Japan Travel Stories

Feb 23, 2023 • 7 min read

Japan has reopened, so it's time to look again at the country's greatest hits for first-timers and repeat visitors

Oct 19, 2022 • 4 min read

Fans of Studio Ghibli films will be able to visit Ghibli Park next month in Nagoya, Japan.

Oct 5, 2022 • 5 min read

Japan is easing entry rules on October 11, but does that mean it will be as easy to visit as before the pandemic? Here’s what you need to know

Sep 2, 2022 • 6 min read

From beach resorts just an hour from Tokyo to tropical island idylls, Japan's beaches are its best-kept secret. Here's our pick of Japan's best sands.

May 30, 2022 • 5 min read

Whether you enjoy natural hot springs or colourful spring blooms, here's our pick of the best national parks in Japan.

Mar 2, 2022 • 6 min read

Trends come and go but karaoke has been a fixture of Japan's culture for decades. It doesn't matter if you're a good singer, as long as you've got heart.

Feb 1, 2022 • 10 min read

Explore eight of the most renowned destinations for sake in Japan, three on a “Northern Route” and five on a “Southern Route”

Feb 1, 2022 • 5 min read

Discover how sake is made, the history surrounding it, and the ways it maintains its cultural and social significance

Sep 28, 2021 • 4 min read

Japan is one of the most beautiful countries in the world with many natural sights to enjoy. Here are some of the best.

Jun 14, 2021 • 5 min read

Learn about Japanese food culture and restaurant etiquette with this extract from Lonely Planet's new book, Eat Japan.

Nov 3, 2020 • 3 min read

Japan's "Olympics of Fireworks" is held in Daisen, Akita Prefecture each August. Here's everything you need to know about this explosive event.

Mar 4, 2020 • 5 min read

Step away from Japan's big cities and sample some slow travel in and around the Seto Inland Sea.

Mar 2, 2020 • 5 min read

For first-timers, 10 to 14 days is usually recommended along the Golden Route. Here are the spots you shouldn't miss.

Feb 28, 2020 • 15 min read

Hiking along the Kumano Kodō's trails is a way to see a side to Japan far from city lights, where forested mountains hide ancient places of pilgrimage

Feb 27, 2020 • 5 min read

Explore Tohoku - Japan's far north - a land of elemental nature and ancient customs.

Feb 18, 2020 • 4 min read

Check out our tips before you travel to Japan. It may look the same, but the country has changed in recent times.

Jan 30, 2020 • 6 min read

Self-described "nemesis of walking" Stephanie Yeboah explains why hiking Japan's Oku-Matsushima Trail marked a turning point in her approach to hiking.

Jan 20, 2020 • 5 min read

Make the most of your time in Japan by joining a group tour with Lonely Planet Experiences and Intrepid Travel.

Jan 14, 2020 • 5 min read

Often overlooked as the gateway to Hakone, Odawara has the closest feudal castle to Tokyo and a raft of other historic traditions discoverable in a day.

Jan 13, 2020 • 6 min read

Studio Ghibli’s animated films — such as Spirited Away and Princess Mononoke — have attracted a cult following for many years, despite never appearing on any…

Dec 23, 2019 • 5 min read

Stephanie Yeboah realises a life-long dream of visiting Japan and learns about the stunning scenery outside of the big cities.

Dec 21, 2019 • 7 min read

Escape the city stress in Daisen, Japan's rice country in the north. Traditional onsen and stunning countryside awaits you.