The name yamaimo (literally meaning “mountain yam”) refers to a species of Japanese yam that grows naturally in the cooler, mountainous regions of Japan.
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.
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.
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.
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.
From the bustling Golden Route to quiet, lesser-known towns, we’ll explore how affluent visitors spend their time in Japan.
Born in the coastal city of Akashi in Hyōgo Prefecture, this dish represents the perfect balance between simplicity and craftsmanship, offering an authentic taste of Kansai comfort.
If you’re planning a trip to Nagano City, you won’t want to miss these five must-visit spots that bring together history, culture, nature, and fun.
Summer 2025 will be remembered as one of the most extreme seasons in Japan’s history. Temperatures soared to record highs, leaving cities sweltering, crops struggling, and daily life challenging for millions of people.
The matcha cafe has revived the tea ceremony tradition in a more fun and relaxed setting, especially in urban areas. Today, we’ll take a look at one such establishment – Maccha House. Let’s find out how it, along with other matcha cafes, helps keep the country’s tea culture alive
In Nara, tradition runs as deep as its rivers. Here, a special craft stands out: the making of the matcha whisk. This delicate tool is essential for preparing matcha with precision. Each whisk reflects centuries of skill, patience, and artistry. More than a utensil, it symbolizes the rich cultural heritage of Japan’s tea ceremony.
Japan’s wilderness is full of ancient trails carefully threading their way through mountains and along riverbanks. Nakasendo is one such trail. This central route through the Japanese Alps was carved through the country’s landscape to connect empires and project shogun power. But it didn’t only move people and goods.
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