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JAPAN RAIL CLUB Blog | Travel Tips, News, Insights

Featured Article

Pick Your Own Fruits at JR Fruits Park Sendai Arahama!

Wondering where to go to enjoy fruit picking? Make JR Fruits Park Sendai Arahama your choice, and enjoy the best…

Hokkaidō Region

Hokkaidō, Japan’s northernmost island, is famous for its breathtaking natural landscapes and outdoor activities. Known for its stunning national parks, including Shiretoko and Daisetsuzan, Hokkaidō offers opportunities for skiing in winter and flower viewing in summer. The region is also renowned for its fresh seafood, dairy products, and unique cuisine. Visitors can explore Sapporo’s vibrant city life or relax in hot springs while enjoying the island’s rich cultural heritage.

Prefectures of Hokkaidō

Hokkaidō

Tōhoku Region

The Tōhoku region in northern Honshu is celebrated for its stunning natural scenery and rich cultural traditions. Known for beautiful landscapes that change with the seasons—such as cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant autumn leaves—Tōhoku offers outdoor activities like hiking in national parks. Key attractions include the historic city of Sendai and Matsushima Bay’s scenic islands. The region is also famous for its local festivals, delicious regional dishes like gyutan (grilled beef tongue), and traditional crafts such as Kokeshi dolls.

Prefectures of Tōhoku

Akita

Aomori

Fukushima

Iwate

Miyagi

Yamagata

Kantō Region

The Kantō region encompasses Tokyo and its surrounding prefectures, making it one of Japan’s most populous areas. It features a mix of urban excitement and historical sites, from the bustling streets of Shibuya to the serene gardens of the Imperial Palace. The region is known for its traditional crafts, such as Edo kiriko glassware and Saitama’s handmade dolls. With excellent transportation links, Kantō serves as a gateway to explore both modern attractions and rich cultural heritage.

Prefectures of Kantō

Chiba

Gunma

Ibaraki

Kanagawa

Saitama

Tochigi

Tokyo

Chūbu Region

The Chūbu region, located in central Honshu, is characterized by its diverse landscapes, including the majestic Japanese Alps and the iconic Mount Fuji. This region is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, offering excellent hiking in summer and world-class skiing in winter. Chūbu is also home to rich cultural heritage, with historic sites such as Takayama’s old town and the traditional craft of Miso production. Visitors can enjoy regional delicacies, including fresh seafood from the Sea of Japan and local sake.

Prefectures of Chūbu

Aichi

Fukui

Gifu

Ishikawa

Nagano

Niigata

Shizuoka

Toyama

Yamanashi

Kansai Region

The Kansai region, often regarded as the cultural heart of Japan, includes historic cities such as Kyoto, Osaka, and Nara. This area is known for its rich traditions, including tea ceremonies, kaiseki cuisine, and performing arts like Noh and Kabuki. Visitors can explore iconic landmarks such as Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) in Kyoto or enjoy the bustling atmosphere of Dotonbori in Osaka. Kansai’s diverse culinary offerings and vibrant festivals make it a must-visit destination.

Prefectures of Kansai

Hyōgo

Kyoto

Mie

Nara

Osaka

Shiga

Wakayama

Chūgoku Region

The Chūgoku region in western Honshu is known for its stunning natural beauty and rich history. It features picturesque coastlines along the Seto Inland Sea, majestic mountains, and tranquil rural landscapes. Key attractions include the historic city of Hiroshima, famous for its Peace Memorial Park, and Okayama’s Korakuen Garden. The region is also celebrated for its traditional arts, such as Bizen pottery, and delicious cuisine, including fresh seafood and local sake from Saijo.

Prefectures of Chūgoku

Hiroshima

Okayama

Shimane

Tottori

Yamaguchi

Shikoku Region

Shikoku, the smallest of Japan’s four main islands, is renowned for its natural beauty and spiritual heritage. It is home to the famous Shikoku Pilgrimage, which includes 88 temples associated with the Buddhist monk Kukai (Kobo Daishi). Visitors can explore stunning landscapes such as the Iya Valley and enjoy fresh seafood along the coast. Shikoku’s charming towns offer a glimpse into traditional Japanese life with local crafts and delicious cuisine.

