The "Thousand Rice Terraces" of Maruyama Senmaida

When we imagine the rustic past of ancient Japan, what comes to mind? Many may envision rice terraces curving along mountain slopes, their waters glinting in the sun and lush green leaves swaying in the breeze. Such fields, called “tanada,” are co...

Summer Illuminations at Nabana no Sato A Midsummer Night's Dream

Nabana no Sato's winter illuminations are world-renowned, but have you heard about the summer light-up? This year (2021), for only the second time, the famous flower paradise garden 30 minutes by car from central Nagoya flips the switch on its S...

Nature, Nurture, Culture: Unagi in Tsu City

Ah, summertime. The season of ice cream, watermelon, popsicles, and… grilled eel. Wait a second. Did you say eel? That’s right. Known in Japan as "unagi", eel is a summertime treat of the Japanese archipelago prized for its power to rech...

Hidden Treasure of the Ninja Village! Iga Beef at Nikaku Shokudo

Kyoto, Tokyo, Nara... these places are fine and dandy, but I can honestly say I’ve had more fun in Iga City than anywhere else I’ve visited in Japan. The whole place is covered in ninjas and ninja paraphernalia! But on this, my fourth visit to thi...

Suzuka Circuit: Fast Family Fun at a Huge Amusement Park

A few times a year, I notice an influx of foreigners around Suzuka and wonder, “what’s going on?” I’ve come to realize the answer is always that there is an F1 race at Suzuka Circuit. Suzuka is reason enough to make the trip all the way to Japa...

Sizzling hot, wire-net grilled seafood is so delicious! Let's go to try the Amagoya (woman divers hut) experience!

Do you know what "Ama" is? Ama is a woman who dives into the sea and catches shellfish or seaweeds. Women divers are registered as Japan's Intangible Cultural Heritage and there are only a few places in Japan where there are women d...

Savoring the Sea, Sky and Delicious Mandarin Oranges in Kumano, Mie

Along the seaside region of Kumano in Mie there is a wealth of nature, deep history, breathtaking beauty and delicious memories to be made. The Mihama coastline is stunning and the mountains are full of hidden wonders. Then of course there is the...

The Best Place to Surf in Japan

Today, we are exploring the coastal city of Shima! Shima is the peninsula on the easternmost part of Mie and it’s known for its untouched natural beauty and limitless coastline. Shima is surrounded by 3 bodies of water and I was super excited t...

Go with the wind. Enjoy a traditional boat trip on the Kumano River-Sandanbo

World Heritage Site, Kumano River The land of Kumano, which occupies a large part of the Kii Peninsula, has been called the “land of the gods” and the “mysterious land” since ancient times. There are three shrines located around this area. The ...

Glamping: Is It Worth the Hype?

The glamping trend in Japan is showing no sign of slowing down. Especially in this current time where safety measures are the top priority of traveling, the demand for this relatively “wild” activity where social distance is easily adhered to has ...

Autumn at Akame 48 Waterfalls: colored leaves, stunning waterfalls, and fantastic night lights

This valley is located in the mountains of western Mie Prefecture, on the border with Nara Prefecture, and is part of the Muroo-Akame-Aoyama Quasi-National Park. On this trip, I went to see the beautiful scenery that can only be enjoyed in autumn ...

Strolling the Historic City of Kuwana: Rokkaen and Its Surroundings

When you visit Mie Prefecture, Ise Jingu Shrine is a must. However, if you’re a true history buff, you’ll also want to head to Kuwana City, an important transport hub of old. Located at the mouth of the Ibi-gawa River, which flows into Ise Bay, th...

A Beginner’s Guide to Mie’s Many Soul Foods

Every region in Japan has at least one well-known foodstuff or local “gourmet” dish, and Mie is no exception. Many of these aren’t the traditional Japanese meals you might expect to find, but are more like regional “soul foods.” Here is an introdu...

Trip to Kumano Vol. 2: Onigajyo—The Spectacular View Spot Created by Nature

Stunning Onigajo World Heritage site in southern Mie Prefecture, an epic work of art made by nature. Experience the mysterious scenery of the natural environment that weaves along the sea and rocks.

Toba Aquarium: A Wet and Wild Adventure for the Whole Family

If you’re fascinated by the open water and all the amazing creatures that reside there, then a visit to Toba Aquarium is a must. Opened in 1955, this facility has spent over 65 years educating and entertaining visitors from all over the world. Her...

Visiting Mie with your family: Experience the beauty and charm of life by the sea

As an island nation, Japan has many beautiful coastal areas where visitors can learn about the diverse creatures in the ocean, eat delicious seafood and enjoy hands-on tourism activities. Mie Prefecture offers tourists an incredible range of exper...

Learn the art of traditional kumihimo weaving at Kumi no Sato.

Kumihimo are traditional crafts that are made by braiding dyed silk thread into beautiful accessories. The colorful braids were historically used to fasten the obi (sash wrapped around the waist) of a kimono and as accessories on samurai armor. T...

Three World Heritage Sites～Two Days in Kumano:First day～

It’s rare that you can visit three world heritage sites in a single day, even more rare to be able to visit three within 30 minutes! Join me on my trip to Kumano, Mie where I explore the old and discover the new!

Ryofuso Ryokan - A Cave of Wonders!

Have you ever dined or taken a bath in a cave? Now you can! At Ryofuso Ryokan Hotel, you can enjoy a unique dining experience and a bathing experience like no other! Don’t worry - these two experiences don’t happen at the same time!

Fast and Furious: Rainbow Sports Drift

Leave the roller coasters and other rides that restrict your movement and get Fast and Furious while travelling at speeds of up to 70 kilometers per hour at Rainbow Sports go kart circuit in Kuwana, Mie! With your friends, your colleagues or ev...