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Yatakayama-Sea-Of-Cloud-Takahashi-Okayama-Japan

Mt.Yatakayama and How to Spend a Night at Yatakayama Park

Another great place to admire the view of the sea of clouds is Mt.Yataka (弥高山). Even taller than Mt. Komatsu, at 654 meters above sea level, the sea of clouds continues further across the horizon to the distant mountains of the Shikoku region. As with Bitchū Matsuyama Castle, your best chance to see the sea […]

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Fukiya Furusato Village and the Bengala Dye Industry

From Takahashi‘s city center, if you continue traveling in a northwest direction deep into the mountain up to the plateau, which is 500 meters above sea level, the Fukiya Furusato Village (吹屋ふるさと村) will suddenly appear in front of you. The village looks so out of place because it doesn’t quite blend in with the natural

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Katsuoji-Front-Gate-Osaka-Japan

Minō – A City Great for Onsen & Nature Getaways from Osaka

If you want to escape from the hustle and bustle of Osaka City and get back to nature, consider coming to Minō / Minoo / Minoh city (箕面市). It is in Osaka prefecture, less than 30 minutes by the Hankyū Train from Umeda Station (梅田駅)! Right next door to Minō is Ikeda city (池田市) which

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Norikura-Kogen-Ichinose-Danchi-Dojo-Pond-Matsumoto-Nagano-Japan

Norikura Kōgen Travel Guide: How to Visit, Best Hikes & Tips

Nestled in the Japanese Alps, Norikura Kōgen (乗鞍高原) is a stunning, hidden destination known for its dramatic waterfalls, alpine meadows, and the soaring peaks of Mt. Norikura. It is the best off-the-beaten-path destination in Central Japan that isn’t as crowded as Kamikōchi, and you can drive there without relying on public transport! Whether you are

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What-Are-the-Rules-of-the-Sumo-Match

All You Need to Know About Watching Sumo Wrestling in Japan

Sumo wrestling is a fascinating cultural experience, and one of the dream activities for many who visit Japan is to see a sumo wrestling match. But, as sumo wrestling tournaments are only held at certain times of the year, advance planning is required if you are keen on a day of action at a sumo

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cherry blossom along Lake-Biwa-Canal-Otsu-Shiga-Japan

Shiga Sakura Spots: 19 Spots to Escape Kyoto Crowds

Looking to experience Japan’s iconic spring beauty without the overwhelming Kyoto crowds? While most travelers flock to the packed parks of Arashiyama, the best-kept secret of the cherry blossom season is just a 10-minute train ride away in Shiga Prefecture. Boasting breathtaking lakeside views and historic castles, Shiga offers a peaceful, authentic alternative for those

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Shoboji Temple Henjoto Pagoda Kyoto Japan

17 Best Hidden Gems in Kyoto: Off-the-Beaten-Path Guide

When most travelers picture Kyoto, they imagine the brilliant orange gates of Fushimi Inari or the crowded bamboo groves of Arashiyama. However, the true soul of the region lies far beyond the city center, tucked away in the misty mountains, historic samurai castle towns, and floating coastal villages of greater Kyoto Prefecture. Exploring these spectacular,

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