Idyllic Etajima: Inland Sea Getaway
This inland sea island flies under the radar of most travelers, making it the perfect place to escape.
Eco-Tourism in the Ogasawara Islands: Composting toilet Lessens Inbound Impact
Protecting the natural habitat of a remote Japanese island chain requires dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to controlled development. Joy Jarman Walsh traveled to Hahajima and talked to islanders about their work preserving the ecosystem, and th
Okinawa's Top 5 Wellness Oils: Nature's Best-kept Secrets
Introducing some lesser known essential oils of the island of Okinawa, where the locals have long known that health is a harmonic state of body, mind and spirit.
Sustainable Tourism in the Ogasawara Islands: Dolphin Identification Program
The Ogasawara Islands, 1,000 km south of Tokyo, are only reachable by a 24-hour boat trip. A national park since 1972 and a UNESCO site since 2011, the islands have strict rules for tourists and residents to protect their unique ecosystems.
Why You Must Go to Japan’s 5 Natural Heritage Sites
From white sand beaches to volcanic hot springs, Japan abounds with natural wonders. Five of these places are special e
Bamboo: the Secret to Takachiho’s Iconic Cuisine
The scenic valley of Takachiho in Miyazaki Prefecture is known for its bamboo cuisine. Here are three of the most popular dishes.
The Road to Koyasan: A One-Day Pilgrimage with Kobo Daishi
Follow in the footsteps of pilgrims on this day hike up Japan's Mt. Koya, home to over 100 temples.
Volcanic Playground: Exploring Kyushu’s Fiery Shimabara Peninsula
The Shimabara Peninsula is a little-touristed corner of Nagasaki with something for everyone: volcanic hikes, hot springs and beaches, eye-popping vistas and historical sites.
Five Amazing Natural Heritage Sites in Japan
Here are five of the most fascinating locations, all of which have been selected as World Natural Heritage Sites by UNESCO.
Sustainable Agriculture in Japan
PR Sustainable Development Goals
The initiatives, highlighted during Week for Sustainability and Sustainability Award-winning videos, convey how sustainability is an integral part of the Japanese agriculture, forestry, and fisheries sectors.
Pioneers of Sustainable Living in Japan: The Remarkable People of Kamikatsu
Sustainable Development Goals Shikoku
The second of a series about the inspiring zero-waste Japanese town of Kamikatsu. Joy Jarman-Walsh introduces the people who want to make sustainability compatible with a good life.
5 Awesome Rides Up Japan’s Mountain Peaks
Japan is known for its soaring mountains and breathtaking views. But hiking isn't the only way to experience their high-altitude thrills. Introducing five spectacular mountains that can be accessed by cable car, chair lift, or ropeway.
An Early Spring Spectacle: 10 Spots in and Around Tokyo for Plum Blossom Viewing
While cherry blossoms often take the spotlight in late spring, plum blossoms are their lesser-known, early-blooming cousin that are equally appealing!
Japan's Finest Glamping Spots
the beauty of glamping (a term derived from the words "glamorous camping") is that all the hard work has been done before the camper even arrives. Here's a guide to some of Japan's best spots for this enjoying the outdoors in luxury.
A 5-Day Pilgrimage on the Kumano Kodo Nakahechi Route
The Kumano Kodo Nakahechi course is a majestic pilgrimage trail in Wakayama Prefecture where you can explore historic temples and shrines, dine on local delicacies, and rejuvenate in soothing hot springs.
Water, Rocks, Plants, and More: Five Types of Japanese Gardens
There’s more to Japanese gardens than beautiful landscaping. Come stroll through the history of five types of gardens you should explore on your next trip.
Japan’s Stunning Coastal Pilgrimage: The Kumano Kodo's Ohechi Trail
The Ohechi coastal route is an underexplored section of the network of pilgrimage trails that crisscross the Kii Peninsula. John Rucynski shares the highlights of the route after his three-day, two-night journey to the destination of Nachi Taisha shrine.
Road to Recovery: Hiking the Fukushima Coastal Trail
A new 200-km trail connects Fukushima Prefecture to the Michinoku Shiokaze Trail.
Fukui: A Self-Care Sanctuary Just A Train-Ride Away from Tokyo
With the post-Covid travel boom, Kyoto has become too crowded for temple-trotting and Wakayama's Koyasan is too far from a Tokyo travel base. Good thing that Fukui, Japan's ultimate power spot and zen haven, is so accessible!
Walking Japan's 1,000km Michinoku Coastal Trail
Ten years after one of Japan’s most deadly disasters, a region is reborn--and it is home to the best hiking trail you’ve never heard of.
