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
Kyoto’s Shugakuin Imperial Villa dates back to the 17th century and is now open to the public – by reservation only. Boasting a number of lovely traditional structures surrounded by stunning natural landscapes, it is well worth a visit. For information on what how to make a reservation and what to expect, read on! … More Kyoto’s Shugakuin: What to expect on a visit
Looking to enjoy kawadoko (platform over the river) dining in Kyoto’s Kibune, but not able to spend the time and money needed to eat a kaiseki meal? Here is a list of reasonable kawadoko dining options! … More Kyoto’s Kibune: Reasonable Kawadoko Dining
In the far north of Kyoto Prefecture, along the edge of one of UNESCO’s ‘World’s Most Beautiful Bays’ sits the village of Ine. 230 funaya (traditional boat houses) from the Edo Period still line the shore. Ideal geography has protected them from the Japan Sea’s harsh winter swells. The village is a fantastic ‘get away … More PHOTO STORY: Kyoto by the Sea – Ine
Gunma is one of Japan’s most underrated prefectures. Located close to Tokyo, it is filled with interesting and unique sightseeing spots. Here are a few of my favorites! … More Top Gunma Sightseeing Spots
If you have only one day to sightsee in Nara, here is a list of the TOP 10 things to see! … More Top 10 – Nara Day Trip
Review – Mimaru Hotel Group. Excellent choice for larger groups and/or those interested in an extended stay in Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. … More Hotel Group Review: Mimaru
Ohara is ‘countryside’ Kyoto – impressive temples, tasty cuisine, and interesting souvenir shops set among the rice paddies of a small village about an hour’s bus ride from Kyoto Station. For visitors who want to see a different Kyoto, Ohara is a great day or overnight trip from the city center. Ohara is split into … More Kyoto’s Ohara District
Hikers and non-hikers alike should consider a day trip to Mt. Oyama, Kanagawa Prefecture. … More Day Trip to Mt. Oyama for non-hikers
Kinosaki Onsen, Hyogo Prefecture, is one of the Kansai region’s top hot spring towns. … More Kinosaki Onsen
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