A*B*C Tours

Thanks to their appearance in hit Asian films, locations throughout Japan are being thrust into the spotlight. Previously unknown to most travelers, these locations are now must-see spots for movie buffs from both in and outside Japan. We visit these new tourist hotspots with the stars of the films that made them famous, hearing the behind-the-scenes stories of those hit movies. Plus, an inside look at what makes each location special, including local places, faces, food, history and more. This time, a winter journey to breathtaking Hokkaido, the setting of hit Thai film One Day, with its star Nittha Jirayungyurn, also known as Mew. First, to a ski resort, where you can enjoy the top-quality snow for close to half the year, and to a romantic spot featured in the film. Other highlights include an ice restaurant where Mew tries a unique dish, a collection of over 25,000 music boxes, a reunion with a shopkeeper Mew met while filming One Day, and a special slow food unique to Hokkaido.

This time, we continue our winter journey to Hokkaido, the setting of hit Thai film One Day, with its star Nittha Jirayungyurn, also known as Mew. First, to a hot spring resort with a surprising name where Mew takes in breathtaking views. Next, to Sapporo, Hokkaido's largest city, where she discovers classic Japanese toys, chomps down on soul food and learns winter survival tips from locals. Finally, to a key location from One Day, a chapel that's a romantic must-see spot for fans of the film.

This time, a trip with Kao Supatsara Thanachat, also known as Gao, star of the hit Thai TV series Stay. Gao takes us to Saga Prefecture, the setting of the series, which is full of natural scenery and kindhearted people. First, to Mitsuse, and a farmhouse B&B with traditional Saga cuisine. Next, to Yobuko and its famous morning market, seafood dishes and mysterious caves. Finally, to Cape Hado, known for a place where you can see Saga's sea life in action and for its delicious shellfish dishes.

This time, we continue our trip through Saga Prefecture with Kao Supatsara Thanachat, also known as Gao, star of the hit Thai TV series Stay. First, Ureshino, where Gao visits a hot spring and tries making green tea. Next, to Karatsu, a castle town with a 350-year-old festival and a giant pine grove. Then a boat ride to Takashima, where Gao meets some adorable cats. Finally, to Yutoku Inari Shrine, where Stay's climactic scene takes place, which is now popular with visitors from Thailand.

This time, a trip with Phuong Anh Dao, star of the hit Vietnamese film Summer in Closed Eyes. Anh Dao takes us to beautiful Hokkaido Prefecture, the northern island that served as the setting of the film. First, to the photography-centric town of Higashikawa, and to a craft workshop run by a couple who appeared in the film. After a bowl of gourmet ramen, Anh Dao takes a refreshing horseback ride through the great outdoors. Finally, to the town of Hokuryu to cycle around its famous sunflower fields.

We continue our trip to Hokkaido Prefecture with Phuong Anh Dao, star of the hit Vietnamese film Summer in Closed Eyes. First to Biei and its famous multicolored patchwork crops and 15-hectare flower fields. Here, Anh Dao has a korokke taste test. Next, to Higashikawa, famous for a shrine that's over 120 years old, an eatery featuring fresh local cuisine, and clear mountain water used to make tofu, coffee and more. Finally, to Mt. Asahidake for a ropeway ride and a scenic climb to cap off the trip.