The entrance to an ice hotel in Hokkaido.

Hokkaido on Map Spotlight: What is the Ice Hotel?

In Japan, few places capture winter like Hokkaido. It’s the country’s ultimate winter destination, full of fun and frosty things to do. This year, though, there’s something extra special for visitors. Instead of a cozy cabin, why not spend the night in a hotel made entirely of ice? That’s right—Hokkaido is now on the map, with a brand-new ice hotel that’s the talk of the season!

People using umbrellas as they walk through the snow in Japan.

Snow in Japan: What Happened During the Most Recent Blizzard?

Winter may be one of the most exciting and fun times of the year, but like all weather, it can be dangerous and unpredictable. This current winter snow in Japan has been particularly dangerous for citizens across the northern prefectures.

A senior woman, potentially from Osaka, Japan, enjoying a cup of tea.

Osaka Japan Now Has a Collective for Senior Women!

In Osaka, Japan, women are redefining aging. They plan to create a shared home where senior women can live together and support each other. Rather than move into care facilities or depend on family, they aim for a community-style house with shared chores, worries, and joys.

The inside of a cave in the Valley of Gangala.

Okinawa Locations: What is the Valley of Gangala

Okinawa’s human history stretches back tens of thousands of years, and its lush landscape hides ancient sites where early people lived and prayed. The Valley of Gangala is one of the most fascinating Okinawa locations.

An assortment of brightly colored vegetables from the Kamakura Farmers' Market.

The Kamakura Farmers’ Market: Why Should You Check It Out?

Kamakura, the historic coastal city south of Tokyo, draws visitors for its ancient temples, giant Buddha, and seaside paths. But a secret hidden gym that only locals and savvy travelers also head to is the Kamakura Farmers’ Market, known as Renbai, for a taste of everyday life amid its fresh produce and warm farmer chats. 

The inside of Ueno Station.

Ueno Station Recently Restored an Important Mural

A perfect example of Japan’s love for color and art can be found at JR Ueno Station in Tokyo. For decades, a large mural has graced a wall in the train station, bringing light and joy to countless people. In a moment of profound positivity and progress, much-needed restorations to the mural are nearly complete!

The entrance torii to Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto.

Kyoto Shrines: Five Best Ones to Visit!

Kyoto shrines preserve history within their walls, and their network carries the old days into modern Japan. Visiting them can be a memorable way to learn about Japan’s past and understand how spiritual traditions coexist with modern life.

Aaron and Claire: 3 Dishes You Can Re-Cook at Home

Aaron and Claire: 3 Dishes You Can Remake at Home

Aaron and Claire make Japanese home cooking simple and realistic to try. Here are three re-cook friendly dishes, from Butadon to Omurice and Buta no Kakuni, that you can confidently make at home.

A collection of tsujiri no sato (sweet crackers with a matcha filling).

Tsujiri no Sato: The Charm of Uji Matcha Flavor

Matcha is a finely crafted green tea powder that represents elegance and a deep appreciation for nature in Japanese tea ceremony culture. This tea flavor is widely used in many types of Japanese sweets and snacks, including Tsujiri no Sato. L