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 by Gunma Prefecture’s most famous daruma craftsman.

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 Gunma Prefecture.)

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 Japanese economy.

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.

In Tokyo, immerse yourself in one of Japan’s traditional crafts and learn how to repair broken ceramics with a method that enhances their aesthetic appeal.

Experience the history and artistry of daruma doll-making in Fukushima Prefecture, where this cultural heritage has been passed down for generations. Daruma are common figures in Japanese life, whether they are perched on bookshelves or used as motifs on hand towels. At Daruma Land in Shirakawa City, Fukushima Prefecture, visitors can get a fresh look at these dolls, from how they are made to how they have changed over the years. The facilities at Daruma Land were designed for education, shopping, and hands-on activities that encourage visitors to interact with and learn about daruma dolls.

Experience the fusion of architecture, art, and culinary excellence at SHIROIYA HOTEL. This creative retreat in Maebashi invites travelers to immerse themselves in a space that celebrates culture and innovation. ©Photo by Shinya Kigure

Visit a museum that goes beyond traditional galleries and immerses you in the natural beauty of its surroundings. Ichihara Lakeside Museum is a destination where art, nature, and community come together in perfect harmony. ©Photo by Tadashi Endo

In the heart of Yanaka, one of Tokyo’s most charming and historic neighborhoods, Yanakado Café Nekoemon offers a unique experience for cat lovers and craft enthusiasts.

Saitama is home to two major rivers, the Arakawa and Tone, which provide high-quality water that’s perfect for brewing sake. With over 30 breweries spread throughout the prefecture, you’re invited to come and get a taste of the region yourself. We’ll take a closer look at three top producers.

Just north of Tokyo, Ibaraki is a prefecture of abundant river systems, which have led to the establishment of several breweries. In addition to sake, some breweries specialize in making delicious umeshu.

Iinuma Honke offers visitors the exceptional opportunity to stay overnight for a fully immersive sake brewing experience.

In the modern world of perfectly controlled sake brewing, Tsuchida Sake Brewery aims to reintroduce traditional variables to create unique and complex flavors with sake brewing methods of the past.

Are you a Japanese sake and beer enthusiast? Then discover a blend of tradition, craftsmanship, and flavor at Ishikawa Brewery, located just outside the heart of Tokyo. Established in 1863 during the Bunkyu Era, with six buildings designated as registered tangible cultural properties and a museum dedicated to brewing history, Ishikawa Brewery offers an immersive journey through time and taste.

Experience sake brewing, local cuisine, and art along the scenic Mitake Valley in western Tokyo.

From traditional delicacy to conveyor belt convenience, sushi in Tokyo has gone through a long journey throughout history. But we might not know the globally popular dish without one clever food stall owner.

The pure snow of Niigata is well known for helping to create some of the best sake in Japan. And now you can sample over 100 kinds of sake from the region from the convenience of three major train stations.

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 while tasting the best the country has to offer.