While Kawagoe has many mouthwatering restaurants and cafes, most are not vegan-friendly. But don’t be too disappointed! Not far from the town’s landmark, Toki no Kane Clock, there is a long-established traditional Japanese cuisine restaurant called Kawagoe Kou Sushi (川越 幸すし) that offers a few vegan options. It can also accommodate both gluten-free and halal […]
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If you are an aviation buff, the 50-hectare Tokorozawa Aviation Memorial Park (所沢航空記念公園) in Tokorozawa City is a spot of your interest! The Tokorozawa Aviation Museum is where you can get close to an aircraft and better understand the aviation industry. In addition, the vast park built on the site of Japan’s first official airfield
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If you are a fan of Ghibli’s movie My Neighbor Totoro and the beauty of Japanese nature, the Totoro Forest (トトロの森) in Tokorozawa City in Saitama Prefecture is a destination that you don’t want to miss! Just one hour from Shinjuku by train, you will be immersed in Mother Nature’s generosity. A deep forest with beautiful lakes, a vast
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If you have a car and plan to visit Tokorozawa in late spring or autumn, visit Tamon-in (多聞院). The temple is a renowned spot for peony and the beautiful fall foliage. Besides the natural scenery, pilgrims can enjoy a couple of fun rituals. In addition, it is a temple filled with tiger elements!
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Kusatsu Onsen is one of the most popular destinations close to Tokyo. After all, who don’t want to experience Japan’s famous hot spring at one of the representative onsen towns? Plus, the three public bathhouses in Kusatsu Onsen is tattoo-friendly, making it the top choice for many international visitors. To get to Kusatsu Onsen by
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If you are after a nice traditional-style restaurant to taste the famous Kaiseki Ryōri in Kyoto’s city center, consider Tōsuirō (豆水楼). Apart from the seafood-based course menus, Tōsuirō also has a vegan or gluten-free Kaiseki at both of their restaurants in Kyoto called Rokuhara (六波羅). It is one of the best restaurants to enjoy Kyoto’s
Tōsuirō: The Best Place to Enjoy Kyo-Tofu Kaiseki Ryori Read More »
Want to appreciate the picturesque 2km gorge with cliff walls of more than 100 meters high on both riverbanks, and all you need to do is relax on a boat? Geibikei Gorge (猊鼻渓) in Iwate Prefecture is the perfect place for you! Adding to this unforgettable experience is the traditional Japanese ballad that your boatman
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Renkeiji (蓮馨寺) is the temple in Kawagoe closest to Taishō Roman Yume-dōri. It is close to the street’s popular udon restaurant, Udon Tsumugi. The temple has a serene atmosphere and is rich in history. Since its establishment in the mid-16th century, the locals would go there and pray for various things, especially child-related matters, such
Renkeiji: A Temple to Pray for Child-Related Matters in Kawagoe Read More »
Ichinoseki (一関市) is the southmost city in Iwate Prefecture. Having a wealth of beautiful natural landscapes, it is the perfect destination for a weekend getaway from the big city’s hustle and bustle. If you are a foodie, Ichinoseki should also be of your interest. The city also has a unique mochi culture, meaning you will
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Shōeidō (松栄堂) is Ichinoseki‘s representative traditional confectionary maker, established in 1903. It is very good at creating gorgeously shaped sweets made from local ingredients, reflecting the local cultures and current seasons. Traditionally, the mochi rice cake can be found in all seasonal events in Ichinoseki. This is why the local traditional sweets makers, such as
Shōeidō: Ichinoseki’s Best Traditional Confectionery Maker Read More »