March 2026
News From JNTO
Educational Tools & Resources
News From Japan
Fukui Prefecture –  Heisenji Hakusan Shrine Walking Tour
Heisenji Hakusan Shrine, boasting 1,300 years of historical significance, presents vistas of cedar-lined avenues, meticulously laid stone pathways, and resplendent moss carpets, which are at their most vibrant during the months of June and July. Designated as a National Heritage Site in 2020, the site provides guided tours that are particularly favored by senior demographics and individuals with an interest in temple history, due to their comprehensive exploration of the site's rich historical context.
Hiroshima CVB – Walking the Pilgrims’ Path on Mt. Misen
Discover the sacred beauty of Mount Misen in Hiroshima, rising above the tranquil waters of the Seto Inland Sea. On Miyajima, where maritime culture and timeless nature meet, guests can follow ancient pilgrimage trails through lush forests dotted with stone statues and small shrines. 
Guided by a certified Shinrin-yoku(forest bathing) facilitator, travelers experience nature with five senses, embracing the gentle climate and serene island atmosphere unique to the Setouchi region. Rather than simply admiring the view, this mindful hike offers a deeper connection to Hiroshima’s spiritual heritage, coastal beauty, and restorative calm. Learn More or Contact
 
Visit Kinosaki – Buddhist Reading, Sutra Copying, and Waterfall Meditation Experience at Hokkeji Temple  
Travel to Tanto Farming Village south of Kinosaki Onsen and learn the ways of Buddhist meditation and spirituality with the help of a local English-speaking monk who resides at Hokkeji Temple.

Learn about the religious traditions of "dokyo" (Buddhist chanting), "shakyo" (Buddhist sutra copying), and "takigyo" (waterfall meditation) while also trying all three for yourself!

Complimentary pick up and drop off in front of JR Kinosaki Onsen Station!

 
Kochi Prefecture – Great news for cruise passengers visiting Kochi!
Now that one of the busiest seasons for cruise travel has arrived, a new page by the Niyodo Blue Tourism Council introduces convenient taxi plans departing directly from Kochi Port. If you’ve already visited Kochi Castle or Hirome Market, or are looking for something different, why not take a short trip to experience the crystal-clear waters of Niyodo Blue? These fixed or customized sightseeing taxi plans make it easy to explore Kochi’s stunning natural beauty within your limited port time. Discover a deeper side of Kochi and make your cruise stop truly unforgettable.    
Hyogo Tourism Bureau – Origin of Japan, Awaji Island Nature Guide Tour
Awaji Island, located in the eastern Seto Inland Sea, is known as the mythical birthplace of Japan and is blessed with rich natural beauty sustained by its unique system of ponds and natural springs. On the island’s stunning west coast, famous for breathtaking sunsets, the world’s first and only nature adventure experience awaits. The exclusive “Sea Firefly Show” course offers a powerful, one-of-a-kind experience while providing insight into marine ecosystem conservation.

*Available in summer only. Please inquire for reservation periods. Learn More


Explore Shizuoka – Miho no Matsubara
In Shizuoka Prefecture, where the majestic silhouette of Mount Fuji rises beyond the sea, Miho no Matsubara offers a restorative journey through one of Japan’s most poetic coastal forests. Part of the UNESCO-listed Fujisan World Heritage Site, this seven-kilometer grove of ancient black pines has inspired artists, pilgrims and poets for centuries, including in the classic tale of the Hagoromo legend. Walking beneath wind-shaped branches with the hush of Suruga Bay beside you, the scent of salt and pine mingling in the air feels both grounding and transcendent. Here, forest bathing meets ocean breeze—an experience that restores not only the body but the spirit in the timeless shadow of Fuji. . Learn more
Yokohama City Visitors Bureau – Iconic Stage: Yokohama Private Cafe 
Discover a dining destination where flavor, beauty, and sustainability come together. The ICONIC STAGE lineup of dishes and desserts delights both palate and eye, showcasing responsibly grown ingredients. Inside the Yokohama headquarters, SustainuS Farm on the third floor cultivates edible flowers, herbs, and leafy greens hydroponically under LED lights, without pesticides. These vibrant harvests shine in the second-floor ICONIC STAGE kitchen and first-floor private café.Guests of the first-floor private café can tour the farm, watch culinary artistry unfold, and enjoy a café space featuring a piano—ideal for performances, gatherings, and even dog-friendly celebrations. Learn More or Contact
 
Hotel Updates
Newly Opened “Comfort Floor”
Guest Room Level Launched October 2025
A New Chapter Begins in Kyoto’s Historic Geisha District 
Strawberry Season Awaits in West Japan
at JR West Hotels
Best Accommodation for Family Stay
in Asakusa 
Transportation Updates 
Fly ANA to Japan from Vancouver
New Seasonal Route!
Elevate Your Clients’ Journey with JAL’s Enhanced Inflight Dining
Discover Asia Aboard Costa Serena: A Journey of Culture and Wonder
Use Promotion Code: LIMO2026JNTO
for a 10% discount
CELEBRATE LIFE'S MILESTONES
Tour Updates 

Avanti Destinations

Beauty of Japan

Travel agent commission 15%

Friendly Planet Travel

Best of Japan

Commissionable, inquire for full details

Goway Travel

Active Japan: Ancient Trails, Onsens & Traditions

Travel Agent commission starts at 10% on the land but we have different tiers for preferred partners

IACE Travel

Beyond the Basics

Travel agent commission 10%

JTB USA, Inc.

Journey Through Gifu: Mino Pottery & the Historic Nakasendo Trail

Please contact JTB for commission details

Mountain Travel Sobek

Japan Kumano Kodo Walking Tour

10% commission on land portion

Oku Japan

Japan's Culinary Heritage

Commissionable for travel agents - contact us for details

THE FINE PRINT/LEGAL STUFF
Information is provided in this Japan Travel Update as a courtesy to readers of this newsletter. Though JNTO endeavors to ensure the information is accurate, users of the information are to act on such using their own judgment and at their own risk. Neither JNTO nor any holder of a copyright to the information shall be held responsible in any way whatsoever for any loss or misunderstanding, either direct or indirect, that is incurred as a result of utilizing the information.
Publisher: Japan National Tourism Organization Los Angeles
URL: www.japan.travel/en/us
 
Los Angeles Office
6100 Center Drive, Suite 925, Los Angeles, CA 90045 
email: infolax@jnto.go.jp

New York Office
250 Park Avenue, Suite 1900, New York, NY 10177
email: infonyc@jnto.go.jp


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Japan National Tourism Organization New York Office 250 Park Avenue, Suite 1900, New York, NY 10177 email: infonyc@jnto.go.jp Los Angeles Office 707 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 4325, Los Angeles, CA 90017 email: infolax@jnto.go.jp


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