All About Japan

Beyond Anime: 5 Great Japanese Movies

The world of Japanese cinema is wide, and knowing where to dive in past the season's latest anime hit can be intimidating. We're here to help with five of our favorite timeless classics!

Sake Brewing in Saku

Ever tried sake brewing? Learn how an ancient beverage can give you a glimpse into some of Japan's most enduring cultural traditions in the city of Saku, in Nagano.

Japan’s Ancient Art Exhibit in Tokyo

This exhibition at the Tokyo National Museum features artwork from the mid-1600s through the early 1900s, with representations of Japan's transition through the ages.

Getting to Know Japan's Daikannon

Some of Japan's tallest and most interesting statues represent the deity Kannon. The Goddess of Mercy is the centerpiece of many religion sites in Japan, several of which are easily accessible from Tokyo, and are perfect for a day or weekend trip!

Japan Marks 75th Anniversary of End of WWII

Organizers scale back the event to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the end of World War II amid the novel coronavirus epidemic.

Miniature Edo Castle

A miniature model of the former Edo Castle is on display at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.

'Black Rain' Survivors Recognized in Hiroshima

The next step for "black rain" survivors rests on Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, as he considers whether to certify a group of Hiroshima plaintiffs as A-bomb survivors.

Japan's Most Sacred Shrine

Ise Jingu, considered to be one of Japan's most sacred shrines, is surrounded by fun and unique foods and activities to try.

The Association of the Most Beautiful Villages

The Association of the Most Beautiful Villages in Japan is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting and preserving the most interesting and beautiful rural towns in Japan. There are truly some hidden gems on this list!

List Of Temples Which Let You Stay Inside

Japan’s rich history and natural beauty have made it one of the most endearing tourist hotspots. Read on to find the list of temples which let you stay inside and explore the appeal of Japan temple lodgings.

Celebrating 100 Years of Meiji Shrine

2020 marks one hundred years since the enshrinement of Japan's beloved Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken at Meiji Shrine in Yoyogi. Check out all of the celebrations and special exhibits here!

All Aboard WWII Museum Ship Hikawa Maru

After 30 years of service at sea, the ship now serves as a maritime museum where you can stroll around the decks and witness the elegant first-class cabins, preserved as it was over a half-century ago.

Kyoto's Kyocera Museum of Art Gets a Facelift

Come learn about the incredible history of an art museum that survived World War II.

Kinosaki Onsen Celebrates 1300th Anniversary

2020 is the 1300th anniversary of Kinosaki Onsen, a historic onsen town in Hyogo Prefecture, with seven bathhouses located within walking distance of each other.

Buying Old Tokyo: Asakusa, Jinbocho and Nakano

Walk, shop, and explore three locales in Tokyo—Asakusa, Jinbocho, and Nakano—and immerse yourself in history and culture.

Traditional Artisans Adapting to the Pandemic

Traditional artisans in Japan are looking for innovative ways to adapt to the new normal to ride out the pandemic.

Roadtrip 5 Awesome Spots on the Noto Peninsula

Discover the secrets of the Noto Peninsula, situated on the wild northwestern coast of Honshu. Although remote, this area has it all; beautiful natural sights, historical architecture, fine handicrafts and relaxing hot spring resorts!

A Taste of the Kumanokodo Pilgrimage

Join the runAway Japan team as they take on the Magose Toge Trail, the most popular portion of the UNESCO-recognized Kumanokodo Pilgrimage.

runAway to Todaiji Temple

The runAway Japan team visits Todaiji Temple, arguably THE must-see sight in Japan's ancient capital, Nara.

Buried Army HQ Uncovers Battle of Okinawa

For the first time ever, TV camera crews go into a former army headquarter that lies beneath Shuri Castle in Okinawa.

know-before-you-go