Journeys in Japan

Ishinomaki City, Miyagi: Manga Land

On Journeys in Japan, our reporter, Julian, ventures to Ishinomaki City in Miyagi Prefecture, about 400 kilometers north

Goto Islands, Nagasaki

In this edition of Journeys in Japan, we visit the Goto Islands, in the East China Sea off the west coast of Kyushu, sou

Industrial Artisan Craftsmanship

This week's "Journeys in Japan" focuses on the small factories that helped to lay the foundation for Japan's postwar man

Colorful Temple Tour!

In this edition of Journeys in Japan, our reporter Ian Thomas Ash visits a number of rare temples known for their vivid

Toba City, Mie: The Heartland of the Pearl

In this week's Journeys in Japan, we visit Toba City in Mie Prefecture, the town famous for cultured pearls.

Himi, Takaoka and Gokayama, Toyama

In this edition of "Journeys in Japan", our reporter, Vincent Giry, visits Toyama Prefecture, known for its abundant sno

Miura Peninsula, Kanagawa: A Great Get-Away on Tokyo's Doorstep

On this edition of "Journeys in Japan," Joshua will be trying his hand at ocean activities, soothing away his stress in

Abashiri City, Hokkaido: To the Land of Drift Ice

This week's Journeys in Japan, heads 1000 kilometers north of Tokyo to the sea of Okhotsk off the northeastern coast of

Mystical Kunisaki: A Journey Back in Time

On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Haruka Orth sets out to explore the ancient Buddhist heritage found in Kunisaki in

Old Meets New in Kumamoto

Kumamoto—located in central Kyushu—is a regional economic and political hub. The city's symbol is Kumamoto Castle, r

Matsue, Shimane: Glimpses of Lafcadio Hearn

The city of Matsue lies close to the Sea of Japan coast, in Shimane Prefecture. It's a place filled with history, and ha

Cape Muroto in Early Spring

The destination of this time's journey is Cape Muroto in Kochi Prefecture, that is based at the southeastern corner of t

Izu Peninsula, Shizuoka

On this edition of Journeys in Japan, our reporter, JJ, visits Kawazu and Shimoda, in Shizuoka Prefecture, in pursuit of

Seki City, Gifu: City of Cutlery

In this week's Journeys in Japan, we visit Seki City in Gifu Prefecture. Seki City boasts the number one production of c

Kobe, Hyogo: Kobe Kokashita - An Arcade - A Wonderland Under the Tracks

Kobe has an attractive shopping street that streches out long underneath an elevated railway track in the central part o

A Pilgrimage Back in Time: Kompira-san

Since ancient times people have made been making pilgrimages here to worship at Kotohira Shrine. Commonly known as Kompi

The Great Nature Along the Shimanto River

This week on "Journeys in Japan" we visit the Shimanto River, which is considered to be one of the country's most beauti

Yamaguchi: Water's Power and Beauty

Jewels in the Ocean: Ogasawara Islands

A Precious Ecology: Ogasawara Islands

Gifu City, Gifu Prefecture: Cormorant Fishing - An Ancient Tradition

Breathtaking Landscapes

Summertime, Easy Living: Niseko, Hokkaido

Kazuno, Akita Prefecture: Mining a Vibrant Culture

Getting Lost in Onomichi's Secret Alleys

This week, we visit the picturesque hills of Onomichi City in Hiroshima Prefecture. Located about an hour's drive away f

Nature Sanctuary: Oze's Marshland

Miyama, Kyoto Prefecture

A Vibrant Community: Yokohama Chinatown

Yokohama, just to the south of Tokyo, is home to one of the largest, most vibrant Chinatowns in the world. It's quite co

The Soul of Okinawan Music (1)

The Soul of Okinawan Music (2)

Mount Fuji, Yamanashi Prefecture: The Power of the Majestic Volcano

Mount Fuji is Japan's highest peak and is surrounded by verdant forests and five pristine lakes. Many people are unaware

Subtropical Island Gem: Amami Oshima

Maniwa City, Okayama Prefecture: A City Steeped in Traditional Craft Rate

Noren, Japanese paper and woodblock print are the Japanese traditional art. We can see and enjoy all of them in Maniwa c

Tono City, Iwate Prefecture: Discovering a Land of Legends

Izakaya Pub Culture: The Heart of Japan

The Flavor of Autumn

In this journey, musician, Michael Rivas, will be taking a two-day trip to Yamagata Prefecture in autumn. He will be en

Sado: A Stage for Tradition

Blessings from the Mountains

The World Heritage site of Nikko is about 140 kilometers north of Tokyo. With historic temples and shrines set in beauti

Seto City, Aichi Prefecture: Home of Setomono Pottery

Hiraizumi, Iwate Prefecture: Paradise of Peace

Nagasaki City, Nagasaki Prefecture: Exotic Nagasaki

Nature's Great Amusement Park: Hakone

Kujukurihama, Chiba Prefecture: Living the Beach Life

Kujukurihama is a long, sandy beach that runs for over 66 kilometers along the Boso Peninsula, to the east of Tokyo. Aft

The Rokko Mountain Range, Kobe: Mountain Climbing in Kobe's Backyard

Walking the Historic Nakasendo

Nakasendo was the old mountain road connecting Edo, today's Tokyo, to Kyoto. The 530-kilometer stretch of road was dotte

Samurai Days in Satsuma

The era of the samurai in Japan ended in 1868 with the Meiji Restoration, marking the start of the country's modernizati

Mikuni, Fukui Prefecture: The Supreme Winter Delicacy

In this Journeys in Japan, Gow takes a trip to Mikuni-cho of Sakai City, Fukui Prefecture, in search of snow crabs, the

Suzuka City, Mie Prefecture: City of Sumi

Since ancient times, people in Japan have produced a form of ink known as sumi, which is used for calligraphy and tradit

Furano, Hokkaido: White Wintry World

Ohenro Shikoku Pilgrimage Part 1: Tokushima Prefecture

1,200 years ago, the Buddhist saint Kukai (also known as Kobo Daishi) established 88 temples in Shikoku. Later, it becam

Ohenro Shikoku Pilgrimage Part 2: Kochi Prefecture

1,200 years ago, the Buddhist saint Kukai (also known as Kobo Daishi) established 88 temples in Shikoku. Later, it becam

Life in the Deep Snow

Kingdom of Udon: Kagawa Prefecture

For centuries, wheat noodles known as udon have been popular in Japan, especially in Kagawa, Shikoku Island. There are a

Dancing Among the Gods: Takachiho, Miyazaki Prefecture

Takachiho is located in a mountainous area in central Kyushu. According to Japanese mythology, Takachiho is said to be t

Treasures of the Ancient Capital: Nara Prefecture

This edition of Journeys in Japan features Japan's ancient capital, Nara. We will take a close look at architecture and

Beppu City, Oita Prefecture: Nature's Gift: Hot Springs

Beppu City of Oita Prefecture is located in the eastern part of the island of Kyushu, and it is the second largest city

Okinawa: Inspired by the Sea and Land, Crafted by Hand

Yanagawa, Fukuoka Prefecture: Spring on the Waterways

Gourmet Adventure: Osaka, Osaka Prefecture

This week, we visit Osaka, the capital city of Osaka prefecture, also known as the town of "Kuidaore" means there are to

Time Travelling in Shiga

On Two Wheels to Aso

Getting Lost in Pink Petals

On this edition of Journeys in Japan we celebrate sakura or cherry blossoms, which are a symbol of spring in Japan. The

Ohenro Shikoku Pilgrimage Part 3: Ehime

Ohenro Shikoku Pilgrimage Part 4: Kagawa

A Classic Steam Train Trip: The Oigawa Railway

Pristine Paradise: Iriomote, Okinawa

Life in the Slow Lane: Taketomi, Okinawa

On this edition of Journeys in Japan, Lana Bergmann, who is studying design in Japan, visits Taketomi-jima, one of the Y

Pure Alpine Waterscapes: Azumino and Kamikochi

The Cinematic Cityscape of Kitakyushu

Sapporo: The Good Life

Going with the Flow: Ehime Prefecture

Kumano Kodo Iseji Route

Since prehistoric times, a religion of nature worship has been practiced in the mountains of the Kii Peninsula, in Weste

Rishiri: From Sea to Summit

Rebun: A Floating Garden

Vibrant Colors, Ancient Tradition: Kanazawa

For over 350 years, the city of Kanazawa, Ishikawa Prefecture, has been renowned as a center for traditional culture. It

Bounty from the Mountains, Sea and Plain: Yamagata

Forest Sanctuary: Shirakami

Our reporter David Bull travels to Shirakami-sanchi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in northern Japan. Nature guide and bo

Samurai Spirit and Natural Treasures: Aizu, Fukushima Prefecture

Japan's Traditional Blue: Tokushima's Indigo

On this edition of Journeys in Japan we visit Tokushima, the home of aizome indigo dye. Aizome is made from the indigo p

Craftsmanship Close to Nature: Asahikawa

Beauty in the Everyday: Mashiko

Rivers Run Through It: Beautiful Morioka

This edition of Journeys in Japan takes us to Morioka, a city blessed with mountains, rivers, trees, and architecture st

Nagoya City, Aichi Prefecture: Miso, the Taste of Tradition

Fukuoka, Fukuoka Prefecture: Taste the Tradition of Fukuoka

Japan's Wine Country: Katsunuma

Today we explore Katsunuma in Yamanashi Prefecture, which is a leading wine production center not far from Tokyo. Our r

Abundant Sea: Sanriku Coast

All About Matcha Green Tea: Matsue

Haiku Poetry, Autumn Foliage: Otsu & Ogaki

Exploring Yatsugatake's Nature and Jomon Legacy

On this edition of "Journeys in Japan" we visit the southwestern foot of Yatsugatake, a chain of mountains extending 30

Winter Bliss in Takayama

Our destination is Takayama City in Gifu Prefecture. Our reporter Charles Glover discovers the city's traditions by sigh

Zen and the Samurai Spirit: Kamakura

The city of Kamakura lies just south of Tokyo. From around 800 years ago, it was the capital of the samurai generals who

Namahage New Year's Rite

On this "Journeys in Japan" our reporter Deborah Ten experiences the rings in the New Year in northern Japan. She visits

Pure Mt. Fuji: A Winter Journey

This week we journey to the foot of Mt. Fuji in winter to discover the area's majestic nature.

