Mt. Hiei or Hieizan (比叡山), a mountain lying on the border between Kyoto and Shiga Prefectures, is considered one of the Three Holiest Places in Japan together with Kōyasan (高野山) and Mt. Osore (恐山). The worship halls and pagodas of the World Heritage Enryakuji Temple (延暦寺) are scattered throughout the mountain. The temple, which is […]
The Best Guide to Mt. Hiei: Enryaku-ji and Mount Hiei Hike Read More »
The charming, historic streets of Gion, Kyoto are famous for geisha and traditional architecture, but they also host an unexpectedly rich culinary scene for plant-based eaters. Whether you are a devoted vegan traveler or a curious vegetarian looking to experience authentic Japanese flavours without meat, this guide unveils the best Kyoto vegetarian restaurants offering delicious,
Where to Find the Vegan-Friendly Restaurants Around Gion Read More »
In the rural part of Kyoto Prefecture in Miyazu City, there is a bridge that excites many Ghibli fans. Whether you are the cameraman trying to snap a photo of Yuragawa Bridge (由良川橋梁) or a passenger in the train carriage, if the weather is good enough, you are guaranteed to get a couple of astounding
Yuragawa Bridge: An Spot That Came Out of Spirited Away Read More »
Although the chances of finding a vegetarian or vegan bento box in Japan’s train stations are close to zero, there are a few places that offer vegan bento boxes in big cities like Kyoto. Gen (玄 gen) is one of them. It also has gluten-free bento boxes! While Gen isn’t particularly close to Kyoto Station,
Gen: One of the Spots in Kyoto to Get a Vegan Bento Box Read More »
Besides the Kurama-dera Temple, Kifune Shrine (貴船神社) is another must-visit spot in the Kurama and Kibune area. Especially during the autumn foliage season, the shrine is extra stunning with the foliage’s vivid colors. During this part of the year, nighttime illumination creates a mysterious atmosphere. In winter, the shrine gives a different impression when covered
Kifune Shrine: The Scenic Shrine and the Origin of the Ema Plaque Read More »
Kurama Temple (鞍馬寺), also known as Kurama-dera in Japanese, is the representative temple on Mt. Kurama in Kyoto established in 770. The temple is well-known among the Japanese because the famous military commander Minamoto no Yoshitsune (源 義経) was trained there during his youth. In addition, it is likely the only temple in Japan (or
The Best Guide to Kurama Temple Hidden in Mt Kurama Read More »
If you are ever looking for a naturally cool and refreshing spot in Kyoto, then read on! Mt Kurama and Kibune, located in the northernmost part of Kyoto City, are where the locals head to when they want to escape the summer heat. Why? Because the best way to spend a summer day in Kyoto
Kurama and Kibune: The Hidden Gems in the Mountains of Kyoto Read More »
Planning a summer trip to Kyoto? Escape the city heat with the ultimate cool-down at Hirobun (京都貴船 料理旅館 ひろ文) in Kibune, the most famous spot for Nagashi Sōmen noodles (流しそうめん). This unique dining tradition served at a river terrace, involves catching chilled flowing noodles with chopsticks as they slide down a bamboo flume, will be
Catch Flowing Noodles in Kyoto: Nagashi Somen at Hirobun Read More »
Extend your exploration of Japan’s rural landscape from Amanohashidate to Ine Bay (伊根湾)! Also known as Ine no Funaywa, the quiet Ine fishing village is located in the northern part of the Tango Peninsula (丹後半島). Along Ine Bay, where the waves are calm, a unique townscape is formed by the type of private houses called
Ine Bay: An Amazing Fishing Town North of Amanohashidate Read More »
If you plan to visit Uji for Byōdō-in Temple (平等院), consider dining at one of the vegan or vegan-friendly restaurants nearby! In fact, while remaining unknown to most international tourists, Byōdō-in isn’t the only temple filled with Japan’s important cultural properties. Just two stations away from Uji Station, Mampuku-ji is another temple you won’t regret visiting.
The Ultimate Guide to Where to Find Vegan Food in Uji Read More »