Wakayama Prefecture is another of the 4 prefectures that make up the Kii Peninsula of central Japan. Home to one of the most famous pilgrimage trails of the country, Wakayama is not too far from Tokyo and other large cities. Exploring the prefecture will showcase some of Japan’s most beautiful scenery, offering a side of Japan that is off the beaten path, but not to be missed.

North of Tokyo, crossing up through Honshu Island, the Tohoku region is one of Japan’s most preserved havens. This traditional heritage and the region’s abundant wild landscapes, from snowy mountains to lush forests and rocky shorelines, makes it an ideal destination to enjoy onsen. 

Japan is a country with a unique geography: almost 80% of the archipelago is covered in mountains. Being at the junction of four major tectonic plates, these mountains also host a large amount of volcanic activity. These peculiar features do not only create Japan’s gorgeous natural landscapes, they also provide the country with one of its most distinctive qualities: onsen (natural hot springs).

With a population of slightly under 2,000,000 people, Mie Prefecture is the 25th largest of the 47 prefectures of Japan. It comprises the eastern portion of the Kii Peninsula, and is home to one of Japan’s most sacred shrines, famous speedway, and stunning coastlines, let’s take a look and explore!

Can you believe that 2024 is almost over? The year has been a whirlwind of amazing openings and events, and 2025 is shaping up to be another year full of unmissable experiences and events. From the Osaka Expo to various luxury hotels, art museums and commemorations, 2025 will be nothing short of amazing. Let’s dive into some of what 2025 has to offer, so get ready to start planning your trips to Japan!