Nishimonai Bon Odori
While Japan's Bon Odori dances may be symbolic of the summer, if you want to really learn the dance, you'd better start in winter!
Dress as a Fox Bride at This Studio in Kyoto
One photo studio in the historical Arashiyama neighborhood is offering a makeover/photo package you won’t find anywhere else.
Undiscovered Japan: Fukushima & Miyagi
While Fukushima and Miyagi prefectures were both badly hit by the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami, the region has now largely recovered, and is looking to see travelers flock in once again.
Zuzuya: Ink Talismans at a Fuji Pilgrim's Inn
With a history of some 400 years, Zuzuya is one of only two pilgrim's lodgings in Kamiyoshida still offering rooms to Fuji worshippers preparing to climb their sacred mountain. It's also a great spot to make an ink talisman from an Edo Period wood block!
Togawa Oshi House: Lodging for Fuji Pilgrims
'Oshi' houses traditionally provided lodging for worshippers preparing to ascend Mount Fuji. Reaching their peak in the 19th century, a number of these houses can still be seen in Kamiyoshida in Yamanashi Prefecture.
Hands-On Fun Along the Shoryudo Dragon Route
After experiencing the unforgettable Ukiyo-e Route of the Shoryudo (Rising Dragon Road), we made our way up north to learn all about the treasures of Chubu, Japan's central region.
Drink With Geisha For an Affordable Price
Foreign guests welcome at lobby lounge function that sidesteps the cost and pretense of orthodox geisha services.
The Japanese 'Taiko' Drum Goes Electronic
The world's first ever electronic 'taiko' drum will be played on stage with the internationally recognized performance group Kodo.
Test Your Ninja Skills
For the first time ever, Koga City's ninja exam was held in Tokyo and test takers dressed in ninja cosplay to earn an extra 10 points on the exam.
Tap Dancing Their Way Into Our Hearts
From graceful Awa Odori dance movements to routines in kimono at a New York subway, his tap dancing duo are turning heads everywhere they go.
Kaya no Sato: Life in Thatch
This association on the edge of Mount Fuji is working to preserve the thatching techniques needed to preserve many of Japan's historic structures, including the 'praying hands' houses of Shirakawa-go.
Bonsai Artist Explores the Depths of Tradition
The Japanese botanical artist Makoto Azuma finds inspiration in presenting the natural world in an unnatural way.
University Entrance Exam Adds Ninja Section
If you don’t know your 'mizugumo' from your 'kunai,' then I’m afraid you might not be Mie University material.
Enter the 'Womb' of Mount Fuji
This system of caves beneath the surface of Mount Fuji are believed to represent the womb of Konohana Sakuya-hime, the goddess of the mountain. And you can climb right inside!
Takayama Autumn Festival
One of the three largest festivals in the country, the Takayama Autumn Festival is not to be missed!
Experience Being a Temple Maiden for a Day
Ever wondered what it would be like to do the work of a shrine maiden? Well, at a shrine in Hyogo Prefecture you can actually dress up and experience all the work 'miko' do!
Taiko-Lab: Learn to Drum in 60 Minutes
Located just north of Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, Taiko-Lab offers a chance to learn the basics of 'taiko' drumming in about 60 minutes—an essential part of any Japan experience!
Astonishingly Beautiful Hand-Cut Paper Art
One Japanese artist is showing off her mad cutting skills with these intricate works of art.
Furubira's Dazzling Demon Dance Fire Festival
These stunning photographs truly capture the beauty of Hokkaido's Tengu no Hiwatari Festival.
The 4 Most Powerful Clans of Early Japan
Japan's Heian Period was dominated by four clans known collectively as Gem-pei-to-kitsu. These clans produced countless famous officials and warriors, and have even influenced Japan all the way to the present day.
