From island-hopping in southerly Okinawa to farm experiences in rural Aomori and skiing in far northern Hokkaido, this diverse archipelago offers intriguing local culture, ancient history and epic wilderness experiences around every corner — and deeper exploration reaps huge rewards

The Origin List 2026 celebrates Indigenous-led travel around the world through journeys that connect us not only with breathtaking landscapes, but with the people, cultures and stories that have shaped them for millennia. Step into a world of ancient wisdom and living tradition through 50 unforgettable experiences crafted by Indigenous communities.

(whatever your budget!)

CREATIVITY HAS LONG REIGNED IN SWEDISH LAPLAND — WHERE THE SÁMI HISTORICALLY USED THEIR INGENUITY TO SURVIVE THE COLD, DARK WINTERS, AND REGIONAL ARTS AND CRAFTS STILL FLOURISH

Chris Bertram recalls the bucket-list experience at Shangri-La Le Touessrok, a heavenly island in the Indian Ocean

From the otherworldly landscapes of Iceland to Italy’s white-capped mountains – if you love the cold, in these destinations winter is always coming...