Honjima: Treasure House of the Seto Inland Sea

Honjima is one of the Shiwaku group of islands in the Seto Inland Sea, between Japan's mainland Honshu and Shikoku. On t

Sanriku Coast: Abundant Sea Part 2

The Sanriku Coast of northeastern Japan is a beautiful area with stunning scenery. It was devastated by the great earthq

Ice Monsters and Warm Hospitality: Zao

During the full moon, a special Moonlight Walk is held, giving visitors a chance to walk through the ice monsters.

Discovering Tottori Crafts

Tottori is a major folk craft center in Japan. On this trip, our reporter Dario Ponissi travels across Tottori Prefectur

Nature's Beauty in Microcosm

Since ancient times, formal gardens have offered a distinctive expression of Japan's traditional aesthetic. Often featur

Spring Colors of Ibusuki

In this episode, photogravure artist Peter Miller travels to Ibusuki City, a hot spring town at the southern tip of Kyus

A Spiritual Journey in Oita

Oita Prefecture, in southwest Japan, is an area with beautiful natural scenery and many sacred sites. It also boasts a r

Jazzy Kobe

Our destination is the cosmopolitan city of Kobe in Hyogo Prefecture. Actor Charles Glover discovers its unique culture

Minami-Boso: Seaside Trip With Children

Close to Tokyo but far from the city, there are great places to visit in Japan if you're traveling with young children.

The Soulful Rhythms of the Amami Islands

The Amami Islands are subtropical. Blanketed in dense forests and surrounded by emerald waters, they are located about 4

Textiles from a Royal Tradition

In the old days, the islands of southwestern Japan (present-day Okinawa Prefecture) formed an independent nation, called

Ishigaki Island: Living in Harmony with the Ocean

Surrounded by pristine water and coral reefs, Ishigaki Island lies at the far southwestern tip of Japan, around 1,900 ki

Kamakura Tradition: Spring in the Ancient Capital

The historic city of Kamakura lies about 1 hour south of Tokyo by train. At the end of the 12th century, Kamakura was ch

Peach Trees and Rural Retreat: Kofu Basin

The Kofu Basin, in Yamanashi Prefecture, lies north of Mt. Fuji. In mid-April, when peach flowers blossom, the landscape

Tateyama Peak Experience

In this edition of Journeys in Japan, musician JJ enjoys the beautiful snowy scenery of the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route

The Rhythms of Ainu Life: Lake Akan

The indigenous Ainu lives in Hokkaido, Japan's most northern main island. Our reporter, Shakuhachi player John Kaizan Ne

Tohoku Haiku Journey: Following Basho's Footsteps

Haiku are brief poetic snapshots that encapsulate in a few words the essence of a moment, be it the beauty of nature or

Hakone and Izu: Classic Hotel Stays

Mt. Fuji was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013. Hakone and Izu are popular resorts near the majestic mounta

Osaka Art Power

Osaka is a vibrant city, full of warm people. But that is only one aspect of Japan's 3rd largest city. This edition of J

Oki Islands

The Oki Islands lie in the Sea of Japan off the coast of Shimane Prefecture. For countless centuries, people have lived

Living with Horses: Hidaka

The Hidaka area on the southwestern coast of Hokkaido is famous for its racehorses. This is where many of the most famou

Tsugaru Soul Music - Tsugaru Shamisen

Japan's Tsugaru Shamisen is taking off in North America and Europe today. Fans of the lute-type instrument are captivate

Setouchi Triennale: Art-Island Hopping

The Seto Inland Sea is surrounded by 3 of Japan's 4 main islands - Honshu, Shikoku and Kyushu. An international art fest

Ise Jingu: Man, Gods and Nature

Ise Jingu (Grand Shrine of Ise) is one of the most important and most revered Shinto shrines in all Japan. Founded over

Wonderful Yakushima

Yakushima was registered as an UNESCO World Natural Heritage site 20 years ago. Though small, the island has mountains r

Japan's Porcelain Legacy - Arita & Imari

In the 17th century, porcelain known as Imari ware was exported from Japan to Europe despite the country's isolation pol

Life on the Lake: Kasumigaura

Kasumigaura is the 2nd largest lake in Japan. Just an hour and a half by train from central Tokyo, Lake Kasumigaura is a

The Festival for the Wind

For over 300 years, people in the town of Etchu-Yatsuo, in Toyama Prefecture, have held a festival in early September. T

Deep Into Traditional Japan: Gokayama

Deep in the mountains of Toyama Prefecture, not far from the coast of the Sea of Japan, lies the Gokayama region. The tr

The Land of Fire: Kumamoto

Kumamoto Prefecture is known as the "Land of Fire", with the active volcano Mt. Aso as its icon. Since ancient times, pe

Kagura: Dancing Beyond Time

Kagura is a ritual dance of Shinto, the indigenous faith of Japan. Since ancient times, it has been offered to the gods

Iga Ninja Forest

The word "Ninja" is known around the world. But the truth remains shrouded in mystery. This episode of Journeys in Japan

Nostalgic Kawagoe

Kawagoe City in Saitama Prefecture, famous for the Kawagoe Festival with its dazzling floats, is only 30 minutes away by

Celebrating Akita Cedar

The cedar trees that are found on the mountainsides of Akita Prefecture, northern Japan, have long been prized for their

Continuing the Thread of Tradition: Kiryu

Kiryu City of Gunma Prefecture is renowned for its textile industry. Kiryu Ori is produced using Jacquard looms for intr

The Miniature World of Bonsai: Omiya

The traditional art of bonsai recreates intricate scenes of nature in miniature, often called "living art". The Omiya Bo

Mesmerizing Islands at the Crossroads

The Goto Islands in the East China Sea, comprise over 140 islands. The influence of diverse cultures has formed a unique

Murakami: City of Salmon and Sake

Murakami, in Niigata Prefecture, northwestern Japan, has a long history of catching and processing salmon from the Miomo

Hiroshima: The City of Hope

This episode of Journeys in Japan travels to Hiroshima, a city attracting attention as a treasure trove of quality archi

A Passion for Mechanical Magic: Aichi

On this episode, an architect James Lambiasi travels to Inuyama City and Nagoya City in Aichi Prefecture, on a trip to d

Kobe: Neighborhoods Reborn

On January 17, 1995, the Kansai region of Western Japan was hit by a massive earthquake. The city of Kobe suffered massi

Tochigi: Secret World of Samurai and Hot Spring

The hot spring resort of Yunishigawa is associated with an historic episode from the 12th century. Defeated in the Dan-n

Sanriku: Lives Intertwined with the Sea

The Sanriku Coastal Region experienced severe damage due to the March 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake's resulting tsuna

Nagatoro: Natural Forests and Pure Ice

The town of Nagatoro lies in the hills of Chichibu, in Saitama Prefecture, about 2 hours northwest of Tokyo, surrounded

Kohoku: Life Close to Buddhist Deities

The Kohoku region, north of Lake Biwa, is home to many culturally important Buddhist sculptures. The area around Nagaham

Sanjo: Forging Tradition and Craftsmanship

Sanjo City in Niigata Prefecture has been known for its blacksmiths since the 17th century. At that time, the area was s

Kyoto in Spring Part 1: Discovering Dolls' Day Traditions

Every year on March 3, families throughout Japan celebrate the Hinamatsuri, or Doll Festival, to pray for the healthy gr

Kyoto in Spring Part 2: Discovering the World of Incense

In the 2nd part of our Kyoto series, Sara Ariafar visits the ancient capital to explore the culture of incense. Japanese

Kurashiki: Celebrating Heritage

Kurashiki flourished a couple of centuries ago in the Edo Period. An historic district with old merchant residences and

A Day-Trip From Tokyo Part 1: Kamakura - City of Nature, History and Tradition

The historic city of Kamakura is one of the most popular tourist spots in Japan, thanks to its numerous temples and shri

A Day-Trip From Tokyo Part 2: Slow Train in Springtime Chiba

The 2nd installment of our series on great spring destinations near Tokyo features a local train and flowers in the Boso

Takamatsu: Spirit of Craftsmanship

Takamatsu, facing the Seto Inland Sea, prospered as a castle town. We tour places of scenic beauty, as well as historic

Yoshino, Nara: Awash in Pink Petals

In this episode of Journeys in Japan, poet and artist Peter MacMillan visits Yoshino Town in Nara Prefecture, which many

Izumo: Land of Living Legends

The Izumo district of Shimane Prefecture is revered as the heartland of the gods. It is home to Izumo Taisha, one of the

Splashing and Chilling in Minakami

Minakami Town in Gunma Prefecture is blessed with abundant nature and people can enjoy various outdoor activities. As Mi

Wajima Lacquerware, Layers of Perfection

Wajima, in Ishikawa Prefecture, is located on the northwestern coast of the Noto Peninsula, which juts out into the Sea

Celebrating the Landscape of Azumino

Azumino, in Nagano Prefecture, is known for its beautiful tranquil landscapes, which were praised by the writer Yasunari

Kanazawa: Evolving Tradition

From Kaga Yuzen silk dyeing and Kutani porcelain to teahouses, traditional culture dating back more than 400 years is al

Outdoor Hokkaido Part 1: Shiretoko Wildlife Paradise

The Shiretoko Peninsula lies at the far northeastern tip of Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost prefecture. It is an area of

Outdoor Hokkaido Part 2: Into the Wilds of Kushiro

Kushiro Shitsugen, Japan's largest wetland, is a rich habitat for rare flora and fauna. Our traveler Dean Newcombe will

Iwate: Road to Recovery

Tohoku's Sanriku Coast facing the Pacific Ocean is a ruggedly, dynamic landscape as well as home to world-renown offshor

Okinawa: The Land of Karate

Okinawa, the southernmost prefecture of Japan, was formerly an independent kingdom, known as Ryukyu. Even today, the dis

Tomioka: Cradle of Japan's Modernization

The Tomioka Silk Mill was the first modern factory ever built in Japan. Completed in 1872, it marked a major step for th

Niyodo River: Pure Water of the Gods

The Niyodo River in Shikoku is one of Japan's most beautiful rivers. It is known for the clarity of its water, which has

Ine, Kyoto: Serenity by the Sea

Ine is a beautiful fishing village located in northern Kyoto Prefecture. It is famous for its distinctive architecture c

Gujo-hachiman: Dancing in the City of Water

Gujo-hachiman, a city defined by water, is located upstream on the Nagara River and at a junction where 3 rivers converg

Dewa Sanzan, Yamagata Part 1: Deep Mountain Worship

In the center of Yamagata Prefecture, far to the north of Tokyo, 3 sacred mountains rise above the fertile Shonai Plain.

