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5 Traditional Japanese Villages to Explore
The rural area of Japan is quite worth an exploration. Many villages in Japan have typical Japanese styles. Although they are quite far away from big cities, you can enjoy enchanting natural views and interesting life in these villages. Here I recommend you 5 amazing Japanese villages that you shou…(475 words)
Alexlovetravel
Horseback riding at the foot of Mt Fuji
What's your plan for the next weekend ?If not decided, how about horseback riding ?No, it's not that difficult nor scary experience at all as you might imagine.They can even take the first time riders out for trekking on horses!After learning basic control, how to go forward, turn left or…(289 words)
Zara
Okutama, easy access and abundant nature in western Tokyo.
Okutama Town is located on the western edge of Tokyo. It is 40 miles west and two-hour train ride from Tokyo Station via Shinjuku and surrounded by green mountains but certainly within Tokyo Prefecture. It is a part of Chichibu Tama Kai National Park but major local tourist attractions are within s…(442 words)
Hagi
Nikko – breathtaking shrines, temples, and landscape
5 things to do in Nikko“Nikko is one of the most historically significant cities in Japan, situated between the mountains of north Tokyo. The city is located in very close proximity to the Nikko National Park, which offers great views of the mountain peaks, as well as numerous waterfalls and ho…(466 words)
DeepJapan
Experience Japan’s beautiful mountains and coastline
Hiking with views of Mt. Fuji in Hakone“Hakone is an area protected as a quasi-national park and has many trails of differing challenge. The number and variety of trails located throughout the area make it a popular place to experience the outdoors while in Japan. Hakone has trails with views o…(498 words)
DeepJapan
"My Neighbor Totoro". There is a scene of the movie.
30 minutes away by train from Shinjuku,There is a scene of the movie "My Neighbor Totoro".Stage of "My Neighbor Totoro" was made. This town in the hint.Are you in this movie fan?"My Neighbor Totoro" is loved all over the world.The success of the movie, was spent to protect nature Toto…(102 words)
asteka
Why Japanese people have been able to live close with nature.
If you go to a Ryokan a traditional Japanese hotel.I'm always amazed how Japanese people use small ponds, trees, plants to make space so as it feels more open then it really is.The Japanese believe so called gods live in many things.They put their hands together and bow to long living trees…(244 words)
Yuuki I
Mt. Hanamiyama - Hanamiyama Park - Fukushima City
Mt. Hanamiyama is a park on the slopes surrounding a rural farming neighborhood just outside of central Fukushima. It is a satoyama, a forested hill district close to a rural community. This is a wonderful setting where you can enjoy a hike or a leisurely stroll among the cherry trees and colorfu…(190 words)
Dolores
Spring is coming in Oku Nikko
Dave had been stocking up a stash of Belgian beers for several years. That’s right – years. A connoisseur was Dave; knew what he liked and savoured produce at its optimum. Mind you, the Dave that was, still is.He had been making lunchtime runs from work to the international supermarket, almost…(481 words)
scramjetmach9
Back to nature at Kusatsu
One of the great things about Kusatsu is that it's out in the heart of Japan's countryside which, while one of the most attractive features of Japan, remains unexplored to many visitors who zip through tunnels on the Shinkansen on their journey from city to city.Sainokawara Park is another uniq…(525 words)
AndrewShuttleworth
Why Do Japanese People Call Mt. Fuji, Mr. Fuji?
If you wondered why Japanese people refer to Mt. Fuji as Mr. Fuji, you are not alone.When I first came to Japan, and actually until about two years ago, well okay, actually it still happens a lot, I was confused and continue to get confused by place names.In Japanese, Mt. Fuji is called Fuj…(604 words)
Kusatsu Onsen – one of Japan’s best hot spring resorts
Visiting an onsen (hot spring) is an authentic Japanese experience“Going to hot springs in Japan is high on the list of great things to do and is a fantastic way to calm the nerves and get refreshed. Few things are as an authentic Japanese experience as going to a Japanese hot spring and enjoyi…(480 words)
DeepJapan
The interesting relationship between Japanese culture and sweet, delicious strawberries
Strawberries are one of the many fruits produced all over the world. Strawberries are also produced in Japan, and Japanese strawberries tend to be very sweet and it is possible to eat them raw. One small bite of these strawberries will lead to an expansion of sweetness in your mouth.Generally s…(324 words)
DeepJapan Editor
Difference of IKEBANA and Western floral arrangement?
