Nagano Prefecture is one of the geographically largest prefectures in Japan. It is located in the center of Honshu Island and is one of very few prefectures in the archipelago with no seacoast.
Yamanashi is one of the prefectures that is home to Mount Fuji, sharing the venerable mountain with the neighboring Shizuoka Prefecture at their border.
On Friday, November 23, 2018, the member states of the Bureau International des Expositions designated the city of Osaka to host the World Expo in 2025.
Matsumoto is one of the most well-known destinations within Nagano Prefecture, one of the largest prefectures in all of Japan and one of the few that is fully landlocked.
Make your way out to Kinosaki Onsen to relax amongst one of the most stunning hot spring towns in Japan! Kinosaki Onsen Station will be the primary gateway!
The Osaka World Expo 2025 promises to attract visitors from all over the world, offering a platform to discover technological, cultural and environmental innovations.
World's fairs have played a crucial role in showcasing innovation, culture and progress on a global scale. Japan has hosted several of these prestigious events.
Azuchi Castle, built by the legendary warlord Oda Nobunaga between 1576 and 1579, stands as a testament to architectural innovation and political ambition in 16th century Japan.
World Expo 2025 in Osaka, Japan, from April 13 to October 13, is a must-see event under the theme "Designing the society of the future, imagining our life of tomo
Katō Kiyomasa was one of the most trusted generals of Toyotomi Hideyoshi, his distant cousin, during Japan's turbulent Azuchi-Momoyama period in the late 16th century.
Umibudo, also known as sea grapes or green caviar, is a unique seaweed delicacy that has captured the hearts and palates of food enthusiasts around the world.
In the enchanting world of Japanese Shinto tradition, miko shrine maidens stand as iconic figures, bridging the gap between the earthly and divine realms.
Tatemae and its counterpart, honne, are two concepts that govern social interaction in Japan. A behavior that can confuse Westerners and seem hypocritical.
Visiting Japan means immersing yourself in a rich new culture. For a complete and respectful immersion, and to ensure quality interactions with the local
Numazu, located in eastern Shizuoka Prefecture at the northwestern end of the Izu Peninsula, is a city that combines history, natural beauty, and modern attractions.
Nestled between Tokyo's popular Ueno and Asakusa districts, Kappabashi is a bustling shopping street known for its extensive array of restaurant supplies, kitchenware, and quirky food-theme
Nestled in the bustling heart of Tokyo, Okachimachi is a unique shopping district that captivates visitors with its lively atmosphere and diverse offerings.
When traveling in Japan, if your itinerary takes you beyond Tokyo, for example into the Kansai (Kyoto & Osaka) region, a primordial question awaits: how to get around Japan and naviga
Nestled in the mountains of northern Gunma Prefecture, Minakami Onsen and Takaragawa Onsen offer a blissful escape into Japan's renowned hot spring culture.
Blakiston's fish owl, the world's largest living owl species, is a rare bird found only in riparian forests of northeast Asia, including Japan, China, and the Russian Far East.
Edo Castle was the residence of the Tokugawa shoguns who ruled Japan from 1603 to 1867. It was the center of political power in Japan during the Edo period.
Nestled in the mountains of northern Kyushu, Hita is a charming city often called the "Kyoto of Kyushu" due to its historic streets modeled after the ancient capital.
In the port city of Fukuoka, a unique and controversial culinary tradition has been passed down for generations: eating live shirouo, tiny transparent fish appreciated for the sensation of them "da
Ofuro, also known as furo or Japanese bath, is an ancestral ritual of Japanese culture. Much more than a simple bath, it's a moment of relaxation and well-being with numerous health benefits.
The Oedo antique market is the largest outdoor antique market in Japan, attracting a wide range of visitors including a growing number of international tourists.
Anime and Japanese pop culture attract many fans around the world, who dream of discovering the real-life locations that inspired their favorite works.
Nestled in the historic city of Kamakura, Kotoku-in is a renowned Buddhist temple famous for its monumental outdoor bronze statue of Amida Buddha, commonly known as the Great Buddh
Nestled in the heart of Tokyo, the Ueno and Okachimachi districts offer a vibrant and diverse shopping experience that caters to all tastes and budgets.
Otaku culture has become a global phenomenon, representing a dedicated and enthusiastic following of various aspects of Japanese pop culture, primarily focused on anime, manga, and video games.
Use the Azusa Limited Express Train to get from the metropolitan capital of Japan, Tokyo, to the historically rich but modest town of Matsumoto in Nagano Prefecture!
Nestled near the bustling tech hub of Akihabara, Kanda Myojin Shrine, also known as Kanda Shrine, stands as one of Tokyo's most historic and influential shrines.
