Sekizenkan (積善館), which has more than 300 years of history, is the most famous among all the ryokans in Gunma Prefecture‘s Shima Onsen. Not only because the main building is the oldest hot spring inn architecture in Japan, but the ryokan is also rumored to be the stage of Spirited Away, as three spots of […]
Sekizenkan – The Rumored Stage of the Ghibli Movie, Spirited Away Read More »
If you love adventures and visiting hidden gems, Shiriyaki Onsen (尻焼温泉) in Gunma Prefecture is a perfect spot for you. Instead of a hot spring pool, you can bathe in a natural river with hot springs flowing. You won’t be asked to bathe naked. It is optional. However, as photography is allowed there, just remember
Shiriyaki Onsen: Where You Bathe in a Natural River in Japan Read More »
The Chibishi Islands (チービシ環礁) are located between mainland Okinawa and the Kerama Islands group. It is formed by three uninhabited sand dunes. Because Chibishi Islands are so close to Naha, if you don’t have much time, it is possible to experience the charm of the Kerama Island National Park by taking a half-day trip to
Chibishi Islands, A Great Beach Holiday Spot Close to Naha Read More »
While the Michelin Green Guide Japan gave Zamami Island‘s Furuzamami Beach a two-star rating, it isn’t a beach where you want to snorkel anymore if you are experienced, as the beach now has a designated swimming area marked by lane dividers. Because the coral reefs inside this restricted area aren’t as beautiful, snorkeling at other beaches
Snorkeling Around Kerama Islands’ Hidden Uninhabited Islands Read More »
Many people visit Japan between mid-March and early April for the cherry blossom. If that is your plan, consider visiting Zuishin-in (隨心院) in Kyoto as well. The temple’s plum blossoms are late bloomers, so you can adore both cherry and plum blossoms on the same trip! In addition, Zuishin-in has splendidly painted sliding door paintings
Zuishin-in: The Splendid Plum and Sliding Door Paintings Read More »
Akashi City, west of Kobe, is best known for its magnificent view of the Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge, the Seto Inland Sea, and Awaji Island as the backdrop. But what many are not aware of is that the city also has a few plum blossom spots worth visiting from late February to mid-March. If you plan to
The Best Plum Blossom Spots in Akashi City Read More »
Inokashira Park in Kichijōji is a great urban park to enjoy nature. You can easily spend a couple of hours in this vast park. But the longer you stay there, the emptier your stomach will get. Many locals or travelers would grab a picnic mat and food to picnic on the park’s lawn or benches.
The Best Vegetarian-Friendly Cafes Around Inokashira Park Read More »
Kichijōji in Tokyo has many amazing cafes and restaurants, but many don’t cater to a vegan diet. Fortunately, there are still a couple of places for us vegan and vegetarian to visit. Most also offer meat and vegan options, perfect for those who travel with non-vegan families and friends!
The Best Guide to Kichijōji’s Vegan-Friendly Restaurants Read More »
Miyako Island and the islands in Miyakojima (宮古島市) are arguably the best destinations in Okinawa. The seaside scenery and the underwater world are just too awe-inspiring to give them a pass when you visit the southernmost island of Japan. But what are the must-visit places in Miyako-jima? If you have the same question, we have
The Top 12 Attractions in Miyakojima City Read More »
Around 4km northeast of Miyako Island, there is a mysterious small island where the locals believe that gods of nature reside. There are numerous sacred sites where entry is forbidden without permission. It is said that during the Uyagan Festival (祖神祭 (ウヤガン祭)), even the islanders aren’t allowed to enter those areas. In fact, to Miyakojima’s
Ōgami Island – The Most Sacred Island in Miyakojima City Read More »
