Jonathan DeHart

Introduction

Jonathan “Jon” DeHart is an author, journalist and tour designer focused on culture, society and travel across Asia. Originally from the United States, he has lived and worked extensively in Japan and southeast Asia and is now based in Thailand, traveling widely throughout the region. He specializes in travel writing, cultural analysis and long-form reporting, with a particular emphasis on Japan.

Experience

Jon is the author of Moon Travel Guides’ Japan guidebook, now in its third edition, and Tokyo, Kyoto & Hiroshima guidebook, now in its second edition. His work spans the length of the country — from major urban centers to lesser-known regions — with detailed research into food, accommodations, nightlife, arts, outdoor experiences and cultural traditions.

He has written more than 500 published articles for international publications including Travel + Leisure, BBC Travel, Vice and The Diplomat. His reporting has been selected for “best of the web” lists by The Washington Post, The Atlantic, The Huffington Post, Foreign Policy and RealClearWorld.

In addition to his journalism, Jon has worked as an editor for The Diplomat, as well as for international financial newswires and a monthly print publication. He has overseen Asia-focused reporting across multiple platforms, managing contributors and shaping editorial direction.

Beyond writing and editing, he provides bespoke Japan itinerary design, develops full-scale tour programs, and consults for leading behavioral insights and cultural research agencies, interpreting social and consumer trends across Asia.

Publications

Moon Travel Guides

Moon Japan (1st edition, 2020)

Moon Tokyo, Kyoto & Hiroshima (1st edition, 2021)

Moon Japan (2nd edition, 2022)

Education

BA in Asian Studies (High Honors), University of Cincinnati

Journalism coursework, UCLA

Freeman Award for Study in Asia

Languages: English (Native), Japanese (Professional Working)