The first in our new series of travel Japanese articles in which we introduce some more handy words and phrases to make your trip to Japan even easier - and even more memorable and enjoyable!

From mountain-top temple Yamadera to Dewa’s three sacred peaks, mountains remain at the heart of Yamagata’s unique identity. 

People Make Places. No words ring truer than the title of Charlie Spreckley’s book, a beautifully designed collection of unique spaces found in Tokyo! To coincide with an exciting giveaway, we chat to Charlie about People Make Place's humble beginnings, personal recommendations from the book as well as top tips on how to make the most out of one of the world's most exciting cities.

Best known for its winter credentials, Hokkaido couldn’t be any more different from California where Neil was born but it is where he has called home for the last 30 years since landing a gig as a DJ at a local radio station in Sapporo! We chat to Neil about his first impressions of Japan, his creative process, and his top Hokkaido recommendations for outdoor adventurers!

It’s Pride Month and to celebrate, we’ve invited the co-chairperson of Tokyo Rainbow Pride, Fumino Sugiyama, to talk us through what has become one of Asia’s largest LGBTQ+ related events! Fumino gives us the inside scoop on what kind of events are held, how travellers can join in future celebrations as well as the things he’s most proud of in his journey so far.