Zenkoji Temple is the landmark around Nagano Station. Speaking of temple, the term Shōjin Ryōri (精進料理) might pop into your head. The best place to try the monk cuisine close to the temple is Fuchinobō (淵之坊). It is one of the 39 sub-temples of Zenkoji Temple that allow visitors to stay overnight (Shukubō, 宿坊). If […]
Fuchinobō: Nagano’s Top Shukubō & Its Exquisite Shōjin Ryōri Read More »
When you visit noodle restaurants in Japan, have you noticed that there is almost always a small round can of spice on one side of the table for you to add more flavor to your noodle soup? If you like the blend that is known as Shichimi in Japanese, the shop that you must visit
Yawataya Isogoro: Japan’s Signatory 7 Spice (Shichimi) Shop Read More »
If you are walking towards Zenkoji Temple from Nagano Station or the other way around, stop by Karukayasan Saikōji Temple (刈萱山西光寺). While the precinct is compact, it is where you can experience Etoki, a cultural activity you can hardly come across anywhere else. This temple should also interest those who previously visited the Karukaya-dō Mitsugon-in
Karukayasan Saikōji: A Hidden Gem Close to Nagano Station Read More »
If you like visiting museums and historical sites, Ōnaka-iseki Park (大中遺跡) is the perfect spot to appreciate the plum blossoms and the historical site from approximately 1900 years ago! The 20 plum blossoms at Ōnaka-iseki Park and the Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Archaeology usually bloom between mid to late February. The locals often have picnics
Ōnaka-iseki Park: The Pit Houses and the Plum Blossoms Read More »
If you want to escape Osaka’s crowded city center, consider taking a break at Yamadaike Park (山田池公園), north of the busy Namba area. The urban park is the perfect spot to enjoy seasonal colors and nature. You can also rent a bicycle from the park’s office and cycle between different scenic areas. There are even
Yamadaike Park: The Hidden Spot to Enjoy Nature in Osaka Read More »
Accommodations in Japan are getting increasingly expensive post-pandemic. It is no surprise that capsule hotels are a good option for those who are budget-conscious or those who do not feel the need to splash out on expensive hotels. However, the quality of these cheap options can sometimes be questionable, so you may not have a
Nine Hours: Japan’s Best and Most Modern Capsule Hotel Chain Read More »
Visiting a place related to the imperial family always feels a bit special. Why not stop by the Suma Rikyū Park (神戸市立須磨離宮公園) if you visit Kobe in spring to early summer? The park is best known for its fountain garden, reminiscent of the Palace of Versailles. The panoramic view of Osaka Bay is also impressive.
Suma Rikyū Park: The Scenic Park That Was an Imperial Villa Read More »
A hidden gem in Osaka for flowers and fall foliage hunting is Kanshin-ji Temple (観心寺). After all, it was chosen to be one of the Flower Temples in the Kansai region! In addition, the temple houses Osaka Prefecture’s oldest architectural national treasure. You can also perform a few simple rituals in its vast precinct. Moreover,
Kanshin-ji: The Scenic Temple and Its Cultural Treasures Read More »
If you want to spend a couple of hours at a rural site accessible from Kobe, Mitoro Fruits Park (加古川市見土呂フルーツパーク) in Kakogawa City is THE perfect spot! The 12,000 square meter plum grove has around 200 plums of 11 varieties. The plum grove is divided into two parts, one for harvesting fruit and one for
Mitoro Fruits Park: The Plum Blossoms and Fruit Picking Read More »
Most people visit Kyoto for its traditional vibe. While the temples and shrines are certainly the must-sees in the city, you are missing out if that is all you have on your itinerary! Kyoto Botanical Garden (京都府立植物園), also known as the Kyoto Prefectural Botanical Garden, is a hidden gem in the northern part of Kyoto
Kyoto Botanical Garden: Kyoto’s Best Spot to Adore Flowers Read More »
