Japan Off The Beaten Path Travel Articles

How to Move to Japan in 2025: A Guide for Beginners

How to Move to Japan, a detailed guide to all you need to know about health insurance, money and renting.

Japan Hakone's daring ropeway where you can take in striking views of Mount Fuji

Navigating Your Way Through Pristine Japan

A first-timer’s advice on visiting Tokyo, transport and dining tips for Japan.

Japanese tea ceremony is an immersive cultural experience (Photo by Camellia Tea House)

The Soul of a Kyoto Tea Ceremony

In Kyoto, one of the historic cities of Japan, the tea ceremony is an important ritual. Staff writer Chin Liang sips tea at a Japanese tea house.

Shinshoji Zen Museum and Gardens

Shinshoji Zen Museum outside of Tokyo is a place for contemplation and discover of inner peace through meditation and guided prayer.

Wearing a Kimono in Japan

Wearing a kimono in Tokyo and impressing the locals in Japan.

Discover the Charm: Top 5 Reasons to Stay at a Traditional Japanese Ryokan

Explore the captivating world of traditional Japanese Ryokans and uncover why these accommodations should be on your travel bucket list.

The torii gates to Watazumi Shrine on Tsushima's Aso Bay. The shrine is the legendary site of the sea god's Dragon Palace.

Tsushima and Iki, Japan’s Border Islands by Ferry

Tsushima and Iki, two small border islands that lie between Korea and Japan, have a long history including a naval battle with Russia.

Kagoshima: Many Locations You Should See

With borders open again, Kagoshima is welcoming tourists with wonderful attractions. Visit a national treasure, the islands of Kagoshima, and more!

Sumo Wrestling: Enjoying the World’s Oldest Sport in Japan

Sumo in 2022. John Penisten writes about the world’s oldest sport, sumo wrestling, and provides details about matches in Tokyo.

Kusatsu: Steaming Hot Waterfalls, Streams, and Springs

Kusatsu, one of Japan’s popular hot springs towns, features a hot water waterfall among the many onsens to soak in, near Tokyo.

One of Beppu City's outdoor hot springs. onsen

Oita, Japan: A Stunning Hot Spring Haven

Oita, Japan offers visitors access to onsens—or hot springs. These mineral-rich, naturally-heated baths offer a relaxing one-of-a-kind experience.

Take the Train: Rail Passes Around the World

A complete guide to taking the train: Rail passes around the world, including Europe, the U.S., Canada and across Australia and New Zealand.

GoNOMAD Travel Podcast

Take a few minutes to travel the world with The GoNOMAD Travel Podcast. Brought to you by the long-running GoNOMAD travel website, The GoNOMAD Travel Podcast brings you audio stories from destinations around the globe. It’s short-form… 3-7 minute long episodes. No jarring AM radio-style theme songs, no ads, just an interesting short travel story and some food for thought, from editor Max Hartshorne. Fun!
While you’re planning your next trip or travel adventure, download and listen to The GoNOMAD Travel Podcast.

GoNomad is part of the Voyascape Travel Network & you can find more of our travel podcasts from around the world at https://voyascape.com/
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The New Year celebration in Chiang Mai, Thailand, is a rich tapestry of sights, sounds, and traditions that provides a unique experience for all who partake. The city is alive with energy as it transforms into a vibrant hub for festivities.

January 1 is not just a day but the beginning of a week-long holiday where locals and visitors alike engage in a variety of celebratory activities. The streets are bustling with life, illuminated by lanterns that glow softly against the backdrop of the night sky, while the scent of street food tantalizes the senses. This journey through Chiang Mai reveals the many layers of its New Year festivities, from its breathtaking natural beauty to the deep-rooted cultural practices that make this time of year so special. Among the most striking sights during this season is the blooming of the Himalayan cherry blossoms.

A short trip to Kun Chang Hian allows visitors to witness these stunning flowers in full bloom, creating a magical setting for exploration. Here, one can engage with local traditions, such as listening to the kyan, the traditional bamboo mouth organ played by village children, or trying one’s hand at archery using bamboo bows.

The culinary scene is equally delightful, featuring local delicacies, including the famous grilled pork sausage, which embodies the rich flavors of Thai cuisine. As the celebrations culminate on New Year’s Eve, a profound sense of spirituality envelops the city. Temples become sanctuaries for nighttime prayer, and the flickering lights of candles enhance the tranquil atmosphere. Participants gather to release floating lanterns, a symbolic gesture of releasing past burdens and inviting new fortunes into their lives.

This ritual not only enhances the visual splendor of the night sky but also fosters a deep connection among participants, creating a moment of shared hope and renewal. The New Year in Chiang Mai is more than just a celebration; it is a heartfelt embrace of tradition, community, and the promise of new beginnings.