Dewa Sanzan, Yamagata Part 2: Yamabushi Training for Death and Rebirth

In the center of Yamagata Prefecture, far to the north of Tokyo, 3 sacred mountains rise above the fertile Shonai Plain.

Kumamoto Prefecture: Appreciating Abundance

On this episode of Journeys in Japan, photographer Kit Pancoast Nagamura travels to 2 towns in northern Kumamoto Prefect

Into the Heart of Kyoto

Japan's ancient capital Kyoto has a history of more than 1,000 years. Philippine TV host and athlete Andrew "Drew" Arell

Wakasa Bay, Fukui Prefecture: Following the Old Mackerel Road

Wakasa Bay in Fukui Prefecture is one of the best fishing grounds in all of Japan. It lies about 70 kilometers north of

Savoring Fall on Shodoshima

Shodoshima is the 2nd largest island in the Seto Inland Sea. Blessed with warm, mild weather, the island has nurtured a

Tomonoura: The Old Folks and the Sea

Tomonoura in Hiroshima Prefecture is known for its picturesque location and historic neighborhoods. It lies halfway alon

Izumo: Land of Legend and Folk Craft

The Izumo area of Shimane Prefecture, in western Japan, is an ancient land of myths and legends. It is famous throughout

Yokohama Stories

Yokohama is home to one of the oldest ports in Japan. It opened its doors to the world in the mid-19th century, becoming

Echizen: The World of Washi

Japan has been the land of paper since ancient times. The country developed a unique culture of using washi (lit. Japane

Winter Wonderland: Hakodate

The city of Hakodate, on the southern tip of Hokkaido, attracts as many as 4 million visitors each year, drawn by its hi

Naruko Onsen: The Home of Kokeshi Dolls

Naruko Onsen, in Miyagi Prefecture, is located in the foothills of the Ou Mountains. With a history of more than a thous

Iwate: Savoring Winter

Tohoku's Sanriku Coast faces the Pacific Ocean and runs parallel to the Kitakami Mountains. With bitter cold winters and

Blues City Osaka

Blues music is known and loved around the world, including Japan. But there is one place above all that has earned the t

Sanriku: Returning the Emotion

The Sanriku coast of northeastern Japan was one of the areas worst hit by the earthquake and tsunami of March 11, 2011.

Majestic Yakushima in Winter

Yakushima is listed as a UNESCO world natural heritage site. Located 60 kilometers off the southernmost tip of Kyushu, t

Kumamoto: Children, Dolls and Celebrating Spring

Spring arrives early in Kumamoto, in southwestern Japan. In this region, people like to celebrate the annual Hina Dolls

Otaru: Canal Town with Northern Lights

Otaru City in Hokkaido Prefecture is a land with beautiful canals. In the past, the commercial town enjoyed prosperity a

Mito: Gardens, Tradition and Spring Blossoms

Throughout Japan, the blossoms of the ume plum trees signal the end of winter and herald the beginning of spring. The Ka

Lake Biwa: In Praise of Water

Lake Biwa, Japan's largest freshwater lake, is located in the middle of the Japanese archipelago. Since ancient times, t

Pure Himeji: Beautiful Castle City, Craftsman Culture

Himeji Castle, in Hyogo Prefecture, just reopened after an extensive renovation. Its dazzling white appearance has been

Awaji Island: Keeping Traditions Alive

In Awaji Island, John and Ruadh Moore explore the farms, food and traditional culture. In ancient times, Awaji Island (A

Shonan: Living the Slow Life on the Coast

Shonan area lies on the coast of Sagami Bay in Kanagawa Prefecture, just to the south of Tokyo. Since ancient times, fis

Sado Island: Behind the Mask Dance

Contemporary dancer Alessandra Lupi visits Sado Island to study the powerful Onidaiko demon dance. The traditional perfo

Mt. Hotaka: Climbing to the Roof of Japan

The Northern Alps range is often called "the roof of Japan." It is an area of great scenic beauty, offering superb views

Hokkaido: The Sacred Sounds of the Ainu

Hokkaido — the northernmost island of Japan — is known for its vast expanse of land and unspoiled nature. American s

Morioka: Celebrating a Culture of People and Horses

Morioka developed as a castle town, the seat of the powerful Nanbu clan during the Edo Period [17th-19th centuries]. Eve

Izu & Odawara : The Senses of Summer

Since ancient times, Japanese have developed clever methods for keeping cool in summertime by using nature and the five

Shakotan Blue: The Ocean's Beauty and Bounty

The Shakotan Peninsula lies on the west coast of Hokkaido, jutting out into the Sea of Japan. Its rugged coastline is li

Biei, Hokkaido: Layers of Beauty in the Patchwork Hills

The town of Biei lies in the heart of Hokkaido, cradled by the magnificent peaks of Mount Tokachi. Surrounded by a color

The Sacred Kumano Kodo: Kii Peninsula

The mountainous Kii Hanto is Japan's largest peninsula. It holds sacred places of faiths, including Shintoism, Buddhism,

Kikaijima: Life on a Coral Island

Kikaijima is a coral island in the far south of Kagoshima Prefecture, about 1,300 kilometers from Tokyo. It has a circum

Bullfighting in Uwajima: Passion and Tradition

Uwajima is a traditional castle town in Ehime Prefecture. The people there have a long tradition of bullfighting. Huge b

The Thrilling Nebuta Festival

The Nebuta Festival attracts some three million visitors to Aomori City every August. Nebuta are giant lantern floats me

Savoring Rural Pleasures: Daigo, Ibaraki

The town of Daigo is in northwestern Ibaraki Prefecture, about 130 kilometers north of Tokyo. This attractive rural area

Kameyama, Mie: Living in the Present, Preserving the Past

Kameyama lies in the north of Mie Prefecture. In the past, it had great strategic importance, as it lay on the Tokaido,

Iiyama: The Landscape of the Heart

Iiyama City, located in northern Nagano Prefecture, is known for its beautiful nature and distinct four seasons. The ric

Kingdom of Apples: Tsugaru, Aomori

About 145 years ago, apple tree saplings were imported to Japan and distributed around the country. The place where appl

Mt. Tsurugi: Attacking the Palace of Crags

Mt. Tsurugi in Toyama Prefecture is one of the most impressive peaks in Japan's Northern Alps range, rising to a height

Adventures In WonderLand: Iya, Tokushima

The Iya Valley is a land of legends hidden in Tokushima Prefecture, deep in the heart of Shikoku. Surrounded by mountain

Takayama & Furukawa: Treasuring Traditions

The Takayama Festival, in autumn, is held annually on October 9th and 10th. The stars of the festival are the spectacula

Artisans and Beauty: Koshu, Yamanashi

Koshu is the former name for Yamanashi Prefecture. In feudal times, it was the base for the powerful Takeda warlords and

Nara & Yagyu: On the Road to the Sword of Peace

Yagyu, which is located just outside Nara, is the ancestral home of the Yagyu family, which established Yagyu Shinkage-r

Ishigaki: Diving in the Sea of Coral

Ishigaki Island-surrounded by beautiful coral reefs-is considered one of the world's best diving spots. In 2007, though,

Akita Autumn Feast

Akita Prefecture is located 450 kilometers north of Tokyo. American actor Charles Glover visits the northern land in lat

Takachiho: Dancing for the Deities

Takachiho lies deep in the mountains of Miyazaki Prefecture, in Kyushu. It is believed to be the setting for Japan's cre

Miyako: The Island of Song

Miyako Island, one of the southernmost islands of Japan, is a tropical paradise. Since olden times, the islanders have u

Koyasan: New Year at a Traditional Power Spot

The sacred area of Koyasan was founded in the year 816 by Kukai, a Japanese monk who went to China to learn the practice

Kushiro: The Crystalline Sounds of Winter

JJ travels through the Kushiro Wetland in Hokkaido. He sees Red-crowned Cranes-a designated Natural Monument of Japan-an

Okinoerabu Island: Home Away from Home

The tropical island of Okinoerabu is known for its pristine, wild nature. It is also known for its agricultural products

Kakunodate: Pride in the Samurai Tradition

The ancient town of Kakunodate, in Akita Prefecture, northern Japan, is steeped in history. For visitors, it is like a t

Yatsugatake: Outdoor Winter Play

The Yatsugatake mountain range-just 150 kilometers west of Tokyo-is a convenient destination for outdoor winters sports.

