Nature Trails

Hakkakuso in Tateyama offers a jumping-off point for cycling, swimming, and the well-preserved charm of Japanese fishing villages. Steve Trautlein heads to the coast.

Room at the Top

A new wave of luxury hotels is shaking up the industry in Tokyo like never before. Can they all survive? Chris Betros checks in.

Pick of the Litter

She's cute, she's a commercial powerhouse and she's coming up on her 30th birthday. Ken Belson and Brian Bremner let the story of Japan's favorite cat out of the bag.

Beating the Blues

Feeling depressed or in trouble? Tokyo has plenty of support groups that are just a phone call or mouse click away. Chris Betros provides a few pointers.

Riverside Retreat

The rustic Okayama town of Takahashi offers the casual visitor a release from the world. Stephen Mansfield enjoys the time on his hands.

Easy Streets

Ocean breezes, smiling faces, exotic markets, and a laid-back pace. Catherine Pawasarat finds Japanese-style relaxation on the shores of the Noto Peninsula

Green Peace

Home to Kyoto-style gardens and the Peace Museum for kamikaze, Chiran offers a healthy dose of history and culture. Stephen Mansfield takes a walk.

Walk in the Woods

Take a step back in time with a leisurely stroll through the forests and towns of the Kiso Valley. Mary King sets the pace.

Pilgrim’s Progress

Simon Rowe braves the storms and heads down to Shikoku’s “Typhoon Ginza,” Cape Ashizuri.