[03:00] Typhoon No. 25 (Kalmaegi) is currently located east of the Philippines and moving westward. It is expected to intensify while passing near the Philippines before entering the South China Sea and approaching Vietnam. Meteorological agencies say there will be no direct impact on Japan. (News On Japan)

Autumn foliage has reached its peak in Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture, where brilliant red and gold leaves have drawn large crowds over the three-day holiday weekend. Under clear skies, the scenic views of Lake Chuzenji and the 97-meter Kegon Falls, one of Japan’s three most famous waterfalls, offered picture-perfect sights, while the winding Irohazaka road formed a striking tunnel of autumn colors visible even from passing cars. (News On Japan)

Explore Iriomote Island, Okinawa, with a guided tour including kayaking through lush jungle to a stunning waterfall. Enjoy a delicious noodle lunch and snorkeling amongst vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. This day trip offers a unique glimpse into a secluded Japanese island. (Jumping Places)

A test lighting was conducted on October 30th at Hashiguiiwa, a nationally designated natural monument located in Kushimoto, Wakayama Prefecture, ahead of its annual illumination event. The unique rock formations rising from the sea were bathed in shades of orange and blue, creating an ethereal coastal scene. (News On Japan)

Bear sightings have surged across Japan, and in Gifu Prefecture’s Shirakawa Village—home to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Shirakawa-go—local authorities held a nighttime drill on October 28th to prepare for possible emergencies. (News On Japan)

Hokkaido is now in the peak of autumn foliage season, with its vast landscape dotted by countless scenic spots displaying vibrant colors unique to each location. From golden ginkgo-lined avenues stretching nearly 380 meters to crimson leaves reflecting off blue lakes, visitors can experience the full spectrum of autumn hues. (News On Japan)

Temperatures in Karuizawa, Nagano Prefecture, fell to minus 1.1 degrees Celsius on the morning of October 29th, marking the lowest of the season and accelerating the autumn foliage at Kumoba Pond, which had been about two weeks behind schedule. (News On Japan)

The King and Queen portraying Ryukyu royalty promoted highlights of the upcoming Shuri Castle Restoration Festival, which will begin on November 1. The annual festival celebrates the culture of the Ryukyu Kingdom and aims to build momentum for the ongoing restoration of Shuri Castle, which was destroyed by fire in 2019. (News On Japan)

A factory tour offering a close look at Shinkansen maintenance facilities began on October 25th at JR Central’s Hamamatsu Works in Hamamatsu City, drawing large crowds of railway enthusiasts and families. The event, titled “Go to JR Central Hamamatsu Factory,” has been held annually since 2022 to help visitors experience the Shinkansen up close. (News On Japan)

Kyoto, long celebrated as Japan’s iconic autumn destination, is now facing a striking shift in its tourism landscape. In the city’s most famous spots, foreign tourists far outnumber Japanese visitors, raising questions about over-tourism and the city’s future balance between hospitality and livability. (News On Japan)

Around 500 blazing torches lit up the night sky on October 22nd as Kyoto’s famed Kurama Fire Festival, one of the city’s three most extraordinary festivals, took place around Yuki Shrine in Sakyo Ward. (News On Japan)

After having travelled to Japan's most famous tropical locations (Okinawa, Amami, Miyakojima etc), I wasn't expected Niijima to hold a candle to them, but I was wrong! I can't believe that the best beaches in the country are in Tokyo... (Currently Hannah)