Kinosaki Onsen: Bathing in Tradition

Kinosaki Onsen is one of the most famous hot spring resorts in western Japan. It has about 80 ryokan inns along a pictur

Iwate Winter Rite

Deep in the north of Japan at a mountain temple, a festival called the Somin-sai and nicknamed the Naked Festival, has b

Okayama: Into the Deep Red

It's spring in Okayama, which facing the Inland Sea of Japan in the south and the Chugoku Mountains in the north, is ble

Chichibu: A Springtime Pilgrimage

For centuries, the faithful have made their way to Chichibu, in Saitama Prefecture, to visit Buddhist temples devoted to

Akiu: In the Footsteps of a Legendary Warlord

The warlord Date Masamune rose to power during Japan's Warring States period in the 16th century, and went on to control

Mihonoseki: Land of the Gods

Mihonoseki is on the eastern cape of the Shimane Peninsula, surrounded on three sides by water: the Sea of Japan to the

Ise-Shima: Experiencing a Lifestyle Close to Nature

The Ise-Shima area of Mie Prefecture is best known for its beautiful, indented coastline. But recently it's been in the

Tendo: An Enduring, Evolving Passion for Wood

Tendo City, Yamagata Prefecture, is a major producer of pieces for shogi-Japanese chess. They are only three centimeters

Nara: Tranquil Temples and Bountiful Blooms

Japan is famous for its spectacular displays of cherry blossom, which draw visitors from far and near. But the peak seas

Komatsu Kabuki Kids

The tradition of children's kabuki on festival floats has 250 years of history in Komatsu. American actor, Charles Glove

A Taste of Nagasaki

During several hundred years of national self-isolation, Nagasaki served as Japan's only window to the world. Many forei

Iejima: Resilient Land, Resilient People

Iejima is a small island off of mainland Okinawa. It was the scene of fierce battles in World War II. Its people suffere

Okayama: The Profound Spirit of the Rocks

Takahashi City in Okayama Prefecture is a popular destination for sports climbers. Rock climbing courses were first set

Sabae: Eye on Design

Sabae City, located on the Sea of Japan in central Fukui Prefecture, has a population of about 70,000. Sabae is renowned

Bounty of the Wild North: Cape Soya, Hokkaido

Cape Soya lies at the northernmost tip of Hokkaido Island. Located at a latitude of 45° North, the landscape in this ar

Hokkaido: Summer Gardens Under the Northern Sky

Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost main island, turns into a paradise of flowers in spring and summer. After the harsh winte

Hidden Village Kuma

Deep in the steep mountains of Kumamoto Prefecture, Kyushu, lies the remote village of Kuma. Located on the raging Kuma

Aomori: Out of This World

Aomori, the northernmost prefecture of Japan's Honshu main island, has a number of enigmatic places that feel a world ap

Akita: Swaying Lanterns Brighten Summer Nights

The Akita Kanto Festival attracts more than a million tourists every year. One kanto pole is lit with 46 lanterns and mo

Deep Into Kurobe: Toyama Climbing

The source of the Kurobe River-deep in the Northern Alps in Toyama Prefecture-is a rarely explored place. No matter whic

Uchikawa: A Retro River Townscape

This neighborhood lying alongside the Uchikawa River in Imizu CIty, Toyama Prefecture, has been a thriving fishing port

Tanegashima: Guns, Rockets and Surf

Tanegashima is an island that has embraced new cultures and people since olden times. Starting with Japan's first firear

Yubari: Mining the Nostalgia

Yubari, in the center of Hokkaido, is famous for its international film festival, which is held each winter, and for its

Walking the Nakasendo: A Road to the Past

Nakasendo is one of the five highways constructed in Japan during the Edo Period (1603 – 1868). Connecting Edo (old To

Chichibu: An Autumn Pilgrimage

For hundreds of years, pilgrims have made their way to the hills of Chichibu, northwest of Tokyo, to follow an ancient p

Munakata: The Sea and Goddesses

Munakata City is located in northwestern Kyushu, facing the Sea of Genkai. As an ancient maritime trade route, Munakata

Sacred Mt. Ishizuchi: Autumn Trekking

At a height of 1,982 meters, Mt. Ishizuchi is the tallest peak in western Japan. It takes about three and a half hours t

Hagi: The Cradle of Modern Japan

Hagi, in Yamaguchi Prefecture, western Japan, is one of Japan's best known castle towns. The traditional townscape with

Isumi-Ichinomiya: Fresh Air and Laid-Back Living

The Isumi-Ichinomiya area lies on the east coast of Chiba Prefecture, facing out toward the Pacific Ocean. It's just an

Koza: A Rhythm All Its Own

The area called Koza in Okinawa city-in the center of Okinawa prefecture-is famous for its international atmosphere with

Ogawayama: A Rock Climber's Paradise

Ogawayama (Mount Ogawa) is known as a "rock climber's paradise." Located near Kawakami Village in Nagano Prefecture, it

Niseko: Snowy Adventures

This edition of Journeys in Japan explores the international winter resort of Niseko in Hokkaido. John Moore and family

Suruga Bay: The Bounty of the Deep

Suruga Bay, off Shizuoka Prefecture, is the deepest bay in Japan, plunging to a depth of around 2,500 meters. Around the

Tokoname: City of Ceramics Past and Present

Chubu Centrair International Airport is built on an artificial island off the Chita Peninsula in Aichi Prefecture, to th

Ibaraki: Savoring Winter Flavors

Ibaraki Prefecture's coastline extends about 200 kilometers along the Pacific. Warm and cold currents meet off the shore

Hokkaido: Sculpting Winter's Ice and Snow

In winter, Hokkaido is covered by a deep blanket of snow and the land lies dormant. But for the people who live in Japan

Mt. Norikuradake: A Peak Winter Experience

Mt. Norikuradake lies 200 kilometers west of Tokyo, straddling the border of Nagano and Gifu prefectures. Of all Japan's

Odate: The Land of the Akita Inu

The statue of Hachi the Dog sits near Shibuya's famous scramble crossing. Hachi was an Akita Inu, a breed designated as

Oya, Utsunomiya: Stone Town & Quarry Ruins Tour

On this edition of Journeys in Japan, we travel to Oya, an old stone town in Utsunomiya City, Tochigi Prefecture. Austra

Nagoya: Samurai Warlord Chronicles

Nagoya, in Aichi prefecture, was the main battlefield during the prolonged Sengoku, Warring States period 500 years ago.

Hakuba: Off Piste to a Hidden Hot Spring

One popular starting point for backcountry skiing in Japan is the Hakuba area of Nagano Prefecture. There is a well esta

Nara: Ancient Sanctuary for all Living Creatures

The ancient city of Nara lies close to Kyoto and Osaka. Around 1,300 years ago it was the capital of Japan, and numerous

Monobe, Kochi: Tales from the Magical Mountain Hamlet

In the mountain village of Monobe-located in eastern Kochi Prefecture-a folk belief called Izanagi-ryu has been passed d

Manazuru: Good Living by Design

Manazuru has thrived on quarrying and fishing since olden times. On Journeys in Japan, Kyle Card discovers this small co

Nanyo, Ehime: Water for Life and Fun

The Nanyo area of Ehime Prefecture is blessed with abundant water. It lies on the west coast of Shikoku Island, looking

Meiwa-cho, Mie: An Ancient Legend Comes to Life

Until about 700 years ago, princesses from Japan's imperial family were sent to act as high priestesses at Ise Jingu, th

Mount Daisen: Mystical Rites, Local Life

Mount Daisen, in Tottori Prefecture in western Japan, stands 1,729 meters high. Often noted for its resemblance to Mount

Murayama, Yamagata: Local Delicacies, Local Pride

Each season in Japan brings its own special delicacies. When early summer arrives, that means it's cherry season. Sevent

Tottori: Sculpted by Nature

On this episode of Journeys in Japan, actor Dean Newcombe from Britain explores the natural wonders of Tottori, includin

Deep into the Unspoiled Forest: Shirakami Sanchi

Shirakami Sanchi is a vast region of forested mountains in northern Japan, straddling the border of Aomori and Akita pre

Yonaguni: Wild West Escapades

Our show's regular narrator Bill Sullivan escapes the studio to travel around the tiny island of Yonaguni in Okinawa Pre

Obuse, Nagano: Walking and Running for Fun

Marathons are hugely popular in Japan. Every year, hundreds of them take place around the country. But the race held in

Taisetsuzan: Summer Alpine Discoveries

Taisetsuzan, also called Daisetsuzan, is a mountain range home to Hokkaido's highest peak. In addition to its excellent

Kochi's Summertime Fever: The Yosakoi!

Kyle Card catches Kochi's summertime festival fever by observing, and even joining in, the dynamic Yosakoi where hundred

Awa Odori Festival: Spirited Away in Tokushima

The Awa Odori is a huge dance festival that takes over Tokushima City, Tokushima Prefecture, for four days in early Augu

Yanai: Old Town of Goldfish Lanterns

Yanai prospered as a port town in the Seto Inland Sea. It was one of the largest merchant cities in the region during th

Nagara River: Pristine Beauty, Waterborne Bounty

The Nagara River runs for 166 kilometers through the heart of Gifu Prefecture, in central Japan. Although some 830,000 p

Minami-Izu: Unspoiled Seaside Getaway

The Minami-Izu area lies on the southern tip of the Izu Peninsula, in Shizuoka Prefecture. It is a popular destination f

A River Runs Through Hokkaido

Cutting through deep forests, the clear Mukawa River in Hokkaido has brought continuous blessings to the people along it

Kagoshima: The Taste and Style of "Kuro" Culture

Kagoshima is the southernmost prefecture of Kyushu. The Japanese word kuro (or "black") plays a very important role in t

Kikuma, Ehime: Pride and Pageantry

Kikuma is located in northern Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture. The old town is known for its production of kawara roof ti

Togakushi: Autumn Hues at a Sacred Mountain

Mt. Togakushi, in northern Nagano Prefecture, has been a focus for religious faith for over 1,000 years. From around the

Passage of Time: Lake Towada in Autumn

Lake Towada-on the border of Aomori and Akita prefectures-is one of Japan's most scenic spots. The large, double caldera

Karatsu: Festival Floats, Deep Community Spirit

Karatsu Kunchi is a three-day festival held in November each year in Karatsu City, Saga Prefecture. The highlight is the

Traces of History: Exploring Around Hiroshima

Hiroshima is home to two World Heritage Sites, the Atomic Bomb Dome and Miyajima Island. Other buildings of architectura

Yokkaichi: Bringing Back the Skies

On this journey, we visit Yokkaichi in northern Mie, central Japan. This industrial city, with a population of just over

