The Samurai Spirit the World Witnessed at the WBC: The Japanese Way of Winning in Baseball
At the 2023 World Baseball Classic (WBC), Japan’s national team showcased more than just elite athletic performance—they revealed the essence of a uniquely Japanese way of winning, rooted in the “Samurai Spirit.” Behind the dazzling plays lay a foundation of...
Is High School Baseball Japan’s Youthful Religion? – The Spirit of Summer at Koshien
In Japan, high school baseball is far more than a sport—it is a cultural phenomenon, often described as a “youthful religion.” The National High School Baseball Championship, known as “Summer Koshien,” held each August, captivates the nation with its raw emotion,...
Sweat, Respect, and Team Spirit – The World Takes Notice of “Japanese-Style Baseball”
In Japan, baseball is not merely a pursuit of skill or strategy—it is a cultural tradition deeply rooted in values of respect, perseverance, and human connection. Known as “Japanese-style baseball,” this unique approach has captivated and surprised sports...
[Onsen] 7 Truly Exceptional Hot Spring Inns in Kyushu – With Access Tips and Best Seasons
Kyushu is widely celebrated as one of Japan’s leading hot spring regions, with a rich variety of inns scattered across the landscape. From secluded mountain retreats to luxurious resort-style accommodations, the range is unmatched. This guide highlights truly...
[Cuisine] A Gourmet Journey Through Kyushu – Savoring Ramen, Basashi, Mentaiko, and Chicken Nanban
No visit to Kyushu is complete without exploring its unique and deeply rooted food culture. Surrounded by mountains and sea, the region is home to a rich variety of local specialties, with each prefecture offering its own signature flavors. A gourmet-focused journey...
[Winter] Forget the Cold in Tropical Okinawa – A Warm-Weather Resort Getaway from Tokyo
Okinawa is the perfect retreat for easing both body and mind during the colder months. From December to February, when Tokyo is wrapped in winter chill, Okinawa enjoys comfortable daytime temperatures averaging 17–20°C. Shedding your heavy coat, you can step into...
[Autumn] Top 10 Scenic Spots for Autumn Foliage in Kyushu and Shikoku
As autumn arrives, the landscapes of Kyushu and Shikoku are transformed into a canvas of crimson and gold. The region’s mild climate extends the foliage season from early to late November, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking scenic beauty intertwined...
[Summer] A High-Season Journey Through Shikoku, Kyushu, and Okinawa – Embracing the Sea and Summer Festivals
Summer in Shikoku, Kyushu, and Okinawa is high season at its most vivid, where crystal-blue seas meet the spirited energy of traditional festivals. A thoughtfully planned route through these regions reveals the full essence of a Japanese summer—inviting travelers to...
[Spring] 10 Breathtaking Flower Spots in Kyushu – A Guide to Cherry Blossoms, Canola Fields, and Nemophila Blooms
Spring in Kyushu brings a vibrant burst of color, where the region’s mild climate and abundant nature create stunning floral landscapes across the islands. Among the most cherished sights are cherry blossoms, canola flowers, and nemophila blooms, each painting the...
[Okinawan Cultural Experiences] Sanshin, Awamori, and Bingata Dyeing – A Journey Beyond Sightseeing into the Spirit of Island Life
While many visitors come to Okinawa drawn by its white sands and azure seas, the island’s true charm reveals itself when one connects with the culture and rhythms of everyday life. In recent years, more travelers have sought out experiences that go beyond...
[Kume Island] A Peaceful Escape on Japan’s Last Hidden Paradise Beach – Featuring Secret Getaway Hotels
Kume Island, often called “Japan’s last hidden paradise,” is home to a collection of quiet, secluded beaches. Among them, Ara Beach in the island’s south is a true natural retreat, embraced by forested hills and untouched by crowds. Its sands are mixed with seashells...
[Miyako Island] A Beach Resort Experience in a Blue Paradise – With Direct Flights from Tokyo and Kansai
Miyako Island’s resort areas unfold along the island’s iconic “Miyako Blue” waters—famed for their stunning clarity and vibrant hues. This is an ideal setting where tropical beauty and serene relaxation blend in perfect harmony. Taking advantage of the island’s gentle...
[Ishigaki Island] Island Hopping to Taketomi and Iriomote — A 4-Day Tropical Escape in Japan’s Southern Isles
Farther south than Okinawa’s main island, Ishigaki stands at the heart of the Yaeyama Islands—a gateway to some of Japan’s most stunning and culturally rich remote isles. From this vibrant base, a 4-day, 3-night island-hopping adventure to places like Taketomi and...
[Northern Okinawa] Kouri Island Drive and Nakijin Castle — A Day of History and Scenic Beauty
Northern Okinawa is home to stunning landscapes where crystal-clear seas meet the echoes of ancient history. Among its most captivating destinations are Kouri Island and the ruins of Nakijin Castle—an ideal one-day drive that offers a harmonious blend of nature and...
[Southern Okinawa] Sefa Utaki and Cape Chinen — A Spiritual Journey Through the Sacred Sites of Ryukyu
In southern Okinawa, sacred sites echo the spiritual traditions of the Ryukyu Kingdom, offering a glimpse into the island’s deep cultural roots. Among them, Sefa Utaki stands as one of the most revered—an ancient place of worship that remains central to Ryukyuan...