The Seto Inland Sea is a body of calm water that lies between the Japanese main islands of Honshu, Shikoku and Kyushu, stretching for 490 kilometers from Osaka to Kitakyushu. The Seto Inland Sea includes about 3000 islands – many of which are inhabited – blessed by a mild climate and a relaxed atmosphere, often...
Here at Heartland Japan, we pride ourselves on going that little bit deeper than everyone else. This time we hone our focus on some of the quirkier histories of Nakatsugawa, home to several post towns of the Nakasendo. In particular, we will look into the Naegi Castle Ruins and local kabuki theatre, known as jikabuki....
Samurai! Many places throughout Japan claim to have a strong samurai history, but looking at the history of the Owari domain (present day Aichi) and nearby Kiso Valley which they controlled, one can truly feel why this area was such a pivotal location throughout Japanese history, and thus, a place that bred strong samurai. First...
In southeast Gifu prefecture, the city of Nakatsugawa is a historical gem on the Nakasendo road. Too many travelers pass through without realizing what they are missing. Here are 6 little known reasons to hike from Nakatsugawa to Magome on the Nakasendo road. This hike passes through three old post towns. You can see rice...
As we all welcome in the new year, the whole tourism industry looks forward to a safe recovery after the tumultuous year that was 2020. While there appears to be a light at the end of the tunnel for the pandemic situation, it is still unclear how and when travel will return to normal. No...
Watching stunning rural scenery fly past your window as you cut through the Japanese countryside on a train or in a car may be enjoyable, but here at Heartland Japan we strongly believe that there’s no better way to witness your surroundings than by fully immersing yourself in them. That’s why our package and custom...
It’s often said that Japan is particularly noteworthy for its distinct and varied four seasons, each bringing a stark change in not only temperature and weather, but also in seasonal produce, flora and traditions as well. For this reason, the season during which you travel to Japan can have a considerable influence on what sort...
Japanese people are very proud of many things that come from their country, and the concept of ‘omotenashi’ – identified as ‘hospitality – is most certainly one of them. While ‘omotenashi’ may translate best as ‘hospitality’, its true meaning is far deeper and more detailed. Omotenashi is a way of life in Japan, focussed on...
Some holidays are easy to pack for. Two weeks of sun, sea and sand requires sun cream, sunglasses and a swimsuit. A winter break to a ski resort calls for gloves, thermal layers and waterproof clothing. A trip to Japan, however, can be a little bit difficult preparation-wise. Your clothing choices will need to consider...
Have you heard of matcha? From cosmetics to frappuccinos and everything in between, the health benefits of Japan’s iconic green tea has helped it to become a firm favourite across the world. While matcha may be a new concept to you, the rich-green powder made from ground tea leaves has actually been popular in Japan...
From tribal designs and ancient runes to meaningful lyrics and memorable dates, chances are high that either you or someone close to you has at least one tattoo. These special, personal artistic adornments are incredibly popular in the West and have become increasingly common in modern years, yet there are still many countries and groups...
Ornately-dressed women, discrete well-off businessmen, art, performance and slavery… The stories that surround Japan’s historic red-light districts may seem more like movie plotlines than anything else, but the truth of what occurred in these secretive streets inspired an important cultural legacy that continues even to this day. Yoshiwara If you’ve ever watched the cult-classic 1927...