When I traveled foreign countries, I found some different customs, cultures, and ideas. It is all new to me and leads me more eager to know its deep culture. I will be frequently asked the difference between IKEBANA and western floral arrangement. Here is my works above the pictures.(Lef…(275 words)
Ami
I was born in Osaka Japan and Here is My View
Let me compare Tokyo and Osaka in terms of culture by using a metaphor of kitchen accessory. Tokyo is "Sponge". It soaks up all kinds of information and people are somehow drawn to this metropolis. The majority of companies hold their headquarters in Tokyo and that's one of the reasons behind i…(450 words)
yumin
Southern Japan travel: Okinawa & Kyushu
One-day itinerary for Okinawa’s main island Honto“Most people head to Okinawa to enjoy the beautiful beaches and rugged coastlines, which are considered among the world's most beautiful with large coral reefs and an abundance of marine wildlife. For travelers who are in Okinawa for the first ti…(511 words)
DeepJapan
Enospa Sojourn Part 3: “The true meaning of massage and Enoshima Island Spa Bengteng Spa”
... My partner chose to experience the Signature Massage" (see Enospa Sojourn Part 2) ... I went for the 40 minute massage which focuses on the feet mostly going as far as the knees. This was a real foot massage by a kind and polite yet very strong armed professional massage therapist My partner o…(265 words)
Andrew Grimes
Photography Workshops in English
If you are a foreigner in Tokyo looking to learn some photography techniques in English, then you have some excellent opportunities here. In the almost 15 years that I have been in Japan, it was only about 4 years ago when I took up photography more seriously. I believe learning is a continuous pro…(396 words)
Ani
Mt. Fuji shows its superb view around Lake Kawaguchiko.
Mount Fuji was designated as an UNESCO's World Cultural Heritage Site in 2013.Mt. Fuji has been popular destination among overseas tourists. But many of Mt. Fuji tours offered to them are actually Hakone tours to view Mt. Fuji from Lake Ashi which is located at 30km south west of the mountain. …(841 words)
Hagi
"Little Forest" Shows you the Japan Heartland
Thats right! I am not 12 years old. I actually have lived half a century as of this year.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q_CUp9suEeoMaybe that is exactly why I love Pixar films that show the funny side of nature and also carry a deeper meaning.I am a huge movie fan and I try to see a fi…(659 words)
Running Long Distance in Tokyo Summer
Summer weather in Japan can challenge runners with staying hydrated. If you run for distance and have signed up for a race in the fall, then you need to train through the hot summer months, while still logging long kilometers. In August, the weather can get up to mid-30s with a great deal of humidi…(651 words)
Sweet42.195
Shopping Seasonal Japan - Limited Edition Products
“Spring passes and one remembers one's innocence.Summer passes and one remembers one's exuberance.Autumn passes and one remembers one's reverence.Winter passes and one remembers one's perseverance.” ― Yoko OnoOne of the many things I love about Japan is its distinctive four seasons. You…(259 words)
Former Deep Japan Writer
The secret behind the deliciousness of Sano Ramen is in the water
Ramen is one of the most popular dishes in Japan. There are various types of ramen. Some have soy sauce as the main ingredient of the broth. Others have miso as the main ingredient. The thickness and thinness of the noodles are different with each ramen. Ramen is loved all of the Japan. Recently, r…(265 words)
DeepJapan Editor
Local Secret: Todoroki Valley
Tokyo offers a plethora of beautiful parks, from traditional Japanese landscaped gardens to European-influenced rose gardens. However, if you are looking for a walk on the wild side, while still retaining the ability to get a great cappuccino, then Todoroki is the place to go.Todoroki Keikoku (…(630 words)
Chiara
Kusatsu Onsen (Hot Springs), relaxation Japanese style
Going to hot springs in Japan is high on the list of great things to do and is a fantastic way to calm the nerves and get refreshed. Few things are as an authentic Japanese experience as going to a Japanese hot spring and enjoying the local Japanese cuisine and accommodations. Amongst hot springs, …(338 words)
Aron
Yatai while doing hanami
Yatai or open-air food stalls are seen at festivals and big events. I love stopping at several yatais when I go do hanami at Gumyoji. During the sakura-blooming season, there is a row of yatai along the river in Gumyoji. Along the river, there are also cherry-blossom trees! Therefore, it is a great…(131 words)
RieS
Enoshima Island is a Legendary Power Spot
I work on Enoshima, a small island with a legendary past that is known as a power spot. Enoshima has the myth of a five-headed dragon. The dragon was responsible for the hardships in the surrounding area, and the benevolent goddess Benzaiten eventually came from above to soothe the dragon’s rag…(782 words)
Sayaka
In Basho's Footsteps
In May 1689 the great Haiku poet Matsuo Basho sold his house and began travelling north through Japan. His written impressions of the journey, over 1200 miles later, became The Narrow Road to the Deep North, a compilation of travel sketches in prose and verse which is a famous reminder of Basho’s o…(379 words)
InBasho'sFootsteps
Worth to learn "IKEBANA" once you are in Japan!
