U.S. Minor Outlying Islands

Nestled conveniently between the bustling metropolis of Tokyo and the international gateway of Narita, the Chiba Zoological Park has been delighting visitors since April 1985. Just a short jaunt from the city of Chiba, this zoo offers a delightful es

The Tokyo Skytree (東京スカイツリー) stands tall as a beacon of modernity in Tokyo's skyline. Nestled in the Sumida City Ward, just a stone's throw from the historic Asakusa district, this architectural marvel is the heart of the Tokyo Skytree Town. Towering

Sensoji, also known as Asakusa Kannon Temple, is a dazzling gem nestled in the heart of Asakusa. It's one of Tokyo's most cherished and colorful temples. Legend has it that way back in 628, two brothers stumbled upon a statue of Kannon, the goddess o

Odaiba is a buzzing shopping and entertainment district perched on a man-made island in Tokyo Bay. Its roots trace back to the Edo Period (1603-1868) when it started as a series of small fort islands, designed to shield Tokyo from potential sea attac

Tsukishima, meaning "moon island," is a fascinating man-made island nestled in Tokyo Bay, just a stone's throw from the famous Tsukiji Fish Market. This unique island came to life over a century ago from the earth dredged during the creation of a shi

Tsukiji Outer Market, nestled right next to the former Tsukiji Wholesale Market, is a bustling district bursting with life. It's a maze of wholesale and retail shops, along with restaurants lining its narrow streets. Here, you'll discover a treasure

Akihabara, or Akiba as the locals affectionately call it, is a buzzing district in the heart of Tokyo. Known for its array of electronics stores, this area has evolved over the years into a mecca for Japan's otaku culture. You'll find countless shops

Hama Rikyu (浜離宮, Hama Rikyū) is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Tokyo, offering a delightful escape from the city's hustle and bustle. This expansive landscape garden, perched alongside Tokyo Bay, captivates visitors with its seawater ponds that

The current Imperial Palace, known as Kōkyo in Japanese, stands proudly on the historical grounds of Edo Castle. This sprawling park area, nestled in the heart of Tokyo, is encircled by moats and imposing stone walls. It's just a short stroll from To

Koishikawa Korakuen (小石川後楽園, Koishikawa Kōrakuen) is a mesmerizing oasis nestled in the heart of Tokyo, and it holds the title of one of the city's oldest and finest Japanese gardens. It was crafted during the early Edo Period (1600-1867) at the Toky

Yasukuni Shrine, known in Japanese as 靖国神社 (Yasukuni Jinja), is a deeply significant Shinto shrine nestled in the heart of Tokyo. Established in 1869, this sacred site honors those who lost their lives in war, commemorating the ultimate sacrifice the

Nestled within the Akasaka Imperial Estate in the heart of Tokyo, the Tokyo State Guest House, known as 迎賓館 or Geihinkan, stands as a symbol of Japan's elegance and hospitality. It is one of two prestigious state guest houses maintained by the Japane

The sea of clouds in Tomamu, Hokkaido is a mesmerizing natural phenomenon that can be witnessed in the morning. When you ascend to higher altitudes, on some days, you are treated to a magnificent spectacle. This captivating sight is an unforgettable

Daisetsuzan, known as 大雪山 in Japanese, is an awe-inspiring national park nestled in Hokkaido. It's the largest of its kind in the region, offering a pristine expanse of mountainous wilderness that could easily overshadow some of Japan's smaller prefe

If you're looking for a fantastic day trip from Asahikawa, Tomita Farm should be high on your list. This 10-hectare lavender haven offers a serene escape with its stunningly arranged fields of purple blooms. The hills, adorned with meticulously manic

Shibata Castle, affectionately known as "Ayame Castle," stands proudly as the emblem of Shibata. This charming castle town has thrived for over 270 years, weaving a rich history into its cobblestone streets and scenic landscapes. As you wander throug

