Japan Travel Stories

Feb 1, 2022 • 5 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.

Nov 3, 2020 • 3 min read

Japan's "Olympics of Fireworks" is held in Daisen, Akita Prefecture each August. Here's everything you need to know about this explosive event.

Mar 4, 2020 • 5 min read

Step away from Japan's big cities and sample some slow travel in and around the Seto Inland Sea.

Mar 2, 2020 • 5 min read

For first-timers, 10 to 14 days is usually recommended along the Golden Route. Here are the spots you shouldn't miss.

Feb 28, 2020 • 15 min read

Hiking along the Kumano Kodō's trails is a way to see a side to Japan far from city lights, where forested mountains hide ancient places of pilgrimage

Feb 27, 2020 • 5 min read

Explore Tohoku - Japan's far north - a land of elemental nature and ancient customs.

Feb 18, 2020 • 4 min read

Check out our tips before you travel to Japan. It may look the same, but the country has changed in recent times.

Jan 30, 2020 • 6 min read

Self-described "nemesis of walking" Stephanie Yeboah explains why hiking Japan's Oku-Matsushima Trail marked a turning point in her approach to hiking.

Jan 25, 2020 • 4 min read

An onsen in Japan is an experience to treasure. Make sure you don't do it wrong with our beginner's guide to onsen etiquette.

Jan 20, 2020 • 5 min read

Make the most of your time in Japan by joining a group tour with Lonely Planet Experiences and Intrepid Travel.

Jan 14, 2020 • 5 min read

Often overlooked as the gateway to Hakone, Odawara has the closest feudal castle to Tokyo and a raft of other historic traditions discoverable in a day.

Jan 13, 2020 • 6 min read

Studio Ghibli’s animated films — such as Spirited Away and Princess Mononoke — have attracted a cult following for many years, despite never appearing on any…

Dec 23, 2019 • 5 min read

Stephanie Yeboah realises a life-long dream of visiting Japan and learns about the stunning scenery outside of the big cities.

Dec 21, 2019 • 7 min read

Escape the city stress in Daisen, Japan's rice country in the north. Traditional onsen and stunning countryside awaits you.

Dec 18, 2019 • 5 min read

Escape the hectic atmosphere of Tokyo in the beautiful surroundings of nearby Saitama Prefecture.

Nov 20, 2019 • 5 min read

While you can pedal the entire Tobishima Kaido bike route in just a few hours, the coastal scenery of the Seto Inland Sea merits slowing down, as does the art,…

Nov 19, 2019 • 8 min read

James Clark explains why the Michinoku Coastal Trail, which crosses parts of Japan scarred by the 2011 earthquake, is the best hike he’s done.

Oct 15, 2019 • 5 min read

Part sun-soaked nature retreat, part multicultural metropolis, Fukuoka Prefecture has a lot to offer visitors seeking unique experiences.

Oct 11, 2019 • 5 min read

Wakayama Prefecture is a perfect place to try bathing in the mineral-rich waters of a Japanese onsen.

Oct 8, 2019 • 7 min read

One of Japan's most remote and rewarding journeys, the Kumano Kodō weaves through the mountainous Kii Peninsula, south of Osaka.