Places
features on cities and towns to visit
Mt Takao Soba Ritual
Mt Takao's Yakuoin Temple might be famous for its firewalking but Feb 22nd has something a little different in store - a ritual dedicated to soba noodles.
10 Great Ryokans in Tokyo
While many associate Tokyo with high rise modern hotels, you can still find old fashioned Japanese hospitality at the ryokans in the city. They're a great way to see a different side of Tokyo; here's 10 of our favourites.
Shikoku – An Overview
Nestled south of Honshu in the Inland Sea, Shikoku is Japan's fourth largest island. Shikoku has a slow pace of life; it's the perfect place to get back to nature and relax away from Japan's hectic cities.
Nagasaki – A Brief Guide
Nagasaki is famous for being the target of the second atomic bombing, but also has a rich history as one of the few ports to allow western trade with Japan.
Osaka – A Brief Guide
Osaka is Japan's 3rd largest city and a major port but often left off tourist itineraries. However it's a vibrant modern city with a historic castle, amazing food and friendly locals.
Sapporo – A Brief Guide
Sapporo is the main city in Hokkaido and is known for its lively nightlife and vibrant festivals. Sapporo has some of the best cuisine outside of Tokyo, and the best skiing and winter sports in Japan.
Okinawa Prefecture – An Overview
This string of tropical islands off Japan's southern tip are home to some of the best beaches and dive spots in the whole country. There's also unspoilt rainforests, welcoming locals, unique culture and great food.
Yokohama – A Brief Guide
This bustling port city was one of the first places in Japan to welcome foreign trade; a pivotal moment in Japan's history. The city is proud of its international past and makes a pleasant day trip from Tokyo.
Nara – A Brief Guide
1300 years ago Nara was the capital of Japan, and was the birthplace for much of Japan's modern culture. Nara has some of the oldest temples and shrines in the world, spread over a small area so is well worth the short trip from Kyoto and Osaka.
Kanazawa – A Brief Guide
Kanazawa is one of the largest towns on the coast of the Sea of Japan, noted for its beautiful gardens and restored castle. The city has a thriving arts and craft scene, as well as a distinct style of local cuisine. Kanazawa is also home to the only traditional geisha houses outside of Kyoto.
