*Winner of The North American Travel Journalists Association's Excellence in Travel Journalism Award* Japan mesmerizes and bewilders the visitor in equal measure, making a top-notch travel guide essential for anyone planning a trip to the land of the rising sun. Rob Goss is an award-winning Japan travel writer who has lived in the country for years. From fast-paced Tokyo to the serene temples and gardens of Kyoto to the booming winter resort of Niseko, Goss shows visitors where to experience the country's rich culinary traditions, pop culture, Samurai heritage, and so much more. Delving beyond the scope of traditional guidebooks, Japan Traveler's Companion showcases the insider's Japan, offering detailed itineraries for each region as well as : Information on the country's 100 most important tourist sights, including 22 UNESCO World Heritage Sites - Illustrated introductions to Japanese cuisine, popular culture, and Samurai history - A map of each region with suggested walks - Tips for getting off the beaten path and finding Japan's lesser-known treasures, such as the contemporary "art island" of Naoshim and Yakushima's breathtaking flora and fauna Engagingly written and richly illustrated with hundreds of color photos, this Japan travel guide is the one book visitors will keep by their side before, during, and long after they complete their journey. " Japan Traveler's Companion by Rob Goss guides readers through the country's historical sights, cultural attractions, culinary traditions, and pop-culture phenomena." -- Publishers Weekly "I've never seen a book that made me want to explore a place more…and offered so many intriguing choices with in-depth profiles and photos. Highly, highly recommended." -- Wandering Educators blog "Whether you're planning a trip to Japan or are just obsessed with the country like I am, this book will be a feast for your senses. With bright colored photographs that seem to jump off the pages and insider tips, you will get to see the beauty of Japan in all her facets. While the book definitely covers the main tourist attractions, the writer doesn't shy away from also showing you the lesser known parts of Japan. This book is both practical and inspirational." -- The Travel Tester blog "A fascinating and informative browse for the armchair traveler, Japan Traveler's Companion is unreservedly recommended for personal, community, and academic library World Travel instructional reference and guide book collections." -- Midwest Book Review "As a resource and inspirational guide, this book is of course great in your bookshelf or on your coffee table. There is also plenty of information about the rules in and around the onsen, so if you're interested in learning more about Japanese culture, then this book is also perfect for you!" -- The Travel Tester blog "Each section begins with an intriguing, two-page photograph, then follows that with a one-page map of the sights which are to be mentioned and a one-page overview of what is to come in the chapter. This would make a beautiful coffee table book, but it could also be used to persuade even the most jaded traveler to take a trip to Japan." -- Japan Visitor "Both tourists and armchair travelers will enjoy this heavily illustrated volume containing details about and beautiful pictures of attractions throughout the country." -- Library Journal Rob Goss  is a Tokyo-based writer creating award-winning books and stories for media around the globe. His books include the NATJA Award-winning pair, Travel Pack Japan and Tokyo: Capital of Cool, as well as the recently released Japanese Inns & Hot Springs. He has also worked with clients ranging from major international publications like National Geographic Traveler and TIME magazine to independents such as Roads & Kingdoms and globally recognized brands as diverse as Lexus, Cathay Pacific, Omega, Toyota, Garuda, and Delta.