J-Trip Plan

Slip back in time on a streetcar modeled on a steam engine and travel the tiny city of Matsuyama in Ehime Pref. Our reporter soaks in the hot springs of Dogo Onsen at a castle-like bathhouse and views hotel rooms that are themselves art installations. She also learns about Iyo-kasuri weaving and visits a bar to write some haiku. And, our correspondent suggests sightseeing spots, public baths, and eateries in Kyoto for early bird travelers to check out in the morning, before the crowds descend.

Our reporter explores the mystique of Takachiho, Miyazaki Pref., where deities descended to earth. He rows to a divine waterfall and views a sea of clouds at dawn from 500m high. Later he takes in kagura song and dance performed in gratitude for the harvests. At a pension he makes a bamboo container to be filled with chicken for a meal with the deities. And, our correspondent gives advice on navigating the often-confusing trains, then we look at luxurious bus travel using inexpensive passes.

Our reporter visits the port city of Tsuruga, Fukui Prefecture, which played a pivotal role connecting Japan with Eurasia. She admires tiny, handmade, washi dolls, has fun with anime cosplay for free, and discovers the little known historical connection Tsuruga has with East Europe. To wrap up her trip, she samples the winter delicacy – Echizen crabs, as the local snow crabs are named, at a fish wholesaler. Also, we take a look at rock climbing locations and bouldering gyms across the country.

Numazu in Shizuoka Prefecture is home to Japan's tallest mountain and deepest seas. Our reporter rides the Shinkansen about an hour west from Tokyo to tour this city that boasts the best viewing spots of Mt. Fuji, and visit the country's only deep-sea aquarium. He then savors some deep-sea fish cuisine in style. Also, we discuss miso soybean paste – an indispensable condiment in Japanese cooking – and share a quick recipe to enjoy miso soup when you are on the run. Reporter: Charles Sabas

Our reporter goes on a winter gourmet trip to Sendai and surrounds in Miyagi Pref. He feasts on oysters and delicacies that can only be enjoyed fresh from the port. For dessert, he goes strawberry picking. Local producers are aiding recovery from the Great East Japan Earthquake and tsunami. And, our correspondent hikes up Mt. Ikoma that straddles Osaka and Nara Prefecture. The ancient pass at the peak is one of Japan's steepest roads. The unparalleled view over Osaka here is stunning.

Our reporter walks the ancient Rokugo Manzan, a Buddhist pilgrimage trail on the Kunisaki Peninsula, Oita Pref., which was formed by volcanic activity. As he admires the images carved into cliffs, stone statues, temples and cloisters that dot the sacred site, he learns about the syncretic mix of Shinto and Buddhism that flourishes on this rugged terrain. And, our correspondent in Katsuyama, Okayama Pref., shows us around this castle town that boasts beautiful noren curtains hanging outside stores.

Our reporter goes on an excursion off the beaten track to learn about the little-known history and culture of Osaka between Shitenno-ji and Osaka Castle. He visits the temple district and explores a shopping street for a glimpse into daily life in this metropolis. Also, our correspondent takes us treasure hunting at a monthly antiques market in Kawagoe, Saitama Pref., a town that still retains vestiges of yesteryear. More than 100 stalls sell kimono pictures, everyday utensils and furniture.

Our reporter makes a day trip out of Tokyo to the woodworking city of Kanuma in Tochigi Pref. The pride of each neighborhood is their intricately carved wooden float. Some of these majestic floats used during the fall festival are displayed year-round. Kanuma is also famous for kumiko geometrical latticework used in furnishings. Also, our correspondent brings to us a jazz event held in Takatsuki, Osaka. Over 800 musicians perform over 2 days in early May at over venues throughout the city.

Repeat visitors to Japan are becoming more interested in getting out of the city, so our reporter journeys into the countryside to the foot of Mt. Daisen in Tottori Pref. A local guide arranges her itinerary to suit her needs and interests. She helps out in a shop and in the fields, and interacts with the locals. She discovers local eateries and other places only the locals know. Also, our local correspondent shows us a place where you can dive into the world of Japanese spirits and monsters.

Our reporter visits the century-old townscape of Kurashiki, Okayama Pref. The shops sell many charming goods, but the local hit product – designer washi masking tape – catches her eye, so she decorates her smartphone case with it. Known for fiber production, the city is popular with fashionistas. Shop for the latest in colorful, functional tabi footwear or distresses your new pair of jeans. Also, our correspondent from Okayama Pref., Japan's leading fruit producer, introduces its quality produce.

Our reporter travels along the Shimanto River, which flows through Kochi Prefecture on Shikoku island, one of Japan's few pristine rivers. He gets tourist information on the area from the michi-no-eki roadside stations, savors the local flavors, and enjoys rafting, cycling and other outdoor activities. Also, our local correspondent visits a museum which focuses on stunning masterpieces by a kimono master, who revived an age-old dying technique in pursuit of the innate beauty of these robes.

Our reporter travels to the world-renowned metalworking region of Tsubame-Sanjo in Niigata Pref. He tours factories to witness 200 years of skilled techniques and precision in polishing cutlery to give it a mirror-like sheen, in forging blades, and in pounding a single sheet of copper into a kettle. He too tries his hand at working metal to a gleaming and sharp finish. Also, our correspondent visits Wakayama Pref. to marvel at the chalky coast, which mother nature has carved over millenniums.

