In December last year, Ishikawa was chosen on the BBC’s 20 Best Places to Travel in 2026. Spotlighting Ishikawa’s unique charms – from the renowned crafts of Kanazawa to the sake breweries and seafood of the Noto Peninsula – the article frames a visit to Ishikawa as a chance to aid recovery from the 2024 earthquake and keep Ishikawa’s traditions alive. Visitors to Ishikawa can experience farm life at a “farmhouse inn” in Noto, or try their hand at traditional “Kaga Yuzen” kimono dyeing in the workshops of Kanazawa. Against a backdrop of increasing desire for authentic and sustainable travel experiences, the BBC’s coverage reflects travellers’ changing tastes and is sure to pique readers’ interest in Ishikawa as a destination.

Interest is steadily growing among travellers who want to visit Japan and South Korea in a single trip, and many tour operators are now offering combined itineraries covering both destinations. To support this trend, Asiana Airlines has launched a new promotion featuring special London–Japan fares with the option to add a stopover in South Korea. This allows travellers to include a stay in Seoul on their journey from London to Japan, enjoying two distinct cultures in one seamless and great‑value itinerary. For further information, please contact Asiana Airlines.

The Westin Miyako Kyoto opened in 1890, welcoming distinguished guests for over a century. In 2020, the hotel marked its 130th anniversary and underwent an extensive renovation, creating refined facilities designed to meet the expectations of even the most discerning luxury travellers. Within this storied property lies Kasuien, an architectural jewel designed by the celebrated architect Togo Murano in 1959. The sukiya-style exterior and Japanese gardens have been preserved in their original design, while the generously proportioned guest rooms express Murano's design philosophy through carefully inherited details, with infrastructure fully modernised. Every suite features a private natural hot spring bath, offering authentic onsen culture in complete privacy. As part of the renovation, the number of Western-style guest rooms was reduced by nearly half, allowing for significantly more spacious layouts. They offer a wide selection of Junior Suites, making the hotel an excellent choice for group travellers as well. They warmly invite you to experience the timeless elegance and renowned hospitality of The Westin Miyako Kyoto. For inquiries, please contact The Westin Miyako Kyoto.