Across Japan, closed-down schools are being reborn in unexpected ways — an aquarium, an Italian restaurant on an earthquake fault, a roadside station serving school lunch. Here are four.

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Closed schools, reborn

The 'regret stones' — quarried on Shodoshima 400 years ago to build Osaka Castle, yet never used. We look at how people moved these giant stones back then, and why they still remain on the island today.

The stones that never became a castle

How did Tsukishima, a small island in Tokyo, become the home of monjayaki — a savory griddle dish you cook yourself at the table? The answer lies in a 1980s shopping-street crisis and an unlikely comeback.

Why Tsukishima is known for monjayaki

Tokyo Station's dome has only 8 of the 12 zodiac animals — and the missing 4 turned up in the hometown of its architect. Along the way, learn to spot his red-brick style in old banks and stations all over Japan.

Tokyo Station's dome has only 8 zodiac animals. Where are the other 4?

Castle stone walls reveal when they were built. Learn to identify three stacking methods and other details that will make your next castle visit far more rewarding.

How to Read Castle Stone Walls

Learn how to enjoy Tokyo's Edo-era daimyo gardens. We explain the kaiyū-style layout and highlight four surviving historic gardens with their unique stories.

How to enjoy Tokyo's traditional gardens

Discover why Jimbocho is known as Tokyo's curry town. We trace its history and introduce must-visit curry spots and nearby detour destinations.

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