Into the Mountain! A Quest for Hot Springs via Kumano’s Torokko Train!

The quiet mountain town of Kumano City is most famous for the Kumano Kodo, an ancient pilgrimage trail that leads to various shrines in Mie and Wakayama prefectures. Completing the pilgrimage is nothing short of a spiritual quest. But Kumano City ...

Hinjitsukan and Meoto Iwa: A Froggy Stroll Along the Coast of the Ise Bay

Ise City, along the coast of the Ise Bay, is home to a plethora of stunning sights and experiences, all steeped in ancient Japanese mythology and Shinto mysticism. I took a train down to quaint Futaminoura Station one evening to have a look around...

Tokaido Seki-Juku Festival in Kameyama, Mie Prefecture

Step into Seki-Juku and back in time and a whole bunch of excitement as you wander up and down this traditional rest stop on the old Tokaido. Experience delicious snacks and food while enjoying the beautiful floats, costumes and buildings. Seki-...

Cycling and Sailing Around Shima

Blue skies, a gentle ocean breeze and panoramic views of the shore make for a fantastic cycling tour! Riding along the shore is perfect for beginner to intermediate cyclists who want to enjoy the beautiful Shima area! Crossing back and forth over...

Special Campaign in Mie Makes For Fun Trip in Kumano

My recent trip to Kumano, Mie Prefecture turned out to be as great as I hoped, but also ended up being a little sweeter than I had expected. I discovered Mie's special campaign that gives away all sorts of treats and discounts for participating i...

Ise-Shima-A breathtaking view and a new perspective-Yokoyama Observatory, breathtaking views of Ago Bay from atop the impressive Mount Yokoyama!

Come along with me on a journey to the top of one of the most famed lookouts in west-ern Japan. I will make my way to the top of Mount Yokoyama and take in the view of the spectacular Ago bay. The observation deck atop the mountain has been revamp...

Eating Great Food on Okage Yokocho, and Enjoying Authentic Shopping Street in Japan.

Along Okage Yokocho, you’ll find a plethora of unique Japanese dishes not found anywhere else. Not to mention, a very fun and lively atmosphere that’s sure to be unforgettable. You can create your own memorable experiences along Okage Yokocho.

The 48 waterfalls of Akame, Ninja training experience - Let’s take a trip back in time

I was so excited about going on the hike and participating in the different ninja challenges. I felt like a kid in a candy store, and was unable to sleep the night before due to all of the excitement.

Aquaignis, the place with amazing bread, cake, meals, and hot spring! What about a luxurious day in this integrated resort with hotels?

Aquaignis, the super-hot spot in Komono-cho, Mie prefecture. From star chef Hironobu Tsujiguchi’s mouth-watering desserts to natural pure Kataoka hot spring, it’s the integrated resort with glamour of “heart-healing” and “cuisine”. It’s perfect ...

Suzuka Circuit, at where to experience the true, real car race! Full if energy and healing!

You may have heard of the term “F1” while have you ever been to a real circuit? “Suzuka Circuit” is, of course, a spot for car lovers, but it’s also for the great, various amazement of motor sports of all! Authentic F1 exhibition, attraction rid...

Experience the original ninja arts at the Ninja Museum of Igaryu! Go and meet up the energetic Ninjas!

If you are thinking of meeting true, real ninja, you should never miss Ninja Museum of Igaryu! There you can visit real ninja houses with detailed explanation from our ninja staff, see the well-preserved and well-arranged historical ninja exhibits...

The Best Scenic Drive: Ise Shima Pearl Road

Are you looking to experience the scenic Japanese countryside? Break away from the crowds and experience Japan like never before by taking a drive on Pearl Road. Pearl Road is a 23.8 km route connecting the cities of Toba and Shima. It is a pleasu...

1-Day Itinerary: Experience Ninja History and Culture in Iga

Iga is a former castle town known for its rich history, including its association with the famous Iga-ryu ninja clans. Since ancient times, it has been called Iga no Kuni, which means “The Land of Iga”. The city is home to numerous attractions rel...

Kashikojima España Cruise: An Impressive Journey [Ago Bay, Ise Shima Area]

In the Ise Shima area, the iconic and beautiful coastline of Ago Bay is a must-see as it consists of 60 small islands and a rias coastline. Together with the azure sky and lush greenery, the natural and exceptional scenery has made it popular thro...

Discover the Secret Power Spots Around Ise Jingu with a Rickshaw Ride

One of the best ways to get off the beaten track and learn more about the places that you visit in Japan is to take a rickshaw ride. I was lucky during my recent visit to Ise Jingu to experience this first-hand with a ride around the sacred shrine...

1-Day Itinerary: Experience the Coastal Culture

Are you looking for a trip to enjoy the natural scenery, ocean views, and fresh seafood and interact with residents while learning about sustainable culture? If you are, Ise Shima is perfect for you! The Ise Shima area is conveniently located and ...

Travel Back in Time to Seki-juku on the Tokaido Highway

Seki-juku is a post town, about a 1.5-hour train ride from Nagoya, or about a 2-hour train ride from Osaka. It offers you a chance to slip back in time to the Edo period of Japan and a doorway to hike on the Old Tokaido Road, the main walking trai...

Exploring Ise Jingu: Japan’s Most Sacred Shinto Shrine

Ise in the heart of Japan is home to Ise Jingu, a Shinto shrine so revered, it is known as the spiritual home of the Japanese people. It is a place where both myth and history live side by side. Ise Jingu is where Japan's highest-ranked deity, the...

Ahhh Summer in Japan!　at Jyonohama Swimming Beach & Pool

I’ve been having this love and hate relationship with summer in Japan for the past 23 years. As the whole world knows, Japan is an island with the Sea of Japan to one side, and the North Pacific Ocean to the other, however, just like I had no clu...

Discover Japanese Food and Learn All About Japanese Food Culture at WA-VISON

VISON in Taki Town, just outside of Matsusaka City, is a 54-hectare commercial resort that offers a unique experience by showcasing the best of Mie Prefecture and Japan in one location. This hidden gem is set amidst the picturesque mountains of ce...