...

LC

Garden of the Lord’s Residence (Oyashiki-no-Niwa) in Kokoen Garden, Hidden Gem in Himeji, Japan

The Ultimate Guide to Kōkōen Garden: Himeji’s Hidden Gem

No trip to Himeji is complete without marveling at the iconic, brilliant white facade of Himeji Castle. But while most tourists head straight back to the train station after touring the fortress, those in the know step right next door into Kōkōen Garden (姫路城西御屋敷跡庭園 好古園). Opened to commemorate the history of Himeji City, this stunning

The Ultimate Guide to Kōkōen Garden: Himeji’s Hidden Gem Read More »

Himeji Castle surrounded by blooming pink cherry blossoms in spring

Himeji Castle Guide: Attractions, Tickets, & Vegan Tips

As Japan’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the country’s 12 remaining original keeps, Himeji Castle (姫路城), tops almost every traveler’s bucket list. Known as the “White Heron Castle Shirasagi-Jō (白鷺城)” for its brilliant white plaster walls and elegant, wing-like architecture, this 400-year-old masterpiece is the ultimate day trip from nearby Osaka or

Himeji Castle Guide: Attractions, Tickets, & Vegan Tips Read More »

Yuurin-an-Shop-Front-Kurashiki-Japan

Yuurin-an Kurashiki Guide: Menu, Famous Pudding & Experiences

If you are wandering through the white-walled streets of the Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter, you have likely heard whispers about a small, traditional cafe serving ‘Happiness Pudding.’ Yuurin-an (有鄰庵) has become an iconic stop for travelers looking to experience the authentic atmosphere of Okayama. In this guide, we will take you inside this charming historic

Yuurin-an Kurashiki Guide: Menu, Famous Pudding & Experiences Read More »

Sakurayama-Hachimangu-Shrine-Nighttime-Takayama-Gifu-Japan

Takayama Guide: Old Town Charm & Japanese Alp Adventures

Tucked away in the snow-capped peaks of the Gifu Prefecture, Takayama (Hida-Takayama, 飛騨高山) offers a rare glimpse into a Japan seemingly frozen in time. While Tokyo and Osaka race toward the future, this beautifully preserved merchant town invites travelers to slow down among the wooden machiya houses of the Sanmachi Suji district and the morning

Takayama Guide: Old Town Charm & Japanese Alp Adventures Read More »

Cats-on-Sanagi-Island-Jumping-between-Disconnected-Embarkments-Nakatado-Kagawa-Japan

Sanagi Island – The Hidden Cat Island on the Seto Inland Sea

Sanagi Island (佐柳島) in Kagawa Prefecture‘s Nakatado District (仲多度郡) was originally known for the Daitengu Shrine. The long‐nosed goblin enshrined here is famous for his ability to help pilgrims retrieve their lost possessions. However, more recently, Sanagi Island in Shikoku has gained a reputation as a cat island, where cats are known to jump between

Sanagi Island – The Hidden Cat Island on the Seto Inland Sea Read More »

Agatsuma-Gorge-Autumn-Higashi-Agatsuma-Gunma-Japan

Agatsuma Gorge: The Most Amazing Gorge Close to Tokyo

Agatsuma Gorge (吾妻渓谷) is a must-visit scenic spot in Kawarayu Onsen. The stunning gorge tucked away in the mountains of Gunma is a designed National Place of Scenery Beauty. Especially during the autumn leaves and fresh green seasons, the sheer valley is so beautiful buried amongst the red and light green trees.

Agatsuma Gorge: The Most Amazing Gorge Close to Tokyo Read More »

Yamba-Dam-from-Yamba-Viewing-Platform-Kawarayu-Onsen-Agatsuma-Gunma-Japan

The Best Guide to Yamba Dam and the Surrounding Attractions

Yamba Dam (八ッ場ダム) at the south end of the Agatsuma Gorge is undoubtedly the most prominent landmark of Kawarayu Onsen. It can even be said that the construction of Yamba Dam made the hot spring town famous. While the dam has caused much controversy, its completion is definitely an asset to not only Naganohara Town

The Best Guide to Yamba Dam and the Surrounding Attractions Read More »