So if you’re a fan of skiing, or snow in general, but don’t have the money or thermals for Hokkaido, then here are five great ski destinations that can be easily reached from Tokyo.

The weapon, the naginata, is probably best described as a cross between a staff and a sword. It became a symbol of female empowerment and the protective role of the Japanese mother and wife in the art and culture of the time.

A lot of tourists in Japan often go to temples and shrines or visit popular landmarks. However, there is so much more Japan can offer aside from these typical tourist spots. If you are traveling for adventure then here are some exciting activities that you may go and try in your next trip in Japan.

What hasn’t as of yet been given such wide-ranging coverage in either the local or international press so far is the variety of opportunities that the Tokyo Olympiad offer for foreigners both in and outside Japan to further their careers as they help with the Olympic effort.

The Kodokan is a massive eight-story building in downtown Tokyo, where judoka from all over the world call home.

That is why I am recommending everyone go to a great amusement store where we can play all we can to our hearts content for a price as low as 1500 JPY!

Oboke Gorge, deep in the secluded mountains of Tokushima and Kochi, has some of the clearest waters in Japan. The winding stretch of the Yoshino River has a rocky bottom that the bright blue-green water runs through creating—given ideal weather—an incredible rafting experience.

My experience attending a Japanese baseball game, where the lowly Chunichi Dragons (Nagoya) faced off against the mighty Yomiyuri Giants (Tokyo).

The May Grand Sumo Tournament is coming soon and now is a most pivotal time for Japanese sumo since it is the first time in 19 years a reentering Japanese national has received the rank of grand champion (yokuzuna). Will he win the title again?

If you live in Japan and love sports, you might be eagerly searching for a group that plays the same sport you love. This is how Mark found his.

Minakami has several good skifields. NORN is perhaps the most accessible. Leave Tokyo after breakfast and be skiing at 10 am.

Next time when you pay a visit to this wonderland, please take a note!