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
Kinkakuji Temple underwent roof renovations in 2020. Kyoto’s most famous landmark is now more beautiful than ever. The brown wood roof will darken with time, but is currently a new ‘golden’ color. … More Kyoto’s Kinkakuji, the ‘Golden Pavilion’
Although at its best during cherry blossom season, this walk through Tokyo’s Minato Ward can be enjoyed at any time of year. It will take you to a number of important shrines and temples, a completely overlooked observatory, and a beautiful garden that few visit due to its proximity to a larger, more famous, neighbor. … More Tokyo Minato Ward History & Culture Walk
Kawazu-zakura are unique hybrid cherry trees that bloom earlier, and for much longer, than the famous Somei Yoshino species. For an entire month, usually from around February 10 to March 10, a festival showcases 8,000 trees that line the Kawazu River in Southern Izu. Although it takes about 2 – 2 1/2 hours to reach … More Izu’s Kawazu-zakura Festival – Early Blooming Cherry Blossoms
UPDATED June 2022. Spending a day swimming at the beach is a wonderful way to escape the heat and humidity of Tokyo’s summer. Suprisingly, Tokyo does has two beaches of its own. Special events, like beach volleyball tournaments, are held at Odaiba Beach and children play at the water’s edge. However, water quality is poor, … More Summer in Tokyo – Escape to the Beach
Filled with impressive sightseeing spots, both natural and man-made, Aomori and Akita prefectures are perfect for anyone wanting to ‘get away from it all’. Even during Golden Week, crowds are minimal and cherry blossoms are often still in bloom. This is a recommended 4 day, 3 night trip that can easily be adapted or shortened. … More 3 Nights/4 Days in Northern Tohoku
There are many places in the Tokyo area where one can view azeleas (つつじ, tsutsuji) in bloom. The flowers are usually at their most beautiful in mid-April to mid-May; and at higher elevations, into early June. Below is a list of some of the best locations to see them. CENTRAL TOKYO 1). Nezu Shrine, Bunkyo … More Azelea Viewing in Tokyo & its surroundings
Cherry blossom viewing is especially popular along the Meguro River. Most people don’t realize, however, that there are many interesting sightseeing spots to visit along, or near, the route – the Meguro Sky Garden, Sugekari Park, the Sato Sakura Museum, Rakanji Temple, Meguro Fudo-son, Meguro Gajoen, etc. Here is a detailed, do-it-yourself tour of ‘Meguro’s … More ‘Meguro’s Best’ – Cherry Blossom River Walk & (Much) More
With Japan’s compact size and amazing transportation system, there are thousands of possible overnight trips from Tokyo. However, there are dramatic differences in cost, ease of access, and foreigner-friendliness. Here is a list of the most foreigner-friendly locations close to Tokyo that seem a world away, but are actually easy to reach & explore. UPDATED … More Four ‘Easy’ Winter Overnight Trips from Tokyo
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