Prefecture Guide - Hiroshima

September 14, 2014

by Bryce Marley-Jarrett

Just a couple of hours from Osaka, today's prefecture's natural beauty and it’s people are often overshadowed by its sad history; with it holding the unfortunate title of being the first city in the world hit by a nuclear weapon. Beyond its somber history lies a spectacular city, that has overcome its past, rebuilt stronger, and is home to some spectacular sights that can't be missed. Welcome to Hiroshima.

Hiroshima has a rich origin story, which sadly revolves around war. The city was founded back in 1589 by the warlord Mori Terumoto, who had Hiroshima Castle built for his residence, he soon lost the city and castle in the battle of Sekigahara. Following this, the city was industrialised throughout the early 1900’s and became a hub for Japan’s military supply manufacturing. The city played a key part in Japan’s war efforts in WWI, having a POW camp that held with over 500 German prisoners in Hiroshima Bay.

Matsuri Time - Okinawa Part 2

June 21, 2014

by Devon Sponheimer

In our first part we introduced you to the southern islands of Japan that make up Okinawa, filled with rich history,tropical beaches, and an amazing escape from some of the metropolises of Japan. Today we conclude Japlanning's Okinawa guide with Part 2, a look into the many festivals and cultural events that happen throughout the year in Okinawa.

Okinawa is known for its tropical setting, a place where the Japanese come to relax, unwind, and soak up the sun. However, what many don't know is that Okinawa has year round festivals and cultural events, so no mater when you you visit you are likely to experience some of there fantastic Matsuri (Japanese for festival).

Japlanning 101 - Nagasaki

May 3, 2014

by Bryce Marley

Today Japlanning are heading down south to Kyushu, Japan's third largest island, and the southern most of the four main islands. On Kyushu lies the city of Nagasaki, with a rich history and important place in Asia’s shipping industry. Today, Nagasaki is more than just a shipping port, with rich culture, a sad history in war, and many amazing sights, it's a must visit when making it down to the island of Kyushu.

Nagasaki was founded by the Portuguese in the later half of the 16th century, when it was just a small fishing village. The influences of the Portuguese and other European countries can still be seen in Nagasaki, particularly in European influenced churches, and other christian spiritual sites around the city.

Prefecture Guide - Aomori

October 16, 2013

Okay Devon is back today with Japlanning's first prefecture guide! Starting with the Aomori prefecture right at the top of the main island of Japan.

Aomori prefecture is the northernmost prefecture on Japan’s main island, Honshu. Located roughly 3 hours from Tokyo by train, Aomori City is situated on Mutsu Bay and is the main departure point for Hokkaido. Aomori prefecture is home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site – it contains the world’s largest virgin forest of beech trees located in the Shirakami Mountains. With warm summers and cold winters, there’s plenty to do in every season.