Alternative Kyoto: how Japan's culture capital became a hotspot

Beneath the surface of sedate geisha teahouses and hushed shrines, Kyoto is a hotbed for legendary live music — here, Japan's most unique, riotous acts are set free in the city's underground clubs, grungy dive bars and historic cafes.

Pictures of the Obon Festival of the Dead in Japan

Daniel Stables (@DanStables) / X

Event-o-Rama: 10 Must-Dos in May

Pastis, an iconic French aperitif makes a comeback

SXSW: Your Guide to World Music

Cull & Co. Ltd Literary Agency (@CullandCoAgency) / X

In pictures: where to stay and eat in Kyoto, Japan's culinary capital

Cull & Co. Ltd Literary Agency (@CullandCoAgency) / X

Learning to Speak Japanese

Beyond Mochi Ice Cream: How the Japanese Rice Snack is Made

The Queen of Nordic Cool: Oslo

Beyond Mochi Ice Cream: How the Japanese Rice Snack is Made

Festival season: seven celebrations to experience in Busan, South Korea