The most ‘mystical’ place that I have ever visited in Japan is Bodai-ji in Mutsu City, Aomori Prefecture. This temple sits beside a lake in the caldera of an eight-peaked volcanic mountain called Osorezan and is usually referred to by that name. Osorezan was founded in 862 by the famous priest, Ennin, when he enshrined … More Bucket List: Aomori’s Sacred Osorezan
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
For those of you who’d like to enjoy a hot spring bath with a significant other, or a group of friends, without having to be naked, here is a list of facilities where bathing suits are required in areas shared by males and females. Enoshima Island Spa outdoor baths 1) KANAGAWA PREFECTURE – Enoshima Island … More Tokyo Area Co-ed Onsen – Bathing Suits Required
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
(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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