The Jizo statues in Kanmangafuchi Abyss in Nikko, Tochigi.

Nikko, Tochigi: A Close Look at the Region’s Rich History

In the mountains of Tochigi Prefecture, Nikkō is a place where Japan’s natural beauty, spiritual heritage, and culinary traditions converge. Just a few hours north of Tokyo, this town enchants visitors with vibrant autumn leaves, ornate shrines, and flavors unique to its mountainous setting.

A plate of mitarashi dango against a wooden background.

Mitarashi Dango: Japan’s Sweet and Savory Rice Treat

If you’ve ever visited Japan or seen photos of its food, you might have spotted little rice dumplings on a stick. These chewy treats are called mitarashi dango, and they’re one of Japan’s most beloved traditional sweets.

A room full of blue lanterns at a modern art museum in Kyoto.

New teamLab Biovortex Museum Opened in Kyoto!

Step into art that moves, glows, and comes to life all around you. The art collective teamLab is opening a new museum in Kyoto, Japan, called teamLab Biovortex Kyoto. It opened on October 7, 2025, and it’s just a short walk from Kyoto Station.

A plate of colorful wasanbon sugar.

Wasanbon from Shikoku: Japan’s Most Delicate Sugar

Shikoku is the smallest of Japan’s four main islands, a peaceful region renowned for its scenic beauty and tranquil lifestyle. It’s also home to a special kind of sugar that perfectly reflects this relaxed way of life — wasanbon.

A traditional Ainu piece of clothing (brown jacket and blue emblem.

Ainu Ancestors Return Home: Edinburgh University Repatriates Indigenous Skulls

After more than a century abroad, the spirits of three Ainu ancestors have finally returned home to Japan. In May 2025, the University of Edinburgh formally returned skulls that once belonged to members of Japan’s Indigenous community. Their return marks an emotional and symbolic moment for the Ainu people, whose cultural heritage was long overlooked under Japanese imperial rule.

Two shisa statues near a beach in Okinawa.

Shisa: The Legendary Guardians of Okinawa

Across the tropical rooftops and street corners of Okinawa, you’ll find fierce yet friendly-looking creatures sitting in pairs, one roaring proudly, the other calmly closing its mouth. These are shisa, Okinawa’s legendary lion-dogs, protectors that have watched over homes, temples, and entire villages for centuries.

A shippo-yaki vase with roses, one of the best examples of Japanese ceramics.

Japanese Ceramics: The Alluring Wares of Shippo Yaki

Imagine holding a small dish that glows as if sunlight is trapped inside it. This perfect example of Japanese ceramics resembles glass, with its colors deep and luminous, outlined with threads of silver. That’s the magic of shippo yaki.

Two people exchanging business cards, potentially with the last name "Sato".

The Sato 2531 Problem: What Can Be Done?

According to a new study, Japan could face what’s now called “The Sato 2531 Problem.” If nothing changes, by the year 2531, nearly every person in Japan might share the surname: Sato.