No other artform gets your inspiration going quite like cinema, but, in the spirit of thinking beyond just the armchair when it comes to travel, we thought we would ask for the help of an old friend, the founder of Studio Ghibli and the Walt Disney of Japan, Mr Hayao Miyazaki. But which films were inspired by which places? Well, buckle up and join us as we tour Japan from north to south - the Ghibli way!

Mario, Pikachu, and Godzilla have one thing in common, they are world-class celebrities that come from Japan! There are plenty of spots that will bring transport you straight into the world of your favourite characters. To make the choice a wee bit easier, we picked our top pop culture spots across the country! 

MUSUBI KILN, a tableware brand from Tokyo, sells traditional tableware produced by artisans in various parts of Japan to overseas markets, and proposes a unique lifestyle that incorporates Japanese tableware. We asked them to show us different ways we can enjoy Japanese dining at home.

Stasia Matsumoto moved to Japan after finishing university and fell in love with the world of kimono at her local kimono school. Nine years later she is a certified kimono stylist, teacher and consultant, and runs her own kimono business ‘InKimono’ in the famous Asakusa district!  Read on to find out about her journey with traditional Japanese clothing, her favourite kimono, and the best places to learn more about kimono and Japan's remarkable craftsmanship.

Kat moved to Japan to join the JET Programme for which they were placed in southern Kyushu's Oita prefecture. Fastforward a few years and now Kat is a student, writer and an established drag performer in the bustling Tokyo! Read on to find out more about the best places to experience Japan's thriving LGBTQ culture, and discover Kat's advice for all queer visitors.