MAGAZINE

In the San’in region of western Japan, time seems to stand still. Here, Japan’s mythical origins, untouched landscapes, and tranquil beauty continue to breathe life. Among its treasures, the stretch from Izumo to Tottori is a "Sacred Path" adorned with ancient...

When one envisions a desert-like landscape in Japan, the name that comes to mind first is Tottori Sand Dunes. As one of the largest dune systems in the country, this vast expanse—shaped by the harmony of sea and sand—reveals a different face with each season and time...

The capital of Shimane Prefecture, Matsue is affectionately known as “The City of Water.” Surrounded by Lake Shinji and Nakaumi, this charming town is steeped in atmosphere, with the majestic Matsue Castle standing proudly at its center. Encircling the castle, a...

Nestled in the city of Izumo in Shimane Prefecture, Izumo Taisha (Izumo Grand Shrine) stands as one of Japan’s most revered and historic shrines, attracting worshippers from across the country. Renowned as the sacred home of matchmaking and human connection, this...

In the far west of Japan’s main island of Honshu, northern Yamaguchi Prefecture offers one of the country’s most stunning coastal drives. Here, the emerald waters of the Sea of Japan are crossed by the striking Tsunoshima Bridge, and the vivid vermilion torii gates of...

Hagi in Yamaguchi Prefecture and Tsuwano in Shimane Prefecture are revered as the “cradles of spirit,” towns that not only preserve the scenic legacy of the Edo period but also nurtured the young visionaries who fueled the Meiji Restoration. As you walk along quiet...

Located in the southern part of Kurashiki City, Okayama Prefecture, Mount Washuzan is a renowned scenic spot offering panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea and the majestic Seto Ohashi Bridge. Beloved by locals, photographers, and travelers alike, it’s a place where...

In Okayama Prefecture, pockets of old-world charm and modern sensibility coexist in perfect harmony. Among the most iconic of these are Okayama City's Korakuen Garden, one of Japan’s three great gardens, and Kurashiki's Bikan Historical Quarter. Walking through these...

Located in the heart of Hiroshima City, the Atomic Bomb Dome and the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum stand as powerful symbols confronting the memory of World War II and expressing a global wish for a world without nuclear weapons. For both Japanese and international...

Famous for its striking vermilion torii gate seemingly floating on the sea, Itsukushima Shrine is one of Japan’s most iconic and spiritually resonant landmarks. Each year, millions of visitors from across Japan and around the world come to Miyajima in Hiroshima...

High in the northern mountains of Wakayama Prefecture, at an elevation of approximately 800 meters, lies Koyasan—a sacred site of Japanese Buddhism with over 1,200 years of history. Founded by the great monk Kukai (Kobo Daishi), the birthplace of Shingon Esoteric...

Just an hour’s drive from Kansai and across the majestic Akashi Kaikyō Bridge from Kobe lies Awaji Island—a peaceful retreat where time flows gently and the demands of daily life seem to fade away. While sightseeing is certainly an option, more and more travelers are...