Tsubakuro-dake: New Year High Up in the Northern Alps

The Northern Alps, which has many mountains over 3,000-meters in height, is located in central Japan. It attracts many m

Oita: Rest and Recuperation, Onsen Style

Oita Prefecture in Kyushu is one of Japan's best known places for onsen - or hot springs. The city of Beppu is especiall

Fukuoka: City of Food and Flavor

Fukuoka is the largest city in southern Japan, and the political and economic hub for all of Kyushu. For more than a tho

Takada: Community and Tradition in Snow Country

Joetsu City in Niigata Prefecture is famous for its harsh winters and heavy snowfalls. Since the Edo Period (1603-1868),

A Winter Wonderland of Ice: Eastern Hokkaido

Every year from February to March, ice floes from Russia's Amur River float across the Okhotsk Sea to the shores of east

Hachinohe: Warmth in Winter

In Hachinohe city, on the eastern coast of Aomori Prefecture, nature has not always been kind to the people. Rice cultiv

Makabe: A Promise of Spring

The charming old castle town of Makabe is located in the foothills of Mt. Tsukuba, not far from Tokyo. It flourished as

Toyama: A Food Culture Rich in Umami

Kombu (kelp) seaweed has been an essential ingredient in the Japanese diet for over a thousand years. It is used to make

Following a Samurai Tea Master

The distinctive style of pottery known as Oribe ware made its appearance in Japan towards the end of the 16th century. W

Okumusashi: Spring Forest Feast

Only 50 kilometers away from the capital the mountainous area offers historic scenery and gentle trekking courses. Local

Agano River: Green Foliage and Spring Rituals

The Agano River flows through northern Niigata Prefecture, about 200 kilometers to the north of Tokyo. It runs from snow

Ashikaga and Tochigi: Cultivating Nature and Tradition

In the old days, the cities of Ashikaga and Tochigi were post towns along the highway that led to the famous Nikko Tosho

Atami: The Spa Revival

Atami, in Shizuoka prefecture, is one of Japan's leading hot spring resorts and is only 45 minutes from Tokyo. The city,

Nikko: Contemplating Its Architectural Jewels

Nikko, which is a leading tourist destination in Japan, has long been venerated as a sacred place of mountain worship. I

Tsugaru: Amateur Sumo, Indomitable Tradition

The Tsugaru area of Aomori Prefecture has long been known as one of Japan's top districts for developing sumo wrestlers.

Tsuwano: Painted Past, Vividly Present

One hundred drawings portray the customs and scenery of 150 years ago. These scenes are still remarkably visible in the

Remote Ojika Island: Portal to the Past

Tiny Ojika is part of the Goto Islands of Nagasaki Prefecture, which lies one thousand kilometers west of Tokyo. The pop

Misugi: Taking it Slow in the Mountains

The town of Misugi is located deep in the mountains of Mie Prefecture, central Japan. 90% of the town is covered with fo

Tobishima: Living Life on Island Time

The island of Tobishima lies off the coast of Yamagata Prefecture in the Sea of Japan. It is about 10 kilometers in circ

Yuki & Oyama: Neighbors with Interwoven Tradition

Yuki (in Ibaraki Prefecture) and neighboring Oyama (Tochigi Prefecture) are famous throughout Japan as the home of tradi

Mt. Fuji: Climbing to the Sacred Realm

Mt. Fuji is the most famous peak in Japan. It is also a place of worship, and for centuries pilgrims have made their way

Kita-Akita: Deep Connections with Nature

Kita-Akita City lies in the north of Akita Prefecture. It is a land of mountains and thick forests. The Akita Nairiku Li

Okushiri Island: Secret Gem Off Hokkaido

Okushiri Island-about 84 kilometers in circumference-is located southwest of Hokkaido in remarkably blue and transparent

Totsukawa: A Spiritually Charged Place of Beauty

Totsukawa, in southern Nara Prefecture, is nestled deep in the mountains. The village's isolation from most of Japan for

Iki: Island of Beauty and Promise

The island of Iki lies off the coast of Kyushu, facing out towards the Korean Peninsula. In ancient times, Iki was an im

The Lost Pirates of the Seto Inland Sea

The Seto Inland Sea in western Japan has been a major sea route since ancient times. The Geiyo Archipelago, of large and

Kitayama Village: A Community with Unique Charms

Kitayama Village lies deep in the mountains of the Kii Peninsula in central Japan. It is a small village, with a populat

Mt. Gozaisho: Going Extreme

Mount Gozaisho is a popular tourist destination located on the border of Mie and Shiga prefectures, and easily accessibl

Fukuoka: A City of Two Faces

Fukuoka, the largest city in southern Japan, was a merchant town in ancient times that prospered with foreign trade. It

Houki-cho: Preserving the Past for the Future

The Houki-cho district lies in the west of Tottori Prefecture close to the foot of volcanic Mt. Daisen. It has a populat

Kanazawa: A Legacy of Color

Kanazawa City in Ishikawa Prefecture developed as a castle town of the Kaga Domain under the Maeda Clan's rule. For abou

Iriomote Island: A Small Piece of Paradise

Iriomote is 2,000 kilometers southwest of Tokyo in an ocean of corals. The subtropical island enjoys year-round temperat

Kamioka: Pedaling Ahead to the Past

The town of Kamioka lies in the mountains of central Japan. It was once famous as a major center for mining. Now the min

Chugei, Kochi: Exploring the Yuzu Road

Yuzu is a variety of citrus fruit that has long been prized for its superb aroma. A winter specialty, it is an essential

Nichinan: A Port City Reviving

Nichinan city, situated in Miyazaki Prefecture in southwestern Japan, once prospered from fisheries and forestry. Aburat

Tottori: Crab Lover's Paradise

Tottori Prefecture ranks number one in Japan when it comes to crab hauls. It's also the largest consumer of the seafood.

Nagahama: Heading North Along Lake Biwa

Lake Biwa is the largest lake in all of Japan. In winter, its remote northern coast is a place of unspoiled peace and si

Iheya: Peaceful Winter Getaway

Iheya is the northernmost island of Okinawa Prefecture and takes an hour and twenty minutes by ferry from a port in the

Kikuchi: Slow Food, Slow Travel

The city of Kikuchi, in northern Kumamoto Prefecture in Kyushu is known for its prosperous agriculture and livestock ind

Okinawa: Architecture of History and Tradition

Okinawa, Japan's southernmost prefecture, has developed a distinct architecture all its own, reflecting its subtropical

Iojima: A Volcanic Island with a Passion for Rhythm

Iojima Island lies around 1,000 kilometers southwest of Tokyo, off the south coast of Kyushu. Its main peak is Mt. Iodak

Gliding Hokkaido's Powder

Japow refers to Japan's world-famous powder where skiers delight in making tracks in heavenly virgin snow. An ideal plac

Minami-Uonuma: Weaving New Snow Country Tales

Minami-Uonuma, in southern Niigata Prefecture, is one of Japan's snowiest regions. Suzuki Bokushi's Hokuetsu-seppu, whic

Oku-Echizen: Abundance and Tranquility

The Oku-Echizen district lies deep in the mountains of Fukui Prefecture, inland from the Sea of Japan coast. The central

Road Tripping Around Miyazaki

John Moore, from Ireland, is a social entrepreneur. Euan Craig, from Australia, is a potter. The men take off on a road

Tateyama: Wondrous Underwater Encounters

Tateyama is only 80 kilometers from Tokyo, in southern Chiba Prefecture. Off Tateyama spreads a bountiful sea that offer

Iga: Keeping the Ninja Tradition Alive

Iga, in the northwest of Mie Prefecture, is famous as a place where many ninjas lived, especially in the late 15th to 16

Hieizan: Mother Mountain of Eternal Prayer

Hieizan (Mount Hiei) rises high to the northeast of the city of Kyoto, straddling the border between Kyoto and Shiga Pre

Uchiko: Epic Kite Battle

Uchiko, which is 700 kilometers southwest of Tokyo in Shikoku's Ehime Prefecture, flourished as a pilgrimage post town o

Yamaguchi: Landscapes and Their Stories

Yamaguchi Prefecture lies in the far west of Japan's main island, Honshu. It has numerous landscapes that are unlike any

Nishi-Izu, Hidden Gem

Nishi-izu, with stellar views of Mt. Fuji, is located on the western coast of the Izu Peninsula. Geopark sites with stra

Shizuoka: Wonderland of Green Tea

Japanese green tea is produced from tea leaves that are steamed and then dried, unlike black tea, for which the leaves a

Hachimantai: Timeless Landscape, Healing Water

The Hachimantai Plateau straddles the border of Iwate and Akita Prefectures. A large area around its summit is covered b

Tonami: The Winds of Change

On this episode Charles Glover, an actor from the United States, visits the Tonami Plain in Toyama Prefecture, known for

Mt. Hakusan: Sacred Peak of Natural Beauty

Rising above the highlands of central Japan, Mt. Hakusan (2,702 meters) is considered of the most sacred peaks in the co

Sawara: Festival Floats Keeping Ties Alive

Sawara lies in northeast Chiba Prefecture, around 70 kilometers to the east of Tokyo. Thanks to its location on a tribut

Steel City Muroran and Its Hidden Charms

Muroran, in southwestern Hokkaido Prefecture, flourished as an industrial city, mainly in steel manufacturing. After the

Izumo: The Heart of the Japanese Spirit

The Izumo region in Shimane Prefecture, where deities from across the country are said to gather annually for a meeting,

Iwate: Blazing a Trail to the Future

The Michinoku Coastal Trail, which was launched by the Environment Ministry, is a long trail along the Pacific coast tha

Rausu: Coexistence with Nature's Bounty

Rausu lies on the coast of the Shiretoko Peninsula, in eastern Hokkaido Prefecture. Most of the peninsula is designated

Kagawa: Stepping into the Past

Kotohira, in western Kagawa Prefecture developed around the famous shrine complex known as Kotohira-gu. Some 2-million t

Nakanojo: The Force of Art and Nature

The Nakanojo Biennale is an art festival held in beautiful Nakanojo in Gunma Prefecture. It boasts one of the largest ar

Yamanashi: Escaping the Heat by the Katsura River

The Katsura River runs through a beautiful valley in Yamanashi Prefecture, not far from Tokyo. Fed by springs from Mt. F

Kishiwada Danjiri Festival: Thrills and Local Pride

The Kishiwada Danjiri Festival is one of the most vibrant and spectacular festivals in all of Japan. Over 2 consecutive

New Wind Blowing in Iwamizawa

Iwamizawa is located about 40 minutes by train from Sapporo in Hokkaido Prefecture. It flourished as a transportation hu

Ise: Pilgrimage to the Heart of Japan

Ise City is in southeastern Mie Prefecture in Central Japan. It is home to one of Japan's most sacred sites, Ise Jingu S

Nanyo: From Wheels to Wings

Nanyo City lies in Yamagata Prefecture, in the Tohoku region north of Tokyo. The city is focusing on boosting tourism fo

Osaka: The Architecture of a Vibrant Metropolis

Osaka is the largest city in western Japan. The 16th-century warlord Toyotomi Hideyoshi, who unified Japan after a long

Climbing Fun on Sacred Mt. Myogi

Mt. Myogi, located in western Gunma Prefecture, is famous for its unusual rock formations and beautiful autumn foliage.