No two cities are said to represent the Kansai Region more than Kyoto and Osaka, and getting from one to the other is made easy with the popular limited express trains that service the area!
The terminal station of the Hida Limited Express, Nagoya in Aichi Prefecture, goes out to the other side of Honshu Island to the Japan Sea Coast, and halfway through, it stops at Takayama, a nature
A veritable phenomenon from the outset, Attack of the Titans, or Shingeki no Kyojin in Japanese, is one of the most universally acclaimed mangas of the last decade.
The Shonan Shinjuku Line connects the major metropolitan areas of Tokyo and Yokohama with the beach resorts of the Shonan region in Kanagawa Prefecture.
Flanked by the trendy hubs of Shibuya, Shinjuku and Roppongi, the chic streets of Aoyama and Omotesando offer a sophisticated respite for well-heeled shoppers and culture seekers.
Japan, an island nation composed of four main islands and thousands of smaller ones, boasts an extensive network of ferry routes that play a crucial role in connecting its diverse regions.
Japan boasts a rich and diverse culinary scene deeply rooted in history and culture. Understanding Japanese food terms is key to appreciating the nuances of the cuisine.
Japan will celebrate Golden Week from April 29 to May 6, 2024, which comprises four national holidays: Showa Day on April 29, Constitutional Memorial Day on May 3
Nestled in the heart of Tokyo's Chuo ward, Ningyocho is a charming district that offers a unique glimpse into the city's rich history and traditional culture.
Yamabushi are Japanese mountain ascetic hermits who practice shugendō, a syncretic religion combining elements of Tantric Buddhism, Shinto, and Taoism.
Demon Slayer plunges us into the heart of a captivating initiation quest, combining family drama, breathless adventure and Japanese folklore revisited.
Nestled on the western outskirts of metropolitan Tokyo, Kokubunji is a charming city that offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and modern living.
From the iconic Shinjuku Station, the JR Chuo Main Line has limited express train options for getting from the world's busiest train station out to the much more subdued and tranquil Otsuki in Yama
Travel from the biggest city in Kansai to the golden boutique city of Kanazawa using a combination of the Thunderbird Limited Express Train and the newly expanded Hokuriku Shinkansen bullet train!
Just a short train ride west of central Tokyo lies the delightful suburb of Chofu, a treasure trove of family-friendly attractions and outdoor recreation
Himeji in Hyogo Prefecture and Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan, are considered two of the most culture-and-history-rich locations in the Kansai Region.
The JR Yokosuka Line is a major railway line connecting central Tokyo to popular destinations in Kanagawa prefecture, making it an ideal choice for tourists looking to explore the Tokyo metropolita
Nestled in the heart of Tokyo's Setagaya Ward, Sangenjaya, affectionately known as "Sancha" by locals, is a neighborhood that often flies under the radar of tourists.
For over 200 years during Japan's period of isolation in the Edo era, the small artificial island of Dejima in Nagasaki harbor served as the sole point of contact and exchange between Japan
The Japan Rail Pass is an economical and convenient way for foreign tourists to travel around Japan by train, especially on the famous shinkansen bullet trains.
Nestled in the forested valley just north of Osaka's urban sprawl, Minoo Park is a popular destination for nature lovers and those seeking a break from the city.
Nestled in the serene mountains of Sasaguri, Fukuoka Prefecture, Nanzoin Temple is a hidden gem that attracts visitors with its colossal reclining Buddha statue, t
The sika deer (Cervus nippon) is a captivating species native to much of East Asia, including Japan, Taiwan, eastern China, Korea, and parts of Russia.
Okachimachi is a lively district in Tokyo's northeastern Taitô district, centered around Okachimachi station, between the major Ueno and Akihabara stations.
The Hinomaru (日の丸), meaning "circle of the sun", is the national flag of Japan. It features a vivid red circle centered on a white background, symbolizing Japan as the "Land of the Rising Sun".
Located in Tokyo's Taito district, Uguisudani station is often regarded as a mere stopover between Ueno and Nippori stations. Yet this district is brimming with history and surprising activities.
Nestled between the tourist hotspot of Asakusa and the more gritty Asakusabashi, Kuramae is a quaint neighborhood in Tokyo that offers a unique blend of history, traditional craftsmanship, and cont
Nestled in the heart of Tokyo, Shimbashi is a district in Minato ward that effortlessly blends rich history, vibrant nightlife, and a diverse culinary scene.
The Tokyo Bay Aqua Line, also known as the Trans-Tokyo Bay Highway, is a remarkable feat of engineering that spans Tokyo Bay, connecting Kawasaki in Kanagawa Prefecture to Kisarazu in Chiba Prefect
The JR Sagano Line is a popular railway for tourists visiting Kyoto, as it connects Kyoto Station to important stops like Nijo, Uzumasa and Saga-Arashiyama.
