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Featured image for The Showa Aesthetic: Why “Old Japan” Is Trending Again

The Showa Aesthetic: Why “Old Japan” Is Trending Again

Jul 13, 2026
BY Brad Stephens

Step into a quiet shopping street at dusk. A flickering neon sign hums above a coffee shop window. The air smells faintly of tobacco, soy sauce, and rain on concrete. This is the Showa aesthetic, a visual and emotional time capsule that has quietly captured global […]

Featured image for Toba’s Coastal Heritage: Kayaking Adventures and 3,000-Year-Old Free-Diving

Toba’s Coastal Heritage: Kayaking Adventures and 3,000-Year-Old Free-Diving

Jul 12, 2026
BY Kristian Robinson

While many travelers focus on the inland shrines of Ise, the true character of this region is found along the ria coastline of Toba. The purpose of this article is to introduce you to a side of Japan that remains largely untouched by mainstream tourism by […]

Featured image for TASTE OF YUTENJI : UNIQUE TEMPLE, ORIGINAL RESTAURANTS AND CULTURAL ACTIVITIES

TASTE OF YUTENJI : UNIQUE TEMPLE, ORIGINAL RESTAURANTS AND CULTURAL ACTIVITIES

Jul 11, 2026
BY Laurent Lasmarenx

Yutenji is a quiet residential area located in Meguro-ku, with easy access to popular main areas such as Shibuya and Nakameguro, being only one train stop away from the latter. The district itself actually once belonged to the Kamimeguro and Nakameguro villages during the Edo period […]

Featured image for ASIAN GAMES IN NAGOYA 2026

ASIAN GAMES IN NAGOYA 2026

Jul 10, 2026
BY Maria Diaz

If you’ve been waiting for the perfect moment to visit Japan, this is it. In September 2026, the Asian Games will arrive in Nagoya, transforming this dynamic yet often overlooked city into one of Asia’s most exciting destinations. With world-class sporting events, a lively international atmosphere, […]

Featured image for JAPANESE SUMMER FESTIVAL GAMES THAT EVERYONE CAN ENJOY

JAPANESE SUMMER FESTIVAL GAMES THAT EVERYONE CAN ENJOY

Jul 9, 2026
BY Maria Diaz

Summer is one of the most anticipated times of the year in Japan, filled with sweet treats like ice cream, refreshing seasonal foods, and, above all, vibrant and traditional festivals that bring communities together. Many of these celebrations end with stunning fireworks lighting up the night […]

Featured image for Hiking and Climbing Japan’s Iconic Peaks

Hiking and Climbing Japan’s Iconic Peaks

Jul 8, 2026
BY Saffron Brown

It’s finally that time of year when the weather has brightened up, and the ground is a little drier, which can only mean one thing - it’s hiking season. With Mount Fuji being one of the most recognizable landmarks of Japan, it should be no surprise […]

Featured image for Beating the Heat: Why Hokkaido Is Perfect for Summer Travel in Japan

Beating the Heat: Why Hokkaido Is Perfect for Summer Travel in Japan

Jul 7, 2026
BY Chuan En Gwee

Japan’s summer is known for being hot and humid. In July and August, average daytime temperatures in many parts of the country can climb as high as 33°C (91.4°F), with the high humidity making it feel even warmer. For travelers, this can make long days of […]

Featured image for WHERE TO TRAVEL IN JAPAN THAT IS NOT TOKYO, KYOTO OR OSAKA (PART 3)

WHERE TO TRAVEL IN JAPAN THAT IS NOT TOKYO, KYOTO OR OSAKA (PART 3)

Jul 7, 2026
BY Maria Diaz

Japan always finds new ways to surprise you. Just when you think you’ve seen everything,  from bright city lights and peaceful temples to small mountain towns and sunny beaches, it shows you something completely different. This third part of our journey through Japan’s hidden places explores […]

Featured image for Omotenashi Selection 2026: First Session Lineup

Omotenashi Selection 2026: First Session Lineup

Jul 6, 2026
BY Jason Stone

It is once again time for the highly anticipated first biannual OMOTENASHI Selection announcement, highlighting excellence in the world of Japanese craftsmanship and hospitality. As usual, this session gathers the highest-quality products and experiences across the country that embody the spirit of omotenashi, Japan's dedication to […]

Featured image for Make a Wish on Tanabata: The Magic of Tanzaku and Starry Skies

Make a Wish on Tanabata: The Magic of Tanzaku and Starry Skies

Jul 6, 2026
BY Brad Stephens

Every summer in Japan, colorful strips of paper flutter in the breeze, tied to bamboo branches that sway under the night sky. Each strip carries a handwritten wish. This is the heart of Tanabata (七夕, Star Festival), one of Japan’s most beloved seasonal celebrations. If you […]

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