Head south of Osaka to find the Kii Peninsula, Japan's spiritual corner covered by primeval forests and generously gifted with natural gems. We asked Alena Eckelmann from Kii Monogatari to take us on a journey through her local prefecture - Mie, and she went above and beyond to introduce us to her favourites. Read on to find out more about waterfall stays and a secluded onsen with an underground trolley train.

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!

Have you always been tempted by the famous “Japow” (Japanese powder snow) but worries about your little ones are holidng you back? How to make the most out of the ski season as a family? What about equipment? We checked back in with the Galavanting Family who have been enjoying the winter in the snow paradise that is Hokkaido. They gave us their top 10 tips and recommendations for making the most out of skiing adventures in Japan!

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.  

In the Kansai area just below Osaka, lies Wakayama, a prefecture famous for its magnificent mountains, connections to Japanese history, roaring waterfalls, and spiritual pilgrimage trails. Many think of it as the natural and spiritual capital of Japan, and this year Lonely Planet’s readers gave credit where credit is due as Wakayama was voted the best sustainable destination in 2021! With both mountains and sea, and a refreshing take on modern life, Wakayama is a treasure waiting to be discovered.