Samurai Experience Tourism

Located in Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture, the birthplace of Japan's samurai culture. Home to numerous historic temples and shrines including the Kamakura Daibutsu and Tsurugaoka Hachimangu shrine. Flourishing as the capital of the Kamakura shogunate from the 12th-14th centuries, it retains status as an ancient capital, attracting approximately 18 million visitors annually. Known since the Edo period as an intellectual retreat, it remains vital for understanding Japanese history and culture.

Tourism experience visiting sake breweries nationwide to learn about sake production processes. Breweries in Niigata, Kyoto, Hyogo, and elsewhere welcome visitors. Approximately one million visitors annually experience brewery tours and tastings. An important tourism content offering education in Japan's traditional industries and regional culture, aligning with sustainable tourism principles.

A tourism culture centered on visiting Japan's castle complexes nationwide. 'Castle stamp rallies' featuring rankings like the 100 and 50 celebrated castles are popular among enthusiasts. Tens of millions visit various castles annually, establishing castle touring as a historical and architectural education tourism form. Visitor numbers peak during spring cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. A unique destination blending Edo-period castles with Meiji-era heritage.

Japan's southernmost prefecture, with a distinct culture rooted in the history of the Ryukyu Kingdom. With its emerald seas, the World Heritage Shuri Castle ruins, unique cuisine and music, Okinawa draws visitors from home and abroad as a resort island offering charms different from mainland Japan.

Japan's northernmost island, celebrated for its vast natural landscapes and rich food culture. From the lavender fields of Furano to the UNESCO World Natural Heritage site of Shiretoko and world-class powder snow ski resorts, Hokkaido offers year-round tourism appeal complemented by acclaimed seafood and local cuisine.

A contemporary art mecca in the Seto Inland Sea. Centered on the Benesse Art Site, works by Yayoi Kusama and museums designed by Tadao Ando are scattered across the island. As a core venue of the Setouchi Triennale, Naoshima has become a global model for art tourism.

A castle town in Gifu Prefecture known as 'Little Kyoto of Hida.' Edo-period streetscapes, the ornate festival floats of the Takayama Festival, and Hida beef cuisine make it enormously popular with international tourists. It earned three stars in the Michelin Green Guide.