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From time to time, the Hotel Intercontinental Tokyo Bay offers some amazing themed concept rooms available to stay in – for instance, late last year they debuted a Frozen-themed room, perfect for fans of the popular Disney movies. This summer, the hotel has opted for a mermaid design, and all of the little details are thoughtfully considered.
The overall color scheme of the mermaid room is a stunning emerald green, inspired by cooling lagoon waters. With decor accents like sparkly mermaid scale blankets, dried sea fan coral, and seashell-shaped cushions, the room is designed to make you feel as if you've been transported to a world under the sea. If that wasn't enough, the view from the room is also water-themed, looking out over the picturesque Tokyo Bay.
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The mermaid concept room offers both four hour “day stay” plans that come with afternoon tea, or overnight accommodation plans for those who would like to enjoy the space for a longer period..

Occupying a northwest corner of the southern island of Kyushu, Saga Prefecture has coasts facing both the Sea of Japan and the Ariake Sea and is famous for Arita porcelain as well as its excellent seafood.
Browse & Book a hotel in Saga
1. Saga Castle History Museum
Photo courtesy of Saga Prefecture Tourism Federation
This museum showcases Saga’s attractiveness and energy during the fall of the Tokugawa Shogunate, a time in history that paved the way for Japan's modernization.
Photo courtesy of Saga Prefecture Tourism Federation
Saga Castle History Museum is a faithful reconstruction of a part of Saga Castle's honmaru (main keep), which existed here during the end of the Edo Period. It boasts a status as one of the largest wooden reconstructions in Japan. The building is surrounded by historical scenes such as a tenshudai, moat, and Shachi no Mon, or Killer Whale Gate, which is a designated Important Cultural Property of Japan.
Photo courtesy of Saga Prefecture Tourism Federat..

Hokkaido is located in the northernmost part of Japan, and is home to some little-known magical photo spots. Namely, the torii gates that stand in the beautiful sea.
You may be familiar with some famous floating torii, such as Itsukushima Shrine in Hiroshima Prefecture, and Shirahige Shrine in Shiga Prefecture. But did you know there were some in Hokkaido, as well?
The floating torii gates in the towns of Shosanbetsu and Esashi have garnered quite a bit of attention on social media over the last few years. The towns of Okushiri, Rishiri, and Yoichi are also home to some rather unusual floating torii that have been secretly growing in popularity, as well.
But now, the secret is out as we introduce some little-known Hokkaido spots known for their magnificent views.
Above photo courtesy of Yoichi Tourism Association
What is a Torii? The meaning and purpose of torii gates
The towering torii of Itsukushima Shrine, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, located in Miyajima, Hiroshima Pr..

These dreamy Hokkaido lavender fields seem to take over Instagram every summer! They are a massive draw for tourists from around the world. The Furano flower fields, complete with breathtaking waves of lavender, are among the region's most popular.
Starting with the world-famous Farm Tomita, we will share inside tips on how to see the Furano flower fields, plus details on the lavender blooming season so you can get the best photos during your Hokkaido trip.
This summer, make these Hokkaido flower farms part of your itinerary! Don't miss the lavender-covered hills – become enveloped in the refreshing scent drifting softly in the breeze!
▲One of the charms of the Furano flower fields district is that you can view the majestic landscapes and flower fields from several locations!
1. Farm Tomita Flower Fields: The Holy Land of Hokkaido Lavender Fields
Farm Tomita revived the declining lavender cultivation in the Furano region and pioneered that established lavender tourism. Now it..

When arriving in Japan, many make a beeline straight for Osaka. With its vibrant gourmet scene and bustling shopping centers, it’s easy to see why! To help you find the best of the city, we present our first timer's guide broken down by sightseeing, food, shopping, and hotels. Osaka’s awaits!
Top 10 Fun Things to do in Dotonbori Osaka According to Die-Hard Fans!
A lively, fun, and delicious spot, Dotonbori is one of Osaka's most prominent downtown areas. The area overflows with attractions and entertainment not found anywhere else in Japan. There's plenty to see, and even more to eat!
From classic attractions to hidden experiences, here are the top 10 things to do in Dotonbori, as recommended by a die-hard Osaka fan.
Top 10 Fun Things to do in Dotonbori Osaka According to Die-Hard Fans!
Low-Budget Travel: 10 Fun Free Things to do in Osaka!
Osaka is packed with free experiences and sightseeing perfect for the traveler on a budget. From ancient temples to tranquil parks, w..

