Castles (and castle towns) make great touchstones for any trip to Japan, no matter where in the country you are or how many times you’ve been.
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Maruoka Castle is Worth the Hassle
Maruoka Castle can be a pain to reach, but trust me: It’s worth it.
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Japan’s Best Islands (Besides the Big 4)
When the topic of Japan’s best islands comes up, it requires a bit of parsing.
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Kyoto’s Low-Stress Sacred Spaces
Fabulous spots like Kifune and Kurama, a shrine-and-temple pair in far northwestern Kyoto, are just waiting for you to discover them.
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Edo for the Afternoon
Taking a Kawagoe day trip from Tokyo is usually a second (or even third) choice.
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These Are Japan’s Best Beaches
Japan, in spite of being a country of islands, is not known for its beaches.
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Japan’s Best Convenience Store
Lawson vs 7-Eleven vs FamilyMart—which of Japan’s “Big 3” convenience stores is the best?
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The Truth About Tea Ceremonies
Follow my practical advice—and disregard any shade I may throw while giving it.
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How to See a Geisha in Kyoto
Have a successful Geisha encounter on the first try.
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The Best Way to Stay Connected in Japan
When it comes to SIM card for foreigners in Japan, this is the best course of action.
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The Cat Island Conundrum
If you’re a big feline fan, you might find cat island in Japan disappointing.
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Japan’s Paradise Beach
This Jodogahama Beach itinerary will set you on course.
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A Perfectly Nice Town
Is Ishinomaki worth visiting?
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The Truth About Kintsugi
Want to learn kintsugi in Japan?
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Why I Go So Hard for Japan’s Hydrangeas
Ajisai are every bit as Japanese as sakura.
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How to Fix Japan’s “Overtourism” Problem
Is overtourism in Japan really problem—and, if so, how do we fix it?
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Japan’s Treasure Trail
Sanriku might just be the most authentic, enticing region in Japan.
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30 Pictures That Will Make You Want to Visit Japan’s Sanriku Coast
I found it came fully alive only under the slow scream of fuchsia, tangerine and aubergine.
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The Best Japan Road Trips
There are a million reasons to hit Japan’s open road. Thankfully, I’m only going to name five.
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Run With All You Have
A viper seems to be little more than a leathery bamboo shoot until the moment it sinks its fangs into you.
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