Christianity was purged in Japan when the Tokugawa shogunate enforced a ban in 1614. This ban drove many Christians into hiding, creating hidden Christians, known as kakure kirishitan. The practice of Christianity re-emerged during the Meiji Restoration in the late 19th century, marking a significant change in Japan’s religious landscape. Many Christians suffered torture or … Read more

The Shinkansen, or bullet train, started on 1 October 1964. This was the launch date of the world’s first high-speed rail service. It connected Tokyo and Osaka. This advancement transformed transportation history by reducing travel time and setting a new global standard for high-speed trains. The impact of the Shinkansen extended beyond speed. It stimulated … Read more

The Beatles toured Japan from June 30 to July 2, 1966. This tour was part of their world tour and included concerts in West Germany and the Philippines. They performed five concerts in Japan. This tour was significant as it was one of their last before their final tour in the United States in August … Read more

Camping became popular in Japan during the 1960s. This trend resulted in around 1,300 campgrounds nationwide. Many of these campgrounds close during the winter months because of Japan’s geography. Campgrounds that stay open year-round are mostly found in the southern regions, serving outdoor enthusiasts all year long. Moreover, social media played a crucial role in … Read more

Flights to Japan show up as affordable deals during January and September. These months often have the lowest prices. Budget airlines like Qantas and ZIPAIR offer promotions. Monitor booking data and flight comparisons throughout the year. This strategy helps find the best flight deals from U.S. departure points to Japan destinations. To find the best … Read more

Hot spring hotels in Japan began in 705 CE with the establishment of Nishiyama Onsen Keiunkan by Fujiwara Mahito. This inn is known as the oldest operating hotel in the world. Since the 8th century, hot springs have served as places for relaxation and healing, showcasing Japan’s rich cultural heritage. The cultural allure of hot … Read more

Major League Baseball first toured Japan in 1934, promoting American baseball. The latest tour happened in 2014 and included stars like Robinson Cano and Albert Pujols. This ten-day tour fostered fan connections through exhibitions and games while digitized footage was preserved at the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum. The players not only played … Read more

Babe Ruth visited Japan in 1934 during a barnstorming tour with baseball legends Lou Gehrig, Lefty Gomez, and Jimmie Foxx. He played at Meiji Jingu Stadium, hitting multiple home runs in front of a crowd of 60,000. Meiji Jingu Stadium is now home to the Yakult Swallows, a Japanese league champion team. The visit allowed … Read more

Art Blakey and his Jazz Messengers toured Japan in 1961. They played at Hibiya Public Hall in Tokyo, becoming one of the first American jazz bands to perform there. Their concert was recorded and released as “First Flight to Tokyo” by Blue Note, highlighting the importance of this historic event. In 1961, the Jazz Messengers … Read more

On July 8, 1853, American Commodore Matthew Perry visited Tokyo Bay with four ships. His objective was to reopen trade and communication after 200 years of isolation. This event marked Japan’s first encounter with the western world, significantly impacting its history and future relations with other nations. The expedition resulted in the Treaty of Kanagawa … Read more