Turn imagination into reality… Japan awaits.
The perfect cup of matcha. The ancient art of Ikebana flower arranging. The fantastical worlds of anime. Inspiration of Japan surrounds us… but there’s nothing quite like the real thing.
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Tour the Slopes of Japan
The mountains of Japan are calling to those who ski and snowboard. Deep powder beckons winter sports enthusiasts from around the world — offering the best of Japan’s beloved snow season. With over 500 resorts and an average of 500 inches of annual snowfall, Japan is a dream destination.
Learning Ikebana, The Art of Japanese Flower Arrangements
Japan’s annual cherry blossom festival is iconic, but the country is also famous for something else floral: Ikebana, the art of Japanese flower arrangements. The practice started in the sixth century when Buddhism was first introduced to Japan and has since become secular and seen as a form of living artwork. However, it’s more than creating a Pinterest-worthy flower arrangement. Ikebana is meant to be a spiritual process of bringing the outside in, and you can learn the process at schools and workshops throughout Japan.
Thing To Wear: The History of the Kimono
To the citizens of Japan, the graceful folds of this wrapped silk garment hold significantly more meaning than just any wardrobe item. Although the literal translation is “thing to wear,” the kimono remains a beloved part of Japanese heritage and an icon within clothing design.
The Colorful History of Emojis
When it comes to etiquette at the dinner table, Japan has its own unique traditions.The best thing you can do to prepare yourself is to come ready to learn with an open mind and humble attitude.
Japanese Dining 101
When it comes to etiquette at the dinner table, Japan has its own unique traditions.The best thing you can do to prepare yourself is to come ready to learn with an open mind and humble attitude.
Explorers
Need some trip itinerary inspiration? From snowboarding in Hokkaido to discovering the best coffee shops in and around Tokyo, check out what our ANA partners experienced during their past travels to Japan.
Discover Kyoto: Preserver of Japanese History
For more than 1,000 years, Kyōto served as Japan’s official capital — housing emperors and government buildings — making literal its meaning of “capital city.” Part of the “Kyōto fu” prefecture, Kyōto today is the nation’s cultural capital. With its preserved architecture, intact city planning from 794, UNESCO World Heritage Sites and vibrant history, Kyōto preserves Japanese culture for its citizens and global travelers alike.
The Joy of Japanese Souvenirs
Shoppers adore retail epicenters like London, New York and Paris and will quickly fall in love with Tokyo. As the second largest market in Asia, travelers will discover a wide variety of options from cool indie boutiques to vast department stores tempting with a bounty of souvenirs such as budget-friendly keepsakes, handcrafted traditional treasures and contemporary creations.
Here’s What Hotels Around The World Can Learn From Japanese Ryokans
As with many words in Japanese, the translation of omotenashi means one thing, but the actual meaning goes much deeper. Omotenashi, or “hospitality,” is an all-encompassing approach to service while expecting nothing in return.
Experience Kyushu’s Rich Culture
For those seeking a vacation spent tasting unique culinary creations, exploring nature and being immersed in Japanese culture, Kyushu is the ideal destination. Rich in history, this corner of Japan is ripe for both relaxation and exploration.
Omotenashi: how I experienced the warm hospitality of Japan
I stood in front of the Tokyo Metro map, slowly following the twists and turns of the brightly-colored metro map lines. I knew where I was. I knew what station I wanted, but I wasn’t certain how to get there.
How Far Would You Go to See a Work of Art?
In search of an elusive modern work of art situated in a remote part of Japan, I traveled for over 22 hours by air, landing in Tokyo and continuing on to Fukuoka airport. There I took a subway ride to Hakata Station where I jumped on the sonic express train to Usa in Ōita Prefecture. Finally, we took a short drive to a lakeside park and began our hike.
