Japan Travel Stories

Dec 14, 2023 • 9 min read

With its myriad islands, towering mountains and megacities, Japan can be a daunting destination to get around. We've got everything you need to know.

Dec 14, 2023 • 8 min read

Japan's seasons offer an incredible range of natural and cultural wonders that draw huge numbers of visitors. Here's how to pick the perfect time for you.

Dec 13, 2023 • 6 min read

With so many mountains, it’s no surprise that hiking is a popular pursuit in Japan. Here are 6 of the best hiking routes.

Dec 13, 2023 • 7 min read

Excellent roads, incredible scenery, towering mountains and vibrant cities – Japan is ideal for exploring on four wheels. These are our favorite road trips.

Dec 11, 2023 • 6 min read

Keep costs low when exploring Japan with these top money-saving tips.

Nov 23, 2023 • 6 min read

From buzzing cities to pristine island getaways, here's our guide to the best places to visit in Japan.

Nov 10, 2023 • 12 min read

Get to Japan for less with this expert's guide to maximizing points and miles for your next big trip in 2024.

Apr 28, 2023 • 6 min read

If you had to make the tough decision to visit either Japan or South Korea, which would it be? Let two expert writers help you decide.

Mar 4, 2023 • 9 min read

How to get the most out of discovering Japan by train, in six steps.

Feb 24, 2023 • 9 min read

John Walton winds his way through the mountainous Japanese countryside between Nagoya to Toyama on the charming Hida train.

Feb 23, 2023 • 7 min read

Japan has reopened, so it's time to look again at the country's greatest hits for first-timers and repeat visitors

Jan 12, 2023 • 5 min read

Spring means cherry blossom season in Japan, but the romance is fleeting lasting only for a week or two. Here the five best places to join the festivities.

Oct 19, 2022 • 4 min read

Fans of Studio Ghibli films will be able to visit Ghibli Park next month in Nagoya, Japan.

Oct 5, 2022 • 5 min read

Japan is easing entry rules on October 11, but does that mean it will be as easy to visit as before the pandemic? Here’s what you need to know

Sep 2, 2022 • 6 min read

From beach resorts just an hour from Tokyo to tropical island idylls, Japan's beaches are its best-kept secret. Here's our pick of Japan's best sands.

May 30, 2022 • 6 min read

Whether you enjoy natural hot springs or colourful spring blooms, here's our pick of the best national parks in Japan.

Mar 27, 2022 • 10 min read

Japan’s best cuisine and culinary experiences, from sushi and street food to kaiseki and izakaya, sake and tea

Mar 2, 2022 • 6 min read

Trends come and go but karaoke has been a fixture of Japan's culture for decades. It doesn't matter if you're a good singer, as long as you've got heart.

Feb 1, 2022 • 10 min read

Explore eight of the most renowned destinations for sake in Japan, three on a “Northern Route” and five on a “Southern Route”

Feb 1, 2022 • 6 min read

Discover how sake is made, the history surrounding it, and the ways it maintains its cultural and social significance

Sep 28, 2021 • 4 min read

Japan is one of the most beautiful countries in the world with many natural sights to enjoy. Here are some of the best.

Jun 14, 2021 • 5 min read

Learn about Japanese food culture and restaurant etiquette with this extract from Lonely Planet's new book, Eat Japan.