The ultimate reason to why the area of Hiruzen is so cool compared to other parts of Western Japan is the altitude of where this place is located along with all the mountain ranges and dense forests which help block off rays from the sun.

In summer, in central Japan, such temperatures are normal. Perhaps even more stifling than the heat, however, is the humidity. Even a simple walk to the local convenience store can leave you drenched in sweat and gasping for breath. Or, maybe I just need to work out more!

The overall ambience of Okayama City seems to have become decidedly more cosmopolitan since I lived there. And this is absolutely a positive step forward for the city. As one of the perceived “less interesting” prefectures in Japan for foreign tourists, there was plenty of evidence on show of a clear and concerted effort by the City of Okayama to engage with tourists and found out what attracts them to the area.

Kurashiki is one of the most beautiful places in Japan, and yet remains unknown to many people.

Buying jeans in a shopping mall is a common thing; buying jeans from a jeans city is a whole new experience.

“I think this whole organic thing is nonsense,” I told my lady friend, “but hey, it’ll be nice to spend a weekend away from the busy city for a change.”

One of the most pleasant surprises to emerge from my countryside break was to be introduced to some of Japan’s most beautiful, creative and inspiring works of traditional, hand-made art.

Scroll down to read the cherished moments out of 10 years of living in Japan as Liam shares his personal best.

Interested in art? Nature? or Both? There is a perfect trip for you: Setouchi Triennale. An outdoor contemporary art exhibition, Setouchi Triennale, which was launched in 2010, is held for its third time, this year, on the islands of Setouchi in south-western part of Japan. More information just a click away!

In the hot and humid Japanese summer it is nice to find ways to escape the heat. A trip to a beautiful natural limestone Makido cave in Okayama prefecture is a great choice for a day trip! Pack your bags, summer is here, let's escape.

The longer we stayed and further we went, the more old-fashioned I thought Okayama Prefecture was. Little did I know, it was the most fun rural experience of my life!

One of my first experiences of rural Japanese life, and both the attributes and limitations thereof, came in 2008 when I made the move from the bright lights, glitz and glamour of Tokyo, to the gentle farmlands of rural Okayama.