Japan
★★★½
Hotel reviews
These high-tech sleep pods are a thrifty traveller’s dream
In one of Tokyo’s most pulsating districts, Shibuya, this hostel is a sleek spot to retreat.
- by Julia D’Orazio
You’ve never seen a fruit shop quite like this one
Hushed reverence, fruit displayed like jewellery and white-gloved salesmen: you can bust your budget on fruit at specialist Japanese fruit stores.
- by Brian Johnston
Opinion
Tips & advice
Are tourists ruining Japan? Cracks form in world’s most polite nation
I’m not sure if you’ve ever seen a sushi chef have an existential crisis in real time, but I have, and it’s not pretty.
- by Ben Groundwater
On an island where many live to 100, I embraced their lifestyle
On the Japanese island of Okinawa many residents reach their milestone 100th birthday. Eating healthy is just one key.
- by Julia D'Orazio
Seven hidden attractions at this hugely popular Tokyo shrine
From a seven-hectare forest to a majestic archway, Tokyo’s Meiji-Jingu shrine features hidden attractions worth lingering for.
- by Ben Groundwater
If you want to visit the undiscovered parts of Japan, try taking a ship
​​Japan is an under-explored cruise destination, but expedition companies are getting away from city crowds and expanding their horizons.
- by Brian Johnston
Party capital: Nine must-do highlights of Osaka, Japan
The city’s reputation as Japan’s premier party town is challenged by few. Here’s how to make the most of a brief visit.
- by Jamie Lafferty
Weird and wonderful: Nine must-do highlights in Tokyo
It’s no surprise that the largest city on the planet has a dizzying array of options for visitors, so we’ve whittled it down to some old and new favourites.
- by Jamie Lafferty
Airline review: It’s time to give Jetstar a second chance
In the years since I last flew Qantas’ cheaper cousin, its reputation has taken a beating. But my low expectations were upturned by proficient service.
- by Catherine Marshall
The summer dance festival in Japan revellers won’t want to miss
In Shikoku, Awa Odori attracts around 1.3 million people, creating a carnival-like atmosphere at what is now one of the largest summer festivals in Japan.
- by Julietta Jameson