Activities

Hoshiban E-Rosoku Decorated Candle Shop in Nanokamachi Fukushima Japan

Paint Your Aizu Candle at Hoshiban Decorated Candle Shop

June 13, 2026 / Activities, Cultural Experiences & Activities, Fukuoka Prefecture, Kyūshū Region

When looking for the ultimate souvenir from Fukushima Prefecture, nothing glows with local tradition quite like Aizu painted candles (Aizu Erōsoku, 会津絵ろうそく). Boasting over 500 years of history, these exquisite, eco-friendly candles are crafted from natural plant wax and beautifully adorned with hand-painted chrysanthemums, peonies, or wisteria. If you want to experience the absolute finest […]

Paint Your Aizu Candle at Hoshiban Decorated Candle Shop Read More »

Morioka-Sansa-Odori-Festival

The Best Guide to What Are the Top Festivals in Morioka

August 10, 2025 / Cultural Experiences & Activities, Iwate Prefecture, Tōhoku Region

As a city with a long history, there are a couple of representative festivals in Morioka that you could consider joining. During the festivals, the city is packed with visitors. Yatai stalls selling every kind of festival food you could hope for also fill the approach of the shrines that hold them.

The Best Guide to What Are the Top Festivals in Morioka Read More »

Manza-Onsen-Tsumagoi-Gunma-Japan

Manza Onsen: The Hot Spring Town Closest to the Sky in Japan

March 9, 2025 / Gunma Prefecture, Kantō Region, Onsen/Hot Spring, Skiing/Snowboarding

While the most famous hot spring resort in Gunma Prefecture is Kusatsu Onsen, Manza Onsen (万座温泉) on its west is the destination for all nature lovers! Situated at an elevation of 1,800 meters, Manza Onsen is the hot spring town closest to the sky in Japan! Although located in a mountainous area, most of the

Manza Onsen: The Hot Spring Town Closest to the Sky in Japan Read More »

Shimagawa-Dam-Shima-Onsen-Nakanojo-Gunma-Japan

Shima Onsen’s Best Natural Spot: Shimagawa Dam & Lake Okushima

March 2, 2025 / Beaches/Water Sports, Gunma Prefecture, Hidden Gems, Kantō Region

Shimagawa Dam (四万川ダム) is a magnificent dam completed in 1999 for flood control, river conservation, and power generation. The enchanting artificial lake is formed with its completion, and Shima Onsen’s best spot to indulge yourself in nature is born! Those who love outdoor activities can also enjoy a range of water sports there.

Shima Onsen’s Best Natural Spot: Shimagawa Dam & Lake Okushima Read More »

A Guide to Shima Potholes, Momotarō Falls, and Shima Lake

March 1, 2025 / Beaches/Water Sports, Gunma Prefecture, Hidden Gems, Kantō Region

If you are after a hot spring town in Gunma Prefecture where you can discover amazing natural scenery, Shima Onsen should top the list. The town is proud of what they call Shima Blue, a mysterious cobalt blue color that can be seen in most parts of Shima River on a sunny day. In particular,

A Guide to Shima Potholes, Momotarō Falls, and Shima Lake Read More »

Nagannu-Island-Chibishi-Islands-Okinawa

Chibishi Islands, A Great Beach Holiday Spot Close to Naha

March 1, 2025 / Beaches/Water Sports, Okinawa

The Chibishi Islands (チービシ環礁) are located between mainland Okinawa and the Kerama Islands group. It is formed by three uninhabited sand dunes. Because Chibishi Islands are so close to Naha, if you don’t have much time, it is possible to experience the charm of the Kerama Island National Park by taking a half-day trip to

Chibishi Islands, A Great Beach Holiday Spot Close to Naha Read More »

Tropical-Fish-and-Coral-Reefs-Close-to-Amuro-Island-Island-Okinawa

Snorkeling Around Kerama Islands’ Hidden Uninhabited Islands

February 24, 2025 / Beaches/Water Sports, Okinawa

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 »

Tokashiku-Beach-Tokashiki-Island-Okinawa-Japan

Tokashiki Island and Its Worldclass Picturesque Beaches

February 22, 2025 / Beaches/Water Sports, Hidden Gems, Okinawa

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 »

Aharen-Beach-Tokashiki-Island-Okinawa-Japan

The Complete Guide to Tokashiki Island’s Most Popular Spot, Aharen Beach

February 22, 2025 / Beaches/Water Sports, Okinawa

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 »