From the beginning of June to the middle of July, Japan experiences its rainy season. Humid days and sudden showers coincide with the appearance of a captivating early summer spectacle: fireflies.

Ippei and Janine are a Tokyo-based husband-and-wife photography duo whose love for Japan’s hidden island gems makes them true experts when it comes to exploring the country’s most off-the-beaten-track destinations. We chat to this power couple about their professional beginnings, family life and they share some insight into the world lesser known.

It's never too early to start planning the perfect summer holiday, and when you are on a budget, preparation is king and key. We share some tips and alternatives to help soften the blow to the wallet when travelling to Japan during this season.

Of all the mountains in Wakayama prefecture, Mount Koya has stood proudly as one of Japan’s most sacred sites ever since it was chosen by Japanese monk, Kobo Daishi, to build his Esoteric Buddhist dojo on over 1200 years ago. This great heritage can be experienced and appreciated in a wealth of activities where one can gain a better understanding of Japanese Buddhism.