A traditional spring event known as the 'Himesama Dochu' (Princess Procession) was held in Hamamatsu City, drawing large crowds along the route. (News On Japan)

The Japan Meteorological Agency announced on March 30th that cherry blossoms (Somei-Yoshino) in central Tokyo have reached full bloom, one day earlier than the historical average and five days earlier than last year. (News On Japan)

The eruption alert level for Mount Shinmoedake, part of the Kirishima mountain range on the border of Kagoshima and Miyazaki prefectures, has been raised to Level 3, or "entry restrictions," due to increased volcanic activity. (News On Japan)

Explore the hidden gem of Okayama Prefecture, known for its scenic canals, top-tier garden, and famous folktale. Follow along on a three-day adventure through Kurashiki, the Kibiji District, Korakuen garden and Uno Port, the gateway to Japan’s art islands. (japan-guide.com)

An opening ceremony was held Saturday for the Japan Pavilion at the Osaka-Kansai Expo. As the host country's main exhibit, the pavilion is positioned as the symbolic "face" of the Expo, welcoming visitors from around the world with a presentation of Japan's culture of circularity. (News On Japan)

The international terminal at Fukuoka Airport, which had been undergoing expansion and renovation, will reopen on March 28th. (News On Japan)

Foreign tourists in Japan are showering praise on local tourist information centers for their warm and detailed support—sometimes even considered 'overly helpful.' These centers assist visitors with everything from translation hiccups and complex train transfers to finding hidden scenic spots, cultural experiences, and rental services. (News On Japan)

The Osaka District Meteorological Observatory announced on March 27th that cherry blossoms have begun blooming in Osaka, marking an opening three days earlier than last year. (News On Japan)

With only 17 days until the Osaka-Kansai Expo opens, excitement is building as pavilion details continue to be announced, including features from the Japan Gas Association and exhibits showcasing Australia’s natural environment and interactive energy games. (News On Japan)

Cherry blossoms began blooming in Nagoya on March 26th, according to an announcement by the Nagoya District Meteorological Observatory, two days later than the average year but two days earlier than last year. (News On Japan)

Hiroshima Prefecture sits next to the Seto Inland Sea and hosts a number of quaint seaside towns and islands. On this three-day trip, we explore the beautiful coastal scenery on foot and by bike, stopping at Tomonoura and Onomichi before tackling Japan's premier cycling route, the Shimanami Kaido. (japan-guide.com)

Weather officials say cherry blossoms have started blooming in Tokyo. The event occurred on the same date as the seasonal average and five days earlier than last year. (NHK)

After being severely damaged in the Noto Peninsula earthquake, the Notojima Aquarium in Nanao City has fully reopened for the first time in approximately 15 months, marking a symbolic step in the region’s recovery. (News On Japan)

For Japanese people living on the mainland, including myself, Okinawa is an ideal vacation destination. (Video Street View Japan)

With just three weeks remaining until the start of the Osaka-Kansai Expo, several pavilions held preview events on Sunday. (News On Japan)

Japan’s world-renowned rail system is often symbolized by the Shinkansen, the original high-speed rail that revolutionized travel when it began in 1964. It now runs hundreds of trains daily with unmatched safety—over 6.5 billion passengers have traveled on it without a single fatality. (Wendover Productions)

On this two-day trip, we will explore the historic port town of Obama in Fukui Prefecture, and delve into the rich history of the ‘Mackerel Road,’ an ancient trade route where merchants once carried salted mackerel to Kyoto during Japan’s feudal era. (japan-guide.com)

JR Tokai plans to introduce a new high-end seating class on the Tokaido Shinkansen, offering semi-private compartments that surpass the comfort of Green Car seats. (News On Japan)

Gran Green Osaka South Hall is set to open on March 21st, featuring a key attraction: Time Out Market Osaka. This food court, curated by the internationally recognized media brand Time Out, will host 17 restaurants and two bars. (News On Japan)

Mount Fuji will officially become a paid climb, as the Shizuoka Prefectural Assembly approved an ordinance on March 17th requiring hikers to pay a 4,000 yen entry fee. Following Yamanashi’s lead, Shizuoka will implement the fee starting in the summer of 2025. (News On Japan)