Nestled in the scenic landscape of Sagamihara, Kanagawa, Sagamiko Resort Pleasure Forest offers the perfect balance of outdoor adventure, family fun, and tranquil relaxation. Located just an hour from Tokyo's Shinjuku, this expansive resort attracts visitors year-round with its stunning natural surroundings, thrilling attractions, and diverse entertainment options. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-pumping rides or a peaceful escape in nature, Sagamiko Resort delivers a memorable experience for all. The resort's amusement park features a wide range of exciting rides and activities, including high-speed roller coasters, gravity-defying swings, obstacle courses, sports challenges, and intricate mazes inspired by the popular Fujikyu Highland. These…

Makuhari Messe is one of Japan's largest and most dynamic convention centres in the Mihama district of Chiba City, just outside Tokyo. Established in 1989, this world-class venue is a central hub for international events, business conferences, exhibitions, and concerts. Its strategic position between central Tokyo and Narita International Airport makes it easily accessible for domestic and international visitors, attracting millions yearly. The renowned architect Fumihiko Maki created the architectural design of Makuhari Messe, blending modern aesthetics with functional space. The complex consists of three primary structures: the International Exhibition Hall, the International Congress Hall, and the Makuhari Event Hall.…

Yokohama Chinatown, also known as Yokohama Chukagai, is Japan’s largest and most famous Chinatown. It has been located in the heart of Yokohama since 1859, when the city first opened to international trade. The neighbourhood is a colourful and lively enclave filled with Chinese culture, food, and history. Marked by four grand entrance gates representing the cardinal directions and five additional gates within its streets, Yokohama Chinatown offers visitors an authentic cultural experience unlike elsewhere in Japan. At the spiritual heart of the district stands Kanteibyo Temple (Guan Gong Temple), dedicated to the Chinese god of prosperity and business success.…

Nestled in Chichibu, Saitama Prefecture, Hitsujiyama Park (羊山公園) is a breathtaking destination best known for its stunning display of moss pink, or shibazakura, during the spring season. Every year from mid-April to early May, the park’s gently sloping hills transform into a vibrant sea of color, with over 400,000 moss phlox plants blooming in brilliant shades of pink, white, and purple. This seasonal spectacle attracts thousands of visitors, making it one of the most popular spring flower-viewing spots in the Kanto region. The carefully arranged flower beds are designed to create beautiful patterns and waves of color, set against the…

Standing tall at 296.3 meters, the Yokohama Landmark Tower is one of Japan’s most recognisable modern landmarks, located in the vibrant Minato Mirai district of Yokohama. Completed in 1993, this 70-story skyscraper remains the second-tallest building in Japan and a prominent feature of Yokohama’s waterfront skyline. Its unique architectural design, featuring flared bases and sturdy corner posts, combines aesthetic appeal with advanced earthquake-resistant engineering inspired by ancient Japanese pagodas. This structural flexibility lets the tower absorb seismic shocks, showcasing Japan’s cutting-edge building technology. The Landmark Tower is an architectural marvel and a hub of diverse attractions. At the top, visitors…

Located in Yokohama’s vibrant port district, Osanbashi Pier is more than just a cruise terminal—it's one of the city’s most iconic and scenic waterfront attractions. This architecturally striking structure features a wave-like wooden deck that stretches out into Yokohama Bay, offering uninterrupted panoramic views of the Minato Mirai skyline, Yokohama Bay Bridge, and the vast ocean beyond. Whether you're waiting for a cruise or simply exploring the city, Osanbashi provides a peaceful, open space to walk, relax, and take in breathtaking scenery. The pier’s rooftop garden and promenade create a unique public space with grassy areas and wooden paths that…

Naritasan Shinshoji Temple (成田山新勝寺) is a historic Shingon Buddhist temple in Narita City, Chiba Prefecture. Established in the 10th century, it has become one of Japan's most important religious sites. Its convenient location—just a 20-minute walk from JR Narita Station and close to Narita International Airport—makes it ideal for travellers, including those with layovers. Today, Naritasan ranks as Japan's second most visited temple, following Meiji Shrine in Tokyo. Cultural Approach via Omotesando Street The journey to Naritasan Shinshoji Temple is an experience in itself. After leaving JR Narita Station, visitors stroll along Omotesando, a vibrant street with traditional shops, souvenir…

