When you visit Okinawa‘s capital Naha, if the only shopping area you know or have visited is Kokusai-dōri Street then you are missing out! Although the street is certainly one of the must-visit places in Naha, the markets and arcades below are where you can get a true taste of Okinawan culture! We have also […]
The Best Markets and Arcades to Visit in Naha Read More »
Speaking of Okinawa, it is the perfect destination to enjoy the stunning beaches. While Okinawa’s top beaches aren’t in the capital city, Naha, there is one beach for you to enjoy a last-minute swim in the warmer months or watersports. Plus, Okinawa’s highest-ranked shrine is just atop the cliff next to the beach!
The Best Guide to Naminoue Beach and Naminoue Shrine Read More »
When you visit Okinawa‘s capital city Naha, there are three manjū shops that you have to visit, even if you aren’t a sweet tooth! Because every single one of them has usually completely sold out of their delicious manjūs by noon, you can tell how popular they are among the locals and tourists.
The Top Three Must-Eat Manjū Shops in Okinawa Read More »
Shurijō (首里城), a world heritage castle in Okinawa and Japan’s National Historic Site, was the residence of the Ryūkyū Kingdom’s king from 1429 to 1879. Prior to the last king of Ryūkyū surrendering Okinawa to the Meiji government, the castle was the center of the island’s political, diplomatic, and cultural center for centuries.
A Guide to Shurijō Castle – The Spiritual Symbol of Okinawa Read More »
If you are a Japanese history buff, the first attraction you will want to visit once you arrive at Sendai must be the Sendai Castle (仙台城). The castle, situated atop Mt. Aoba or Aobayama in Japanese, was built by Date Masamune (伊達政宗), one of the most famous feudal lords in the late 15th to early
Sendai Castle – The Throne of Powerful Ruler, Date Masamune Read More »
Kyoto has many beautiful traditional gardens that are not known to many international tourists, and the garden in Yawata City Shōkadō Garden Art Museum (松花堂庭園) is one of them! Yawata City has long been known as a bamboo production area. Thus, the garden has bamboo groves that are stunning to look at throughout the year.
Kyoto’s Hidden Gem: Yawata City Shōkadō Garden Art Museum Read More »
Are you considering visiting Japan and want an itinerary with a nice mix of mountainous and coastal destinations? You might want to consider a trip to Ishikawa Prefecture. Located on the Sea of Japan, the prefecture is filled with mountain resorts, beaches, national parks, and plenty of cultural elements. Read on for a list of
The Top Attractions to Visit in Ishikawa Prefecture Read More »
If you are passionate about hiking and historical and cultural spots, you might want to have the Iimori Shrine (飯盛神社), south of Hakata, on your itinerary. The shrine has three sub-shrines scattered in Mt. Iimori. There are things to do and see across the precinct, so you surely won’t be bored during your hike. In
Iimori Shrine: An Interesting Shrine to Visit Near Hakata Read More »
Close to the mountainous area west of Kyoto Station, besides the weeping cherry blossom, Shōbō-ji (西山正法寺) is a hidden plum blossom spot in Kyoto that only a few know about. The temple is nicknamed a Rock Temple (石の寺) because unique rocks were collected from all over the country. Many of them are placed in its
Shōbō-ji and Its Stunning Rock Garden and Plum Grove Read More »
If you land at the Kansai Airport between late February and early March, don’t jump on the train straightaway for Osaka’s city center. The plum blossoms close to Kinyūji might be blooming beautifully upon your arrival. How about starting your trip by detouring to the small temple for the plum blossoms up the hill?
Kinyūji: The Plum Blossom Temple Close to the Kansai Airport Read More »
