Kanto

Located along the Edogawa River of Nagareyama, Chiba Prefecture, the area known as Nagareyama Honcho flourished from its mirin (sweet sake) brewing industry since the 18th century. It is recognized as the birthplace of Shiromirin (clear mirin), which was carried to Edo by water transportation of the Edogawa River and brought prosperity to Nagareyama. The area retains the atmosphere of those years, dotted with shrines and temples as well as buildings, long-standing shops, and storehouses from...

The city of Tomisato, Chiba Prefecture, was once the home of Shimofusa Imperial Stock Farm, which was under the control of the Imperial Household Agency. In the Meiji era (1868-1912), the farm became the first in the country to import and breed racehorses. The area now has several farms in addition to facilities where you can experience horseback riding. Many restaurants, especially around Tomisato Horse Park, offer great local foods, so spend a relaxing day in the company of horses.

Sakura Castle Ruins Park with Sakura Castle inside, is in Sakura City, Chiba Prefecture. This is a famous cherry blossom spot in the spring and is certified as one of Japan's Top 100 Castles. In adjacent, there is National Museum of Japanese History, where you can learn about the history and folk culture from the ancient times.

Cape Futtsu, the symbol of Futtsu City, Chiba Prefecture, is the perfect location to take in the entire Tokyo Bay. Selected as one of Japan's 100 Best Beaches with White Sand and Blue Pine, the cape provides a panoramic view of Mount Fuji, the Miura Peninsula and central Tokyo on a clear day. As it juts out into the sea for about four kilometers, there are various facilities for the whole family to spend the day, such as a clam digging area, swimming pool, and beach. The wild plant community...

Located about one hour from Tokyo, Sayama City in Saitama Prefecture is known for the production of Sayama tea, one of the three major teas in Japan along with Shizuoka tea and Uji tea. There are many tea plantations in the city that produce and sell the finest tea. At Miyanoen, you can enjoy Sayama tea and Japanese tea culture through various hands-on activities.

Located in the mountains of Okuchichibu at 1,100 meters elevation, Mitsumine Shrine is dedicated to Izanagi-no-Mikoto and Izanami-no-Mikoto, the mythical deities said to have given birth to the country of Japan. The divine messenger Oguchi Makami is a wolf believed to have mysterious powers that protects against various misfortunes.

Located in the city of Kawagoe in Saitama Prefecture, Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine is known to bring good luck in relationships (enmusubi) and happiness in the family. Believed to have been established around 1,500 years ago, it enshrines two couples of husband and wife deities, as well as Oonamuchinomikoto, another god of relationships from the famous Izumo Taisha Shrine.

Nagatoro, located in Chichibu, Saitama Prefecture, is a popular sightseeing spot where you can enjoy great nature such as Nagatoro Valley. A famous attraction there is the Nagatoro River Cruise with a history of over 100 years, which takes you down the Arakawa River that flows through the magnificent valley in a traditional Japanese boat. The powerful rapid stream, the unusual-shaped rocks formed by nature and the gorgeous mountains complete the scenery of Nagatoro. The boatman's skillful...

Boasting a history of 1,500 years, Myogi Shrine is situated on the hillside of Mount Hakuun, the highest peak of Mount Myogi. The main shrine is a lavish structure built in the rare black lacquered Gongen-zukuri style and embellished with impressive engravings by the same artisans as the famous Nikko Toshogu Shrine. Together with the Karamon gate and Urushi-Soumon gate, the structures are designated as an Important Cultural Property. In addition, the Treasure Museum exhibits such artworks as...

Shima Onsen is a hot spring resort in the northwestern part of Gunma Prefecture, surrounded by rich nature and with a traditional onsen atmosphere. It is said to be named after the legend of a sacred hot spring that cures 40,000 ("Yonman," which can also be read as "Shima" when written in Chinese characters) diseases, and as the name suggests, the waters have healed many people. Many unique experiences await, such as amazing views, the quaint townscape and a variety of activities. Lake...

Located in Gunma Prefecture, Kusatsu Onsen is one of Japan's best three hot springs and constantly ranks as the top hot spring resort destination. At the center of the quaint resort town is the Yubatake (hot spring field), the symbol of Kusatsu. Day-trip visitors can also enjoy the large outdoor bath in Sai-no-Kawara Park.

Founded in 1697, Shorinzan Daruma-ji Temple is the home of Takasaki Daruma dolls, traditional round dolls used to make wishes in Japan. On the temple premises, you can find stacks of Daruma dolls that have been brought there, as they have fulfilled their duties. Experience making your very own Daruma by drawing in the eyebrows and mustache with a paint brush.