This guide addresses an increase in bear sightings across Japan, including popular tourist areas like Shirakawago and Arashiyama in recent years, making bear safety crucial for travelers.

The article emphasizes that prevention is key to avoiding encounters and provides tips in how to stay safe.

Taste seafood freshly caught from the Sea of Japan and see the mountains of Hokuriku draped in the fiery colours of autumn.

The Hokuriku Region lies to the northwest of Tokyo along the Sea of Japan, backing on to the spectacular snow-capped peaks of the Japanese Alps. This is one of Japan's most celebrated locations for seafood and gourmet dining, with Kanazawa in particular considered one of the very best places to eat in all Japan. Its majestic mountain landscapes and beautiful historic sites make it one of Japan's most popular locations for seeing the autumn colours, as do the natural thermal waters of its hot spring towns like Kaga Onsen.