Asago: Hidden Gem of Heritage and History

Asago lies deep in the mountains of Hyogo Prefecture in western Japan. In recent years it has been drawing crowds of vis

Suo-Oshima: Finding Hawaii in the Inland Sea

The island of Suo-Oshima lies off the coast of southeast Yamaguchi Prefecture, in western Japan. It's one of the prefect

Unlocking the Mysteries of Ancient Asuka

Asuka in Nara Prefecture was the center of Japan's politics and culture for more than 100 years from the end of the 6th

Yokohama: A Port Town with It All

Yokohama, just south of Tokyo, is a vibrant port city steeped in history. When Japan first opened its first doors to the

Mishima, Fukushima: Keeping Alive the Folk Craft Tradition

Mishima Town, in western Fukushima Prefecture, receives some of the heaviest snowfall in all of Japan. During the winter

Tsugaru: Deep Snow, Warm Hearts

The Tsugaru region lies in the west of Aomori Prefecture, far in the north of Japan's main island. It is famous for havi

The Magic of Winter in Akita

Akita Prefecture, in northern Japan, celebrates its snowy season with many unique festivals. American illustrator Kailen

Hateruma: Life on a Distant Island

Located 2,000 kilometers southwest of Tokyo, Hateruma is the southernmost inhabited island in Japan. With a population o

Hakkoda's Backcountry Magic

The Hakkoda mountain range soars in central Aomori Prefecture. It's famous for its heavy snowfall, massive "snow monster

Asahikawa: Adventures on Sleds and Wheels

Located in the center of Hokkaido Prefecture, Asahikawa City is Hokkaido's second largest city. It is also one of the co

Rivers of Life: Kaizu and Kuwana

Located in central Japan, Kaizu City in Gifu Prefecture and Kuwana City in Mie Prefecture are just downstream of the Kis

Ishigaki: A Look to the Future

Ishigaki, in Okinawa Prefecture, is a stunning, sub-tropical island that lies some 2,000 kilometers southwest of Tokyo.

KAGAWA: Treasure House of Modernist Architecture

Kagawa Prefecture is the smallest of the 47 prefectures of Japan in area. It puts emphasis on the promotion of architect

Atami is Back

Atami is a resort popular for its dramatic coastline, hot springs and proximity to Tokyo. After a period of decline, it

Otoyo: Bringing Fresh Life to a Traditional Community

Otoyo Town in Kochi Prefecture is located in the center of the Shikoku Mountain Range. More than 80% of its land is cove

Rural Reboot: Kamiyama's Renaissance

Kamiyama, Tokushima Prefecture, is a mountain village with a population of 5,000. But despite its tranquil setting, it's

Nanmoku: Afterglow of the Silk Road

Nanmoku is a village that lies deep in the mountains of Gunma Prefecture, northwest of Tokyo, which blossomed during the

Work-Life Bliss in Itoshima

Itoshima, in western Fukuoka Prefecture, has been drawing attention in recent years as a popular place to relocate to fr

Ogawa Village: Laidback Living with Mountain Vistas

Ogawa Village in Nagano Prefecture is famous throughout Japan for its beautiful scenery. Even though it lies between 2 p

Omi-hachiman: Historic Merchant Town on Sacred Lake

Omi-hachiman is an old castle town that flourished as a transportation hub on Lake Biwa. It retains the remnants of the

South Iwate: On the Trail to Recovery

The Michinoku Coastal Trail runs along the Pacific coast of northeastern Japan, covering a distance of about 1,000 kilom

Passion on the Vine: Yamanashi and Its Winemakers

Yamanashi Prefecture has been a pioneer in winemaking in Japan since the mid-19th century when farmers began converting

Ashio: Memory of the Forest

Deep in the mountains of Tochigi Prefecture, 100 kilometers north of Tokyo, Ashio has long been known as a mining town.

Miyagi: On the Trail to Recovery

The Michinoku Coastal Trail stretches more than 1,000 kilometers along the Pacific coast, crossing 4 prefectures from Ao

Ojiya: Deep Roots in Snow Country

The city of Ojiya is hidden in the mountains of central Niigata Prefecture, some 200 kilometers north of Tokyo. Because

Revisiting Ibaraki's Autumn-Winter Flavors

Ibaraki Prefecture, which stretches along the Pacific Ocean, is known for its diverse nature. Along with the sea, expans

Kyoto: Tango Chirimen

The Kyotango area of northern Kyoto Prefecture is known as the birthplace of Tango Chirimen, a variety of crepe silk wit

Tsu: A Path to the Heart

Tsu in Mie Prefecture prospered as a castle town during the Edo period (1603-1868). Situated close to Ise Jingu, one of

Tsushima: Slow Living on a Frontline Island

The island of Tsushima, in Nagasaki Prefecture, lies between Japan and South Korea, just 50 kilometers from the South Ko

Moji: Gateway to the World

Moji, just over 800 kilometers west of Tokyo, is on the northernmost tip of Kyushu. Facing the Kanmon Strait -- an easy

Frozen Beauty at Dawn and Dusk: Hokkaido in Midwinter

Hokkaido Prefecture in mid-winter is a frigid land of snow and ice, where temperatures can drop below minus 20 degrees C

Poetic Beauty of Wintry Kussharo

Winter in Hokkaido Prefecture... It's a fascinating time to visit for the stunning snowscapes and natural phenomena caus

Otaru: Herring and Glassware; Keeping Alive Otaru's Tradition

The city of Otaru, on the Sea of Japan coast of Hokkaido Prefecture, was founded about 150 years ago and grew rapidly as

Eye on Nagoya: A City's Identity through Architecture

Nagoya is in Aichi Prefecture in central Japan. While it is sometimes compared unfavorably to Tokyo, Kyoto Prefecture an

Yamatokoriyama: Water Brimming with Goldfish

Elegant and charming, goldfish have captured the hearts of people in Japan for centuries. One of the main areas where th

Minami Shinshu: A Solo Alps Journey

Outdoor guide Daniel Moore gets a taste of deep mountain life on a drive around Minami Shinshu in southern Nagano Prefec

Rainy Nights, Summer Mysteries

As spring changes to summer in Japan, there is a period of about a month when rainy, cloudy conditions persist. This tra

Go Deep! Underwater Paradise

Islands -- stringing along 3,500 kilometers, north to south, in the Pacific -- so narrow that no point is ever far from

Toba Islands: Life and Love in a Traditional Community

The Ise-Shima National Park is one of Japan's most popular sightseeing areas, but not so many people visit the islands t

Cultivating a Taste for Summer Vegetables

Because Japan's landmass extends north-south through a number of different climatic zones, farmers can cultivate a wide

The Trail to Chiyanoki: Mountain Biking Revives Village

A stunning mountain bike course has been carved into a mountain of a Genkai-shuraku -- a marginal hamlet where more than

Lifting the Spirit through Architecture: Nikko Okinawa Osaka

On Journeys in Japan, we've discovered the history and culture of many places through their architecture. On this episod

Summer Festivals to Celebrate Around Japan

Festivals are an essential element of summer in Japan. Held around the country, some feature music and dancing, others s

Ishinomaki: A Decade On - Remembering and Moving Ahead

Located on the coast of Miyagi Prefecture, Ishinomaki City long flourished through fisheries. The 2011 Great East Japan

Ascending the Sacred Peaks

Modern mountaineering was born in Europe in the second half of the 18th century. Offering vigorous exercise along with m

An Ode to Live Music

With the world pandemic, music venues across the globe have gone silent. So this time on Journeys in Japan, American act

Creative Solutions Spark Rural Revival

Across Japan, communities highlight their distinctive charms to attract visitors. On this episode of Journeys in Japan w

Legacies of Samurai Culture

When people think of the samurai they imagine fearless warriors skilled in the martial arts. But that's just one side. I

Hokkaido: Catching the Northern Lights

On Journeys in Japan, photographer Alfie Goodrich framed his lens on Hokkaido Prefecture's Muroran and Rausu in 2019. Mu

Oki, Iki, Tsushima: Frontline Islands in the Stream

Japan has about 6,800 islands that are larger than 100 meters in circumference. More than 500 of them are classified as

Shinto Rituals: Linking Communities and Deities

Since ancient times, Shinto rituals have been held at sacred sites across Japan, bringing people together and creating b

Northern Alps for All Seasons

The Northern Alps, which extend some 150 kilometers, are the most popular among climbers in Japan. Many of its peaks tow

Rising from the Ruins

Around the turn of the 20th century, mining towns sprang up around Japan to meet the nation's growing demand for mineral

Michinoku the Legend of Gold

This time, we trace Japan's legend of gold. The precious metal was actually first mined in Michinoku -- an old name for

