Grab your swimsuit and towel and follow us as we check out some of the best water parks to be found in the Greater Tokyo Area.

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!

Below, I’ve outlined a simple itinerary you can follow to make the most out your day in Yufuin, and a couple of options for you to do without lost time and hassle associated with changing hotels and dragging you suitcases (literally) halfway across the country.

If you are looking to experience something a little different without the expense of a world trip, check out these fantastic tourist destinations that offer you the chance to travel the world without breaking the bank.

Entering the elevated gardens, one is instantly confronted by the robust clouds of green surrounding the elegant reddish stone building, now housing the Otani Art Museum, which reflects English aristocratic homes. It was originally the residence of Meiji-era politician Mutsu Munemitsu (1844-1897), whose son was adopted into the Furukawa family.

While many visitors are content to enjoy the sights in and around major tourist destinations, others are drawn to the allure of “next-level” experiences. JR Kyushu's Seven Stars Cruise Train offers this kind of unforgettable experience, pushing train travel to new heights of sophistication and luxury.

Japanese temples and shrines are not just beautiful to look at they’re also a chance to take part in some of Japan’s traditional and cultural activities. Though the Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines do have some differences, the activities themselves are quite similar. Here are 5 different activities you can partake in at either a temple or a shrine.

My friends and relatives visiting Japan always ask me this one question before visiting: should I rent a car? It really depends on which part of Japan you are visiting, but in general, unless you are visiting a major city like Tokyo and Osaka and planning to stay in the city throughout your trip, there are many benefits to having a car to travel in when you are here.

Niigata City is the biggest city in Niigata prefecture, the city is bordered by the Sea of Japan and is an exciting place to visit. An extremely underrated part of Japan with a mixture of the old and modern parts of Japanese history. This blend makes it a sight to behold with much to see and do. I decided to see for myself what was on offer in Niigata by taking a bus tour.

Okinawa always brings people the lovely imagine of a blue clear ocean. Many tourists both from within and outside the country visit Okinawa every year to enjoy the time in the water. What if you want to see more ocean life? Or you are visiting during a season not suitable to swim? Or, if you are someone like me, what if you cannot swim?

But Omiya is more than just a gateway between differing versions of Japan. Omiya is quintessential Japan. With shrines dating back thousands of years to being the centre of bonsai culture, the city is a rich treasure trove of art, culture and history.

That also means that eating fruit as part of a daily, balanced diet is not a Japanese custom. What you may have grown up thinking of as an after school snack, in Japan is a delicacy, reserved at first only for the noble class, and later for special ceremonial meals like weddings and funerals.