Shirakawa-go in Gifu Prefecture transforms into a magical winter wonderland when the snow-covered farmhouses are illuminated at night. The light-up event is cancelled this year but usually happens on select evenings in January and February. 
Hi ,

  

Happy New Year, and welcome to the first Dreaming Edition of the Japan Travel News Updates for 2022! Last year continued to present us all with many challenges, and while it’s unclear how this year will unfold, we hope that it is full of brighter and better times for everyone.

 

We are hopeful it won’t be too long until we can welcome you back to Japan again. In the meantime we will continue to bring you travel inspiration and updates.  

 

This month’s newsletter highlights include a new video with Gary and Manu, an interview with a soba master who has some remarkable ties to Australia, and a look at how the new year is celebrated in Japan.

 

Virtual backgrounds:

Transport yourself to Japan, virtually, and brighten up your video calls with our collection of virtual backgrounds featuring beautiful sights from across Japan. 

 

COVID-19 Health & Safety Information: 

Our webpage provides access to travel advisories and information on countermeasures taken by the government and other organisations in Japan. 

 

JNTO Sydney brochure room closure:
Please note that due to the current situation, our public enquiry phone line and self-service brochure room will be closed until further notice. We have also suspended our hardcopy brochure mailing service. If you have any travel enquiries, please contact us using our enquiry form. For PDF/electronic brochures, please visit this link.
New video – Gary and Manu take on Japan
 

Join renowned Aussie food personalities Gary and Manu for a walk down memory lane and experience the natural beauty, warm hospitality and gastronomic delights of Japan through their eyes.
 
Take a look at what festivals and events are typically held in January. The first month of the year is filled with traditional celebrations to welcome the new year and pray for good luck in the year ahead.
 
Have you ever wondered how the new year is celebrated in Japan? While it’s traditionally a family holiday, here are some customs you can experience if you’re visiting during this special time of year. 
 
Get a taste of the dedication that goes into mastering Japanese soba. We interviewed master soba maker, Yoshinori Shibazaki, and talked about all things soba, as well as his connection to Australia and about Niigata, the prefecture he now calls home.
 
The cultural roots of Japanese food, tea ceremony, traditional arts, crafts, Zen and other countless sensibilities can be traced to the Kansai region. These Exclusive Expeditions will take you into the heart of Kansai to meet with Japan's living treasures.

This May and June, Kyushu will host the 19th FINA World Championships & World Masters Championships. In preparation, Fukuoka has launched a new website to showcase tourist hot spots in the host regions, with model itineraries and info on food, culture and nature experiences!
 
Matsumoto Castle in Nagano Prefecture has become the canvas for a colourful new digital artwork event held from 1 December 2021 to 28 February 2022. Experience the castle like never before, in an animated performance of light and music.
 
Go contactless and skip the queues on your next visit. Three of Odakyu’s discount passes are now available to purchase online, including the popular Hakone Freepass. 

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