Kansai Region

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

Daruma-Street-Katsuoji-Osaka-Japan

Katsuo-ji: The Daruma Temple in Osaka to Pray for Victory

Ready to find your “winning luck” in Japan? Venture beyond the buzz of Osaka’s city center to the serene, forested hills of Minoh City and discover Katsuo-ji Temple (勝尾寺), famously known as the Temple of Victory or the Daruma Temple in Osaka. This extraordinary 1,300-year-old site has a powerful history of granting success to everyone […]

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Gion-Tantos-Traditional-Japanese-Style-Seating

Where to Find the Vegan-Friendly Restaurants Around Gion

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,

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Minoo-Falls-Autumn-Minoh-Park-Osaka

Minoh Park & Minoo Falls: The Best Osaka Day Trip Spots

Whether you are a regular visitor or are discovering Minoh Park (箕面公園) in Minoh City in Osaka for the first time, the Takimichi Hiking Course (滝道ハイキングコース) should be on your itinerary. Completed in 1886, this well-maintained 2.7 km course (which takes around 40 – 50 minutes) starts at Hankyū Minoh Station (阪急箕面駅) and ends at

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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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Mt.-Kurama-Daitengu-Kyoto-Japan

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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Hirobun-Nagashi-somen-Kibune-Kyoto-Japan

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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Mentaki-Nunobiki-Falls-Hyogo-Japan-

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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