

What is Dutch Slope (Orandazaka) in Nagasaki? Dutch Slope, or Orandazaka (オランダ坂), is a quiet stone path in Nagasaki’s Higashi-Yamate area. It got its name because many Westerners lived nearby in the 1800s—not just Dutch people, but also British and American traders.Today, you can still walk past old Western-style houses, ivy-covered walls, and scenic corners.…

Tucked away in the mountains of Gifu Prefecture, Shirakawa-go is one of Japan’s most iconic rural destinations. Famous for its gassho-zukuri farmhouses—steep thatched roofs designed to shed heavy snow—it’s a place where time slows down and tradition lives on.The village is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and draws visitors year-round for its fairytale-like…

Tucked away in the mountains of Gifu Prefecture, Takayama is one of Japan’s best-preserved traditional towns. Known for its historic wooden architecture, morning markets, and regional cuisine like Hida beef, Takayama offers a peaceful yet immersive cultural escape. Strolling through the streets of Sanmachi Suji, you’ll find Edo-period homes, sake breweries, and local artisans still…

Next to the extremely popular Ghibli Museum in Mitaka, Tokyo a new pilgrimage destination for fans of the dreamy Studio Ghibli franchise has been opened in November 2022. The Ghibli Park is even larger and you can truly disappear in a wondrous different world

Kiso-Fukushima was a post town on the Nakasendo trail during feudal times. You can find many attractive preserved historical sites including the old town, magistrate office, checkpoint, and a beautiful Zen garden here.

Shinminato is a town in Imizu City facing Toyama Bay. You can enjoy watching crab auctions and fresh seafood at the fish market, a beautiful sailing boat, and a nostalgic canal cruise.

Fushimi is an area in the south of Kyoto with many sake breweries. Learn which breweries welcome visitors, and which other attractions there are in the area!

Do you want to go cycling on a quiet island near Okinawa Main Island? Then Kudaka Island is a great place to go.

If you want to buy anime goods in central Tokyo, Tokyo Character Street at Tokyo Station is awesome. There are more than 30 anime shops such as a Pokemon store, Jump Shop, and a Ghibli shop.

Not far from the famous Golden Pavillion is Ninna-ji temple. If you come during cherry blossom or maple leave season you can’t skip this temple, but also outside these seasons it’s worth a visit.

One of the most impressive cherry blossom spots in Nagano is the Takato Joshi Park. See our beautiful pictures taken this spring.

There is a fascinating street for pop culture fans in Soshigaya, Tokyo called Ultraman Shopping Street. There are many hidden superhero characters, you can have funny coffee and buy cool souvenirs.

Looking for something else to do besides going to the beach? Check out these fun and active (half) day trips in the central part of Okinawa Main Island!

Are you looking for a cool day trip in Okinawa Main Island that is fun for the whole family? Kouri Island and the Tataki Waterfall are a great combination of action and relaxation with amazing views!

Gujo Hachiman is a beautiful old town in Gifu Prefecture. It attracts many visitors because of the castle on the hill, beautiful streets with channels, plastic food sample workshops, and a dance festival.

All shops in Kappabashi Street sell kitchen wares for professionals and passionate home cooks. This is where Japan’s famous plastic food samples originated.

Normally I am not a fan of theme parks without thrilling rides, but I did have a good time in Okinawa World. Find out what to do in this local theme park in the southern part of Okinawa Main Island.

Are you looking for another reason to come to subtropical Okinawa? Check out Forest Adventure Onna, one of the most exciting outdoor activities on the island.

Maybe you wouldn’t think Saitama is a typical destination for pop culture and architecture fans, but Tokorozawa Sakura Town in Saitama is just that! Find out what to discover there.

Go to Arakurayama Sengen Park if you want to take that famous photograph that showcases three iconic symbols of Japan at the same time in spring; a five-storied pagoda, cherry blossoms, and Mt Fuji.