While Hokkaido’s Snow Festival has made the city of Sapporo famous worldwide, you may not have heard of nearby Otaru; a seemingly quiet, romantic town that springs to life during February’s annual Otaru Snow Light Path Festival, featuring a dazzling array of candlelit snow lanterns and sculptures that welcome visitors from throughout Japan. Read on to discover why this city and festival to the north should be on your list of essential Japan winter activities. READ MORE

Backpacking in Japan is a great way to travel inexpensively while experiencing the beautiful sights, welcoming people, safe environment, and unique culture waiting for you. Read on to find out what to consider when trekking across Japan-from transportation, to lodging, food, entertainment and even Japan Travel WiFi. Japan doesn’t have to be expensive! READ MORE

Okinawa is known by Japanese and foreigners alike as a beautiful, sunny paradise with white sandy beaches where you can bask in the heat no matter the season. In fact, the Okinawan capitol, Naha, can be enjoyed even in the winter. The mild weather, outdoor attractions, and excellent museums and aquarium make Naha the perfect destination for a warm winter escape! Read on to find out more. READ MORE

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