Travel to lesser-known areas of Nara with a mission – the Junrei Stamp Rally! Visit four amazing temples, a museum, and an artistic cultural complex. On the journey, collect stamps and gifts – before earning a bracelet made of sacred wooden beads. … More Visit Off-the-Beaten-Path Nara & Experience a Special Japanese Stamp Rally
Recently I’ve noticed that some non-Japanese owned (or staffed) businesses are trying to introduce tipping to Japan. This is not only irritating, but it completely goes against the fabric of Japanese culture. Tips are not only unnecessary, they will almost always confuse or will be interpreted as disrespectful. Please do not feel guilty for not … More Tipping in Japan: Everything you need to know
Shojuin is a small, but impressive temple hidden in the mountains of Ujitawara, Kyoto Prefecture. It has a lot to offer and is especially enjoyable to visit when it holds its wind chime festival. … More Hidden Treasure of Kyoto Prefecture: Shojuin Temple
There are many places in and around Tokyo where one can view impressive hydrangea displays. The flowers are usually at their most beautiful in June. Below is a list of some of the best locations within Kanto where they can be enjoyed. Please note – many ajisai-related events and festivals are canceled this year (2021). … More Hydrangea Viewing in and around Tokyo
A first for Excursions Japan, I hope you’ll enjoy this online exhibition of Japan-influenced paintings by a friend of mine, Lillian Oishi. If you would like information on purchasing a print, or commissioning an original one, e-mail me at excursionsjapan@gmail.com An emerging young artist to look out for, Lillian Oishi, has a love of music … More GLIMPSES OF GEISHA – A ‘VIRTUAL’ ART EXHIBITION
Although there is plenty of information about Japan online, do you enjoy holding an actual magazine in your hands? If so, there are three top quality magazines to consider: Kateigaho International, D Design Travel, and Rurubu Omotenashi Travel Guides. There are also many free publications that are filled with up-to-date event & travel information. … More Top 3 ‘Must Buy’ Magazines on Japan
Morinji is a Zen Temple located in Tatebayashi City, Gunma Prefecture. It was established in 1426 and is famous for its connection to a shape-shifting tanuki. Tanuki are dog-like raccoon animals, and they are often depicted as mythical creatures. If you walk from Morinjimae Station to Morinji Temple, you can see picture signboards that tell … More Morinji Temple & the Tanuki Tea Kettle
Clematis-no-oka opened in 2002 and is a collection of four museums and four restaurants spread around a large nature park & garden in the city of Mishima, Shizuoka Prefecture. In addition to indoor exhibits, many beautiful works of art can be seen throughout the compound – similar to Hakone’s Open Air Museum. The first museum, … More Garden & Museums of Clematis-no-Oka
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