International Stadium Yokohama, also known as Nissan Stadium, is one of Japan’s most iconic sporting venues. Located in the vibrant city of Yokohama, this multipurpose stadium is best known as the site of the 2002 FIFA World Cup Final. With a capacity of over 70,000 spectators, it is the largest stadium in Japan and regularly hosts high-profile events such as J-League football matches, international rugby games, Olympic events, and world-class concerts. The stadium is not only a hub for sports enthusiasts but also a destination for travelers who wish to dive into Japan's sporting culture. Visitors can join guided stadium…

Owakudani, meaning “Great Boiling Valley,” is one of Hakone’s most extraordinary and dramatic natural attractions. Formed around 3,000 years ago following a powerful volcanic eruption, this active volcanic valley releases sulfurous steam and hot water vapour, creating a surreal and awe-inspiring landscape. Historically known as the "Grand Inferno," its name was softened when the Meiji Emperor and Empress visited in 1873. Owakudani remains a popular destination today, drawing visitors eager to witness nature’s raw power up close. Visitors can ascend above the valley aboard the Hakone Ropeway, offering panoramic views from 130 meters above the crater floor. The sight of…

Nestled in the quiet district of Bonsai-cho in Saitama, just outside Tokyo, Omiya Bonsai Village stands as one of Japan’s most renowned centers for the ancient art of bonsai. Often referred to as the heart of bonsai culture, the village was officially established in 1925, following the devastating Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923. Many Tokyo-based bonsai gardeners sought a safer, more sustainable location to continue their craft, and Omiya—with its abundant clean water, suitable climate, and affordable soil—offered the perfect setting. Today, the village has grown into a peaceful community dedicated entirely to the nurturing and preservation of bonsai art.…

The Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse, locally known as Akarenga, stands as one of Yokohama’s most iconic historical landmarks. Built during Japan's Meiji period, when the country first opened its ports to international trade in the late 19th century, this warehouse complex once served a critical role in customs clearance, regulating the flow of goods into the bustling Tokyo area via the Port of Yokohama. Today, the beautifully preserved red brick buildings reflect the city’s rich maritime history while offering a vibrant modern experience for visitors. Transformed into a cultural and commercial hub, Yokohama Red Brick Warehouse now houses an array…

Yokohama Cosmo World is one of Japan's most popular urban amusement parks in the heart of the Minato Mirai district. Famous for its iconic Cosmo Clock 21, the park features the world's largest Ferris wheel equipped with a clock, becoming a defining symbol of Yokohama's modern skyline. Visitors are drawn to the vibrant atmosphere, stunning waterfront views, and a wide range of rides that cater to all age groups. Whether you're seeking thrilling roller coasters, family-friendly attractions, or romantic rides with panoramic cityscapes, Yokohama Cosmo World delivers an unforgettable experience. Unlike many amusement parks, Yokohama Cosmo World offers free admission,…

Located in Higashi-Tokorozawa, Tokorozawa Sakura Town is a vibrant cultural and entertainment hub that beautifully blends Japan’s pop culture with modern architecture and industry. As part of the Cool Japan Forest Project, a collaborative effort between Kadokawa Publishing Corporation and Tokorozawa City in Saitama Prefecture, this massive 25,000-square-meter complex has quickly become a popular destination for both locals and international tourists. One of its most iconic landmarks is the Kadokawa Musashino Museum, designed by renowned architect Kengo Kuma. The building’s bold, angular design and unique stone façade make it a standout architectural marvel, housing a diverse collection of exhibitions, libraries,…

Located in the heart of Gunma Prefecture, Takumi no Sato is a charming traditional craft village that offers a rich blend of cultural heritage and hands-on experiences. Nestled among rice fields and surrounded by mountains, this peaceful countryside destination lets visitors immerse themselves in the timeless beauty of rural Japan while engaging in artisanal workshops led by local masters. “Takumi” means “artisan,” and here, more than 20 traditional houses have been converted into workshops where you can try your hand at indigo dyeing, soba noodle making, straw crafts, washi (Japanese paper) making, and more. The village is a popular destination…

Sainokawara Park, located in the famous Kusatsu Onsen area of Gunma Prefecture, is a scenic natural park celebrated for its mystical atmosphere created by constantly rising volcanic steam and bubbling hot spring streams. Nestled within a quiet forested valley, the park offers visitors a therapeutic and peaceful escape into nature throughout the year. Winding stone paths lead you past steaming vents, warm foot baths, and a tranquil river, all surrounded by seasonal beauty. One of the park's highlights is the Sainokawara Rotenburo, one of the largest open-air hot spring baths in Japan. Surrounded by trees and often blanketed in snow…

