An upcoming book, "Hidden Japan," uncovers hidden spots and less-traveled paths of Tokyo and beyond. Authored by long-time expat Chiara Park Terzuolo, who has spent over a decade navigating the intricate tapestry of Japanese culture, this guide promises to reveal a Japan beyond the usual tourist trails.

Elevating Japan Through Diverse Expertise

Chiara Terzuolo, an Italian-American, has resided in Japan since 2011. With a rich background in marketing, content management, PR, and freelance writing, she brings a wealth of experience to promoting Japan. The author of two published books, "The Vegan Guide to Tokyo" and "Hidden Japan," Chiara's unique perspective combines insights from American and European viewpoints, enriched by her fluency in English, Italian, Japanese, and French, as well as her profound understanding of Japan and its culture.

Chiara is co-anchor for the NHK program "Learn Japanese from the News." In addition to her role in media, she is a versatile professional, showcasing her talents as a singer, MC, and narrator. Chiara regularly also performs at various hotels and events across Japan.

Justine Wong will illustrate this book. Wong is presently pursuing studies in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Acupuncture. Wong has been residing in Tokyo for one year, and she creates illustrations for editorial publications, storybooks, and advertising campaigns. She is the mind behind the project 21 Days in Japan: An Illustrative Study on Japanese Cuisine, featuring paintings of 100 meals she discovered during her travels in Japan. 

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Navigating Beyond Crowds Amid Japan's Tourism Surge

As the number of travel bookings in Japan continues to rise and Tokyo is named the fastest-growing digital nomad city, escaping busy crowds is becoming more apparent. Foreign tourist visits reached 2.3 million in July 2023, the highest number since 2019. People voiced concerns about unsustainable tourism in Japan when border restrictions were lifted during the pandemic.

The influx of tourists has strained the infrastructure. Hence, finding a place not surrounded by tourists taking pictures is hard. "Hidden Japan" aims to change this narrative by sharing Chiara Park Terzuolo's insights and discoveries gained over 12 years of living in Japan. The guide not only unveils a different side of well-known cities but also introduces lesser-known, less-crowded destinations scattered across the country.

The book does not just focus on the major attractions. It goes beyond providing information about hidden gems tucked away on side streets or a mere turn or two away from popular tourist spots. Navigating Japan with this guide ensures that adventurous travelers not only explore the iconic sights but also discover the charm of the less-explored areas, offering a richer and more profound experience.

Having visited almost all of Japan's prefectures, Park Terzuolo infuses the guide with knowledge, experience, and affection for the country. The thoughtfully chosen suggestions ensure a unique experience, making "Hidden Japan" a must-have for those wanting an authentic and less crowded exploration.

"Hidden Japan" will be available in bookstores on April 30. You may also preorder the book now!

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