Our New Partnership With Abercrombie & Kent
From moss gardens and ancient temple complexes to sleek bullet trains and robot waiters, no country does the dance of the old and new quite like Japan. Nor is there any other quite as obsessive in the pursuit of perfection (or perfect imperfection). Your journey will showcase these qualities through the skyscrapers and Shinto shrines of Tokyo, the Samurai districts of the coastal city of Kanazawa, and the Zen temples and textile traditions of Kyoto. This nine-day, small group trip runs September 14 – September 22, October 8–16, October 22–30, and November 5–13.
Journey Highlights:
Learn how to make sushi from a master at Tokyo's legendary Tsukiji Fish Market
Unlock the essence of old Japan in Kyoto through temple tours and sake tastings
View authentic period artifacts at the Nagamachi Samurai Residence in Kanazawa, a restored home that captures the daily life of Japan's legendary warrior class
Sit down for a private dinner while listening to live traditional Japanese music
Take a pottery painting workshop in the birthplace of Kutani ceramics
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National Geographic
a day ago
- National Geographic
Everything you need to know about Scottish whisky
This article was produced by National Geographic Traveller (UK). These days, every nation is discovering whisky distillation, but the global superstars are without doubt the Scottish. With a production history dating back to the 15th century, the country has spent hundreds of years perfecting distillation and wood-ageing. Along with heritage, it's the variety that sets the Scots and their scotch apart from other whiskies worldwide. The spirit is produced in every corner of the country, and there are complex contrasts between, say, an eye-opening Islay whisky, something sweet from Speyside or the lighter lowland styles. Meanwhile, blended whisky takes the array of single malts and combines them with innovative results. The flavour spectrum runs from warm wood and smoke to cereals, biscuits, honey, fresh and spiced fruit and floral notes, so there's a prospect for every palate here. Strict legislation has also helped the industry deliver consistent quality, and while traditional techniques are at the artisan heart of scotch, there have been more recent sparks of innovation. Wood finishes have become more interesting, for example, where the whisky is rested for a final spell in different kinds of oak, with port, Maderia or Burgundy barrels being employed. Such experiments have elevated the spirit's profile again and can make it accessible for a broader spectrum of drinkers. Dram Bar in London pours up an almond and pineapple cocktail using the Craigellachie whisky with its cereal and meaty notes. What is single malt Scottish whisky? This simply means the whisky must be produced in a single distillery, and in the case of scotch, distilled from malted and then fermented barley. The difference between single malt and blended scotch is that the latter is combination of single malts from many distilleries. Rather than simply malted barley, it can also include a different grain distillate. In all cases, to be considered scotch it must be distilled and matured in oak casks in Scotland for at least three years and bottled there at a minimum of 40% alcohol by volume (ABV). How does it compare to other varieties around the world? The Japanese initially worshiped and indeed mimicked scotch, and while you'll find fresh, innovative voices there now, there are many similarities in flavours. But since the Scots came first, they have a few centuries on the Japanese whisky-makers, having learned from mistakes, and spent decades testing wood styles, learning about the nuances of ageing, advancing the science of distillation and judging the impact of still shape on distillation. The Irish triple distil and produce smoother styles — they invented whiskey and spell it with the 'e'. They were once the market leader but initially stuck with their pot stills and turned their back on the column still, a technology ushered in in the 19th century that distilled spirit quicker and cheaper. The Irish were concerned the lighter style of spirit it produced would put drinkers off, but the Scots embraced this technology (also known as the continuous still) for their blended whisky and it helped brands like Johnnie Walker become global powerhouses. However, the Irish industry has been flourishing recently, so keep an eye on whiskeys from the Emerald Isle. The Americans play with grains, and in the case of straight bourbon use corn as the dominant ingredient and age the spirit in new American oak. It's a much sweeter whisky, but there's variety here, too, including single malts and — something spicier — American straight rye. There's also an interesting movement in 'world whisky', with the Austalians, Germans, Scandinavians and even English enjoying plaudits from the purists. Glenmorangie Distillery in the Scottish Highlands has the tallest stills in the industry, which creates a lighter spirit. Photograph by Glenmorangie Distillery What are some traditional names to look out for? Speyside is the heartland of Scotch, with a higher density of distilleries than anywhere else, and a water source that imparts a sweeter profile. Approachable crowd-pleasers like The Glenlivet, Glenfiddich