Have you ever tried IKEBANA?IKEBANA is the Japanese traditional flower arrangement, but you never imagine there is much difference from the regular floral designs prevailing in Western style. Learning IKEBANA provides you understanding a true-feel about Japan and you can find who you are thro…(145 words)
Ami
Beautiful Places to Visit in Japan
TripAdvisor published a list of 20 beautiful spots to visit in Japan that are not so well known yet. Let this list inspire you when you plan your next trip - there are islands, forests, temples, and lakes included here that not every guidebook describes. Go out of the city and explore the nature an…(252 words)
David
Tenkara Fishing – From Ancient Japan to A Popular Sport With 80 Outlets in the United States
On a summer hike with a family friend in Winter Park, Colorado, we meandered into a conversation about Japan, my home for 29 years. Wow, Japan! That is so great! Tenkara is one of my favorite fishing styles! I love it!” My Cousin’s best friend’s husband from Boulder Colorado lit up with excitement …(953 words)
Easy hike through Kamakura
Seeking to combine some sight-seeing with a bit of hiking, I found a short hiking course in Kamakura, starting at Kita Kamakura Station and ending up near the Daibutsu, from where the walk can be extended until the sea shore.The trail starts right next to Jochiji temple, and winds into the hill…(427 words)
Chiara
Tourist Tip #3: Stay Away from Souvenir Shops
Here's a quick tip to make your memories of Japan more memorable for you and your friends back home: stay away from souvenir shops!Like anywhere else in the world, souvenir shops, by nature, tend to offer only the most generic - and usually hokiest - of gifts. I've seen wares that - at best - w…(219 words)
Former Deep Japan Writer
World heritage Shirakawa Go is the place to Go
I lived in Tokyo Ebisu for short 6 months back in 2010.Looked forward in making many new friends and meeting interesting people that you can’t find in other cites.Which was true also at the same time, it was easy to feel lonely and lost with all the people you pass daily that I’ll never have a …(496 words)
Yuuki I
Kanda River Show
If you happen to be in the Tokyo area during the evening time, be sure to take a stroll down to the Kanda River for an exquisite show of nature. Bats which inhabit the banks of the river can be seen in the evening hours fleeing from their daybeds in the trees, and fluttering into the unknown night …(154 words)
Alex
Kinokoen Oyama no Taisho
Providing the rich bounty of nature to urban dwellersEating wood-grown shiitake mushrooms freshly picked? There is a place where such a luxurious delight, hardly imaginable by city dwellers, can be experienced all year round. It is called Kinokoen Oyama no Taisho, a restaurant run by a farmin…(561 words)
Kanagawa P.G.T.D.
Explore Japan’s scenery and nature with fun outdoor activities
6 great runs in Tokyo“I’ve selected these based on the different locations, various terrain, water stops, and ability to combine longer distance! These courses are selected for the least amount of distractions, such as traffic lights and cars, but in doing so, unfortunately avoid some of the be…(388 words)
DeepJapan
Gourmet Cycling in Kushiro
In October, I participated in a gourmet bicycle tour in Kushiro, which featured prominently the Ainu culture that permeates life throughout the area, particularly in its cuisine. The 3-day tour covers about 150 kilometers, roughly evenly divided in the three days of the tour. The ride itself was ca…(868 words)
DeepJapan Editor
nature airliner
nature airliner emerged as a husband-and-wife folk duo in the summer of 2010, when Japanese photographer Eiko Hosaka Tiernan (vocals) and Canadian musician Laurier Tiernan (guitar) joined forces to start playing unplugged shows of Laurier's unreleased songs which suited Eiko's voice. The first sing…(183 words)
Laurier Tiernan
Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium
If you ever visit Okinawa, make it a point to spend a day at the Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium （沖縄美ら海水族館）, located in Motobu. The largest aquarium in the world until 2005, it houses over 26,000 animals with as many as 740 different species.The aquarium consists of four floors, with tanks ho…(149 words)
Former Deep Japan Writer