See & Do
Shosenkyo Gorge
Grab a sturdy pair of hiking boots and get ready to explore the dazzling leaves and intriguing rock formations of Shosenkyo Gorge, about three hours from Tokyo (Shinjuku) by train and bus.
Minakami Canyon Water Activities
Several exhilarating ways to reconnect with nature and shake off the months of sitting at home can be found at Minakami, one of Japan’s premiere spots for white water rafting and canyoning.
Byobugaura Cliffs
While it may be easier to call Byobugaura Cliffs the “Dover of the Orient,” no words could properly convey the serenity of this colorful jagged landscape lining the Chiba coastline.
Furumine Shrine
Head out to Tochigi’s mountainous Furumine Shrine, where you can wish for good luck or good health under the stunning colors of fall, or any time of the year.
Tokozenji Temple
While you may be familiar with the word Zen, the best way to start a path to understanding this branch of Buddhism is to experience it for yourself. And this can be done right in Yokohoma, Tokyo’s nei…
Tomioka Silk Mill
Japan’s first silk model factory is now a place where visitors can come learn about the history and development of the nation’s raw silk industry less than two hours from Tokyo. (Photo provided by Gun…
Kairakuen & Kodokan
You’re invited to escape the crowds of the major cities and journey to Ibaraki Prefecture, where you can take a carefree walk of one of Japan’s most famous gardens, before learning about the culture a…
Sado Gold Mine Historic Site
Located off the coast of Niigata Prefecture in the Sea of Japan, the remote island of Sado holds a unique place in Japanese history. Learn about how this former gold mine was a shining part of the Jap…
Aizu Samurai School Nisshinkan
Samurai culture still thrives in Aizuwakamatsu, a castle town in central Fukushima. A distinguished school aims to keep traditions alive by introducing the authentic culture of the ancient samurai war…
Narai-juku
Walk along a route once used by pilgrims, aristocrats, and merchants in ancient Japan as you wander the Nagano streets of Narai-juku, one of the best-preserved stations of the Nakasendo route that con…
Minobusan Kuonji Temple
Waiting high up on Mt. Minobu is an area that just might be the place to catch your breath and center yourself. From the fresh crisp air of the mountains to the morning meditations offered at Kuonji T…
Kawagoe
Known for unique clay warehouses, the former castle town of Kawagoe has so much in store for visitors to Saitama. Learn about the historical area and chomp on traditional treats while wearing a kimono…
Sakura City Samurai Tour
Stroll like a samurai in the city of Sakura, home to well-preserved traditional homes, sword masters, and serene bamboo groves that look straight out of a Kurosawa film.
Sawara’s Historical District
If you’re looking to escape the fast pace of the big cities, fewer places are better than the serene Sawara’s Historical District. Once an important trading town, this area of Chiba has kept its rusti…
Asakusa and TOKYO mizumachi
Step back in time as you traverse Asakusa, the downtown of days past. The entertainment district of Edo, Tokyo’s former name, is a mash-up of history and culture right in the heart of the capital city…
Mashiko Ware Pottery
Embrace the town of Mashiko, where culture, art, natural beauty, history, and craftsmanship have combined to create a unique form of Japanese pottery and a National Traditional Craft.
Enoura Observatory, Odawara Art Foundation
An art project in and of itself, the Enoura Observatory is a great place to get off the beaten path. The facility combines the artistic sensibilities of Japanese art and design with the beauty of natu…
Kamakura Mind
Head to Japan’s former capital city of Kamakura to get your very own piece of history: a handcrafted name stamp that will let you recall your travels across Japan with every use.
Suifu Chochin Lanterns
Traditional crafts are always in style in Japan and one such city to create your own piece of culture is Mito, the capital city of Ibaraki where you’ll learn all about the famed Suifu chochin lanterns…
Echigo-Tsumari Art Field & Kiyotsu Gorge
A perfect blend of art, culture, and nature only two hours from Tokyo, exploring Niigata’s rich tapestry of outdoor exhibitions makes the ultimate itinerary for the adventurous art lover. (Photo: Ma Y…
Aizu Kendo Experience
Kick it old school in Aizuwakamatsu as you learn the basics of Japanese swordplay in one of Japan’s most revered samurai cities, right in the heart of Fukushima.
Matsumoto Castle
Only two hours from Tokyo by train lies Matsumoto, home to one of the best-preserved castles in Japan. Matsumoto Castle is a National Treasure of Japan, and one you have to see with your own eyes.
Yamanashi Wine Country
Yamanashi is the most prolific wine region of Japan with over 140 years of growing experience, producing a third of all the wine made domestically. So there’s simply no better place to tour vineyards …
Takasaki Daruma
Daruma, hollow and rounded dolls generally made from paper, are one of Japan’s most enduring lucky icons. In Takasaki, visitors can try their hand at the craft in a workshop led by artisans recognized…