Discovering Japan: our topic by topic guide to Japan

The Arakawa Ward of Tokyo may be one of the lesser-known in the city compared to places like Shibuya-ku, Shinjuku-ku, and Minato-ku, but for many, that is its greatest strength.

Famous for its park, zoo, and museums, Ueno is a must-see location for leisure in eastern Tokyo. Yet there's much more to this emblematic Yamanote district than its cultural attractions.

Though it isn't as celebrated or renowned as other major stations in Tokyo like Shinjuku Station, Shibuya Station, or Ikebukuro Station, Nippori Station is a major transportation junction on the fa

Nestled beside the majestic World Heritage Himeji Castle, Koko-en Garden offers visitors a captivating glimpse into Japan's rich history and horticultural artistry.

Nestled in the heart of Nagoya, the Tokugawa Garden stands as a living testament to Japan's rich cultural heritage.

Nestled on the hillside of Minami-Yamate in Nagasaki, Glover Garden stands as a testament to Japan's fascinating journey towards modernization.

Shitennoji Temple: read a guide to Shitennoji Temple in Tennoji, Osaka, the oldest state temple in Japan founded by Prince Shotoku in 593.

Nestled in the bustling Akasaka district of Tokyo, Toyokawa Inari Betsuin Temple stands as a unique spiritual sanctuary.

Nestled atop Mount Mitsumine in the Chichibu-Tama-Kai National Park, Mitsumine Shrine stands as a testament to ancient Japanese spirituality and craftsmanship.

From September 1 to February 28, 2026, enjoy sento at reduced prices!

Arima onsen is one of Japan's oldest and most famous hot springs. Many ryokan (Japanese inns) and hotels have their own hot springs.

Onsen (natural hot springs) are a must-do experience in Japan, but for patrons with tattoos, access can sometimes be denied.

Famous for his ephemeral buildings for victims of natural disasters, Ban Shigeru is a major figure in Japanese architecture. Winner of

Nestled in the lush greenery of Hakone's Sengokuhara area, the Hakone Glass Forest stands as Japan's first museum dedicated entirely to Venetian glass.

Naoshima, nicknamed Japan's "Island of Art", continues to enrich its cultural offering with the opening of a brand-new museum in May 2025.

The Shimanami Kaido is an emblematic 70-kilometer route linking Onomichi on the island of Honshu to Imabari on the island of Shikoku.

Cool temperatures, bathing on landscaped beaches, swimming in the middle of nature... Discover the lakes in Japan where you can swim!

Discover the Michinoku Coastal Trail, one of Japan's most beautiful hiking trails that spans over 1000 kilometers!

The Aomori Nebuta matsuri, also known as Nebuta matsuri, is one of the three biggest festivals in the Tôhoku region. It takes place every summer in the city of Aomori, between August 1 and 7.

For the first time in 22 years, Tokyo hosts the Ghibli 3D Model Exhibition, a spellbinding exhibition that plunges you into the heart of Studio Ghibli's films.

In December, Tokyo lights up to welcome Christmas markets that blend European traditions and Japanese ambience.

Magemono has a centuries-long history within the Hakata area of Fukuoka.

Hakata-Ori weaving was developed hundreds of years ago and, thus, has become an iconic presence within traditional Japanese aesthetics.

The Japanese are renowned for their meticulous, preventive approach to skin care. Every step of their routine is designed to anticipate skin problems before they occur.

Get ready to return to the wonderland that is the Kawaii Monster Cafe! The iconic establishment will reopen this winter as Kawaii Monster Land Harajuku.

In the mood of a matcha break? Japan's most famous tea is grown primarily in Kyoto, but the Japanese capital is also full of good places to go for matcha.

Is it actually difficult to eat vegan in Japan? Vegan menus may not be very widespread across the archipelago, but the capital of Japan does have a few great options!

Nestled in the heart of Kyoto, the Toji Market transforms the serene grounds of Kyoto's Toji Temple into a bustling bazaar on the 21st day of each month.

The world's largest fish market has rehearsed for decades its frenetic and nourishing dance to frenzied “tuna” every night.

Kii-Katsuura, also called Nachi-Katsuura, is a fishing port in Wakayama prefecture which owes its fame to its thermal springs but also to its fish market.

Purikura, the original and very popular Japanese photomatons, are a fun and unmissable experience during a stay in Tokyo.

Nestled in the heart of Tochigi prefecture, Nasu Animal Kingdom 那須どうぶつ王国 offers a unique immersive experience with nature and animals.

Ueno Zoo located in Tokyo’s Ueno Park is the oldest zoo in Japan.

Tokyo's VR Park, located in the heart of the lively Shibuya district, offers a unique immersive experience in the world of virtual reality.

South of the Ginza district, near Shinbashi, is a unique building that stands out in the landscape of Tokyo skyscrapers, the Nakagin Capsule Tower.

The otaku are young people (or not so young) who devote their time and their money to their interest: the world of manga, animes, figurines, idols, and video games.

In the heart of Tokyo's residential Jiyugaoka district lies a true hidden treasure: Kosoan, a traditional teahouse offering a timeless experience.

More than a hub, Tokyo station is rich with history surpassing its existence for over a century.

Karaoke is a veritable institution in Japan, an essential pastime practised regularly with friends.