The Kii Mountain Range was added to UNESCO World Heritage list in July 2004 for its sacred sites and pilgrimage routes. Our reporter heads to Mie Prefecture and travels the Iseji route of the Kumano Kodo starting at Ise Jingu, Japan's head Shinto shrine. She takes a 2-day, 1-night trip through nature along the mountain, beach and river pilgrimage routes of the Iseji. Also, we zoom in nori seaweed, a popular ingredient in Japanese cuisine.

Our reporter visits the port city of Toyama on the Japan Sea coast. He strolls through the atmospheric streets of this castle town, which boasts a rich culture, and marvels at the skill of the local craftsmen. He stays the night at an old storehouse refurbished into an inn to experience life as it was and learns how to play the banjo-like shamisen. Also, we look into the world of origami and the art of folding connected cranes out of one sheet of paper.

Octopuses, a huge Buddha, and a shrine torii gate protruding through buildings. We take you to the backstreets of Kyoto – just around the corner from famous sights like Nishiki Market and Yasaka Pagoda to discover some of the city's unusual and unknown attractions. We introduce an intimate restaurant and an entertainment district tour to meet the illusive maiko. Also our studio guest advises us on green tea, how to pour the perfect brew of gyokuro tea and his favorite Buddhist temple in Uji.

Aomori Pref.'s folk music is defined by the hard-hitting style of the guitar-like Tsugaru shamisen. Our reporter observes a shamisen player cum artisan creating the perfect shamisen and takes a free lesson. That night he watches a "shovel shamisen" show at a restaurant where anyone can join in. He also experiences the spectacular floats and music of the lively Nebuta Festival. And, in Nara Pref., our correspondent is entertained by local, amateur pro-wrestling that has a big following in Japan.

Our correspondent makes a spiritual, 1-day pilgrimage to Mt. Yudono, Yamagata Pref., led by a yamabushi monk of the Shugendo mountain faith. Dorogawa Onsen, at the foot of Mt. Omine, Nara Pref. – another yamabushi pilgrimage location – is a rest town for yamabushi before they head for their ascetic training. Inns along the streets evoke images of yesteryear, and the canyons and caves are fun to explore. And, walk the passages, tunnels and ruins of a fortress on Sarushima, an uninhabited island.

Located on the Ring of Fire, Japan is perfect for volcano sightseeing. Our reporter goes to Sakurajima, Kagoshima Pref., where plumes of smoke emit from the volcano every day. He experiences life on a volcanic island through a sea kayak tour, underwater hot springs and volcanic ash art. The island is also home to the world's largest radish. And, our correspondent in Odate, Akita Pref., introduces us to the local loveable breed of Akita dogs, and where you can pet them and enjoy their company.

Foreign residents introduce their favorites among Japan's over 5,500 museums. Somewhere, there is a museum that will entertain or pique your interest. View fossils not found elsewhere at a museum in Fukui Pref. dedicated to the creatures that once roamed the Earth. Immerse yourself in pop culture at a manga museum in Kyoto. And marvel at the large sculptures at the world's only sand museum in Tottori Pref. Be sure to do your homework about the museums around your destination before coming to Japan.

Our reporter visits 3 peculiar caves. In Yamaguchi Pref., he goes into Japan's largest limestone cave network at Akiyoshi and ventures into a cavern, accessible only by sea on Omi Island, with blue waters comparable to the grotto on Italy's Capri. In Shimane Pref., he explores the Iwami Ginzan Silver Mine, a UNESCO site that once provided a third of the world's silver. Also, our correspondent shows us the secret in the fascinating beauty of nishikigoi, a variety of carp known as "swimming jewels".

We received a photo of a possible UFO base in the mountains outside Osaka Pref., so we sent out our correspondent. She discovered abandoned mining facilities in Asago, Hyogo Pref., that are now open to the public. Also, our reporter visits Tono in Iwate Pref., where horses and people once lived under the same roof. He tries his hand at local craftwork and eats local cuisine at a traditional fireplace. He also does a farm stay with a family to experience life, tending horses in the beautiful mountains.

The masons of old based in Takato, Nagano Pref., left many superb works of stone around the country. Our reporter wonders around this country town to see the stone Buddhist statues and guardian deities standing along the roadside and in the temples, and he tries the local specialties: matsutake mushrooms and soba. Also, we introduce the Senjojiki Cirque, carved by glaciers 20,000 years ago, and a flying squirrel tour. And, our correspondent shows us the world's largest wasabi farm in Azumino.

Japan's longest peninsula, Sadamisaki Peninsula in Ehime Prefecture, is 50km long and not even 1km wide at its narrowest. Our reporter traverses this mountainous, westernmost tip of Shikoku, and experiences citrus farming and yellowtail fishing. He marvels at the wide open spaces and captures the expansive view of the 2 seas sandwiching the peninsula using his 360 camera. Also, our correspondent shares his passion for hunting out spots to take photos of the elusive "upside-down Mt. Fuji."

Aizu-Wakamatsu was the setting of the last civil war 150 years ago. Our reporter visits this city steeped in the samurai spirit, where the local clan honored their principals to the end. He visits the school where samurai sons were trained. Through martial arts, he learns about the Aizu spirit and the rule of "wrong is wrong," instilled from childhood. Also, our correspondent from the Fukushima tourist association visits a mist-shrouded river and an abandoned village to take illusionary photos.