You probably have heard about the cat islands in Japan, and maybe you have even been to one, but did you know that Japan has a rabbit island too? Ōkunoshima (大久野島) is a small island floating on the Seto Inland Sea. The island in Hiroshima Prefecture has more than 1,000 wild rabbits (as of 2019), […]
Ōkunoshima – The Rabbit Island that Was Erased from the Map Read More »
Many people know that the Itsukushima Shrine, the shrine with a torii gate floating on the sea, is a World Heritage Site. But do you know it isn’t just the shrine itself that was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site? And when you ask where to find deer in Japan, most people will tell
The Ultimate Guide to Miyajima and the Great Torii Gate Read More »
In addition to Itsukushima Shrine, Daishōin Temple (大聖院) on the top of a hill is another attraction on Miyajima that you should visit. The temple has the longest history among all the attractions on the sacred island. On top of the spectacular view from the temple, there are a few amazing things to see in
Daishōin Temple – The Oldest Attraction on Miyajima Read More »
36 Sublo (36 サブロ) is a shop in Kichijōji for papyrophiliac. Beyond the door, a small stationery world will make you lose track of time. It is amazing how the shop can turn ordinary items in our daily life into something that isn’t only just useful but different. For example, the date stamps have other
36 Sublo: The Best Stationary Shop in Kichijōji Read More »
If you are in a hurry in Kichijōji or want to have a picnic at Inokashira Park, visit Omusubi Gonbei (おむすび権米衛) at Kichijoji Station’s south (park) exit. The rice ball shop chain offers rice balls in various flavors, and some of them are vegan and/or gluten-free!
Omusubi Gonbei: The Best Spot in Kichijōji for a Quick Bite Read More »
For those who love spices, the cafe for you to visit in Kichijōji is Chai Break (チャイブレイク). The Spice Chai (スパイスチャイ), made by mixing black tea with six spices, is the signatory drink there. It is another way to enjoy black tea! As a chai specialist, it also offers a couple of ways to enjoy
Chai Break: The Perfect Cafe to Enjoy Spice in Kichijōji Read More »
Karakoma (おやさい食堂カラコマ ) is a small but cozy vegan Japanese-style macrobiotic cafe in Morioka. It is a spot where those with a large appetite can feel satisfied afterwards. Not only is the food delicious there, but it is also healthy! Allium-free options (no onion, garlic, leeks, chives, or asafoetida) are available too.
Karakoma: The Must-Visit Vegan Restaurant in Morioka Read More »
Most international tourists would visit Hyōgo Prefecture for Kobe. While the port city can be easily accessed from Osaka or Kyoto, the tourist attractions are usually packed, especially during the flowering seasons. So, exploring other parts of the prefecture would be a great idea if you don’t want to be pushed around. While some of
The Best Guide to the Plum Blossom Spots in Hyōgo Prefecture Read More »
If you plan to visit Himeji in early spring, stop by Zuiganji (増位山随願寺). The oldest Tendai sect temple in the southern Hyōgo Prefecture has a plum grove. Aside from its cultural properties, you can also see the elegant Himeji Castle from the plum grove. Using a professional camera, a picture of the castle with plum
Zuiganji: A Hidden Gem to Adore the Plum Blossoms in Himeji Read More »
When you list Miyajima (宮島) as one of the destinations on your itinerary, you want to make sure you allocate enough time on the island known as “god’s island”. Some suggest that half a day on the island is more than enough. Whilst this might be true if you only wanted to take some photos
Mikuniya – Spend a Night at Miyajima’s Best Guesthouse Read More »
