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The city of Kurashiki, near Okayama, is famed for its Edo-period architecture and its willow-lined canals. (Photo: Shutterstock)

What to see in Chugoku, the Japanese region with something for everyone 

It's home to ancient traditions, epic outdoor adventures and one of the world's most important historic sites – and that's just the start of the story.
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By Catherine McGregor | 13th July, 2026
Commercial editor
Shared memories from Japan (Images: Gemma McAuley and Emma Gleason)

‘A perfect meeting point for our interests’: Thoughts on exploring Japan as a couple

From honeymoons to pre-breakup trips, here's what it's like to visit Japan with your significant other.
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By The Spinoff | 27th January, 2026
Staff writers
The second magical pumpkin.

Naoshima and Teshima: An ode to being alone and lost in Japan

These buzzy Japanese islands offer polka-dotted pumpkins, tiny fishing villages, and underground art unlike anything you've seen before.
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By Liv Sisson | 1st December, 2025
Commercial editor
Kanpai! A guide to drinking in Japan

Kanpai! A guide to drinking in Japan

Japan’s food scene is world famous, but its drinks culture remains something of a hidden gem.
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By Catherine McGregor | 20th January, 2025
Commercial editor
Cherry blossoms missed, but pressed sardines found: Japan’s little surprises

Cherry blossoms missed, but pressed sardines found: Japan’s little surprises

I made many checklists and Pinterest boards in the lead-up to my Japan trip. None of these things were on them.
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By Anna Rawhiti-Connell | 1st July, 2024
Contributing writer

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