The Sunflowers of Hokuryu

Staying at a ryokan is a true experience when travelling in Japan.A ryokan is a Japanese inn where guests sleep on futons — thick and soft — laid out on tatami mats only in the evening before bedtime, in the same room where the low table once stood for dining.Only those seeking authenticity should attempt the experience, as it remains fairly rustic. That said, ryokans come ...

The villages of Japan's subtropical islands are small treasures, tucked between pristine beaches and lush tropical forests. Their charm lies in their authenticity: traditional tile-roofed houses, quiet lanes and carefully tended gardens that give the impression time has stood still. As you wander, you can admire local crafts — pottery, textiles, traditional objects — and meet ...

OSAKA Like its big sister Tokyo, Osaka is the product of ancestral traditions and flawless technological innovation — with an extra touch of serenity owed to its location along the Pacific coast. You'll feel that sense of calm the moment you first set eyes on Osaka Castle, standing proudly amid majestic skyscrapers. And it won't leave you, whether amid the ...