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Tokyo Weekender Unveils 'The Bucket List 2026'

Tokyo Weekender, the oldest English-language lifestyle media outlet in Japan, is set to release its annual travel special edition, "The Bucket List 2026," on December 26, 2025. Published by ENGAWA Inc., the magazine highlights the theme "DARE TO TAKE THE TRIP OF YOUR DREAMS," aligning with a global shift in travel trends. Rather than merely visiting famous tourist spots, travelers are now embracing immersive experiences that connect them with local cultures and spiritualities.

This year's issue delves deep into the less-explored facets of Japan, offering a unique perspective from its foreign editorial team. Readers can anticipate breathtaking insights that range from mountain lodges at altitudes of 3,080 meters to luxurious hotels designed by renowned architects like Tadao Ando and Kengo Kuma. This edition serves as an ultimate guide for intellectually curious travelers seeking to enrich their bucket lists with Japan's essence, spirituality, and innovation.

Highlights of 'The Bucket List 2026'

The 2026 special issue is structured around three central themes that unveil the deeper charms of Japan—EXPLORE, AWAKEN, and ESCAPE.

EXPLORE: Adventure into the Unknown Japan

• - North Alps Mountain Lodge Stay: Experience the breathtaking views and unique culture of mountain lodges like the Yarigatake Mountain Lodge (3,080m elevation) and more.
• - Sado Island (Niigata Prefecture): Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site that includes the historic Sado Gold Mine and traditional Noh theater stages from the Edo era.
• - Sawara (Chiba Prefecture): Discover the picturesque waterways of this Edo-period town, recognized as the first Important Preservation District for Groups of Traditional Buildings in the Kanto region.
• - Top Five Winter Sceneries: A selection of stunning winter landscapes including Shirakawa-go (Gifu Prefecture), Zao Snow Monsters (Yamagata Prefecture), and Biei (Hokkaido).

AWAKEN: Awakening Through Architecture and Faith

• - Modern Sacred Spaces: Architectural wonders such as the Akagi Shrine by Kengo Kuma and Honbukuji Suimon by Tadao Ando.
• - Pilgrimage Trails: Pathways through the sacred Shikoku 88 Temples and the historic Kumano Kodo, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

ESCAPE: Sharpening the Senses

• - Latest Luxury Hotels: Discover top-tier accommodations like Janū Tokyo, Auberge Tokito, and Espacio Nagoya Castle (Aichi).
• - Family-Friendly Immersive Experiences: Engage with the