or sherry-forward The Macallan will be familiar to most — but branch out to Glenfarclas to see a whisky maker take a sherry profile in a different direction or the complex Craigellachie for its cereal and meaty notes. In the Highlands, Glenmorangie has the tallest stills in the industry, which creates a lighter spirit. The company has also been celebrated for innovation in wood finished spirits. For the more experienced palate, head to Islay where firing the malt in kilns fuelled with local peat bestows bold, smoky notes. Lagavulin is the ideal introduction with a slightly richer and sweeter smoke versus Laphroaig for the bigger iodine notes. Meanwhile, Johnnie Walker remains the reliable stalwart of traditional blending, with master blender Emma Walker — a former pharmaceutical chemist who has no relation to the family-founded brand — is celebrated in the whisky world. What are the new-wave whiskies of note? There has been a raft of new Scottish distilleries opening in the past 20 years, and many are now producing stunning spirits. Torbhaig on the Isle of Skye was the first new distillery on the island for 190 years and the light, peaty and maritime whiskies from here are absolute belters. NcNean has pushed boundaries of sustainability with its Organic Single Malt, a lighter and spicier spirit that's been rested in red wine casks. And Highland newcomer Ardnamurchan is a true gem. Based on the Western edge of Scotland, it's been seriously impressing whisky fans since releasing its first bottle in 2020. And the one to watch? That would be Dalmunach, in Speyside. The distillery only opened in 2014, and is already turning out incredible whisky, including 2024's six-year-old releases. In the world of blended whisky, Compass Box deserves credit for shaking things up by being incredibly transparent about the types and ages of whisky it uses. And in terms of new kids on the block, try bottlings from both Turntable and Woven — both producers are proving truly innovative with their small-batch, blending approach. By focusing on limited editions rather than one style, they've explored a wide range of flavour profiles and are attracting a younger audience to the category. A variety of whiskies are offered at Malt Vault in Utrecht, Netherlands. Photograph by Thirsa Nijwening Does age matter? Yes. It determines the minimum amount of time a whisky spends in a barrel. And wood maturation is critical to aroma and flavour, so any decent single malt is likely to have spent more time in the barrel than the requisite three years. The longer whisky spends in the barrel, the more colour the whisky takes on and the more influence the wood has on aroma and flavour. But older isn't necessarily better. Too much time in wood can adulterate the house style of a new-make whisky distillate, so it's about balance. For example, the Dalmunach 6 Year Old is an example of something young that can impress. In more recent years, dwindling stocks of single malt have led to the emergence of No Age Statement whiskies, allowing a producer to blend different ages and styles but still deliver a tasty single malt. Meanwhile, Johnnie Walker Blue includes 60-year-old whiskies in the blend, so it doesn't always follow that a number on the bottle is the entire story. What is the most authentic way to drink it? Whisky snobs are a dying breed, yet some will still tell you not to add anything to your whisky. But drink it any way you see fit — it's your whisky. However, neat and at room temperature is an essential starting point to understand the flavour. Adding a little water is accepted by the traditionalists and opens some more of the aroma and flavour — and it's also essential with a cask strength whisky at 57% abv. It's true that the chill from added ice will restrict and suppress some of the flavours, but if you like ice in a spirit, then add ice. And know that whisky makes fantastic cocktails, one of the best serves you can try is a highball: simply whisky over ice in a tall glass, topped with soda water. The Malt Vault in Utrecht, Netherlands is hidden at canal level and built into an arched former wharf storeroom. Photograph by Thirsa Nijwening Where are the best places to try it? A distillery visit is essential to really getting to know the spirit — and falling for its charms. And many producers provide engaging experiences. Talisker in Skye offers some of the best tours and tastings, although its worth noting the tourist numbers are putting a strain on the island. Easily accessible, the Bow Bar in Edinburgh is an essential whisky pub experience, while the city's glitzier Johnnie Walker Princess Street experience is the Malt Disney of whisky tours. And you don't necessarily need to head north; most major cities now have a great whisky bar. Take The Malt Vault in Utrecht, Netherlands — a fantastic gem, hidden at canal level and built into an arched former wharf storeroom. Elsewhere, Dram, in London is an innovative spot that proves whisky cocktails deserve respect. The Thinking Drinkers are Ben McFarland and Tom Sandham, award-winning alcohol experts who have recently embarked on The Great British Pub Ride, cycling 1,000 miles on a tandem, stopping only in pubs. Visit YouTube to see the journey. To subscribe to National Geographic Traveller (UK) magazine click here. (Available in select countries only).
