KC

Karuizawa-Shaw-Memorial-Church-Karuizawa-Nagano-Japan

The Best Guide to the Must-Visit Churches in Karuizawa

December 27, 2025 / Chūbu Region, Nagano Prefecture, The Must-Visit Churches in Japan

Discover the serene beauty and architectural wonder of the must-visit churches in Karuizawa, Japan’s premier highland retreat. From the iconic wooden craftsmanship of Karuizawa Kogen Church to the breathtaking stone-and-glass artistry of the Stone Church, these spiritual landmarks offer a peaceful escape into the heart of Nagano Prefecture. Whether you are a photography enthusiast, a

The Best Guide to the Must-Visit Churches in Karuizawa Read More »

Akiu Otaki Fall Autumn Sendai Miyagi Japan

The Best Guide to Akiu Otaki Falls and Futakuchi Gorge

December 23, 2025 / Autumn Foliage, Hidden Gems, Miyagi Prefecture, National Places of Scenery Beauty, Tōhoku Region, Top 100 Waterfalls in Japan

Akiu Ōtaki Falls (秋保大滝), also known as the Akiu Great Falls (or simply Akiu Falls), is the must-see spot in Akiu Onsen. The 55-meter-tall waterfall is just spectacular, no matter which season you visit. It was thus chosen as one of Japan’s Top 100 Waterfalls and designated a National Place of Scenic Beauty.

The Best Guide to Akiu Otaki Falls and Futakuchi Gorge Read More »

Saikoji-Akiu-Otaki-Fudonson-Sendai-Miyagi-Japan

Discover Saikōji Temple: A Spiritual Gem in Akiu Onsen

December 21, 2025 / Miyagi Prefecture, Temples & Shrines, Tōhoku Region

Nestled in the lush mountains of Sendai, Saikōji Temple (西光寺), sometimes referred to as Akiu Ōtaki Fudōson (秋保大滝不動尊), serves as the serene spiritual gateway to the magnificent Akiu Great Falls. This historic Buddhist temple is a must-visit for travelers exploring the Akiu Onsen. The temple offers a peaceful atmosphere where ancient architecture meets the raw

Discover Saikōji Temple: A Spiritual Gem in Akiu Onsen Read More »

Limited-Express-Kusatsu

The Ultimate Guide to How to Get to Kusatsu Onsen

August 13, 2026 / Gunma Prefecture, Kantō Region, Transportation in Japan

Kusatsu Onsen is one of the most popular destinations close to Tokyo. After all, who doesn’t want to experience Japan’s famous hot springs in one of the representative onsen towns? Plus, the three public bathhouses in Kusatsu Onsen are tattoo-friendly, making it the top choice for many international visitors. To get to Kusatsu Onsen by

The Ultimate Guide to How to Get to Kusatsu Onsen Read More »

The Best Zunda Mochi Place in Sendai, Murakamiya Mochiten

The Best Traditional Japanese Dessert Cafes in Sendai

December 17, 2025 / Miyagi Prefecture, Recommended café, Tōhoku Region, Vegan and Vegetarian-Friendly Spots

When you visit Sendai, the capital of the kingdom of the famous samurai, Date Masamune, you will notice that supermarkets, restaurants, and cafes are selling a particular traditional dessert with a creamy, light green topping wherever you go. That mysterious light-green-topped drink can also be found in various types of drinks!

The Best Traditional Japanese Dessert Cafes in Sendai Read More »

Kurumi Shiruko at Hikoichi in Sendai

Hikoichi: The Cafe in Sendai to Enjoy Mochi and Hospitality

December 15, 2025 / Miyagi Prefecture, Recommended café, Tōhoku Region

Besides Murakamiya Mochiten, Hikoichi (甘味処 彦いち) is another cafe we love. The dining space at Hikoichi is much larger than that at Murakamiya Mochiten. However, the queue was even longer by the time we stepped out! It is the best place to visit if you have a sweet tooth. You will be treated to a

Hikoichi: The Cafe in Sendai to Enjoy Mochi and Hospitality Read More »

Sanshoku Mochi Rice Cake and Ozenzai at Murakamiya Mochiten in Sendai

Murakamiya Mochiten: Sendai’s Best Spot to Enjoy Zunda Mochi

December 15, 2025 / Miyagi Prefecture, Recommended café, Tōhoku Region

Miyagi Prefecture’s most famous specialty is Zunda Mochi. Such simple ingredients make it completely understandable if the dessert underwhelms you before you taste it. But there is a mochi shop in Sendai selling Zunda Mochi that people would still queue up for! The mild Zunda Mochi served at Murakamiya Mochiten (村上屋餅店) is different from that

Murakamiya Mochiten: Sendai’s Best Spot to Enjoy Zunda Mochi Read More »

Saihoji-Temple-Sendai-Miyagi-Japan

Saihōji – One of Hanyu Yuzuru’s Favorite Spots in Sendai

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

Buried deep in the mountain, whether it is in Sendai City or within the Miyagi Prefecture, Jogi Nyorai Saihoji Temple (定義如来 西方寺) is one of the top tourist attractions. It is no wonder Hanyu Yuzuru and his family were willing to visit the temple regularly. The temple, located in the west of Sendai City, can

Saihōji – One of Hanyu Yuzuru’s Favorite Spots in Sendai Read More »