All About Japan

10 Ways to Enjoy a Rainy Day in Japan

Don't let rainy weather dampen your day—there are still plenty of ways to have a good time!

Rainy Season: Things to Know When You Go

Sure, rainy season comes with the occasional soaked pair of shoes, and it can feel hard to work up the motivation to leave the house. But here are a few tips to help you make the best of it!

10 Unique #BucketList Goals in Kyoto

If you're planning a visit to Japan's ancient capital, check out this list of unique, Kyoto-only experiences!

Temple Stays Made Simple with Terahaku

Experiencing life in a Buddhist temple in Japan is about to get a whole lot easier! Thanks to the website Terahaku, users can book their very own temple accommodations online.

6 Shrines for Strange Wishes in Tokyo

In Japan it's common to visit shrines to pray for good luck. But where do you go if you have a more specific wish, like to lower your golf handicap or tame your unruly hair? These 6 shrines can help fulfill your oddly specific hopes & dreams!

Experience the Beauty of Japan in 8K Video

From the rugged mountains of Hokkaido and verdant forests of Kyushu to spectacular festivals of Aichi and the Tokyo skyline, this video stunningly captures the beauty of Japan in under three minutes.

Kyoto's Aoi Matsuri (May 15)

The Aoi Matsuri is one of Japan's most enduring festivals. Held every year in Kyoto on May 15, it has an enduring history that dates back to the Heian Period.

Beyond Shibuya: How to Get Away in Tokyo

Tokyo is a familiar tourist destination, and with good reason. It has incredibly diverse neighborhoods, history and technology side by side, great food, shopping and more. But it also has crowds! Want to get away? Here's how!

5 Fun Things to Do in Nara

A former capital city just a stone's throw from Kyoto and Osaka, Nara is known for its stunning temples, friendly deer, souvenirs and more. With so much to do, we're here to help you start planning!

How Are Men's & Women's Kimono Different?

While traditional Japanese clothing may look the same to the average person, there are some variances between men's and women's kimono. See if you can spot some of the differences.

All About's Guide to Yokohama

Tokyo's next door neighbor Yokohama is the second largest city in Japan! We're here to help you discover the sights, sounds and scenery of one of Japan's most vibrant port cities.

Japanese Manholes: Art Under Your Feet

There is so much to see in Japan. You can look up at the skyscrapers of Tokyo, look in the distance to see the peak of Mount Fuji, look along every one of Kyoto's ancient cobbled streets. But did you know that there is a lot to see right under your feet?

Ryokan 101

There's a lot to learn and consider when it comes to staying at 'ryokan,' traditional Japanese inns.

How to Sit on a Japanese Cushion

If you live in Japan, there's a good chance you'll eventually have to sit on a Japanese cushion, or 'zabuton.' So how do you do it? There's more to it than just plopping down your bum!

5 Great Things to See in Akita City

Akita City is not often at the top of anyone's list of places to visit, but that's unfortunate because it has a rich history and culture that includes a lively festival and a famous artist.

5 Fun Festivals in Japan's National Parks

Japan's national parks are not only sites of natural beauty, but long-inhabited locales where the local people have developed both new and longstanding traditions for showing their thanks for nature's bounties.

Basic Etiquette at Japanese Temples & Shrines

Wondering what to do at a Japanese temple or shrine? This quick video will walk you through the basics!

Starbucks Blends into Edo Japan

Blending seamlessly into this old castle town just north of Tokyo, Starbucks' new Kawagoe location will let you enjoy your coffee with a side of Edo-style charm.

Shaping Things That Endure

Australian potter Euan Craig has shaped his craft in Japan for decades, following a folk craft tradition that blends creativity and beauty with utility.

5 Japanese Activities to Do Indoors

Shake off the rainy season blues by taking up one or more of these 5 traditional Japanese activities!

know-before-you-go