Discovering Japan: our topic by topic guide to Japan

Few production companies are held to as high regard as Studio Ghibli (pronounced “ji-bu-ri” in the original Japanese).

Nestled in the heart of Tokyo's Minato ward, Azabu stands as a testament to the city's blend of tradition and modernity.

Nestled in the mountains of Yamanashi Prefecture, Shosenkyo Gorge stands as a testament to Japan's breathtaking natural beauty.

Nestled in the heart of Nagoya, the Tokugawa Garden stands as a living testament to Japan's rich cultural heritage.

Nestled on the hillside of Minami-Yamate in Nagasaki, Glover Garden stands as a testament to Japan's fascinating journey towards modernization.

Nestled in the heart of Tokyo, Chidorigafuchi Park stands as a testament to the breathtaking beauty of Japan's cherry blossoms.

Nestled atop Mount Mitsumine in the Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park, Mitsumine Shrine stands as a testament to ancient Japanese spirituality and craftsmanship.

Nestled in the historic city of Kamakura, Engakuji Temple stands as a testament to Japan's rich spiritual heritage.

Nagoya, a city steeped in rich cultural heritage, is home to numerous temples and shrines that offer visitors a glimpse into Japan's spiritual traditions.

Japan is famous for its many onsen, natural hot springs with therapeutic properties.

Nestled in the mountain village of Kurama near Kyoto, the Kurama Onsen spa offers a magnificent natural setting conducive to relaxation and disconnection.

Nestled on the picturesque island of Enoshima, Enospa is a unique haven combining tradition and modernity.

Nestled in the heart of Mitaka, Tokyo, lies a whimsical haven that transports visitors into the enchanting world of Studio Ghibli.

Nestled in the heart of Kobe's Meriken Park, the Kobe Maritime Museum stands as a testament to the city's rich maritime heritage.

The TOTO Museum in Kitakyushu, Japan, stands as a testament to a century of bathroom innovation and sustainable design.

Nestled along the rugged coastline of Mie Prefecture, the Oniga-jo Rocks stand as a testament to the raw power of nature.

Nestled in the heart of Kanagawa Prefecture, Mount Oyama stands as a beacon for nature lovers and spiritual seekers alike.

Mount Hiei is a historically significant mountain located northeast of Kyoto on the border of Kyoto and Shiga prefectures.

The Uzamasa Edo Sakaba Festival held at the Toei Eigamura in Kyoto provides a unique and historic experience based on Edo Period Japan!

Northern Okayama is host to the triennial Forest Festival of the Arts from September 28th to November 24th, 2024.

Kodaiji Temple, a historic Rinzai Zen temple in Kyoto, offers a unique nighttime experience through its seasonal illuminations and projection mapping events.

The weaving of Hakata-Ori was developed hundreds of years ago and, thus, has become an iconic presence within traditional Japanese aesthetics.

The Japanese are renowned for their meticulous, preventive approach to skin care. Every step of their routine is designed to anticipate skin problems before they occur.

With a relatively modest origin, the Hakata Ningyo dolls have evolved into an artisan craft like no other, rich in detail and color.

Fugu, a puffer fish with a potentially lethal poison, is one of the most fascinating dishes in Japanese cuisine.

The Aoyama Flower Market Tea House is a unique concept in the heart of Tokyo, combining a love of flowers with a love of tea.

Ramen, those delicious Japanese noodles served in a savory broth, have become a culinary phenomenon the world over.

Nestled in the heart of Kyoto, the Toji Market transforms the serene grounds of Kyoto's Toji Temple into a bustling bazaar on the 21st day of each month.

The world's largest fish market has rehearsed for decades its frenetic and nourishing dance to frenzied “tuna” every night.

Kii-Katsuura, also called Nachi-Katsuura, is a fishing port in Wakayama prefecture which owes its fame to its thermal springs but also to its fish market.

Purikura, the original and very popular Japanese photomatons, are a fun and unmissable experience during a stay in Tokyo.

Nestled in the heart of Tochigi prefecture, Nasu Animal Kingdom 那須どうぶつ王国 offers a unique immersive experience with nature and animals.

Ueno Zoo located in Tokyo’s Ueno Park is the oldest zoo in Japan.

Tokyo's VR Park, located in the heart of the lively Shibuya district, offers a unique immersive experience in the world of virtual reality.

South of the Ginza district, near Shinbashi, is a unique building that stands out in the landscape of Tokyo skyscrapers, the Nakagin Capsule Tower.

The otaku are young people (or not so young) who devote their time and their money to their interest: the world of manga, animes, figurines, idols, and video games.

In the heart of Tokyo's residential Jiyugaoka district lies a true hidden treasure: Kosoan, a traditional teahouse offering a timeless experience.

More than a hub, Tokyo station is rich with history surpassing its existence for over a century.

Karaoke is a veritable institution in Japan, an essential pastime practised regularly with friends.