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!

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!

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

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

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

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!

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.

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.