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Yu Island: Exploring Kumamoto’s Secret Cat Island & History

January 18, 2026 / Kumamoto Prefecture, Kyūshū Region

Discover a hidden coastal paradise at Yu Island (Yushima, 湯島), Kumamoto’s famous “Cat Island” floating in the serene Ariake Sea (有明海). Spanning just 4 kilometers in circumference, this tranquil car-free retreat is home to a feline population that famously outnumbers its human residents, making it a dream destination for animal lovers and photographers alike. Beyond […]

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Kifune Shrine: The Scenic Shrine and the Origin of the Ema Plaque

January 5, 2026 / Autumn Foliage, Kansai Region, Kyoto Prefecture, Temples & Shrines

Besides the Kurama-dera Temple, Kifune Shrine (貴船神社) is another must-visit spot in the Kurama and Kibune area. Especially during the autumn foliage season, the shrine is extra stunning with the foliage’s vivid colors. During this part of the year, nighttime illumination creates a mysterious atmosphere. In winter, the shrine gives a different impression when covered

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Vegan-Friendly Cafes and Restaurants in Kawaramachi, Kyoto

December 29, 2025 / Kansai Region, Kyoto Prefecture, Vegan and Vegetarian-Friendly Spots

Nestled in the bustling heart of Kyoto’s downtown, Kawaramachi has evolved into a premier destination for plant-based travelers seeking more than just simple salads. From the legendary “Heavenly Pancakes” at Ain Soph Journey to the artfully presented gozen sets at Mumokuteki Café, the district offers a sophisticated blend of traditional Japanese flavors and modern vegan innovation. Whether you

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Rinnoji Temple Japanese Garden and Pagoda Sendai Miyagi Japan

Rinnoji: The Temple that Houses Sendai’s Best Garden

December 13, 2025 / Autumn Foliage, Miyagi Prefecture, Temples & Shrines, Tōhoku Region

If you are a big fan of Japanese gardens, you would be interested in stopping at Rinnō-ji Temple (輪王寺) when you visit Sendai. It is where you will find the city’s best garden! In addition, the temple holds free meditation sessions on Saturday nights. Moreover, it is probably the only temple in the world that

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Sendai Daikannon – Explore Japan’s Tallest Kannon Statue

January 27, 2026 / Miyagi Prefecture, Temples & Shrines, Tōhoku Region

If you ever get a chance to head up to the observatory area at Sendai’s SS30‘s top floor on a clear day, you should see the white Kannon Buddha statue sticking out of a residential area. The Sendai Daikannon (仙台大観音) is the second-tallest Buddha statue in Japan (the tallest is the Ushiku Buddha (牛久大仏) in

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Rokumon: The Sightseeing Train Connecting Karuizawa & Nagano

January 2, 2026 / Chūbu Region, Nagano Prefecture, Transportation in Japan

You might already be aware that to the Japanese, trains are sometimes more than just vehicles that carry you from A to B. Unlike most countries in the world, Japan’s Sightseeing Trains don’t just run between the tourist attractions in the rural areas. They operate on normal train tracks between cities and prefectures, and compared

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Ogijima – The Artistic Cat Island on the Seto Inland Sea

October 15, 2025 / Kagawa Prefecture, Shikoku Region

Speaking of the Seto Inland Sea, what will pop into most people’s minds is probably the Setouchi Triennale (瀬戸内国際芸術祭). In addition to the event’s main stage, Naoshima Island, there are a couple more islands where the contemporary art festival is held, and Ogijima (男木島) is one of them. But Ogijima isn’t all about the artwork.

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Where to Find the Vegan-Friendly Restaurants Around Gion

October 11, 2025 / Kansai Region, Kyoto Prefecture, Vegan and Vegetarian-Friendly Spots

The charming, historic streets of Gion, Kyoto are famous for geisha and traditional architecture, but they also host an unexpectedly rich culinary scene for plant-based eaters. Whether you are a devoted vegan traveler or a curious vegetarian looking to experience authentic Japanese flavours without meat, this guide unveils the best Kyoto vegetarian restaurants offering delicious,

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The Ultimate Guide to Kawagoe Kumano Shrine

January 27, 2026 / Kantō Region, Saitama Prefecture, Temples & Shrines

While Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine is the most renowned shrine in Kawagoe, Kawagoe Kumano Shrine (川越 熊野神社) is also a shrine you won’t want to miss out on. There are various fascinating rituals and activities you can do in its precinct, such as ball-throwing for good luck and cleansing your money to bring more money your

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