If you are after a traditional garden close to Kyoto Station that is stunning throughout the year, Shōseien (渉成園) is a top choice. The garden is a renowned spot with flowers blooming in both spring and summer. Many also visit the garden in late November, when it is decorated by autumn foliage.
Shōseien: The Picturesque Garden Near Kyoto Station Read More »
If you are a history buff or love historical architecture, Tō-ji (東寺), southwest of Kyoto Station, is a must-visit spot for you. It is the only remaining structure of the Kyoto from 1200 years ago. The temple houses many Japan’s national treasures and important cultural properties. In addition, it is a spot to adore seasonal
Tō-ji Temple: The Stunning Temple and Its National Treasures Read More »
If you visit Tatsuno City in spring or the fall, Tatsuno Park (龍野公園) is the must-visit spot in the rural city. The beautiful cherry blossom spread from Tatsuno Castle to Tatsuno Park on the west. Following the road from the castle, you will arrive at the tea house completed in the Edo period, Shūentei (聚遠亭).
Tatsuno Park: Where You Can Enjoy Seasonal Colors and Tea Read More »
If you are a student or in the process of learning a skill, Kitano Tenmangū (北野天満宮) is the shrine you need to visit. The shrine enshrining the God of Learning is the best spot to pray for academic success. Among all the Tenmangū shrines in Japan, Kitano Tenmangū in Kyoto is especially well-known. Not only
Kitano Tenmangū: One of the Most Scenic Shrines in Kyoto Read More »
Maniwa City (真庭市), located in the northern part of Okayama Prefecture, is the place to be for all dairy lovers. The soft-serve ice cream and the cheese made from hundreds of Jersey cows’ milk are a must-try, especially if you plan to go to the Hiruzen Highlands! The city is also known as one of
Maniwa City – Jersey Cows and the Cherry Blossoms in Autumn Read More »
Hiruzen Highlands (蒜山高原) in Okayama Prefecture, also known as Hiruzen Plateau, is one of the best highland resorts in Western Japan. It is reminiscent of Karuizawa near Tokyo. While architecture might be less fashionable, it has much more capacity for you to enjoy nature. At the same time, there are still stylish boutique shops for
Hiruzen Highlands – A Great Place to Enjoy the Nature Read More »
Umekōji Park (梅小路公園) was opened in 1995 to commemorate the 1,200th anniversary of the founding of Kyoto as the capital in the Heian period. Another main reason for the park’s creation is to add green space in Kyoto’s city center so that locals can rest. Unlike other attractions in the city center, it isn’t crowded
Umekōji Park: The Hidden Gem in Kyoto for Seasonal Colors Read More »
Have you ever wondered what the world would look like after you die? Well, we have. According to Japanese folk tales, those who die will pass a bridge to cross the Sanzunokawa River. It has been said that the river divides our world from another world. As we all need to cross that river one
Mt. Osore – Welcome to the World After Death Read More »
Gōkei (豪渓) was designated as one of Japan’s National Site of Scenery Beauty in 1923. It is a beautiful valley located upstream of the Makidani River (槙谷川), a tributary of the Takahashi River (高梁川). The valley is still considered a hidden gem as most of the tourists who come to the valley are locals. With
Gōkei Valley – One of the Most Picturesque Valley in Okayama Read More »
Amongst all the attractions in Amanohashidate that have lookouts and observation decks, Nariaiji (成相寺) is the one we enjoyed the most! It is the most scenic place in the area throughout the year, especially during the autumn foliage season from early to mid-November. Located further up from Kasamatsu Park, you might be able to see
Nariaiji Temple: The Scenic Hidden Gem in Amanohashidate Read More »
