After Japan lifted its COVID pandemic travel restrictions in the spring of 2023, no other country in the world saw a tourism explosion like theirs. It’s no wonder that Kyoto, the country’s cultural capital, is a huge tourist draw. But for photographer Todd Korol, the city’s quaint beauty is best enjoyed without the bustling crowds. He grabbed his camera and explored the outskirts of the city, where he found towering bamboo trees, immaculately prepared yakitori and quiet mornings at the shrines. Read more.

Also this week, a visitor’s guide for staying at a ryokan, which offers a taste of traditional Japanese culture; and, finally, how an escape to Hakone is the perfect contrast to Japan’s bustling cities.

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