The Sevenstar Tree (セブンスターの木) is an iconic oak perched on Patchwork Hill (パッチワークの丘) in the charming town of Biei, nestled in the southeastern corner of Asahikawa City. This majestic tree gained fame in 1976 when its image graced the package of the po

Fukushimagata Wetlands sprawls over an impressive 193 hectares, offering a sanctuary for a variety of endangered species. Named among Japan’s 100 greatest natural environments, this reserve is a haven for anyone with a love for birds and plants. It's

Nestled in the northeastern corner of Asahikawa city, Ueno Farm is a delightful farm garden in Nagayama that's been cultivating beauty since 1906. Ms. Sayuki Ueno, an inspired gardener, crafted a unique Hokkaido-style garden that blends seamlessly wi

Saifukuji Temple is a destination rich with 500 years of history. This serene sanctuary attracts many visitors who are eager to witness the stunning artwork of Ishikawa Uncho. His masterpieces include intricate sculptures, mesmerizing paintings, and

Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Hokkaido, the Otokoyama Sake Brewery Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich heritage of sake brewing, a cornerstone of Japanese tradition. With a history stretching back 350 years, this museum is a t

Asahiyama Zoo has become the crown jewel of Asahikawa, overtaking the city's famed ramen and skiing as the ultimate attraction. By the end of 2007, more than 3 million visitors were expected to have passed through its gates. That's quite an achieveme

Nestled in the heart of Hokkaido, the Asahikawa City Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the rich culture of the Ainu people. The museum brings history to life with an impressive array of lifelike models, vividly capturing the traditional lifest

Nestled in the serene Tokiwa Park of Asahikawa city, northern Hokkaido, the Hokkaidoritsu Asahikawa Bijutsukan is a gem waiting to be discovered. This museum is renowned for its impressive collection of wood-crafted artworks, a nod to Asahikawa's ric

Imagine stepping into a dreamscape, a place where the enchantment of medieval Europe meets the elegance of Byzantine architecture. Welcome to the Snow Museum in Asahikawa City, Japan. This extraordinary museum, designed with the delicate beauty of a

Niigata is a hidden gem that proudly offers some of Japan's finest sake, rice, and seafood. These culinary delights easily stand shoulder to shoulder with the best in the country. If you're eager to explore the local flavors and traditional crafts, m

Imagine standing on the edge of one of Japan's Three Great Gorges, where gigantic stone cliffs rise majestically on either side of a rushing river. The gorge forms a dramatic V-shape, with towering rock faces that seem to touch the sky, while the riv

Imagine standing in the midst of a sprawling 4-hectare field, surrounded by 500,000 sunflowers all in full bloom. It's like stepping into a painting, with the vibrant yellows stretching as far as the eye can see. One of the highlights has to be the c

Nestled in the charming suburbs of Sapporo, the Historic Village of Hokkaido (開拓の村, Kaitaku no Mura) is a delightful open-air museum that transports you back in time. Imagine strolling through about 60 carefully preserved buildings, each telling tale

At Jigokudani Monkey Park, you get the extraordinary chance to watch wild monkeys enjoying a soak in a natural hot spring. These are Japanese Macaques, endearingly known as Snow Monkeys. Nestled in their natural environment, the park is set within th

Moerenuma Park (モエレ沼公園, Moerenuma Kōen) is a sprawling oasis on the outskirts of Sapporo that truly captures the imagination. Enveloped by a tranquil marsh, this park stretches approximately four kilometers around. It's a lush, green haven dotted wit

Tokamachi is home to a number of stunning rice terraces, but if you're pressed for time, the Hoshitoge Rice Terraces should be at the top of your list. Catching them early in the morning offers a magical sight: a sea of clouds gently weaving through

Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island, proudly claims the title of the birthplace of Japanese beer. Here in Sapporo, the well-loved Sapporo Beer has been crafted since 1877, making it one of the oldest and most cherished brews in the country. This le