Tokai Village, located on the Pacific coast of Ibaraki Prefecture, is a quiet town with a unique balance of tradition, science, and everyday Japanese life.Known as the heart of Japan’s nuclear research and home to cutting-edge science facilities, Tokai is not famous as a tourist destination. In fact, very few international travelers visit here. But […]
What Is Kakunodate? A Samurai Town Frozen in Time The History of Kakunodate: From Samurai Roots to Modern Tourism Founded in the early 17th century as a castle town under the Satake clan, Kakunodate has preserved its samurai heritage for over 400 years. Strolling through its streets, visitors can still sense the lifestyle and values
When people think of Hokkaido, they often picture popular destinations like Sapporo, Niseko, or Hakodate. But just two hours west of Hakodate lies Esashi, a small coastal town that offers a rare look into Japan’s samurai past and fishing heritage. With preserved streetscapes, samurai-era relics, and a peaceful atmosphere, Esashi is perfect for travelers who
Nestled on the western tip of Aomori Prefecture, Fukaura (深浦町) offers a rare blend of untouched nature, seaside hot springs, and fresh seafood straight from the Sea of Japan. To the west lies the dramatic coastline; to the east, the UNESCO World Heritage Site Shirakami Sanchi with its primeval beech forests. Here, every season paints
Looking to explore Japan beyond the usual tourist spots?Welcome to Ichinoseki, a charming rural city in the heart of Tōhoku, just a short train ride from Sendai or Morioka. Here, centuries-old culture meets stunning nature—with far fewer crowds. Over 900 years ago, the Ōshū Fujiwara clan ruled from nearby Hiraizumi, now home to UNESCO World
