While the Michelin Green Guide Japan gave Zamami Island‘s Furuzamami Beach a two-star rating, it isn’t a beach where you want to snorkel anymore if you are experienced, as the beach now has a designated swimming area marked by lane dividers. Because the coral reefs inside this restricted area aren’t as beautiful, snorkeling at other beaches
Snorkeling Around Kerama Islands’ Hidden Uninhabited Islands Read More »
Tadami Line (只見線) is Japan’s most scenic local train line that runs between Aizu-Wakamatsu City (会津若松) in Fukushima Prefecture and Uonuma City (魚沼市) in Niigata Prefecture. No matter when you visit the Tadami Line, you will be amazed by the natural scenery of the Japanese countryside landscapes that haven’t changed much since a few centuries
A Guide to the Attractions Along the Scenic Tadami Line Read More »
Just a 35-minute boat ride from Okinawa‘s capital, Naha, you will encounter the island where some of the world’s most beautiful beaches are located. Tokashiki Island (渡嘉敷島) is one of the best islands for a day trip from Naha. With close to 20 diving spots on the island, not only is it a diver’s paradise,
Tokashiki Island and Its Worldclass Picturesque Beaches Read More »
Tokashiku Beach (渡嘉志久ビーチ) on the west side of Tokashiki Island is close to Tokashiku Village center. Because it is located in a bay cove, the waves are calmer and easy to swim in. Compared to Aharen Beach, it is less busy. So while there might not be as many shops around, it can be a
Tokashiku Beach – Our Favorite Beach on Tokashiki Island Read More »
Aharen Beach (阿波連ビーチ), on the south of Tokashiki Island, is the most lively beach on the entire island. A photo taken from the south end of Aharen Beach could capture the entire arch-shaped beach’s beauty. When the weather is good, you will have the islands from afar as a backdrop and a blue sky with
The Complete Guide to Tokashiki Island’s Most Popular Spot, Aharen Beach Read More »
To fully understand the history of Kawagoe, a visit to Kawagoe Castle (川越城) is a must. Whilst only the castle’s Honmaru remains today, a few museums were built where the castle’s outer citadel used to be. Together, these facilities paint a picture of the history behind the gorgeous old warehouse district. And the great news
A Guide to Kawagoe Castle and the Historical Spots Nearby Read More »
Many people visit Japan between mid-March and early April for the cherry blossom. If that is your plan, consider visiting Zuishin-in (隨心院) in Kyoto as well. The temple’s plum blossoms are late bloomers, so you can adore both cherry and plum blossoms on the same trip! In addition, Zuishin-in has splendidly painted sliding door paintings
Zuishin-in: The Splendid Plum and Sliding Door Paintings Read More »
Akashi City, west of Kobe, is best known for its magnificent view of the Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge, the Seto Inland Sea, and Awaji Island as the backdrop. But what many are not aware of is that the city also has a few plum blossom spots worth visiting from late February to mid-March. If you plan to
The Best Plum Blossom Spots in Akashi City Read More »
Inokashira Park in Kichijōji is a great urban park to enjoy nature. You can easily spend a couple of hours in this vast park. But the longer you stay there, the emptier your stomach will get. Many locals or travelers would grab a picnic mat and food to picnic on the park’s lawn or benches.
The Best Vegetarian-Friendly Cafes Around Inokashira Park Read More »
Around 4km northeast of Miyako Island, there is a mysterious small island where the locals believe that gods of nature reside. There are numerous sacred sites where entry is forbidden without permission. It is said that during the Uyagan Festival (祖神祭 (ウヤガン祭)), even the islanders aren’t allowed to enter those areas. In fact, to Miyakojima’s
Ōgami Island – The Most Sacred Island in Miyakojima City Read More »
