beautiful Japan
On the border between Wakayama and Mie prefectures, nature has created a fantastical terrain. The secluded Kizuro Village is encircled by a river and pebble beaches, turning it into a half-island paradise that’s also abundant in good qi.
Nope, the above image isn’t a production still from a live-action version of The Pilot’s Love Song or Zelda: Skyward Sword. Rather, this glorious view can be seen from the popular “Sea of Clouds” (unkai) Terrace on Mount Tomamu, which is entering its ninth year of service.
Such a magnificent vista is generally the sole privilege of determined hikers, but this resort attraction in the heart of Hokkaidō delivers you to it in a mere 13 minutes, and you don’t even need an ounce of upsidasium! Whether you’re a nut for Laputa, a hardcore Bioshock Infinite cosplayer, or just a nature lover like me, you’ve got to check out this unique mountaintop experience.



Japan’s otoshidama tradition of giving kids money at New Year’s gets a social welfare upgrade
Starbucks Japan releases new zodiac chilled cup drink for 2026
Mr. Sato accosts award-winning actor Hideaki Ito【Interview】
Virtual pantie flash part of Japan’s new schoolgirl-inspired swimsuit’s sailor style【Photos】
Japan’s Self-Defense Forces take “radio calisthenics” to an interesting new level
Is it possible to run up a 100,000-yen (US$885) bill at Tokyo’s cheapest Italian restaurant?
What does the giraffe say? Video captures baby giraffe’s surprising cry
We take on Japan’s latest crazy anime pose: The two-person peace sign【Photos】
Woman charged for driving suitcase without a license in Osaka
Duolingo to open first pop-up store Duomart in Japan for a very limited time next month
7-Eleven Japan starts new temporary luggage storage service in over 300 branches
Disillusionment at Tsukiji’s tourist-target prices led us to a great ramen restaurant in Tokyo
Japan may add Japanese language proficiency, lifestyle classes to permanent foreign resident requirements
Lacquerware supplier to emperor of Japan and Pokémon team up for new tableware
Starbucks teams up with 166-year-old Kyoto doll maker for Year of the Horse decorations【Photos】
Starbucks on a Shinkansen bullet train platform: 6 tips for using the automated store in Japan
Is this the most relaxing Starbucks in Japan?
Large amount of supposed human organs left in Osaka marketplace
Tokyo’s Tsukiji sushi neighborhood asks tour groups to stay away for the rest of the month
Japan’s human washing machines will go on sale to general public, demos to be held in Tokyo
Japanese train company is letting fans buy its actual ticket gates for their homes
Tokyo considering law requiring more trash cans following litter increase in heavily touristed area
Nintendo’s Kirby now delivering orders at Kura Sushi restaurants, but not in Japan
Tokyo event lets you travel back in time, for free, to celebrate 100 years since Showa era start
Sanrio theme park in Japan announces plans to expand into a Sanrio resort
Survey asks foreign tourists what bothered them in Japan, more than half gave same answer
Japan’s deadliest food claims more victims, but why do people keep eating it for New Year’s?
We deeply regret going into this tunnel on our walk in the mountains of Japan
Studio Ghibli releases Kodama forest spirits from Princess Mononoke to light up your home
Major Japanese hotel chain says reservations via overseas booking sites may not be valid
Put sesame oil in your coffee? Japanese maker says it’s the best way to start your day【Taste test】
The top 10 annoying foreign tourist behaviors on trains, as chosen by Japanese people【Survey】
No more using real katana for tourism activities, Japan’s National Police Agency says
Starbucks Japan reveals new sakura drinkware collection, inspired by evening cherry blossoms
Is it possible to run up a 100,000-yen (US$885) bill at Tokyo’s cheapest Italian restaurant?
What does the giraffe say? Video captures baby giraffe’s surprising cry
We take on Japan’s latest crazy anime pose: The two-person peace sign【Photos】
Woman charged for driving suitcase without a license in Osaka
Duolingo to open first pop-up store Duomart in Japan for a very limited time next month
7-Eleven Japan’s ramen-cooking robot whipped us up a bowl of noodles【Taste test】
Is it rude to sing along at concerts in Japan? We ask a pro musician for his take
Japan’s top 10 travel experiences in the sky【Survey】
You can now visit a recreation of Evangelion’s Tokyo-3 and live there in miniature form in【Pics】
Large amount of supposed human organs left in Osaka marketplace
Flex and pose your way to fitness with the JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure exercise program!【Video】
Hello Kitty Choco Egg figures are an adorable trip through three periods of Japanese pop culture【Pics】