CULTURE
Pentagrams and Boulder Gods: Japan’s Shrines That Break the Mold
A boulder as an object of worship. A "breakup shrine" that's a stone covered in papers. Meet the Shinto shrines that defy…
yamanashi prefecture
CULTURE
TRAVEL
Japan May Charge for Mt. Fuji Rescues. But Tourists Aren’t the Real Problem
Shizuoka Prefecture considers the measure as more inbound tourists than ever find themselves in distress during the off-season. But are inbound travelers…
TRAVEL
Tourists to Japan Are Tossing Coins into These Ponds. That’s a No-No
Officials are worried about the environmental impact after tourists dumped 18,000 coins into the ponds in 2025, despite clearly posted signs.
TRAVEL
Japan’s Best Mountain Towns for a Peaceful Getaway
Want to get away from it all on your trip to Japan? We ranked the best mountain towns that offer culture without…
TRAVEL
More Foreign Tourists Are Causing Traffic Accidents Around Mt. Fuji
There are more tourists than ever in Yamanashi Prefecture - and they're setting a new record for traffic accidents.
INSIDER
What Happened to “The Harajuku of the Plateau”?
It was the home to the father of American Football in Japan. Now, its downtown is largely abandoned. What happened?
TRAVEL
Japan’s Musical Roads Give Tourists a Lyrical Treat
How musical roads in Japan came about - and where to find the most scenic ones with a Japanese pop culture connection.
TRAVEL
Yamanashi, Shizuoka May Charge Stranded Mt. Fuji Hikers for Helicopter Costs
As more people require rescue from the mountain during the off-season, both prefectures contemplate responding to public outcry.