The BFI's Japan Season, with over 100 years of Japanese cinema' has had us itching for more films and trip to the locations that inspired them! Must be that Japan-shaped hole in our hearts... So whilst we can't yet travel to Japan, we thought we'd properly introduce you to some of the locations featured in some of the season's finest films, while travel is confined to the armchair and silver screen. 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.

On the 25th of December all thoughts about Christmas have been erased and the Christmas tree is packed away in preparation for the most important holiday! New year celebrations in Japan are THAT time of the year with incredible food, traditions, and meaningful ornaments. Take a peek into Japan's new year's and discover where lucky charms disappear each year...

Starting 2022 with a fresh mind, it’s time to take a look inside our 'tabigokoro' or ‘travel hearts’ and see what's been hiding there. Japan is about celebrating small experiences and little joys which turn your whole trip into lasting memories shared with your loved ones. This year we’re joining Japanuary, an initiative to celebrate different aspects of Japanese lifestyle that can help us make the year ahead a positive and energising one. Take a look at our list of experiences that will positively affect your wellbeing and let you hit that ‘refresh’ button in Japan!