Kyushu, Japan’s third-largest island, is a hidden gem to be explored. Travelling around Kyushu, you’ll discover why it’s known as ‘onsen island’. Dotted with numerous hot spring towns, it’s the ideal place to unwind and soak in the healing waters. If you’re keen on adventure, the coastlines offer fantastic surfing spots and chances to spot […]
20
Dec
Dec
Kanto is a region full of contrasts, where the energy of city life meets the calm of nature. While Tokyo’s vibrant cityscape grabs most of the attention, there’s so much more to discover. From lively urban centres to peaceful shrines, Kanto has plenty to offer for every kind of traveller. Getting to Kanto Ready to […]
19
Dec
Dec
I last travelled across Hokkaido in February 2025, when the streets of Sapporo were coated in snow and the air was crisp and clear. From Niseko’s wide slopes to Hakodate’s harbour, the island felt calm, spacious and full of small moments. Hokkaido is Japan’s northernmost island and the least developed of its main regions. Wild […]
18
Dec
Dec
Tohoku is a vast region in northeast Honshu, Japan’s main island. It offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and rich culture. This area makes up nearly one-fifth of Japan’s total land yet remains less crowded than other parts of the country. While Tohoku faced challenges after the Fukushima incident, it’s now bouncing back as […]
16
Dec
Dec
Fancy a journey off the beaten path? Shikoku might be just the ticket. This small island, tucked away south of Japan’s main island, Honshu, is a history and spirituality treasure trove. It’s the smallest of Japan’s five main islands, but don’t let its size fool you. Shikoku packs a punch with its unique culture, architecture, […]
14
Dec
Dec
Okinawa travel offers what mainland Japan doesn’t. Turquoise waters meet powder-white beaches, centuries-old culture blends with modern island life, and the climate stays warm enough to swim nearly year-round. Okinawa Prefecture stretches across Japan’s far south like a chain of emeralds in the Pacific, offering an escape quite unlike anywhere else in the country. I’ve […]
06
Dec
Dec
My family and I decided to visit Oidaira Park near Toyota City this autumn to check out the autumn leaves. Despite living here for 25 years, I had never heard of this place before, so I was excited to check it out. We even took our dog. Getting There The park is an easy day […]
04
Dec
Dec
The Chubu region of Japan is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered. Nestled in the heart of Honshu, Japan’s main island, this area offers a captivating mix of natural beauty and cultural treasures. Chubu is made up of nine prefectures, each with its own unique charm. You’ll come across ancient hot springs, world-class ski resorts, […]
22
Oct
Oct
Imagine yourself in a breathtaking scene. Soft, pink, and white cherry blossoms blanket the mountainside as far as you can see. That’s the magic of Mount Yoshino, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s Japan’s top spot for cherry blossom viewing. For over 1,300 years, thousands of cherry trees have graced the slopes of this sacred […]
17
Oct
Oct
Lake Biwa covers 670 square kilometres and supplies drinking water to 15 million people across the Kansai region. That’s just the beginning of what Shiga Prefecture offers. This region has one of just twelve original castles left in Japan. It also features ninja houses with secret escape routes and fermented foods that are centuries older […]