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 Land of the Rising Sun’s eight female rulers are all but forgotten, but their lives and reigns were filled with drama

(whatever your budget!)

This week’s dream: wonder and melancholy in eastern Turkey ...

Nestled at the foot of Mt. Fuji, Yamanashi Prefecture seeks to become the blueprint for Japan’s regional revitalization and restore hope for future generations, by promoting education, investment, innovation and its natural beauty.

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