Earlier this year, I traveled to the city of Atami, located in the eastern corner of the Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan.Atami translates to “hot ocean” and is known for its famous hot springs.

Hotou is a hot pot noodle dish unique to Japan’s Yamanashi Prefecture dating back to the Heian Period (794-1185).

When you move to Japan, one of the most common activities you’ll encounter is shopping at a local grocery store.

Welcome to virtual vacation video series where we can explore destinations from the comfort of our homes.

Head to the majestic Sumpu Castle park in Shizuoka City’s center to trace the footsteps of a historical feudal lord!

Mountains play a large role in Japanese culture. So much so that the sprawling peaks have a special day on August 11. Yama-no-hi, or Mountain Day, is observed as a national holiday, but there is no official celebration.

Escape the city with open-air hot tubs, a fire pit, and a private theater just 90 minutes from Shinjuku.

A short 25-minute drive from Camp Fuji, Oshino Village is home to a set of eight ponds that was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2013.

If your Japan itinerary includes cute cafés, character shops, and the occasional niche attraction, there’s a new stop in Yamanashi Prefecture that deserves a spot on your list.

Yamanashi Prefecture may be famous for Mt. Fuji, but Shosenkyo, a gorge in the same prefecture, is another popular spot worth spending some time exploring.