Summer | Untold Japan

Dewa Sanzan: Discover Japan’s Sacred Mountains of Rebirth

Dewa Sanzan: A Journey of Rebirth in Yamagata Prefecture Dewa Sanzan, located along the borders of Tsuruoka, Nishikawa, and Shonai in Yamagata Prefecture, refers to the three sacred mountains: Mount Haguro, Mount Gassan, and Mount Yudono. During the Edo period, visiting these three mountains became known as a “Journey of Rebirth.” This journey symbolizes a pilgrimage through the present, past, and future. Mount Haguro – the present and prayers for happiness in the current li

Places

Shunpei Nakayama

Dec 2, 20254 min read

A person holding an umbrella, standing in front of a traditional Japanese red wooden bridge.

The Summer Festival That Changed How I See My City: Hamaori in Chigasaki

Had it been dawn on any other day, the streets of Chigasaki would have been quiet. However, this particular morning was different. As I cycled closer to the coast, the morning silence slowly transformed. A whisper emerged, distant at first, but grew more distinctive with each pedal stroke. Upon my arrival at Southern Beach, I was greeted by the festive energy of locals. I could hear the familiar chants that have filled the streets of Nango-dori every July for over 180 years.

Tradition

Jordan

May 23, 20253 min read

Japanese ancient towns beneath the lush green forested mountain

Footsteps in Time on the Nakasendo Trail

Walking the Nakasendo Trail: A Journey Through Japan’s Past What if the most authentic way to experience Japan wasn’t through modern cities, but by walking the same paths as travelers from centuries ago? The preserved post towns of Kiso Valley | Photo by: Jordan McChesney At first glance, Japan is often seen as a country that is ahead of the future. Think urban cities, self-serving robots, and high-speed bullet trains. Well, that’s how many people picture it thanks to the adv

Places