Kasama Inari Shrine, located in Kasama City, Ibaraki Prefecture, is one of Japan's most important and historic Inari shrines. It was founded in 651 during the reign of Emperor Kotoku and has a history stretching back over 1,300 years. As one of Japan's three most prominent Inari shrines, it has earned the prestigious Senior First Rank, the highest court rank for shrines. More than 3.5 million pilgrims and visitors travel to Kasama Inari each year to offer prayers for prosperity, good harvests, and personal blessings. The Deity: Ukanomitama no Kami The shrine is dedicated to Ukanomitama no Kami, a kami…

The Nikko Tamozawa Imperial Villa Memorial Park, located in Nikkō, Tochigi Prefecture, offers visitors a rare opportunity to enter Japan’s imperial past. Initially constructed in 1899 for Emperor Taishō as a summer residence, the villa seamlessly blends traditional Edo-period architecture with early modern Meiji influences, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship and design. Nestled amid tranquil gardens and lush greenery, the villa provided Japan’s imperial family a peaceful retreat. During World War II, the villa also served as a refuge for Emperor Hirohito, adding to its historical significance. Today, the Tamozawa Imperial Villa has been carefully preserved and opened to the public as…

Yunoko Lake (湯ノ湖), nestled in the Oku-Nikko region of Nikko National Park, Japan, is a tranquil mountain lake known for its serene atmosphere and natural beauty. Situated at an elevation of 1,478 meters above sea level, the lake offers breathtaking views surrounded by lush forests and majestic mountains. With a shoreline of approximately 3 kilometres, Yunoko Lake is perfect for leisurely walks, peaceful moments of reflection, and nature photography. The area is especially popular among anglers, as Yunoko Lake is renowned for its excellent trout fishing. The fishing season typically runs from May 1st to September 30th, attracting local and…

The Tomioka Silk Mill, located in Gunma Prefecture, is one of Japan’s most significant historical and cultural landmarks, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in 1872 as the country’s first modern silk-reeling factory, it played a key role in introducing Western industrial technology to Japan and helped transform the nation into a global leader in silk production. The mill combines French engineering with traditional Japanese craftsmanship and remains remarkably well-preserved, offering a fascinating glimpse into Japan’s Meiji-era modernization. Visitors to the Tomioka Silk Mill can explore a variety of original buildings, including the silk-reeling factory, cocoon warehouses, worker…

Haruna Shrine (Haruna Jinja), located in the serene mountains of Gunma Prefecture, Japan, is a spiritual and scenic destination that blends natural beauty with deep cultural heritage. Established over 1,400 years ago, the shrine is dedicated to gods of fire, water, and agriculture, and is revered as a place of purification and renewal. Visitors are welcomed by towering cedar trees and a majestic torii gate that opens the path to a tranquil world of moss-covered stone lanterns, wooden bridges, and intricate shrine buildings that reflect the essence of traditional Japanese architecture. The best time to visit Haruna Shrine is during…

Rinnoji Temple (輪王寺) is one of Nikko's most significant and historically revered temples, drawing visitors across Japan and worldwide. Founded in the 8th century by the Buddhist monk Shodo Shonin, who introduced Buddhism to Nikko, Rinnoji Temple has stood as a centre of spiritual devotion for over 1,200 years. Recognising its cultural and historical importance, Rinnoji was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999, along with other essential sites in Nikko. Surrounded by dense forests and framed by the majestic mountains of Mount Nantai, Mount Nyoho, and Mount Taro, the temple offers a serene atmosphere of sacred solitude…

The Tanigawadake Ropeway, located in Gunma Prefecture, Japan, is one of the most scenic ropeway experiences in the country, offering visitors panoramic views of the stunning Tanigawa mountain range. Spanning from Doaiguchi Station to Tenjindaira Plateau, the ropeway climbs to an elevation of 1,319 meters, giving travelers a bird’s-eye view of the seasonal beauty that defines this mountainous region. The 15-minute journey through the sky is breathtaking throughout the year, but particularly spectacular during autumn, when the slopes are ablaze with brilliant red, orange, and gold foliage—usually peaking in mid to late October. In spring and early summer, the region…

Lake Chuzenji (Chūzenjiko, 中禅寺湖) is one of Japan’s most picturesque and historically rich natural attractions, located in Nikko National Park, Tochigi Prefecture. Formed approximately 20,000 years ago by the volcanic eruption of Mount Nantai, which blocked the flow of the Daiya River, Lake Chuzenji offers breathtaking views framed by lush forests and towering mountains. With a surface area of 11.62 km² and a 25 km shoreline, the lake is ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and travellers seeking serenity away from Japan’s bustling cities. Visitors to Lake Chuzenji can enjoy various outdoor activities, including boating, hiking, and fishing. The area is…

