The Kii Peninsula south of Osaka and Nagoya is a treasure trove of sacred places waiting to be discovered in its three prefectures – Wakayama, Nara and Mie. We talked to Alena Eckelmann of Kii Monogatari about the still unknown area of southern Mie and asked for her top trip recommendations. Alena has been living in Hongu, a small town in the southern part of the Kii Peninsula for over ten years now which makes her a seasoned local. 

Moo and Simon are a Japanese-British couple who fell in love with Kyushu and decided to start their own travel agency there. Kyushu Journeys helps English-speaking visitors plan their dream holidays around the beautiful Kyushu and offers incredible tours. Read on to discover their tips on exploring Kyushu on a budget, themed trips they offer, and top places you need to see when visiting for the first time!

You don't have to be in Japan to experience its revolutionary aesthetics especially when it comes to natural scapes. Japan is famous for its unforgettable gardens and we've picked our top 10 authentic gardens you can enjoy without leaving the UK and Ireland! Check out our list to find out where to find the best traditional rock gardens, flowing waters and vibrant red torii gates!

Quinlan came to Japan from the US 20 years ago and he's a real one-man band. He's been self-employed for 19 years, he works as a translator, guide, actor, runs the 'GoNorth Japan' YouTube channel and he also runs a small Airbnb in Tohoku's Morioka! We talked to Quinlan about his favourite places to see cherry blossoms, who inspired him to start a YouTube channel (you'll be surprised) and asked him for some recomendations for first-time visitors!

While travel is confined to our armchairs and the silver screen, we have taken on a mission to introduce you to our favourite locations from the internationally acclaimed movie 'Departures'! If you need a refresher or haven't had a chance to become a fan, we have your back with a special BFI Player deal in stock! Read on to find out more.