Local Specialties

The secret to Niigata’s rice—especially the famous rice variety Koshihikari—lies in melted snow and run-off water which contain an abundance of nutrients and minerals. The area is also known for producing prestigious sake and...

If you are interested in the history of Japan, then you cannot miss the chance to visit Nagano city. In this historic district, ninjas and warlords familiar from games and manga lived and played...

The way of tea or "chado" tea ceremony is an elegant Japanese tradition that shows the utmost respect to the guest and dates back to the 9th century. A tea ceremony involves not only...

Festival: Culture, Art and Tradition in the Rural Landscapes of Niigata 【Yuzawa•Uonuma Tokamachi City, Tsunanmachi】 Incorporating Art into the Countryside  Echigo Tsumari Art Festival 2018 Make it a point to catch this triennial showcase of colorful artwork inspired by...

Enjoy the sights of nature in powder snow paradise Appi Kogen Located in Iwate Prefecture, Appi Kogen is definitely high in the running – if not the best – when it comes to skiing. Wide...

Keeping Pace with Time Bearing Witness to the Changes of Shinjuku  Where it all began for Shinjuku? The busiest junction of Shinjuku-sanchome was known in the past as “Shinjuku Oiwake”. During the Edo period (1603-1868), this is...

WAttention Tokyo Culture Special Tokyo is a large, vibrant city with a long, colorful history. This summer, WAttention Tokyo takes magnifying glass to the south of the city and the Tokyo Bay area. Focusing first...

A historic checkpoint station in a modern, stunning coastal setting Back in the Edo period (1603-1868), Kita-Shinagawa thrived as a shukuba, or checkpoint station, on the Tokaido, one of the five ancient roads that connected Tokyo...

Autumn is full of activities in Tohoku! It is the time of year when locals are busy preserving food for the long, harsh winter ahead, and visitors are welcome to have a taste during...

Wanko Soba These soba noodles are for the competitive eater! Stack up your dishes and see who will become the noodle master. These small servings can quickly add up and a popular goal is to...