Uncharted Japan

Exploring places most visitors never see

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Why Uncharted Japan

I’m John Haynes and my wife, Josephine is the fourth generation in her family to have been born in Japan with her great, great-grandparents having arrived in September 1861 from New York only a few years after Japan opened to the west. Her ancestors served as missionaries there when Ronin (former Samurai) still roamed the countryside.  It was very much unlike today’s Japan.  Therefore her family has a very long history retaining many contacts and the family still keeps the family home there north of Nagano.  No one of whom I’m aware in the Japan travel community online or on Youtube has such a background.  We both love Japan and enjoy sharing our experience with others.  Read on to learn more.

From The Blog

OSAKA EXPO 2025 CONCERT IDEA

Today, we received a comment from the guys of "Roast Apple" a German based Indie-Pop band letting us know they will be performing two nightly concerts at the German Pavilion at Osaka Expo 2025 the nights from April 22nd to April 26th.  Not being familiar with them,...

A $19 Strawberry??!!

Its all over social media these days.......the $19 Japanese strawberry being sold at upscale grocer Erewhon in Los Angeles.  Japan is no stranger to high priced fruits.  When we are traveling throughout the country, we often seen $10, $20 and $30 melons and such.  I...

Formula One In Japan!

In early April, Nagoya will host the Formula 1 Grand Prix at the Suzuka Circuit.  This is the only Formula 1 event in Japan and happens once a year.  We just posted a new video on the event along with some of the many other amazing things to do while in Nagoya other...
Izushi, A Little Known Castle Town

Izushi, A Little Known Castle Town

To get a sense of the real Japan, one needs to get off the beaten path which requires a little effort, but given the excellent rail network of Japan, this is not as hard as it sounds, provided you are okay renting a car.  Don’t be dissuaded about driving, especially...

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Making Traditional Japanese Sweets In Yokohama

Making Traditional Japanese Sweets In Yokohama

While in Japan, there are numerous experiences one can enjoy as a way to gain a deeper appreciation for the unique things you’ll see and do in Japan.  Japanese wagashi is a luxury item that is typically part of ceremonial tea services.  Wagashi is a soft sugary dough...

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See Tokyo From The Water

See Tokyo From The Water

Many folks don’t realize that Tokyo grew up on the water of Tokyo Bay.  Long before it became the world’s largest metropolis, it was a port city, and remains so today.  However, its lost its look and character as such because so many manmade islands have been created...

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