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Fukuoka, a Center of History and Culture

Region Serves as Bridge Between Japan and Asia
Situated in the northern part of Kyushu, Fukuoka Prefecture has a unique local culture and cuisine that has developed over its long history. Its proximity to China and the Korean Peninsula has made it a gateway between Japan and the rest of Asia.

Hiroshima, Home to Two World Heritage Sites

Local Specialties Include Oysters and Hiroshima-Style Okonomiyaki
Hiroshima Prefecture has a long history and rich culture, and the region is home to two World Heritage sites: the Atomic Bomb Dome, which stands as a symbol of the first city to suffer the dropping of an atomic bomb, and the historic Itsukushima Shrine.

The Timeless Elegance of Kanazawa

Located on the Sea of Japan, the city of Kanazawa flourished as a castle town from the late sixteenth to the late nineteenth century. The arts and culture that developed then, as well as many of the old buildings built during this period, continue to color the city today.

The Ogasawara Islands

Located approximately 1,000 kilometers south of Tokyo, the Ogasawara Islands are home to indigenous plant species found in few if any other places in the world, and numerous marine activities including swimming with dolphins and whale watching can be enjoyed in the cobalt blue waters.

Raking in Good Fortune

Japan is home to numerous events with an ancient pedigree. One of these is the "rooster market," held in November. The markets are held at shrines, where people go to wish for happiness, and are famous for the brightly decorated bamboo rakes called kumade that are sold there.

Kinugawa Bathes in the Spotlight

Kinugawa Onsen is a prominent hot spring resort located a mere two hours from the center of Tokyo by train. In addition to the excellent natural onsen (hot springs), Kinugawa offers walking trails and rafting trips that provide beautiful views of the river canyon.

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The Kanto Lantern Parade

Akita Prefecture is located in the Tohoku region of northern Honshu, Japan's main island. One of the highlights in the region's calendar is the Kanto Festival, a 250-year-old spectacle in which thousands of lanterns are paraded through the streets suspended from giant bamboo frames.

The Many Splendors of Amami Oshima

Amami Oshima is an island lying in the southwest of the Japanese archipelago. Bounded by the Pacific to the east and the East China Sea to the west, Amami Oshima is ringed by beautiful coral reefs. The mild climate enables visitors to enjoy recreational activities including marine sports and camping.

Vegetable Innovation

From restaurants whose menus focus on specific vegetables to patisseries offering vegetable cakes and other sweet treats, innovative vegetable eating habits are entering the mainstream.

Kumamoto, Famed for Its Castle and Caldera

Kumamoto Prefecture, located on the southernmost of Japan's four main islands, Kyushu, boasts verdant natural surroundings and a rich historical heritage. Kumamoto Castle, one of the three most celebrated fortresses in the country, stands as a symbol of the prefecture.

Nikko, City of History and Nature

Nikko is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Japan. It is famed above all for its historic temples and shrines, but the surrounding area also offers hot springs, scenic lakes, and even theme parks.

Subtropical Japan

Okinawa is a group of sun-kissed islands in the southern seas of Japan. It welcomes visitors with a lush natural environment and a culture of its own. In recent years Okinawa has become popular with foreign tourists. Thanks to its subtropical location, it enjoys a mild climate all year round.

Yufuin, the Ideal Place to Soak in a Spa

Yufuin Onsen in Oita Prefecture on the island of Kyushu, is a popular hot spring resort that travelers consistently rank among the top such destinations in Japan. This quiet, relaxed spa town is especially popular among women.

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