Business Upturn
a day ago
- Business Upturn
Uncharted Japan Celebrates First Anniversary with Over 5,000 Subscribers and Hundreds of Thousands of Views
Black Mountain, North Carolina, June 27, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — John and Josephine Haynes on their travels (source: Uncharted Japan) Uncharted Japan, an independent travel storytelling venture, has announced major milestones. Following its first anniversary, its YouTube channel has crossed 5,000 subscribers and accumulated hundreds of thousands of views. Uncharted Japan's growth, especially within the niche category of culturally rich, off-the-beaten-path Japanese travel, reflects a growing demand for authentic, meaningful travel content and the channel's distinct voice. 'We never imagined this would resonate the way it has. I'm in my 60s, and before we started, I had never uploaded a video, never used editing software, and certainly had no experience running a YouTube channel,' says John Haynes, co-founder of Uncharted Japan. 'Most creators on this platform are half our age, and yet here we are, a couple with zero production background, reaching thousands and being recognized in Japan by viewers who've changed their travel plans because of us.' Founded by John and his wife, Josephine, Uncharted Japan began as a passion project inspired by a decades-long love affair with Japan's culture, countryside, and people. John, a former top-producing real estate professional in the US, left a successful career of nearly four decades to launch this channel alongside Josephine, whose ties to Japan run generations deep. Born in Japan, Josephine represents the fourth generation of her American family to have lived there. In 1861, her great-great-grandparents arrived as some of the earliest missionaries permitted into the country after centuries of isolation. That legacy, as well as their frequent visits to the family home near Nagano, gives the Hayneses a unique perspective in the online travel space. Uncharted Japan isn't a typical travel channel. It doesn't showcase the same viral hotspots found on every influencer's itinerary, from Tokyo's Shibuya Crossing to Kyoto's Fushimi Inari or Osaka's Dotonbori. The channel delves into quiet villages, forgotten temples, mom-and-pop eateries, and historic neighborhoods that rarely, if ever, appear on travel blogs or Instagram feeds. Uncharted Japan's content is carefully curated for an older, more discerning audience who value substance over spectacle. 'We avoid clickbait thumbnails or outrageous challenges,' says John. 'We offer in-depth storytelling to travelers who want a slower pace and a genuine connection with Japan's culture and communities.' This focus on depth and discovery distinguishes Uncharted Japan. It has always been dedicated to revealing the side of Japan that most visitors and even some locals overlook. Uncharted Japan's impact is evident in the comments across its videos. Viewers praise its sincere approach and the richness of its recommendations. For instance, its episode on the Osaka Expo 2025 has drawn over 185,000 views, providing viewers with a comprehensive guide to one of Japan's largest events in decades. The Hayneses also receive heartfelt emails and comments almost daily, not only from viewers but also from the Japanese locals whose stories they help amplify. Remote innkeepers and small-town restaurateurs express deep gratitude for the exposure Uncharted Japan provides. Viral travel content usually chases clicks over connection. Uncharted Japan represents a return to what travel is supposed to be about: discovery, understanding, and storytelling. 'Our passion is to show people that there's so much more to Japan than neon lights and cherry blossoms,' John says. 'It's a country of astonishing diversity, history, and quiet beauty, especially in the places most tourists never go. If we can help people experience that, then we've done something worthwhile.' This is what Uncharted Japan remains committed to doing as it moves into its second year. Media Contact Name: John Haynes Email: [email protected] Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with GlobeNewswire. Business Upturn takes no editorial responsibility for the same. Ahmedabad Plane Crash
Miami Herald
2 days ago
- Miami Herald
Drunk American Tourist Wrecks Ancient Japanese Temple
An American tourist on Tuesday caused significant damage to a 761-year-old temple in Japan. The unnamed suspect, described as intoxicated, forced his way inside Shoden Eigen‑in Temple through a rear kitchen door on the southern side of the building, according to the Tokyo Weekender. After walking through the garden, he attempted to scale the wooden railing that encircles the main hall. In doing so, he caused visible damage, scraping and compromising the surface of the historic structure. The wooden railing sustained cracks and abrasions and a nearby wooden door was destroyed. Newsweek contacted the Japan National Tourism Organization for comment via email on Friday. Founded in 1264, Shoden Eigen‑in Temple, a subtemple of Kennin-ji Monastery, in Kyoto, where the incident took place, was officially designated as a Kyoto Prefectural Cultural Heritage Site in 2015. According to the Tokyo Weekender, the structures there are architecturally fragile, historically significant and irreplaceable. The head priest of the temple, Keinin Magami, noticed the intrusion when the man knocked on the door of his adjacent residence, The Mainichi Shimbun reported. Police were called but a damage report was not filed. There was no permanent damage to the residence. Kennin-ji, established in 1202, is considered the oldest Zen training monastery in Kyoto, with deep historical ties to Oda Urakusai, brother of famed warlord Oda Nobunaga. The man apologized in person to the head priest through a translation app, saying: "This is the biggest mistake of my life. I am truly sorry." According to reports, when asked why he had come, he said, "I wanted to see the temple." Unlike tourist-heavy areas, the subtemple is intentionally low‑profile and wasn't equipped with major security measures, making it easier for the visitor to enter unnoticed. Head priest Keinin Magami, as reported by The Mainichi Shimbun: "We have reached a point where we need to be careful in our daily lives as well. We are seeing the negative effects of overtourism, so I would like measures to be taken." Japanese news outlet the Tokyo Weekender: "Shoden Eigen-in will mend the damage. The priest will move on. The tourist will fly home. But there will be more issues in the future." As reported by the Tokyo Weekender, Magami told reporters he accepted the man's apology. The railing will likely be repaired with traditional methods. Japan's reliance on tourism revenue is at risk of clashing with the unexpected costs and threats posed by what is seen by some as irresponsible tourists and a growing trend of disrespect by foreign visitors regarding the protection of Japan's cultural treasures The incident adds to a growing roster of mishaps involving ill‑advised tourist behavior, from carving names into Nara's ancient temples to vandalism at Tokyo shrines, raising questions about the balance between open access and cultural preservation in Japan's tourism-driven era. Related Articles Key US Ally Quietly Prepares for China's Pacific War With AmericaJapan Calls China's Latest Sea Move 'Extremely Regrettable'-Tensions RiseUS Ambassador Calls Out Chinese Counterpart Over X Post: 'Untrained Puppy'Mapped: How China Staged Double Aircraft Carrier Show of Force in Pacific 2025 NEWSWEEK DIGITAL LLC.
