I visited Iiyama in February two years ago and the desire to return and stay longer has not dimmed. In Iiyama, I found a rural yet connected town that offers many traditional Japanese experiences - farm to table Japanese mountain cuisine, crafts such as Japanese rice paper-making with a modern twist, a temple to temple walk - or snowshoe -  through the forest that calms the mind, a completely unexpected and totally enchanting artisan doll gallery and a marvellous ski day with

Born in 1929 in Matsumoto, Nagano Prefecture, Yayoi Kusama is one of the most distinctive and influential artists of the modern era, known worldwide for her immersive infinity rooms, obsessive polka dots, and glowing pumpkin sculptures. Her work transforms deeply personal psychological experiences into a universal visual language, making her art both intimate and monumental. Kusama grew up surrounded by Nagano's mountains and open landscapes that later echoed in her fascinati

Most travelers heading to Japan want to experience a tea ceremony, known as cha no yu, without really knowing what is involved.  A little...

If you spend any time on social media, you’ll know that traditional Japanese crafts are riding a wave of discovery here in the west,...

Mt Fuji from Suruga When most travelers plan a trip to Japan, iconic cities dominate the itinerary. But nestled quietly between the sea...

Unpacking Africa Safari destinations.

Six good reasons, Mike.

Don't let perfect be the enemy of good.