Part of the mountainous Hida region of Gifu Prefecture, Takayama is a quaint historical town that thrived during the Edo period timber boom. Famous for the stunning snow-covered facades of its traditional homes in winter, its many sake breweries and delicious Hida beef, Takayama-sometimes known as Hida to distinguish it from other similarly-named towns-is neither gone nor forgotten. Come to Gifu Prefecture, and experience Takayama’s rugged beauty for yourself. READ MORE

Japan is on the must-see list of thousands, if not millions, of people worldwide. It’s a country that’s beautiful year-round with an eclectic selection of sights, sounds and tastes sure to pique anyone’s interest – even those on a budget. Follow these 10 budget tips to make the most of your money and time during your trip to Japan! READ MORE

While the soaring peaks of the Rockies, the Alps, and the Sierra Nevadas are all well documented throughout winter sport lore, Japan may hold the world’s last great frontier for easily accessible world-class skiing and snowboarding. With many Japanese companies reaching out to attract more foreign tourism in recent years, accessing this frozen treasure trove just got a whole lot easier. That said, there are some things you should know before embarking on your first Japan ski trip. READ MORE

Just off the Hiroshima coast, Miyajima Island is famous for having one of the top three most beautiful views in Japan that of a large torii gate which appears to be floating during high tide. Learn the best and cheapest ways to go and what to do when you get there! READ MORE

Toothbrush. Check. Underwear. Check. Hairdryer…. Wait, would your hairdryer even work in Japan? Packing is, inevitably, the worst part about traveling. Nobody likes to do it, but everybody has to yet we always leave it until the very last minute. There is procrastination and then there is running around trying to locate the “safe place” you hid your passport while the taxi is waiting outside to take you to the airport. If you’re headed to Japan, but are stuck in the packing blues, your life has gotten a little easier with our essential tips on what to pack for Japan and our downloadable Japan packing list. READ MORE