Perched precariously on the side of a jagged mountain in Yamagata Prefecture, Hojusan Risshakuji (宝珠山 立石寺), is one of Northern Japan’s most sacred sites. It is a place where nature and spirituality collide, immortalized by the haiku poet Matsuo Basho and preserved by over 1,100 years of Tendai Buddhist tradition. Popularly known as Yamadera (山寺), […]
Yamadera: The Best Natural & Spiritual Day Trip from Sendai Read More »
Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Kerama Islands (慶良間諸島), a subtropical island group just a short ferry ride from Okinawa’s main island. Renowned for “Kerama Blue”, a crystal-clear ocean hue found nowhere else, this national park is a bucket-list destination for snorkeling, scuba diving, and humpback whale watching in early spring. Whether you are planning a
Kerama Islands: Naha Ferry, Snorkeling & Vegan Tips Read More »
Discover the ultimate off-the-beaten-path escape on Geruma Island (慶留間島), the smallest inhabited gem of Okinawa’s Kerama Islands. Connected to Aka Island by a scenic bridge, Geruma is a sanctuary of “Kerama Blue” waters, traditional red-tiled roofs, and the protected Kerama deer that roam its quiet lanes. Whether you are exploring the historic Takara House, a
Geruma Island: Okinawa’s Stunning Hidden Gem Guide Read More »
Discover the feline-filled wonders of Ainoshima (相島), Fukuoka’s most famous “heart-shaped” cat island, with our comprehensive travel guide. Located just a short ferry ride from the mainland, this small fishing village is home to over 230 friendly cats and a community of residents who have lived alongside them for centuries. Whether you are a dedicated
Ainoshima Cat Island Guide: Ferry, Transport & Tips Read More »
Experience the most breathtaking scenery in the Japanese Alps with a journey along the walking trails from Taishō Pond to Kappa Bridge. This gentle, 3.5-kilometer path is the quintessential Kamikōchi hiking experience, offering a perfectly flat and accessible route that showcases the best of Chūbu-Sangaku National Park. Starting at the mirror-like waters of Taishō-ike, you
Taishō Pond to Kappa Bridge: Kamikōchi’s Stunning Trail Read More »
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 »
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 »
