A Buddhist temple built into a mountainside, it is the final resting place of many of Japan’s most cherished historical figures. Additionally, the temple itself houses...
There are some truly unique foods in Japan that are considered rare delicacies to be sought out and tried by even those that have grown up...
Halloween celebrations in Japan are entirely unofficial. On the Saturday night before whichever day October 31st falls on, people simply congregate in costume.
From early September until Halloween itself, both Tokyo Disneyland and DisneySea transform into spooky versions of themselves. You’ll find seasonal decorations, events, merchandise and even Halloween...
Nishinari is a district in southern Osaka that has earned a colourful reputation over the last century. Initially, its tale began with the construction of the...
Sometimes indoors, sometimes outdoors, something all yokocho have in common is no-frills food, drink and good times. The izakaya (food/drink taverns) are usually dominated by yakitori...
There are a number of myths and stories associated with higanbana. Their bulbs are poisonous, and so they are often planted around rice paddies, rivers, and...
The second-oldest temple in Tokyo, a day trip to Jindaijii lets visitors feel transported to the Edo era, without actually leaving the city. Read on to...
As one of the oldest original castles in Japan, completed in the early 1590s, Matsumoto Castle is a star attraction in Nagano Prefecture. It sits proudly...
I can’t forget tsukemen, in which the noodles are served separately to, and dipped in, the broth. Another popular style, and perhaps my personal favourite, is...
Otaki Village, located at the base of Mount Ontake, is decidedly off the beaten track. The area is 97% forested, home to pure mountain streams and...
At some point in your Japan journey you will find yourself at Tokyo Station, and probably in need of a break. Read on for the best...