As we reported back in November, the Travel Volunteer Project, which reached the finish line just over two weeks ago at the end of 2011, was one of the more ambitious and far-ranging PR-driven travel schemes we’ve yet come across. More >

Japan Airlines unveiled a Hello Kitty-themed ‘Hellosmile’ Boeing 777-300 at Tokyo Haneda Airport on Friday, Jan. 13, 2012. More >

Given all the gloom that has shrouded Japanese corporate circles in recent months, this is surely a good moment to salute a success story: the recovery of former national flag carrier Japan Airlines. More >

The plan to give away 10,000 free round-trip tickets to Japan by the Japan Tourist Agency (JTA) to jump start Japan’s lagging tourism has been torpedoed by the Ministry of Finance (MOF). No appropriation for it appears in the 2012 budget. More >

The Japanese capital is all dressed up for the holidays and people are bundling up to head out and enjoy the sights. Many flock to the brick-lined Yebisu Garden Place to see its solar-powered Christmas tree, hear live music, and marvel at the Baccarat Eternal Lights chandelier. More >