July 2026
News From JNTO
Educational Tools & Resources
News From Japan
Fukui Prefecture –  Private Art & Craft Tour in Echizen Pottery Village 
Echizen Town, where the sticky, iron-rich potter's clay is produced, is the hometown of Echizen Pottery, which has been designated as a Japanese heritage site as one of Japan's Six Ancient Kilns. This time, we will start at Echizen Ceramic Art Village, where artworks by artists including Taro Okamoto are on display, and then take a close look at the craftsmen at work in an Echizen Pottery workshop. Sometimes it's simple pottery for everyday use, sometimes it's surprising works of art. Learn More or Contact
Visit Kinosaki – Top 5 Things to do in Kinosaki Onsen in Summer 
If you’re looking at where to start when visiting Kinosaki Onsen during the summer, we recommend these 5 quintessential experiences and activities! 
 
Kochi Prefecture – Kochi Escapes Guided Salt Road Walk 
Step off the beaten path and onto a trail that once kept mountain communities alive. Kochi Escapes' guided Salt Road walk takes small groups (3–8) through 5 kilometers of restored historic trail connecting the Kochi coast to the deep mountain village of Monobe. An English-speaking guide brings the road to life — ancient carved stones, roadside shrines, and tales of merchants, bandits, and everyday travelers. The highlight: crafting bamboo chopsticks with a local mountain man before sitting down to a fresh, locally sourced bento lunch. A rare, authentic experience your clients won't find in any guidebook.  Learn More or Contact
Kyoto City – Tanabata Festival Events and Illuminications
Tanabata Festival is a nationwide celebration in Japan held between July and August, rooted in an ancient legend. In Kyoto, the festival is experienced through a particularly refined atmosphere, where historic shrines and temples host special Tanabata events featuring traditional performances, ritual dances, and glowing illuminations. As evening falls, the city takes on a softer rhythm, and the combination of bamboo decorations, lantern light, and temple surroundings offers a calm, contemplative way to experience one of Japan’s most cherished seasonal traditions Learn More
 
Nagano Prefecture – Summer Escapes in Nagano
Nagano Prefecture offers an unforgettable summer escape where visitors can immerse themselves in Japan's spectacular mountain landscapes, charming castle towns and rich cultural heritage. From hiking through the breathtaking Japanese Alps and cycling scenic countryside routes to exploring traditional villages, relaxing in hot springs and sampling fresh seasonal produce, summer reveals a vibrant side of the prefecture beyond its renowned winter attractions. Learn More
Explore Shizuoka – Breathtaking Coastal Scenery in Suruga
Shizuoka Prefecture invites travelers to experience a memorable summer where breathtaking coastal scenery, iconic views of Mount Fuji and authentic Japanese culture come together. At the heart of the prefecture, Suruga offers a refreshing getaway with panoramic views of Suruga Bay, some of Japan's freshest seafood, lush tea fields, historic temples and vibrant waterfront festivals celebrating the region's rich maritime heritage. Visitors can also explore scenic hiking trails, paddle along the coastline, relax at nearby hot springs or discover charming historic towns, showcasing the best of the season. 
Hotel Updates
Tokyo Sea of Clouds ―YAKUMO―
Debuts This July
Expands Its Global Luxury Travel Partnerships with Signature Travel Network
Opening Fall 2026: Best Accommodation for Family Stay at MIMARU Osaka Namba Station Annex
Transportation Updates 
Japan's First Personal SAF Program
Daily Non-Stop Service from San Diego to Tokyo Begins August 1st
50% Reduced Deposit
PROMO up to $1,000 onboard credit *
Use Promotion Code: LIMO2026JNTO for a 10% Discount
Tour Updates 

Avanti Destinations

Taste of Japan

Travel agent commission 15% on all land services

Friendly Planet Travel

Best of Japan

Commissionable, inquire for full details

Globus

Visions of Japan

Commission varies

Goway Travel

Japan Uncovered: Pop Culture & Cuisine

Travel Agent commission starts at 10% on the land with different tiers for preferred partners

IACE Travel

Beyond the Basics

Travel agent commission 10%

Japan Deluxe Tours

Takayama Festival with Hiroshima 12 Days | From $4776

Agent 10% Commission – contact for details

JTB USA, Inc.

Traditional Japan: Gifu, Takayama & Shirakawago

Please contact JTB for commission details

Magister Tours

Check out our sample itineraries here

Travel Agent Commission 11% or net price

Oku Japan

Michinoku Coastal Trail self-guided walking 7 days

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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