Prefectures of Shikoku

Ehime

Kagawa

Kōchi

Tokushima

Kyūshū Region

Kyūshū, Japan’s southernmost main island, is known for its volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and vibrant culture. Key attractions include Mount Aso’s active volcanoes and the historic city of Nagasaki with its unique blend of Japanese and Western influences. Kyūshū is famous for its delicious cuisine, including tonkotsu ramen from Fukuoka and fresh seafood from Kagoshima. The region also hosts numerous festivals celebrating local traditions throughout the year.

Prefectures of Kyūshū

Fukuoka

Kagoshima

Kumamoto

Miyazaki

Nagasaki

Ōita

Okinawa

Saga

Seasons

Browse through our articles based on Japan’s four seasons, featuring everything from the fleeting beauty of cherry blossoms to the frosty wonder of snow monsters!
6 mins

Pick Your Own Fruits at JR Fruits Park Sendai Arahama!

Wondering where to go to enjoy fruit picking? Make JR Fruits Park Sendai Arahama your choice, and enjoy the best…
9 May 2025
7 mins

Ready for Adventure: 3 Must-Visit Events in Osaka for Monster Hunter Fans in 2025

It has never been a better time to be a Monster Hunter fan than in 2025! Hot off the celebrations…

21 April 2025
7 mins

Maker’s Story: Hanami-Perfect Snacks by Sakurado from Niigata

Japan’s long-awaited spring time is here! To celebrate the season, our JAPAN RAIL CLUB’s April 2025 Omiyage Snack Box is…
7 April 2025
4 mins

JR News: New 10-Day JR EAST PASS (Tohoku area) Announced, Starting May 15

TOKYO—On 20 February 2025, the East Japan Railway Company (JR East) announced that they will be releasing a new 10-day…

21 February 2025
8 mins

Follow Me, Minami! Discover Izu Through the Eyes of JR East Staff

In this season of love, I thought I should share five of my personal recommendations in the beautiful area of…
8 mins

Stamp Rallies: A Fun and Unique Way to Explore Japan by Train

Japan’s railway system is a marvel of efficiency, and its stations, particularly those in major cities like Tokyo and Osaka,…

13 February 2025
21 mins

Sakura Trails: A 10-Day Sakura-Hopping Itinerary in Tohoku

Cherry blossom season in Japan is a magical time, drawing visitors from around the world to witness the ephemeral beauty…

14 April 2025
7 mins

5 Sakura Spots to Visit in Fukushima in April

Greetings from Fukushima! We are staff from JR East, and are thrilled to finally welcome the arrival of Spring after…

7 mins

Honey, Honey: Why Japanese Honey is A Must-Try Treat

Japan is a country renowned for its culinary excellence, appreciation of natural flavours, and deep-rooted traditions in agriculture and craftsmanship….

2 April 2025
6 mins

Ume-zing! 5 Yummy Ways to Enjoy Japanese Plum

Japan is renowned for its breathtaking cherry blossoms (桜 sakura) from mid-March to early May, but before sakura season arrives,…

6 March 2025
14 mins

Amazing Azumino: Top 9 Things to Do in Nagano’s Countryside

Nestled at the base of the Northern Alps in Nagano Prefecture (長野県), Azumino (安曇野) is a picturesque region renowned for…
18 October 2024
6 mins

Experience Tokyo Old and New: 3 Spots to Visit While Wearing a Yukata!

Hello! I am Elisa, a second year university student from Tokyo. When thinking of Tokyo, you might think that there…

3 September 2024
8 mins

10 Must-Try Japanese Fruits and Where You Can Find Them! Part Two: Sweet Summer Vibes

In part one of this series, we checked out some of the amazing golden fruits you can try in Japan,…

5 May 2025
7 mins

10 Must-Try Japanese Fruits and Where You Can Find Them! Part One: Golden Harvest

Japan is known for its rich culture, picturesque landscapes, and mouthwatering gourmet delights. Beyond ramen and sake, the country is…

5 May 2025
10 mins

A Journey to Remember: 3D2N Solo Climbing Mount Shirouma

Nestled on the border of Nagano Prefecture and Toyama Prefecture, the Three Mountains of Hakuba (白馬三山 Hakuba Sanzan)—Mount Shirouma (白馬岳),…

6 January 2025
6 mins

Vineyard Voyages: Grape-Harvesting and Wine-Tasting in Japan

Japan may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about wine, but it boasts a burgeoning…
21 October 2024
6 mins

Kanto’s Coastal Charms: 3 Beaches to Visit Near Tokyo!