Tamachi station, located in the Minato district of southeast Tokyo, offers easy access to iconic landmarks such as the Rainbow Bridge and Sengaku-ji temple.
For many, Odawara is the gateway to Hakone, one of the most captivating getaways in the Kanto area, blessed with tremendous views of Mount Fuji, warm onsen hot springs, and the venerable Lake Ashi.
Undeniably influential to the development of the modern fashion landscape, Tokyo is widely considered a mecca for fashion enthusiasts for its distinct range of aesthetics and environment that allow
The Ginza Line is Tokyo's oldest subway line, opened in 1927. It runs through central Tokyo, connecting major districts like Shibuya, Ginza and Asakusa.
The Marunouchi Line is the second oldest subway line in Tokyo, operated by Tokyo Metro. It runs in a U-shape from Ogikubo to Ikebukuro, with a branch line to Hōnanchō.
Japan is renowned for its distinct and beautiful seasons. One of the most eagerly awaited is undoubtedly spring, with the blossoming of the sakura cherry trees.
Situated 287 km south of Tokyo in the Philippine Sea, Hachijō island is a stunning volcanic island that is part of the Izu island chain and the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park.
One of the most iconic locations in Eastern Tokyo is Asakusa, largely cited as the main hub of Tokyo’s “Shitamachi.” Shitamachi refers to one of the two major historic districts of Tokyo, and the n
If you're looking for a friendly, relaxed evening of delicious yakitori skewers without breaking the bank, the Torikizoku chain of restaurants is for you.
In this article, we’ll detail where and how to exchange the QR code associated with your booking into physical train tickets in Japan - as the country didn’t yet take the leap to digital train tick
Nestled in the western part of Kyoto, Arashiyama is a popular tourist destination known for its natural beauty, historic sites, and scenic attractions.
Moving up the Japanese archipelago from the Kanto region brings travelers to East Japan, comprising the six prefectures of Fukushima, Miyagi, Iwate, Aomori, Akita, and Yamagata, and prefectures lik
The newest addition to the Mori JP Development Project roster of skyscrapers in Tokyo, Azabudai Hills, stands as the current tallest building in Japan, only being eclipsed by Tokyo Skytre
Dogo island, the largest of the Oki islands located off the coast of Shimane prefecture, offers a perfect getaway for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts.
Onsen (hot springs) and sento (public baths) are great places to relax. They are distinct communal areas with very precise rules of good conduct and etiquette.
Located in the heart of Nagoya's Meieki district, the Meitetsu Bus Center serves as a vital transportation nexus for both local and long-distance travel.
Osaka, a bustling metropolis in the heart of Japan's Kansai region, boasts an extensive and efficient subway system that makes exploring the city's main areas and attractions a bre
The shogunate refers to a feudal military system of government that ruled Japan for several centuries, between the Heian era and the Meiji Restoration.
Nestled in the mountains about 50 kilometers north of Kyoto city, Miyama is a remote rural area known for its over 200 traditional thatched roof farmhouses, or kayabuki.
Sensō-ji is an ancient Buddhist temple located in Asakusa, Tokyo, Japan. It is Tokyo's oldest-established temple, dedicated to Kannon, the bodhisattva of compassion.
The blossoming of cherry trees, called sakura in Japanese, heralds the arrival of spring. Embodying the ephemeral, they reveal their beauty for just two weeks.
Nestled in the heart of Tokyo, the Geihinkan Akasaka Palace stands as a magnificent testament to Japan's architectural prowess and diplomatic importance.
Kanjis are an integral part of the three Japanese writing systems, along with hiraganas and katakanas. Originally from China, they have been adapted to transcribe the Japanese language.
Japan is often associated with its large futuristic cities like Tokyo, but there are also many traditional villages that offer a journey back in time and an immersion in authentic Japanese
Nestled between the rugged coast of the Sea of Japan and the sacred peak of Mount Hakusan, Kaga Onsen is a captivating 1300-year-old hot spring resort area in southwestern Ishikawa
Ochanomizu is a historic neighborhood in Tokyo, Japan, known for its association with the Shogun's tea during the Edo period, its vibrant music and sports equipment scene, and its proximity to majo
The Shinkansen bullet train is hailed as one of the most premium and efficient means of rail travel in the entire world, making it a popular choice for visitors to Japan who are engaging in
Emperors, empresses, princes and concubines lived for centuries behind the walls of Kyoto-gosho. Today the former imperial palace welcomes visitors and transports them back in time.
