Kanazawa – Higashi Chaya District
Lined with teahouses dating back to the Edo period, this area is home to traditional crafts and Japanese confectionery shops. The view at dusk is truly exceptional.
See the Higashi Chaya District Travel GuideRetro & Trendy Japan — A Travel Style Guide
Retro & Trendy Japan — A Travel Style Guide
The charm of Japan lies in experiencing both nostalgic scenery and timeless culture, together with today’s hottest trends.
After exploring historic streets and traditional crafts, head to stylish cafés and modern art spots.
Why not try a travel style where retro and modern blend together—
sipping cream soda at a retro-style café or strolling through town in a kimono or yukata?
Historic Scenery & Timeless Streets
In areas where traditional townscapes remain, you can feel the atmosphere created by stone-paved streets and wooden buildings.
Explore temples, shrines, castle ruins, and nostalgic shopping streets — feel Japan’s history come alive.
At night, illuminated townscapes create a magical, photogenic atmosphere.
Kawagoe – Warehouse District
Known as “Little Edo,” this district features rows of black-plastered warehouse-style buildings. Landmarks like the Bell Tower and Candy Alley offer nostalgic scenery.
See the Kawagoe Travel Guide
Everyday Life & Local Charm
Through local morning markets, old-fashioned shopping streets, and even farm stays, you can experience the daily life of Japanese people.
Buy nostalgic candies in retro shopping streets or enjoy traditional Japanese sweets at a renovated old house café.
Interacting with locals offers a warmth you won’t find at tourist spots.
Hiroshima – Onomichi
Known for its nostalgic townscape and warm atmosphere, Onomichi offers retro shopping streets, scenic slopes, and views of the Seto Inland Sea.
See the Onomichi Travel Guide
Arts & Traditions of Japan
Traditional crafts, contemporary art, and museum visits are also highlights of traveling in Japan.
Hands-on experiences such as making Wajima lacquerware or Arita porcelain,
as well as enjoying stage arts like Kabuki and Noh, provide opportunities to discover the depth of Japanese culture.
Recently, renovated warehouses and townhouses have been transformed into art galleries and museums,
creating inspiring spaces where history and modernity merge.
Kabuki
Japan’s traditional theater featuring lavish costumes, distinctive movements, and beautiful dialogue. Even first-timers can enjoy it easily with single-act tickets.
Complete Guide to Kabuki
Bamboo Fences (Bamboo Craft)
The scenic beauty of bamboo fences lining lush groves is a symbol of Japanese garden aesthetics. Here you can feel both the changing seasons and the craftsmanship up close.
Complete Guide to Bamboo Craft
Japanese Candles (Waro-soku)
Japanese Candles, known as Waro-soku, have illuminated Japanese life since ancient times. They are also considered surprisingly sustainable.
Complete Guide to Japanese Candles
Theme-based Recommended Spots
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Otaru and NisekoOtaru Art Base Stained Glass Museum
A mesmerizing space showcasing rare church stained glass artworks.
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ShimaneYushien Garden
Forever picture-perfect! Japanese gardens with beauty for each season!
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Shinagawa, GotandaNemunoki-no-niwa Garden
A tranquil park nestled in a residential neighborhood, offering a peaceful retreat.
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Hakodate and MatsumaeKanemori Red Brick Warehouse BAY Hakodate
A multi-purpose complex created by repurposing historic buildings that line the canal.
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Ueno, NipporiToyo Bunko Museum
Home to a million books! A specialized library that heightens interest in Oriental studies.
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OkayamaKurashiki Ivy Square
A trendy tourism complex in red brick buildings covered with ivy
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