Kansai Region

Mie, Shiga, Kyoto, Osaka, Hyōgo, Nara, Wakayama

Yuragawa-Bridge-Miyazu-Kyoto-Japan-

Yuragawa Bridge: An Spot That Came Out of Spirited Away

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 […]

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Gen-Kyoto-Vegan-Bento-Box-Restaurant

Gen: One of the Spots in Kyoto to Get a Vegan Bento Box

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,

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The Best Guide to Kurama Temple Hidden in Mt Kurama

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

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Mt.-Kurama-Daitengu-Kyoto-Japan

Kurama and Kibune: The Hidden Gems in the Mountains of Kyoto

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

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Catch Flowing Noodles in Kyoto: Nagashi Somen at Hirobun

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

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Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden and Nunobiki Falls Ultimate Guide

Escape the urban bustle of Kobe for a breath of fresh alpine air at Kobe Nunobiki Herb Garden and Ropeway (神戸布引ハーブ園/ロープウェイ), home to over 75,000 herbs and flowers. Your journey begins with a 10-minute scenic ride on the ropeway, offering panoramic views of the city skyline. Nature lovers can also hike the lush trails to

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Ine Bay: An Amazing Fishing Town North of Amanohashidate

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

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Hakuun-an-Fucha-Ryori

The Ultimate Guide to Where to Find Vegan Food in Uji

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.

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Cherry Blossom at Uji City Botanical Park Uji Kyoto Japan

Uji City Botanical Park: The Must-Go Flower Spot in Kyoto

Uji City Botanical Park (宇治市植物公園) is a spot where a variety of flowers bloom throughout the year. In fact, it is a hidden gem of cherry and plum blossoms that is not far from Kyoto’s city center. In early summer, you can even visit the park at night to see many fireflies dancing! You will

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