culture

Forbidden area at Japanese mountaintop shrine opens to the public for first time in 400 years

Be one of the first outsiders in centuries to enter this secret sacred area.

Read More

History’s highest sumo wrestling and geisha dance to take place at Tokyo Skytree observation deck

Early-morning and late-night events are aimed at visitors with an interest in high places and rich culture who also have deep pockets.

Read More

Japanese ramen restaurant serves noodles with a heartwarming side of history

Unique visitor’s record tells the story of a ramen dish that remains unchanged for decades.

Read More

Japanese communities giving their skylines a spring clean and saying goodbye to power lines

The quest to let Japan’s historical sites shine bright continues on.

Read More

American gun owner opens our eyes to a different way of life in Tokyo

“Bad guys have guns, so good girls have to have guns too.”

Read More

Wearable blankets blessed by 1,100-year old Shinto shrine on sale in Japan, surprisingly affordable

Blessed Wearable Blankets all receive prayers that wearers will pass their entrance exams.

Read More

How to do an overnight bus trip to Kanazawa from Tokyo【Photos】 – Part 2

Historical tea houses, throwing stars, retro cafes, and Kanazawa’s special curry, all without any need to book a hotel.

Read More

A visit to Japan’s priest murder party cliffs of Tojinbo【Photos】

Dramatic coastline has a dramatic reason for sharing its name with a priest from the Heian period.

Read More

A beautiful night in the Hokkaido woods with immersive Ainu folktale Kamuy Lumina【Photos】

Grab your rhythm staff for an unforgettable after-sundown event.

Read More

Japanese government wants to acquire original anime and manga art for creation of national archive

Ministry of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology discusses project with Evangelion creator Hideaki Anno.

Read More

Starbucks teams up with the oldest of Japan’s Six Ancient Kilns to create a Bizen ware coffee mug

Ancient Japanese pottery techniques create a sublime coffee-drinking experience.

Read More

Japanese train driver and conductor duo melt hearts with behind-the-scenes friendship【Video】

“More than friends less than lovers” team shows us what it takes to look after thousands of commuters on the rails.

Read More

A heavenly trip to Japan’s Demon Island in the Seto Inland Sea【Photos】

We follow in Momotaro’s footsteps with a visit to Onigashima.

Read More

Secrets of the sumo ring: Behind-the-scenes rituals that support the wrestlers…literally【Video】

A fascinating look at how the mound is newly built before every tournament. 

Read More

Kyoto becomes City of Yokai, with Night Parade of One Hundred Demons festival this autumn

Japan’s supernatural world springs to life in a special Hyakki Yagyo event you won’t want to miss. 

Read More

A trip to the other side of Matsushima, a mysterious power spot with an otherworldly atmosphere

The eerie ruins on this island will take your breath away. 

Read More

Virtual idol Hatsune Miku to act in kabuki play with human co-star【Photos】

Cho-Kabuki announces new version of Hanakurabe Zenbonzakura.

Read More

How Japanese people deal with death at Nagasaki’s Shoro Nagashi ceremony

Honouring the dead in a moving way that aids the grieving process.

Read More

Survey finds Japan to be least god-fearing nation in the world and it’s not even close

Jesus is just… all right with Japan.

Read More

The unusual and surprising ways people in Nagasaki celebrate Obon, the festival of spirits

One of the few places in Japan where you’ll see families setting off fireworks at the cemetery.

Read More

  1. 1
  2. 2
  3. 3
  4. 4
  5. 5
  6. 6
  7. 7
  8. ...
  9. 62