Whether you’re looking to relax on soft sands, enjoy water sports like surfing, or explore scenic coastal landscapes, these beaches…
24 September 2024
6 mins

Experience Tokyo Old and New: 3 Spots to Visit While Wearing a Yukata!

Hello! I am Elisa, a second year university student from Tokyo. When thinking of Tokyo, you might think that there…

3 September 2024
14 mins

Explore Gokayama: Homestay and Cultural Retreat in Japan’s Historic Village

Gokayama seems to live under the shadows of its more popular cousin Shirakawago, but if you value tranquility and untouched…
31 March 2025
5 mins

Maker’s Story: Premium Japanese Chestnuts from Kasama Kuri Factory

Kasama Kuri Factory (笠間栗ファクトリー) is a specialty maker dedicated to crafting chestnut-based products using the highest quality Kasama chestnuts in…
19 November 2024
7 mins

Autumn in Ibaraki: Enjoy Kochia, Seasonal Blooms at Hitachi Seaside Park

Explore one of Japan’s most popular flower parks, beloved by locals! Hitachi Seaside Park is a national treasure, adored not…
13 November 2024
4 mins

5 Must-Visit Spots Near Mount Fuji as Recommended by JR East Staff

Hello from Otsuki Station, the gateway to Mount Fuji from Shinjuku! Visiting East Japan this autumn? Here are five of…
6 mins

Vineyard Voyages: Grape-Harvesting and Wine-Tasting in Japan

Japan may not be the first place that comes to mind when thinking about wine, but it boasts a burgeoning…
21 October 2024
9 mins

Shizuoka Green Tea: Uncovering the Secrets of Japan’s Tea Capital

Shizuoka, alongside Uji and Kagoshima, stands out as one of Japan’s premier green tea producing regions, responsible for around 40%…
20 May 2024
14 mins

Explore Gokayama: Homestay and Cultural Retreat in Japan’s Historic Village

Gokayama seems to live under the shadows of its more popular cousin Shirakawago, but if you value tranquility and untouched…
31 March 2025
8 mins

Follow Me, Minami! Discover Izu Through the Eyes of JR East Staff

In this season of love, I thought I should share five of my personal recommendations in the beautiful area of…
8 mins

Discover the Magic of Winter in Akita: Snow Monsters, Onsen, & More!

From hidden onsen villages to local Akita cuisine, discover the magic of winter in Akita, as recommended by JR East…
5 mins

Yamagata: Your Gateway to Zao Onsen, Home to Japan’s Snow Monsters!

Are you visiting the Tohoku area in early February 2025? Good newsーwe would like to welcome you to join us…
9 mins

New Year in Akita: 6 Snowiest Winter Festivals to Visit in 2025!

Celebrate the New Year in Akita with the region’s snowy winter festivals! In this article, we’ll delve into six of…
14 January 2025
5 mins

New Year in Akita: How Akita Locals Celebrate Oshogatsu

Celebrate the New Year in Akita as the locals do! From a torii gate by the lake to the iconic…

Interest

6 mins

Pick Your Own Fruits at JR Fruits Park Sendai Arahama!

Wondering where to go to enjoy fruit picking? Make JR Fruits Park Sendai Arahama your choice, and enjoy the best…
9 May 2025
8 mins

10 Must-Try Japanese Fruits and Where You Can Find Them! Part Two: Sweet Summer Vibes

In part one of this series, we checked out some of the amazing golden fruits you can try in Japan,…

5 May 2025
7 mins

10 Must-Try Japanese Fruits and Where You Can Find Them! Part One: Golden Harvest

Japan is known for its rich culture, picturesque landscapes, and mouthwatering gourmet delights. Beyond ramen and sake, the country is…

5 May 2025
7 mins

Ready for Adventure: 3 Must-Visit Events in Osaka for Monster Hunter Fans in 2025

It has never been a better time to be a Monster Hunter fan than in 2025! Hot off the celebrations…

21 April 2025
21 mins

Sakura Trails: A 10-Day Sakura-Hopping Itinerary in Tohoku

Cherry blossom season in Japan is a magical time, drawing visitors from around the world to witness the ephemeral beauty…

14 April 2025
7 mins

5 Sakura Spots to Visit in Fukushima in April

Greetings from Fukushima! We are staff from JR East, and are thrilled to finally welcome the arrival of Spring after…

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