← Blog · Category
Opinion
What we think you should and shouldn’t do in Japan, and why.
Browse by region 
- Kansai Kyoto · Osaka · Nara
- Chubu Takayama · Kanazawa
- Kanto Tokyo · Kamakura
- Hokkaido Sapporo · Niseko
- Kyushu Fukuoka · Nagasaki
- Tohoku Sendai · Aomori
Featured region
Kansai
The heart of old Japan — temples, tea ceremonies, and the soul of Kyoto.
Explore Kansai → Hidden gems
Browse all destinations → Beyond the Golden Route
Six lesser-known corners of Japan that reward the detour.
Discover → By theme See all themes → By season 
- Cherry Blossoms Mar — Apr
- Summer Festivals Jun — Aug
- Autumn Leaves Oct — Nov
- Winter Snow Dec — Feb
- Golden Week Early May
- Year-round
Featured interest
Onsen
The ritual of the bath — ancient, communal, and deeply Japanese.
Explore onsen → Editor's pick
Browse all interests → A Year in Japan
A seasonal reading list — from plum blossoms to snow festivals.
Read → Practical guides See all guides → Itineraries See all itineraries → 
Featured guide
JR Pass
Is it still worth it in 2026? A numbers-first look at Japan's most iconic pass.
Read guide → Featured itinerary
All guides & itineraries → 2 Weeks in Japan
Kyoto · Takayama · Tokyo — a hand-built itinerary beyond the usual.
See itinerary → Categories See all categories → Recent articles 
Editor's note
Where to Go in 2026
Our picks for a quieter, slower Japan trip — away from the well-trodden path.
Read → Reader favourites
All blog articles → Autumn Colours in Kansai
Most-read this month. A season-by-season tour of Japan's hidden maple corners.
Read → 