Yagiyama Beny Land is a metropolitan amusement park located in Yagiyama, next to Yagiyama Zoological Park. It is a compact park equipped with about 30 attractions from thrill rides to family rides.

From 2012 to 2014, more than 12 cafes opened in this lesser known part of town.

Like all Japanese cuisine, Nagano foods are based upon using the most fresh and simple ingredients of the season. Typical dishes are made from what Nagano people find fresh and local at the markets making many of them very unique. Surrounded with Japan Alps, Nagano is known for the fresh produce from the mountains such as buckwheat, honey and wasabi (they even have a few bold meals like grasshoppers and bee larvae). During my last Nagano visit, I had a wonderful chance to try some of these specialties.

Zao is a complex volcano located on the border of Yamagata and Miyagi Prefectures. During the summer season, it becomes a great place to explore and play. The mountain is a winter destination for most people, however, Zao is like other tourist attractions in Japan; you can visit the place enjoying its seasonal beauty throughout the year.

Matsushima, noted for its scenic variety, is one of the 'Three Most Scenic Views of Japan' along with Amanohashidate in Kyoto and Itsukushima Shrine of Hiroshima.

Sendai is the capital city of Miyagi Prefecture and the largest city in the Tohoku region. From museums to mausoleums, from gyutan to kokeshi, this is how I spent my day in Sendai.

To some, viewing cherry blossoms at a cemetery is somewhat bizarre. However, to the Japanese sakura symbolizes life and short lived beauty. It is so fragile that it reaches its peak fast and disappears fast. It reminds us that every beginning has an end and that life is beautiful yet very short.

The weather in Japan is generally temperate with distinctive four seasons. People celebrate abundant seasonal produce to get the most of the flavor, the best value and nutrition.

Bento is a meal in a box. The traditional Japanese bento usually consists of rice and fish or meat with some vegetable. It is one of Japan's most famous contributions to global food culture.

Nagatoro is conveniently accessible from the capital, both by public transportation and by car. This is an excellent destination for day trippers from Tokyo who have limited time and still want to enjoy some attractive natural spot.

At less than 2 hours from the heart of the bustling Tokyo is situated the magnificent Mitake Mountain, the most renowned sightseeing spot in the Okutama region that clings to the upstream of Tama-gawa River.

It’s amazing how approximately 7,000 fireworks festivals are performed in Japan during its short summer. The festival is a beautiful summer tradition where local residents dressed up in colorful yukata (casual cotton kimono) and enjoyed the famous short-lived beauty with friends and family.