Looking to experience Japan’s iconic spring beauty without the overwhelming Kyoto crowds? While most travelers flock to the packed parks of Arashiyama, the best-kept secret of the cherry blossom season is just a 10-minute train ride away in Shiga Prefecture. Boasting breathtaking lakeside views and historic castles, Shiga offers a peaceful, authentic alternative for those
Shiga Sakura Spots: 19 Spots to Escape Kyoto Crowds Read More »
When most travelers picture Kyoto, they imagine the brilliant orange gates of Fushimi Inari or the crowded bamboo groves of Arashiyama. However, the true soul of the region lies far beyond the city center, tucked away in the misty mountains, historic samurai castle towns, and floating coastal villages of greater Kyoto Prefecture. Exploring these spectacular,
17 Best Hidden Gems in Kyoto: Off-the-Beaten-Path Guide Read More »
If you are not in a hurry, an activity that you have to try is coral dyeing! While coral fossils seem to be something that can be easily obtained in Okinawa since the island is surrounded by ocean, picking up or buying natural coral is forbidden by law. So there is only one place you
Shuri Ryūsen: Where You Can Experience Coral Dyeing Read More »
Did you know that there is a jungle-like area in Naha City? The area is also incredibly close to Yui Rail’s Shiritsubyōin-mae Station (市立病院前駅) and Gibo Station (儀保駅)! Sueyoshi Park (末吉公園) has a very spacious ground of around 19 hectares. Taking many by surprise, a large part of the park looks just like a tropical
Sueyoshi Park: The Hidden Jungle Park in Okinawa’s Capital Read More »
In addition to the buildings in the Shurijō Castle Park, Shikina-en Garden (識名園) was another spot that was registered as a part of the World Heritage, Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryūkyū (琉球王国のグスク及び関連遺産群) in 2000. The villa complex, also a designated Special National place of Scenery Beauty, has architecture and gardens
Shikina-en – Okinawa’s World Heritage Garden Read More »
A nice spot to stop by after your visit to the Shurijō Castle Park is the Shuri Kannon-dō (首里観音堂). The temple just a 10-minute walk from Tamaudun (玉陵) is one of the six temples around the castle that survived the turbulence in the last 400 years. In addition, the temple that the Ryūkyū imperial family
Shuri Kannon-dō Temple and Its Famous Paw-Joining Dog Read More »
It might come to you as a surprise, but there is a spot in Okinawa where it is said that the Goddess of the Sun in Japanese mythology, Amaterasu-Ōmikami (天照大御神), once briefly stopped by before she headed off for Ise (伊勢). And that holy spot happens to be at the side of Naha‘s city center!
Okinogū Shrine – The Site Where the Goddess of Sun descended Read More »
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 »
