our World Heritage.
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!
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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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!
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!
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!
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!
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!
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.
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.
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.
Same-Sex Couples Can Now Be Foster Parents
One of the most populous cities in Japan has granted a same-sex male couple the right to raise a foster child. Is this a one-off, or has the precedent been set?