I’m drenched in sweat from riding all day. I’m pedaling as fast as I can towards the light at the end of a dark tunnel when a cool afternoon breeze hits me, and I finally see Lake Kawaguchi’s vibrant, deep blue colors. I let out a triumphant whoop as the road turns downhill.

Then, I stand up in my seat and let gravity do the rest as a sunset baths Fujisan in a red glow. “So, this is the Fujigoko (Fuji Five Lakes) cycling adventure,” I think. This is my experience cycling around the iconic Mount Fuji and how you can do it too.

Starting at Lake Kawaguchi
Photo: iStock/ Dragonite_EastThe morning scenery at Kawaguchiko.
When I arrived in Fujikawaguchiko, I stayed at Hana Hostel and was welcomed by Hana and her family. In the morning, I ate a hearty energy-supplying breakfast, loaded up complimentary snacks, rented a bike from Hana and started down the hill towards Lake Kawaguchi.

The roads in town did give me some slight trepidation at the prospect of crashing into someone on the narrow..

The number of foreign tourists visiting the city of Sapporo is increasing. In addition to various events held throughout the year, such as the Snow Festival and the YOSAKOI Soran Festival, the city has many other tourist attractions.
Here, one of our local writers introduces sightseeing spots in the Sapporo city area that you can visit in a single day!
1.10:00 – Visit the Sapporo Clock Tower2.11:00 – Stroll around Odori Park3.12:00 – Visit Sapporo TV Tower4.13:00 – Gourmet seafood lunch at Nijo Market5.14:30 – Go to the Shiroi Koibito Park, a good place for Instagram photos6.16:30 – Tea time at the popular cafe FAbULOUS in Soseigawa East7.18:30 – Take in the night view from Mt. Moiwa8.20:00 – Enjoy Hokkaido delicacies & local sake in Susukino1.10:00 – Visit the Sapporo Clock Tower
The Clock Tower, a proud historical Sapporo landmark, was built in 1878 as a demonstration hall of Sapporo Agricultural School, which was the predecessor of Hokkaido University. Three years after its constru..

Miyagi Prefecture is home to one of the world’s top three fishing spots – the Kinkasan-Sanriku fishing grounds. Not far away is the capital city of Sendai, and as you might imagine, the incredibly fresh and beautiful seafood is a must-try when visiting the area!
A recommended seafood shop near Sendai Station is Osakana Center Ichinoichi. It’s usually packed with visitors as it offers top-quality seafood at unbelievably reasonable prices! And of course, many visitors can't help but share it with their socials. Here we will introduce their popular seafood bowl that overflows with toppings.
Osakana Center Ichinoichi: Enjoy a variety-filled seafood bowl right by Sendai Station
Once you exit Sendai Station’s West Exit on the second floor, make your way towards Hotel Metropolitan Sendai on your left. From here, walk down the stairs of the pedestrian deck.
After leaving Sendai Station’s West Exit and taking a left at Hotel Metropolitan Sendai, Osakana Center Ichinoichi can be found a mer..

When visiting Kyoto, many tourists like to rent a kimono or yukata and spend a day strolling around the historical sights.
In Kyoto, you can immerse yourself in Japan’s history and culture. This sightseeing mainstay offers traditional townscapes, and a unique atmosphere only found in temples and shrines.
Strolling around dressed in kimono will let you take your visit a step further and create a wonderful memory. Here, we will introduce 11 affordable kimono rental shops in Kyoto to make your dream a reality.
Main photo: Kyoto Aiwafuku Fushimi Inari
What to know before renting a kimono in Kyoto
Whether you're renting a kimono in Tokyo, Kyoto, or anywhere else in Japan, there are a few things to know before you go.
1. The price is mainly based on the outfit selection, accessories, how long you'll rent the kimono for, and package add-ons.
2. It typically doesn't take a lot of time to be fitted in a kimono. However, if you choose a plan that includes hair styling, it may ta..