One of many pearl divers, diving for pearls.

Pearl Divers: Exploring the Fascinating World of Ama

In coastal Japan, ama pearl divers, remarkable women, have practiced their craft for over two millennia. These fearless sea women collect pearls and treasures from ocean depths using exceptional breath-holding abilities.

A mountain burning festival in Nara, Japan.

Nara Japan and its Splendor of Mountain Burning Festivals

Yamayaki (山焼き) is a centuries-old Japanese custom in Nara, Japan that involves ceremonially setting fire to mountainsides. Translated as “mountain burning,” the spectacular ceremony continues a tradition whose origins have been clouded by the passage of time.

A taiko drummer at one of the Okinawa festivals.

The Okinawa Festival: Five Great Events to Discover!

Okinawa festivals will surely please people of all ages, as there’s something to suit every taste and preference. The island is packed with must-see events throughout the year, from centuries-old festivals to seasonal festivitie!

A bunch of kokuto brown sugar cubes.

Kokuto: The Best Okinawa Brown Sugar Snacks

Kokuto (Okinawa’s healthy brown sugar) is one of Okinawa’s best gifts to the world. Produced in Japan’s southernmost tropical islands, it plays a vital role in the local economy, agriculture, and diet.

Jasmine tea and jasmine flowers on a bamboo woven table.

Jasmine Tea and More: Six Okinawa Teas to Savor!

Jasmine, or sanpin tea, is a popular beverage among the people of Okinawa, who are well-known for their long life expectancy. Okinawa also offers guava tea, mugwort tea, turmeric tea, goya tea, and cat whiskers tea.