Kasama: A Pottery Community in Evolution

The traditional pottery town of Kasama lies about 100 kilometers northeast of Tokyo, about 1.5 hours away by train or ca

Yamanobe no Michi: Strolling Back Into the Past

One of Japan's oldest roads, the Yamanobe no Michi runs about 25 kilometers along the foot of the mountains in the Nara

Hamamatsu: From Local Expertise to Global Renown

The city of Hamamatsu lies in Shizuoka Prefecture, midway between Tokyo and Osaka Prefecture. Since the old days, the ar

Matsusaka: Legacy of Samurai, Merchants, Artisan

Matsusaka City of Mie Prefecture is famous for its premium Matsusaka Beef. In the Edo period (1603-1868), it prospered a

JAPOW Magical Backcountry Ski Tour

JAPOW. It's the incredibly fluffy and abundant powder snow that attracts skiers from all over the world. This time, we t

—Festivals— A Harbinger of Spring

Since the old days, many festivals have been held across Japan to mark the changing seasons and reflect the agricultural

Hearing the Silent Voice of the Bedrock

Since ancient times, people in Japan have felt a profound veneration for the bedrock of their land. Quarried and mined,

Eyeing Architectural Wonders

On this episode, we look back at our architecture features and pick up some wondrous, inspiring shapes and their place i

Nagasaki: City of Hills and Hope

In the third of our programs introducing Japan to active wheelchair travelers, Ryoko Nakajima and Shizuka Anderson explo

Eternally Radiant Himeji Castle

Himeji Castle is the finest surviving example of early 17th-century castle architecture in Japan, with its main keep int

Maniwa: Living from the Forest

Around 70 percent of Japan's landmass is covered by forest, and this has given rise to the country's distinctive wood-ba

Breathing New Life into Iwaki

Iwaki City in Fukushima Prefecture has been making steady progress in its reconstruction efforts since the Great East Ja

Exploring the Mudflats of the Ariake Sea in Saga

The Ariake Sea borders lies in the northwest of Kyushu, bordering on 4 prefectures: Nagasaki, Saga, Fukuoka, and Kumamot

Yamagata: Communing with the Living and the Dead

Japan's indigenous belief called Shinto worships 8 million deities. Its imported Buddhism addresses the afterlife. Throu

Suzuka: City with a Racing Circuit

The Suzuka Circuit is one of the most famous racing tracks in all Japan. For that reason, Suzuka City (Mie Prefecture) i

Iriomote: Pursuing the Elusive Jungle Cat

A father and daughter head to Iriomote, the largest of the Yaeyama Islands far away in southwestern waters. Covered 90%

Shinhama, Sendai: A Green Sea Wall for the Future

Along the shoreline of northeast Japan, a 400-kilometer sea wall has been built to protect people living in the region f

Tamba-Sasayama: Inn to the Heart of a Village

If you venture up north from Hyogo Prefecture's castle town Tamba-Sasayama, you will arrive in a picturesque village fro

Okinawa: Weaving Culture

We look at Okinawa Prefecture through its stunning textiles. The island chain is a treasure trove of "somemono" (piece-d

Peak Pleasure in the Northern Alps

One of the attractions of hiking in the mountains of Japan is the chance to experience the thrill of traversing. Japan i

Midsummer with the Ancestors: Wakasa Town

The town of Wakasa-cho lies on the coast of Fukui Prefecture, looking out on the Sea of Japan. In the old days, the town

With Isabella Bird: On the Road to Nikko

Isabella Bird explored Japan in 1878, a mere ten years after the country had opened its doors to the West. She was accom

Tochigi: Destinations of Timeless Calm

Lake Chuzenji lies in the highlands of northwest Tochigi Prefecture, above the city of Nikko. Thanks to its altitude, it

Spirited Away to Tono

Tono is the setting for the Legends of Tono, often dubbed the Grimms' Fairy Tales of the East. The book, compiled by lea

Hakone Hachiri: Highway Back in Time

For centuries, the ancient Tokaido highway was the most important road in all Japan. It linked Kyoto, the emperor's capi

Kumamoto: Castle Town Loves Its Past with Eye on the Future

Kumamoto Castle was built by the feudal lord Kato Kiyomasa. The construction began in the late 16th century and was comp

Nagoya: Exploring with Insiders

The city of Nagoya is the capital of Aichi Prefecture and the hub of Japan's third largest metropolitan region. Located

Ozu: Castle Town Looking to the Future

Ozu lies in the heart of Ehime Prefecture surrounded by unspoiled forested mountains. Ozu Castle stands in the center of

Kyushu: On the Trail of Shoyu

Shoyu, or soy sauce, is a condiment at the heart of Japanese cuisine. In Kyushu it evolved into an array of flavors and

Yasugi: Discoveries Along the Iron Road

Jonathan Senior discovers Japan's iron history in Yasugi, a transport hub from long ago. He learns about the old clay ta

Matsue: The World of Wagashi

Matsue, in Shimane Prefecture, is renowned as a center for wagashi (traditional Japanese sweets). Around the 18th centur

Kochi: Into the Luminous Darkness

John Moore travels into the darkness and light of Kochi Prefecture, taking in paintings by lantern and night fishing by

Winter Along the Mogami River

The Mogami River is one of the most important waterways in northern Japan. It runs for 229 kilometers through Yamagata P

Live Long, Live Well in Northern Nagano

Nagano Prefecture, surrounded by beautiful nature, has some of the longest life expectancies in all of Japan. What's beh

Akita, Yamagata, Niigata: The Textiles and Traditions of Winter

Akita, Yamagata and Niigata prefectures are known for their bitterly cold winter weather, with very heavy snowfall. In t

Sapporo: Ski Mountaineering Tradition

In Hokkaido Prefecture, the sport of ski mountaineering has a long history. Making your way up into the mountains is pos

Rambling Around Secluded Yanbaru

Yanbaru is an area in the north of Okinawa Prefecture's main island. Covered by subtropical evergreen forest, it is home

Onomichi: Vistas, Cats and Steep Hillsides

Onomichi lies on the coast of Hiroshima Prefecture, overlooking the tranquil Seto Inland Sea. Because there is very litt

Tobishima Kaido: Taking It Slow on Golden Isles

The Tobishima Kaido is a network of bridges linking seven Seto Inland Sea islands. The route starts in Shimo-kamagari ne

With Isabella Bird — Part 2: On the Road to Tsugawa

British explorer and writer Isabella Bird arrived in Japan in 1878, a mere 10 years after the country opened its doors t

On the Sugar Road from Nagasaki to Saga

The Nagasaki Kaido Road connects the port of Nagasaki Prefecture, the only point open to overseas trade during Japan's p

Nibutani the Ainu, Living with Kamuy

The Ainu people are the indigenous people of Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan's northernmost main island. They developed their

The Wild Life in One-of-a-Kind Amami

Amami Oshima Islands, designated as a Natural World Heritage site in 2021, is home to rich biodiversity, including many

Amami Oshima: Beauty in the Rain

Amami Oshima Islands in Kagoshima Prefecture receives one of the largest amounts of rain in Japan. Its rainy season, whi

Owase: City of Abundant Rain

The city of Owase, in Mie Prefecture, is known as one of the rainiest places in Japan and the people living there have d

Discovering the Wonders of Iya Valley

Deep in the mountains of Shikoku lies Iya, which is home to a few small settlements. The steep, narrow and misty valley

Tsuruga Castle, Where the Past Meets the Present

Tsuruga Castle in the city of Aizuwakamatsu (Fukushima Prefecture) played a decisive role in Japan's transition from the

Gujo-Hachiman: Dancing the Night Away

The Gujo Odori, one of Japan's largest Bon dances, is a spectacle with the scores of revelers, as well as the live festi

With Isabella Bird — Part 3: On the Road to Yamagata

British explorer and writer Isabella Bird arrived in Japan in 1878, a mere 10 years after the country opened its doors t

Koyasan: In Pursuit of Enlightenment

Koyasan, in the mountains of Wakayama Prefecture, is a sacred site of Shingon Buddhism. It was founded by the visionary

From Ise to the Source of the Sacred River

The Miyagawa River originates in the pristine heights of Mount Odaigahara, in the center of the Kii Peninsula, and flows

The Soaring Dragons of Chichibu

Chichibu in Saitama Prefecture is a charming, rustic spot not far from Tokyo. It is known for its hundreds of annual fes

Kyushu: On the Shoyu Trail: Nagasaki – Kumamoto – Miyazaki

Soy sauce, or shoyu, is one of the essential seasonings that underpin Japanese cuisine. In Kyushu (southwestern Japan),

Handa: Savoring a Canal City's Delights

Handa City, in Aichi Prefecture, is known for its brewing industry and festivals with towering floats. Jennifer Julien,

Yakushima Awakenings

Yakushima, off Kagoshima Prefecture in Kyushu, is a magical island of primeval forest, rare micro-climate and pristine n

Morioka: Slow Life, Indie Spirit

In January 2023, the New York Times newspaper introduced Morioka as one of its "52 Places to Go" - second only to London

360 Degrees of Mt. Fuji: Hiking the Long Trail - Part 1

In 2021, a long trail course was established that encircles Mt. Fuji. By following this trail, one can explore not only

360 Degrees of Mt. Fuji: Hiking the Long Trail - Part 2

In 2021, a long trail course was established that encircles Mt. Fuji. By following this trail, one can explore not only

On the Sugar Road from Saga to Fukuoka

The Nagasaki Kaido was an important trade road from the 1630s that connected Nagasaki's port—the only one open to over

Isumi Shines as Liveable City

Isumi in Chiba Prefecture was voted most desirable place to live in the Tokyo area for its accessibility and great outdo

SILK Road: Threads of History from Gunma to Yokohama

In 1859, when Japan reopened its doors after more than two centuries of isolation, goods flowed in and out of newly expa

Geto Kogen: Deep Powder Dreams

Geto Kogen lies in an area of Japan known as a gosetsu chitai—a region with extremely heavy snowfall. In an average ye

