Rise and shrine! Direct flights to Japan’s Osaka will put this heavenly region on the map 

Hiro raises his bare thigh and slams his foot on the ground spreading ripples across his man mountain of a body. He bows at his opponent and, in a vision of manboobs and giant wedgies, they engage in combat; wrestling, pushing, heaving and tugging until one emerges victorious. Suddenly, it’s my turn. I step into … Read more

Japan’s coolest secret… Ten ways to enjoy the mesmerising – and often snowy – island of Hokkaido

All eyes are on Japan this year as it hosts the Rugby World Cup in September and the next G20 meeting in June, and readies itself for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics.  But visitors who want to explore beyond the obvious tourist attractions should consider Hokkaido. The wild north island is a peaceful enclave of stunning nature … Read more