Experience the ethereal beauty of Taishō Pond (Taishō-ike, 大正池), one of the most iconic and photogenic landmarks in the heart of the Kamikōchi highlands. Formed by the volcanic eruption of Mt. Yakedake in 1915, this stunning mirror-like lake is famous for its standing withered trees and the breathtaking reflections of the Hotaka Mountain Range. As […]
Taishō Pond: The Most Beautiful Starting Point in Kamikōchi Read More »
Navigate the best of Akita City without ever needing a car, starting right from the doorstep of Akita Station (秋田駅). As the final stop for the striking red Akita Shinkansen Komachi, this area serves as a perfect, walkable hub where you can experience the prefecture’s famous culture, art, and history in just a few hours.
Akita City on Foot: What to Do in Akita Near Akita Station Read More »
Discover the soul of Northern Japan in Morioka (盛岡), the charming capital of Iwate Prefecture that perfectly balances samurai history with a vibrant, modern “slow-travel” appeal. Surrounded by the majestic peaks of Mt. Iwate and the rushing waters of the Kitakami River, Morioka gained global fame after being named one of the New York Times’ top places
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Escape the crowds of Kyoto and journey into the heart of Sakamoto (坂本) in Otsu City, a serene and historic temple town nestled at the foot of Mount Hiei in Shiga Prefecture. Known as the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage site Enryaku-ji Temple, Sakamoto is famous for its unique “Anozurazumi” stone walls, meticulously crafted by
Sakamoto: The Best Kyoto Day Trip You Have Never Heard Of Read More »
Experience the ultimate in Japanese hospitality at Yufunogo Saigakukan (柚富の郷 彩岳館), one of the best ryokans in Yufuin. Perfectly situated to offer breathtaking panoramic views of the twin-peaked Mt. Yufu, Saigakukan blends traditional elegance with modern comfort following its 2022 renovation. From soaking in drinkable onsen water and relaxing in private mountain-view baths to donning
Yufunogo Saigakukan: The Best Yufuin Ryokan for Mt. Yufu Views Read More »
Dive into the ultimate hot spring experience with our guide to Kinosaki Onsen’s seven public bathhouses. In this historic town, the streets are your hallways and the bathhouses are your destination as you partake in Sotoyu-meguri (bath-hopping) dressed in traditional yukata and geta. Whether you are seeking the healing cave waters of Ichi no Yu, the
Kinosaki Onsen and the 7 Tattoo-Friendly Public Bathhouses Read More »
Step into the quintessential Japanese getaway at Kinosaki Onsen (城崎温泉), a charming canal town in Hyogo Prefecture that has been a sanctuary for healing and relaxation for over 1,300 years. Renowned as one of Japan’s best hot spring destinations, Kinosaki is famous for its unique “Sotoyu Meguri” (bathhouse hopping) culture, where visitors stroll along willow-lined streets
Kinosaki Onsen Guide and the Stunning Scenery & Tips Read More »
Known as the “Kyoto of the North”, Hiraizumi town (平泉町) once rivaled the imperial capital in splendor, with a refined culture and elegant architecture in the 12th century. Retaining its charm and traces of its former greatness, Hiraizumi has a couple of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Established in the 12th century by the powerful Oshu
Hiraizumi: Is Japan’s “Kyoto of the North” Worth the Trip? Read More »
Step into the spiritual heart of Fukuoka at Dazaifu Tenman-gū (太宰府天満宮), the largest shrine in Kyūshū and the final resting place of the legendary scholar Sugawara no Michizane. Known globally as the “God of Learning,” this grand sanctuary attracts millions of visitors, especially students, seeking academic success and divine inspiration. The locals so highly regard
Dazaifu Tenman-gū: The Best Guide to Fukuoka’s Best Day Trip Read More »
Discover one of Japan’s most striking architectural wonders at Takkoku no Iwaya Bishamondō (達谷窟毘沙門堂), an ancient temple carved directly into a towering sandstone cliff in Iwate Prefecture. Located just a short distance from other UNESCO sites of Hiraizumi, this 1,200-year-old monastery was founded by the legendary Shogun Sakanoue no Tamuramaro to commemorate a victory over
Takkoku no Iwaya: Japan’s Stunning Cliffside Cave Temple Read More »
