If you are looking for a huge plum grove in a rural area, consider visiting Aodani Bairin (青谷梅林). With 10,000 plums planted in the 20-hectare land, it is the most enormous plum grove in Kyoto Prefecture. Around 20,000 people would visit the plum grove every year. The plum varieties at Aodani Bairin are mostly white […]
Aodani Bairin: Kyoto Prefecture’s Largest Plum Grove Read More »
Packing is an inevitable step before traveling. In addition to the typical items, such as your passport, there are a couple of useful things that we now pack for Japan. Sure, they can all be purchased once you have landed. But we prefer to bring them with us to save time and money. After all,
Things to Take to Japan: What a Frequent Japan Traveler Pack Read More »
Towards the north end of Kyoto’s city center in Katagamine (鷹ヶ峰), Shōzan Resort Kyoto (しょうざんリゾート京都) is where the locals would visit for a stylish getaway. The area is also where you can feel the history of Kyoto. The water from the Kamiyagawa River (紙屋川) flowing through the resort was used to make paper for the
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If you are a history buff or love historical architecture, Tō-ji (東寺), southwest of Kyoto Station, is a must-visit spot for you. It is the only remaining structure of the Kyoto from 1200 years ago. The temple houses many Japan’s national treasures and important cultural properties. In addition, it is a spot to adore seasonal
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Close to Arashiyama, there is a hidden gem for anyone who loves cats. Umenomiya Taisha (梅宮大社) has long been a shrine where the locals pray for sake-brewing and baby-related matters in Kyoto. Apparently, Empress Danrin (檀林皇后) was blessed with her first child, Emperor Ninmyō (仁明天皇), after praying at the shrine. But recently, it has also become
Umenomiya Taisha: The Cat Shrine Famous for Plum Blossoms Read More »
If you are a student or in the process of learning a skill, Kitano Tenmangū (北野天満宮) is the shrine you need to visit. The shrine enshrining the God of Learning is the best spot to pray for academic success. Among all the Tenmangū shrines in Japan, Kitano Tenmangū in Kyoto is especially well-known. Not only
Kitano Tenmangū: One of the Most Scenic Shrines in Kyoto Read More »
Most international tourists would visit Hyōgo Prefecture for Kobe. While the port city can be easily accessed from Osaka or Kyoto, the tourist attractions are usually packed, especially during the flowering seasons. So, exploring other parts of the prefecture would be a great idea if you don’t want to be pushed around. While some of
The Best Guide to the Plum Blossom Spots in Hyōgo Prefecture Read More »
While not as famous as Kobe, Awaji Island across the Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge is one of the top tourist destinations in Hyōgo Prefecture. Many visit the island for the stunning scenery. It is also a historical and cultural rich part of the Kansai region. So, if Awaji Island is on your itinerary and you plan to
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Close to Kobe in Takarazuka City, Nakayama-dera (中山寺) is a well-known plum blossom spot in the region. The temple has long been known for granting child-related prayers, including safe delivery. So, it was worshipped and supported by the imperial family and power samurais, such as Toyotomi Hideyoshi. Escalators and elevators are in the temple, making it
Nakayama-dera: The Safe Delivery Rituals & Stunning Flowers Read More »
If you have a few days in Tokyo and are already tired of the mainstream areas, such as Shinjuku and Shibuya, consider allocating a day to Jiyūgaoka (自由が丘). The neighborhood named Liberty Hill has a relaxed atmosphere. In addition to famous sweet shops and stylish cafes, many of its boutique shops sell items in the
The Best Guide to What to Do and Where to Eat in Jiyūgaoka Read More »