Akita's Festivals Light Up Long Winters

The city of Senboku in Akita Prefecture is made up of three towns: Tazawako, which has the deepest lake in Japan; Nishik

Tomonoura: Tradition and Community in a Historic Port

Tomonoura is a port town on the coast of the Seto Inland Sea, in Hiroshima Prefecture. It occupies an important location

Okinawa: Whispers of the Ryukyu Kingdom

Across Okinawa's islands, you will find the stone walls of castle ruins. The Ryukyu Kingdom was a country for 350 years

Taketa: Onsen Bathing Old and New

People in Japan love bathing in hot springs, or onsen. And since the old days, it has been common for people to check in

With Isabella Bird — Part 4: On the Road to Akita

British explorer and writer Isabella Bird arrived in Japan in 1878, just 10 years after the country opened its doors to

Okayama: Divine Beings Up Close

Okayama Prefecture is a magical place where ancient myths live on. Shinto shrines venerate unique gods and Buddhist temp

Ogaki: The City of Water

Ogaki in Gifu Prefecture is called "the city of water." Its abundant groundwater has fed countless spring water wells, a

Yamagata: Heartland of Wood Architecture

Yamagata Prefecture, some 300 kilometers north of Tokyo, is a mountainous region. Around 70% of its land covered by fore

Shodoshima: Island of Discoveries

Shodoshima, the second largest island in the Seto Inland Sea, is known for its beautiful landscapes, natural scenery and

Deep Dive in Sugashima: The Island of Women Fishers

Japan's legendary Ama free-diving women still plumb the waters around Sugashima Island in search of abalone, turban shel

NISEKO IN SUMMER: Natural Fun in the Great Outdoors

Niseko is renowned as one of Japan's leading winter sports destinations. But these days it's also becoming famous as an

Kumano Kodo: Fast Hiking to Nirvana

The Kumano Kodo, leading to Kumano, the sacred land of the Gods, is one of the few pilgrimage roads designated as a UNES

Nagasaki's Obon: A Time for Remembrance

Obon is a summertime ritual when Japanese people welcome ancestors' spirits home from the Buddhist Pure Land. The people

With Isabella Bird — Part 5: On the Road to Aomori

British explorer and writer Isabella Bird arrived in Japan in 1878, just 10 years after the country opened its doors to

Osaka: OSAKA HEART AND SOUL

Osaka is a dynamic city with a dynamic history. Photographer Alfie Goodrich captures the food culture of the "Kitchen of

Tokushima: Heartland of Fermentation

Tokushima Prefecture, in the eastern part of Shikoku Island, is renowned as a heartland of traditional fermentation. It

OITA Kunisaki Peninsula: A Land of Buddhas and Gods

The Kunisaki Peninsula, known for its temples, shrines and pilgrimage paths, abounds with rites enduring from ancient ti

Another Kobe: A Thatched Roof Village

North of Kobe's neon lights you can enjoy another side of the city—a hidden village with over 650 thatched homes. It's

Fukushima: Trekking with Volcanoes & Hot Springs

Japan is a land of volcanoes, many of them very active. And anywhere there are volcanoes, you will almost always find ho

Ise-Shima: Timeless World of Pearls

Called "tears of mermaids" or "dewdrops from the moon," pearls have captivated people since antiquity. The world's first

The Mountain Spirit of Shiiba Village

Shiiba, one of Japan's three great unexplored regions, is hidden in mountains over 1,000 meters tall. The people in this

Kyushu: Land of Samurai Swords

Kyushu is a region where the traditional skills of kenjutsu – Japanese swordsmanship – remain deeply embedded, with

Enku's 120,000 Smiles Over Gifu

Roughly hewed, smiling statues of deities and Buddhas... A monk named Enku is believed to have sculpted some 120,000 in

Hokuriku 1: Foods and Flavors of the Trading Ships

The Hokuriku Shinkansen bullet train connects Tokyo with Toyama, Ishikawa and (since March 2024) Fukui Prefecture. This

Hokuriku 2: The Golden Age of the Trading Ships and Their Legacy

The Hokuriku Shinkansen bullet train connects Tokyo with Toyama, Ishikawa and (since March 2024) Fukui Prefecture. This

Gunma: Raking in Good Luck

For centuries, Daruma dolls have been popular in Japan as talismans to bring good fortune. The largest producer of Darum

Hida: Deep Winter Escape

We visit Furukawa, an old district of Hida City in Gifu Prefecture, which is surrounded by mountains and stunning scener

Hokkaido Sapporo: Sensing the City Through Its Architecture

Sapporo is known for its rich architectural heritage, a symbol of its place as Hokkaido's hub of politics, economy, and

NIIGATA: SNOW COUNTRY WONDERLAND

Niigata is renowned for its heavy snowfall. Each winter it is transformed into a wonderland where the snow covers the la

Wakayama: The Cradle of Japan's Flavors

Wakayama is famous for shoyu, miso and umeboshi—staples in Japanese cuisine. In this episode, Shizuka Anderson meets a

Kure Port, Kochi — The Lure of Katsuo

Katsuo-bushi (bonito flakes) are one of the key ingredients in Japanese cuisine, for preparing dashi stock. They are mad

Izu Peninsula: Volcanic Beauty

The Izu Peninsula was formed by long ago volcanic eruptions. It was designated as a UNESCO Global Geopark for its unique

Nagaoka: Water, the Wellspring of Abundance

Located in the heartland of Niigata Prefecture, the city of Nagaoka is blessed with an abundance of water. It lies on th

Matagi: Yamagata’s Spiritual Hunter-Gatherers

Japan is known for its fisheries and agriculture. But deep in the mountains, people called Matagi still maintain a hunte

Nishio: Whisking up the Global Matcha Boom

The city of Nishio lies in the Mikawa district of Aichi Prefecture, central Japan. Thanks to the elegance of its traditi

Tochigi: Life Away from the Sea

Tochigi prefecture, which lies inland, is home to distinctive culinary traditions featuring fish. Leina Bambino visits t

Okinawa: A World in Bloom

Okinawa is a subtropical paradise blooming with vivid flowers. Photographer Alfie Goodrich captures the profound beauty

With Isabella Bird — Part 6: On the Road to Biratori

British explorer and writer Isabella Bird arrived in Japan in 1878, just 10 years after the Meiji Era began. Accompanied

SHAKOTAN: Out of the Blue, Into the Flames

The Shakotan Peninsula in the west of Hokkaido is known for the vivid color of the sea, which has come to be known as "S

The Ontake Kodo Path to Sacred Peak

Standing over 3,000 meters, Mt. Ontake is Japan's second-highest volcano. It has long been revered as sacred. In the 18t

Mishima: Festival Rhythms Run Deep

Mishima lies at the foot of Mount Fuji, in Shizuoka Prefecture. Its main shrine, Mishima Taisha, is said to have been fo

Higashikawa: Picture-Perfect Town

Higashikawa, just 15 minutes from Asahikawa Airport, is known as a leading rice producer in Hokkaido. Its lifestyle, con

Kochi Shimanto River: Pristine Water and Premium Fishing

The Shimanto River flows for 196 kilometers through Kochi Prefecture in the south of Shikoku. It is known for its crysta

Discovering Japan's Hidden Christians

Although Christianity was banned in Japan for over 250 years, some communities refused to abandon their faith. Worshippi

Hiking the San'in Coast: Tottori

The San'in Kaigan Geopark Trail is a 230-kilometer-long course connecting the Sea of Japan coastline along Tottori, Hyog

Unearthing a Love for Seto

Seto City, in Aichi Prefecture, is a leading ceramic hub, and also one of the Six Ancient Kilns of Japan. Its pottery tr

SHIMANE: In Search of Izumo's Gardens Past and Present

Shimane Prefecture, formerly known as Izumo, is home to a number of superb Japanese gardens — some traditional, others

Hiking the San'in Coast: Hyogo-Kyoto

The San'in Kaigan Geopark Trail is a 230-kilometer-long course connecting the Sea of Japan coastline along Tottori, Hyog

With Isabella Bird - Part 7: On the Road to Ise

British explorer and writer Isabella Bird arrived in Japan in 1878, just 10 years after start of the Meiji Era. "Unbeate

Noto: Lighting a Torch for the Future

Two years ago, on New Year's Day of 2024, a massive earthquake hit the Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture, leaving ov

Akan: The Sacred Winter World of the Ainu

Akan, in eastern Hokkaido, is renowned for its breathtaking winter landscape with majestic volcanic mountains and ice-bl

Hokkaido: Voices from the Northern Land

Through the generations, Hokkaido has been home to people from diverse backgrounds, who have developed their livelihoods

Kushimoto: Life at the Water's Edge

Dean Newcombe discovers Kushimoto, the southernmost town on Japan's main island. Thanks to the warm Kuroshio Current tha

Northern Yatsugatake: Adventures in Snow Hiking

Scenic northern Yatsugatake in Nagano Prefecture is an outdoor lover's paradise just two hours from Tokyo. It's defined

Kokuto Okinawa island sweetness

Kokuto is Okinawa's traditional form of sugar, which is made simply by boiling down sugarcane juice, a method first intr

Toyama MINGEI: Beauty in the Everyday

Architect James Lambiasi discovers the living culture of mingei folk craft in Toyama, north-central Japan. James visits

Tsuruoka: Gastronomy Rooted in Tradition

Tsuruoka lies on the Sea of Japan coast of Yamagata Prefecture. In 2014, it was named a UNESCO Creative City of Gastrono

Komatsu: Stone Stories

Komatsu, a castle town just west of Kanazawa, was forged by stone and time. Born from ancient underwater volcanoes, its

Maze: A Museum without Walls

Nestled in an upland area of Gero City (Gifu Prefecture), the village of Maze is renowned for its breathtaking mountain

Tokunoshima: Bull Sumo on Subtropical Island

Tokunoshima is a small, semi-tropical island located southwest of Kyushu. Home to many rare species of flora and fauna,

Kihoku: A Wonderful Waterside World

The Choshi River is just 17 kilometers long but it's become known throughout Japan as the "Miracle River." Thanks to the