Street Food, Seafood & More: Japan’s Most Delicious Markets
Japan is world-renowned for its incredible culinary culture, and there’s no better way to experience it than by visiting its vibrant food markets. These bustling hubs offer fresh local produce, regional specialties, and a fascinating glimpse into everyday life. From the chatter of vendors calling out their daily specials to the rich aromas of sizzling…
The Future of Pearls: Japan’s Commitment to Sustainable Pearl Cultivation
For over a century, Japan has been at the heart of pearl cultivation, shaping an industry that marries tradition with innovation. Across cultures, pearls have long symbolized elegance, wisdom, and prosperity, and Japan’s contribution to this legacy is unparalleled. The modern pearl industry owes much to one visionary: Kokichi Mikimoto. In 1893, he pioneered the…
The Nakasendo Trail: Where History Meets Adventure
The Nakasendo Trail, nestled in the enchanting Kiso Valley, stands as Japan’s premier destination for discerning travelers seeking a luxurious blend of scenic walking, immersive hiking, and an authentic exploration of traditional Japan. With its backdrop of stunning alpine nature and old vernacular architecture, this historic trading route that once connected old-Edo (present day Tokyo)…
Japanese Hot Springs: A Beginner’s Guide to Onsen Etiquette
Japanese hot springs, or onsen are a staple of Japanese society and are deeply rooted within Japanese culture. Men and women, young and old, all love a dip in the medicinal waters of Japan’s natural mineral hot springs. We would highly recommend every visitor give onsen a try as we are sure you will fall…
Rural Japan at Its Finest: Why Niigata Will Capture Your Heart
Just over an hour away from Tokyo by bullet train, Niigata is a hidden gem of rural perfection. With the peaks of the Japan alps running down one side and the beauty of the sea of Japan stretching out on the other side, there is no better place to enjoy the best of Japanese nature….
Winter in Iiyama: Weathering, Together
Japan’s relatively small size and the richness of its culture makes for a country that overflows with personality and opportunity, where every road splits off into some unseen, unwritten adventure. Though one could easily be lost forever in the towering concrete jungles of Tokyo, Osaka, or Kyoto, sometimes the most overlooked roads lead to the…
From Leaf to Cup: Sustainable Practices Within the Japanese Tea Farming Industry
Japan’s green tea is renowned worldwide for its quality, flavour, and health benefits. It also plays an integral part of the country’s cultural heritage. Beyond its delightful taste, green tea also embodies a profound connection to sustainability and traditional agricultural practices. For eco-conscious travellers, visiting Japan’s organic tea farms offers a unique opportunity to experience…
Hands-On in Hyogo: How Traditional Crafts Promote Responsible Travel
Hyogo Prefecture is often overlooked by travellers sticking to the “Golden Route” but is a fantastic place to visit for those wanting to beat the crowds. Most well-known for the port city of Kobe and the well-marbled beef of the same name, there is so much more to discover in Hyogo! The National Treasure of…
Walking the Path of Awareness: Lessons from a Yamabushi Monk
Yamabushi (one who worships on the mountain) are monks shrouded in mystery who follow shugendo, a heady mix of an esoteric form of Buddhism and native Shinto practices. By virtue of their struggles navigating the sacred mountains they search for spiritual enlightenment through asceticism. Above all else, shugendo is a philosophy and study of nature,…
Celebrating Creativity: Echigo Tsumari Triennale 2024
Over recent decades Japan’s creative industries have been harnessed to drive regional revitalisation projects, including large scale contemporary art festivals. The very first of these festivals was Echigo Tsumari Art Field, held in southern Niigata Prefecture. This summer, Echigo Tsumari is enjoying its ninth trienniale and welcoming visitors from all over Japan and the world…