Driven Aloft: From Surgeon to Astronaut
Life in Japan Working in Japan
Learn about Chiaki Mukai, the first Japanese female astronaut to join a space shuttle mission.
The Battle of Kawanakajima Rages on in Mie
The legendary feud between prolific samurai Takeda Shingen and Kenshin Uesugi rages on in Mie! 100 people don armor and wield weapons to reenact the ferocious Battle of Kawanakajima.
Interactive Map of Real Life Ukiyo-e Locations
Ever been curious about where in Japan your favorite iconic ukiyo-e print is actually depicting? Wonder no more!
The Origins of the Tough G-SHOCK Watch
Over a hundred million G-SHOCK wristwatches have been shipped for sale to customers around the world since the brand debuted in 1983. This shockproof line of timepieces is a prime example of Japan’s high-quality manufacturing.
The Akiyoshidai Fire Festival
People come to the Akiyoshi Plateau in Yamaguchi Prefecture to watch rolling grasslands burn with strips of open flame, and to explore the famous giant cave and fascinating geology of the Quasi-National Park.
Omotenashi of English-Speaking Geisha in Kyoto
The “flower town” district of Gion in Kyoto is where geiko and maiko in glamorous kimono enchant people with their talents, elegance and grace. One geiko in particular shines through her use of two languages; a unique dialect of Japanese, and English.
Hopping Around Rabbit Island
Just off the coast of Hiroshima, Okunoshima is an island best known as a haven for over 1,000 adorable rabbits! It's also packed with history, which makes it a travel destination that shouldn't be missed!
Hiking Japan’s Ancient Roads
Follow in the footsteps of pilgrims, samurai and royalty on these historic Japanese highways.
Uji: An Awesome Day Trip from Kyoto
Home to some of the best green tea and one of the most recognizable temples in Japan, Uji is a destination that shouldn't be missed if you're exploring Kyoto and the rest of the Kansai area!
From Tokyo to Okayama with Zooming Japan
Join Jasmine from Zooming Japan as she does what she best—travels to locales around the country, getting up close and personal with local sights, food and culture!
Telling the Tales Behind Historical Sites
Historical Site World Heritage
World Heritage Site listings and the designation of Cultural Properties are primarily intended to protect sites. But Japan Heritage introduces the stories and historical context behind local Tangible and Intangible Cultural Properties.
Daughters of Meiji: Women's Education in Japan
At the dawn of the Meiji Period, three young girls were sent to live in the United States to experience American education and society firsthand and bring their knowledge back to Japan.
All About's Guide to Sendai
If you're looking to explore a different side of Japan, there's no better place to visit than the northern region of Tohoku! As the region's largest city, Sendai has something to offer every type of traveler.
122-Year-Old Video Shows How Tokyo Has Changed
Jump back into history with this awesome video of Tokyo from a hundred years ago. Many of the people in the video spent their early lives living in a Japan that was ruled by a shogun!
From France to Tokyo: Working in Japan
Life in Japan Working in Japan
Frenchwoman Samantha Lassaux is a sales manager for Meiji Shrine’s event hall, known as the 'Meiji Kinenkan.' Lassaux talks about her work at the historic venue, which was built in the Meiji Period and originally served as a state guesthouse.
PM Abe Helps Explain the Name of the New Era
Life in Japan Traditional Japan
Prime Minister Shinzo Abe gives his take on naming the Imperial era that starts next month, the Reiwa era.
Men Bare Souls (& Bodies) for Good Fortune
This winter festival in Aomori sees a few dozen men strip down to pray for good health and a good harvest!
Time-Lapse of Recovery: Ofunato
This time-lapse video of Ofunato, in Iwate Prefecture, helps show how far Tohoku has come in its recovery efforts, and how far it still has to come.
Discover 'Hell' on Earth in Kyushu
Kyushu's Oita Prefecture is home to a collection of incredible onsen that are literally too hot to handle, and referred to collectively as the "Hells of Beppu."
Discover Your Spiritual Side at Koyasan
Mount Koya is one of Japan’s most sacred spots, and the perfect place to experience an overnight stay in a Buddhist temple.