Though both Tokyo and Takayama exist in central Honshu, they represent very different parts of Japan, the former a major metropolitan city home to more than 12 million people and the latter a charm
Hakone, a common trip for those coming from Kansai, is a great location to enjoy some of the best natural scenery in all of Japan. The two locations are connected via the Tokaido Shinkansen.
These two major cities in the more southern portion of Honshu Island are some of the most eccentric destinations in all of Japan. Both have a rich history and a fair share of attractions to visit.
Both ends of Japan’s “Golden Route”, the capital city of Tokyo and the historic city of Hiroshima, are connected via the Tokaido-Sanyo Shinkansen that goes all the way down to Kyushu and will pass
Hakone in Kanagawa Prefecture is an essential destination in the Kanto Region, an area rich in natural beauty and a renowned destination for art culture.
Getting from Osaka, the largest city in Kansai, out to Tokyo, the largest city in Japan (and the world as a whole via population), is a common journey for those either starting their Japan journeys
Two of Japan’s most bustling metropolitan areas, the two cities of Tokyo in Kanto and Osaka in Kansai, are often compared, and thus, a bit of a rivalry between each of the city’s residents exists.
The trip from the current capital of Tokyo to the ancient capital of Kyoto is a common journey for those traveling on Japan’s Golden Route, an itinerary popular with first-time visitors to Japan th
Offering a medley of benefits, such as convenience, flexibility, and wide-ranging access, the Japan Rail Pass is a popular choice for visitors to Japan.
Japan’s rail system is largely developed and is a very practical means of transportation both locally and cross-country, so both residents and tourists alike find themselves riding trains almost on
Japan’s world-famous public transportation system is largely organized and operated by the Japan Railways Group (JR Group), and this same organization issues a special transit tick
The brightly painted Yasaka-jinja Shrine is one of the city's best known and most popular landmarks, especially the two-story vermilion entrance gate at the end of Shijo-dori Avenue.
Created in 2023, Kyotophonie is an international music event held in Kyoto Prefecture, bringing together dozens of artists from all over the world, performing in unique settings and staging in
Located north of the main island of the Japanese archipelago, the northern part of Honshu known as Tohoku has its own cultural identity and traditions passed down from generations for years.
For most travelers to Japan, the country’s lucrative and well-established public transportation system will be the primary means of moving around, and as an overseas visitor, the options of the rai
The Japan Rail Pass (often shortened to JR Pass) is a specialized ticket issued by Japan Rail Group, the largest operator of the world-renowned Japanese public transportation.
The vast network of public transportation operated by the Japan Rail Group (the organization that issues the Japan Rail Pass) traverses the entirety of the country’s mainland.
Founded in 2019 via the collaborative effort of some of the food industry's most recognizable figures, Iwa 5 looks to present sake to the global stage in a way that embraces both tradition and prog
Summer in Japan can be a trying time, with temperatures sometimes approaching 40°C in full sun, and humidity high enough to damage even the most resistant make-up.
Prepaid SIM cards allow for high-speed data usage during travels to Japan, but whether or not purchasing one is the best option for an upcoming trip depends on the individual.
Traveling with the family can be one of the most rewarding experiences to have, especially to Japan. Take a look at the following tips to ensure a great time for adults and children alike!
The Japan Rail Pass boasts a medley of benefits for travelers to Japan, but for first-time users, using it to its maximum potential may not be fully known.
The Shinkansen bullet train is one of the most popular ways of traveling across Japan and hosts a number of types of cars with varying features that cater to travelers of all needs.
While Tokyo is one of the most densely populated cities in the world, its atmosphere remains particularly peaceful and welcoming, in part thanks to its many green spaces.
Reserving seats serves as a great option for travelers in order to insure the optimal means of commute on Japan's famous railways, especially during the busy travel times during Spring, Fall, and F
Travel in Japan is largely associated with the Shinkansen, but as of 2020 there are new luggage regulations when traveling with oversized baggage that require a train reservation.
Japan Rail Pass Exchange Offices: the major offices throughout Japan where an Exchange Order can be exchanged for a Japan Rail Pass. Below are a few of the 51 offices throughout Japan where th
If you want to optimize your time when taking the train in Japan, you should plan your routes well in advance (and ensure that you order your Japan Rail Pass prior to departing for Japan).
Check out a few of our favorite apps to use when traveling Japan by rail, including applications for navigation, time schedules, and general quality of life!
If you're planning your trip for cherry blossom season, which goes from mid-March to mid-April depending on the region, you can make the most of your travel time right from your seat with these stu
Hara Station is a subway station in the east of Nagoya on the Tsurumai Line. Hara is one stop after Hirabari going west; the next stop is Ueda Station.
