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

Shizuoka Bank is strengthening regional economies while expanding abroad, blending local trust with global ambition to support innovation, sustainability, and growth across Japan and Asia.

When temperatures fall, winter spa visits provide unique wellness benefits, from stress relief to boosted circulation and immune responses

(whatever your budget!)

A RETRO REVIVAL, ‘TICKET TRAVEL’, INDIGENOUS FIRSTS — THESE ARE AMONG THE KEY TRENDS AND DEVELOPMENTS SET TO INFLUENCE THE YEAR AHEAD. WORDS: QIN XIE

A round-up of the latest self-build and home renovation news, products and events. By Jennifer Grimble and Joseph Mullane