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
Only two hours from Tokyo by plane, Kumamoto Prefecture, on the island of Kyushu, is a fantastic choice for a two night / three day get-away. Although the sightseeing choices are endless, here is an itinerary that I personally enjoyed and would recommend to those who really enjoy driving. As Kumamoto does not get much … More 3 Day Self-Drive Vacation in Kyushu’s Kumamoto
To experience a foreigner-friendly beginner hike with amazing views, especially in autumn, head to Oku-Nikko, or ‘Inner Nikko’, in Tochigi Prefecture. Although possible to do in a day trip, I highly recommend an overnight stay in order to experience more of what the area has to offer. From Tokyo, it also takes over three hours … More Hiking & Sightseeing in Oku-Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture
Recently, many foreign tourists travel to Wakayama Prefecture to visit Mt.Koya and the famous Kumano Kaido. Most are unaware of Shingu, a lovely little city that has its own collection of impressive sightseeing spots, including sections of the famous path and other related World Heritage Sites. Most of Shingu’s attractions are centrally located and can … More World Heritage Site hunting in Shingu, Wakayama
Aizu Wakamatsu is located in the center of Fukushima Prefecture and is nicknamed the ‘Samurai City’ due its prominence as a former castle town of the Aizu domain. The city is full of impressive historic sites and is one of my favorite sightseeing destinations. Here is a list (in no particular order) of many of … More Aizu Wakamatsu: The Samurai City
Did you know that there are 219 islands in Tokyo, both inhabited and uninhabited, which stretch south over 2,000 kilometers? The most famous are the 7 islands of Izu (although there are really 9), and two main Ogasawara Islands. Hachijojima is one of the ‘extra’ Izu Islands, and if you really want to get away … More Tokyo Island – Hachijojima
The Tokyo American Club has been supporting Fukushima through volunteer projects for many years. In appreciation, the locals often encourage us to return as tourists. On one of those trips, I co-led a tour for the Women’s Group (now called ‘Connections’) to highlight some of the prefecture’s wonderful sightseeing spots. If you really want to … More Fukushima City and Nihonmatsu City – Overnight Sightseeing Tour
One of my favorite Japanese cities, Nagasaki is a great tourist destination for foreign tourists. It is English-friendly, is full of historical attractions, offers delicious local specialties, and is easy to navigate. Here is some basic advice for a history-lover’s first visit. Sofukuji Temple Upon arrival at the airport, take a limousine bus to central … More Downtown Historic Nagasaki
I’ve walked these areas again & again, and never get tired of them. However, as a local, I do often skip the really famous sites and concentrate on the lesser-known spots nearby. Gion’s Kenninji Temple Kyoto ‘Top 3’ Recommended Courses for First Time Visitors 1) Philosopher’s Path Take a taxi or bus to Ginkakuji Temple. … More Kyoto ‘Top 3’ Recommended Courses for First Time Visitors
(A few of my own, and three from trusted friends.) Private en suite onsen bath at Hotel Mount View Hakone Ichinoyu Group: In Hakone we have stayed at two of the ryokans in the Ichinoyu group. In this group, you can count on at least one person speaking English. The dinner can be a bit … More Hakone Accommodation Recommendations #1
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