Saihoji, also known as Kokedera or the “Moss Temple,” was established over 1,300 years ago, when Prince Shotoku’s villa was transformed into a Buddhist temple. Today, it is one of Kyoto’s most treasured gardens, known for its ethereal beauty and over 120 varieties of moss that carpet the landscape. Visiting Saihoji has always been challenging. … More A Visit to Saihoji: Kyoto’s Moss-Covered Temple
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
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
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
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’
Located on the Sea of Japan, the city of Obama is the closest sea port to Kyoto. In addition to a variety of marine products, goods from Asia (and the cultures that created them) were carried through the mountains along a system of roads now called the Saba Kaido or ‘Mackerel Highway’. A deep connection … More Obama – Asia’s Original Gateway to Japan and Kyoto
The Morioka-Hachimantai region, Iwate Prefecture, is filled with interesting sightseeing spots, fantastic ski resorts, beautiful hiking trails, unique historic sites, and more. Many tourists transit through Morioka Station, but the city itself is definitely worth a visit – especially if you have an interest in architecture. There are two reasonable and easy ways to get … More City Explorations: A Day in Morioka
For almost 1000 years, Atami has been known for its hot springs. During the 1980’s, the city was booming and many giant resort hotels and condominiums were built. In the 1990’s, Japan’s economic bubble burst and Atami began a long slide into disrepair. However, with a gorgeous location, ever-flowing hot springs, and easy access from … More Atami – Hot Spring Resort by the Sea
Train lines and highways head out of Tokyo in all directions – giving residents and visitors access to hundreds of interesting day-trip destinations. This is a list of my favorite lesser-known spots, in alphabetical order. I’ve noted whether or not it is possible to travel there by mass transportation or if a car is necessary. … More Tokyo Day Trips: My ‘Top 10’ Lesser-known Favorites
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