Fukiware Falls (吹割の滝) is one of Japan’s most breathtaking natural wonders, located in Numata City, Gunma Prefecture. Often referred to as the “Niagara of the East,” this 7-meter-high and 30-meter-wide waterfall plunges into a dramatic, V-shaped gorge carved by centuries of erosion. The unique geological formations, roaring water, and lush surrounding forest make it a magnet for nature lovers, photographers, and hikers alike. The best times to visit are April–May and late October–early November. In spring, the snowmelt feeds the river, creating an intensely powerful waterfall that echoes through the gorge. The surrounding greenery is fresh and vibrant, adding to…

Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura is one of Japan’s top cultural theme parks, offering an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Edo period (1603–1868). Located in Nikko, just a few hours from Tokyo, this historical village is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in traditional Japanese culture, samurai heritage, and ninja legends. The park faithfully recreates an Edo-era town with authentic architecture, cobbled streets, and staff dressed as samurai, geisha, merchants, and townspeople. Visitors can enjoy live ninja shows, oiran processions, traditional theatre performances, and hands-on activities like sword fighting, archery, and Edo-style games. Edo Wonderland is also famous for…

Mount Kusatsu-Shirane, located in Gunma Prefecture, is a fascinating volcanic destination renowned for its dramatic landscapes and geothermal beauty. Standing at 2,160 meters, the mountain is best known for Yugama Crater Lake, a surreal, milky turquoise acidic lake nestled within a volcanic crater. This striking natural feature, surrounded by rugged terrain, draws visitors throughout the warmer months. Access is typically open from mid-April to mid-November, when the snow has melted and conditions are safe. Outside this period, heavy snowfall closes roads like the Shiga Kusatsu Kogen Route, making the area inaccessible. One of the best ways to experience Mount Kusatsu-Shirane…

Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine, located in the historic town of Kawagoe, Saitama, is a deeply spiritual and picturesque destination, particularly cherished by those seeking blessings in love and relationships. With a rich history spanning approximately 1,500 years, the shrine enshrines five deities who are all part of the same family, including two married couples, making it a revered site for prayers related to marriage, matchmaking, and family harmony. As visitors approach, they are greeted by the shrine's iconic 15-meter-tall wooden torii gate, which stands proudly painted in a vibrant orange hue. This magnificent structure, said to be the tallest wooden torii…

Located in northern Ibaraki Prefecture, Fukuroda Falls (袋田の滝) is celebrated as one of Japan’s Three Great Waterfalls, alongside Kegon and Nachi Falls. Known for its unique four-tiered drop, the waterfall is called "Yodo no Taki", meaning "four times a waterfall," as the water cascades down four distinct rock levels before reaching the river below. At approximately 120 meters high and 73 meters wide, Fukuroda Falls offers a majestic and ever-changing view throughout the year. The falls are particularly spectacular during autumn (October to November) when the surrounding mountains burst into vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow. This seasonal foliage…

Located at the northern end of Tsukuba City in Ibaraki Prefecture, Mount Tsukuba (筑波山 | Tsukuba-san) stands 877 meters (2,877 feet) and is one of Japan's iconic mountains. Unlike many Japanese peaks, Mount Tsukuba is non-volcanic, formed from granite and gabbro, which gives it its distinct structure and rich natural surroundings. The mountain is especially famous for its double peaks — Nyotai-san ("fe" ale body", "77 m) and Nantai-san ("ma"e body", "71 m) — symbolising harmony between male and female spirits. These peaks offer breathtaking panoramic views of the Kantō Plain, with clear-day sights of Tokyo, Lake Kasumigaura, and Mount…

Located 60 kilometres northeast of Tokyo, Kasumigaura Lake, also known as Kasumigaura Bay, is Japan’s second-largest inland lake. The city of Kasumigaura lies along its shores, offering scenic waterfront views and easy access to the lake’s many attractions. Natural & Agricultural Landscape The area surrounding Kasumigaura Lake is a harmonious blend of nature and agriculture. Around 45% of the surrounding land remains in its natural state, while approximately 43.5% is dedicated to agriculture. This makes the region a beautiful destination and a vital resource for local farming communities. Fishing, Irrigation & Traditional Pearl Cultivation Kasumigaura Lake is crucial in fishing,…