The samurai’s history and legacy, Angela Merkel’s 21st-century military and a new aviation festival

Yamagata may be best known for its snow, but this enchanting prefecture in northern Japan is a destination for all seasons.

In the 1500s, Japan was fought over by hundreds of rival warlords. They battled for territory and power, resulting in a century of near-constant war, until the Tokugawa shoguns won a decisive victory

A new exhibition at the British Museum explores the mythmaking of Japan’s feudal warriors

The delicate blush of blossom heralds the start of spring. Let’s take a cue from Japanese culture and spare a few moments to pause and embrace its fleeting beauty

Diaries at the ready: each month we showcase the people, places and events capturing our interest