Travel
Europe's sweltering summer could send tourists to cooler climes
Soaring summer temperatures across southern Europe could prompt a lasting shift in tourist habits, with more travelers choosing cooler destinations or taking their holidays in spring or autumn to dodge the extreme heat, tourism bodies and experts predict. European Travel Commission (ETC) data shows the number of people hoping to… Read
Achi Village: Japan’s most popular stargazing spot
If you’re searching for an excellent stargazing spot in Japan, you’ve come to the right place. Nestled in the Japanese Alps in southwestern Nagano Prefecture lies Achi Village, known for its offerings in onsen, skiing, and above all, stargazing. Far from any big cities, Achi’s dark sky has helped make it one of the most popular places… Read
Hong Kong Airlines launches flights to Nagoya
Hong Kong Airlines has launched four flights per week to Chubu Centrair International Airport (NGO) in Nagoya. In addition to the new Nagoya service, Hong Kong Airlines operates an extensive number of flights to Japan including thrice daily service to Tokyo (Narita) and Osaka, double daily flights to Okinawa, a… Read
ANA becomes first Japanese airline to receive IATA CEIV Fresh certification
All Nippon Airways (ANA) has become the first Japanese airline to receive the CEIV Fresh certification*. The international quality certification, established by the International Air Transportation Association (IATA), recognized ANA for its excellence in the transportation of perishable products. IATA developed the CEIV Fresh Certification to recognize companies and organizations… Read
Itoshima: Endless coastal views and a plethora of charming local cafes
Itoshima is a popular day trip destination among Fukuoka locals. Easily accessible from the city center, there’s tons to do for a day of exploring. Lined with local beachside cafes, historic shrines and scenic hiking trails, it’s a place for escaping the hustle and bustle of downtown. Set against a backdrop of deep… Read
Marriott opens 7th Ritz-Carlton Hotel in Japan
Marriott has expanded its luxurious Ritz-Carlton brand to the island of Kyushu in southern Japan. The Ritz-Carlton, Fukuoka is situated within the main 111-meter Fukuoka Daimyo Garden City skyscraper, the tallest urban lifestyle complex in the city’s core commercial district. “We are thrilled to celebrate the expansion of The Ritz-Carlton… Read
China Airlines to launch Taipei-Kumamoto flights in September
China Airlines has unveiled plans to launch flights between Taipei and Kumamoto, Japan on Sept 18. The Taiwanese carrier will operate the route with two round-trip flights per week, complementing the existing 14 flights a week on the Taipei-Fukuoka route to give travelers more options for getting to and from… Read
Mount Rokko: A mountainous adventure in heart of Kansai
Just west of Osaka lies Kobe, Japan’s sixth most populous city. But beyond the intense hustle and bustle of Sannomiya or the seaside glamor of Kobe Mosaic lies the Rokko Mountain range, providing a natural backdrop to the city that has sprung up at its feet. One of the most popular destinations for tourists and city natives… Read
1,032 statues, and one thing too many people miss, at this Kyoto temple
Sanjusangen-do, officially known as Rengeo-in, is a pretty famous temple among Japanese citizens and international tourists alike. The Kyoto Buddhist temple, which has been ranked in the top 30 sightseeing spots for tourists on Trip Advisor, is famous for its rows upon rows of 1,032 Buddhist statues. According to our reporter Tasuku Egawa, probably about 90 percent… Read
Jindaiji Temple: Superstition, history and nature come together over a bowl of soba noodles
The streets leading to Jindaiji Temple are so rich with culture, greenery and clear spring waters that one might forget to visit the temple itself – but that would be a mistake. The temple’s history starts in 733, and the treasures still enshrined on the grounds are fascinating windows into Japan’s past. The… Read
