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
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
The Kansai Region consists of Hyogo, Kyoto, Mie, Nara, Osaka, Shiga, and Wakayama prefectures. The area is considered the cultural heart of Japan and is home to many World Heritage sites. Here is a short run-down, with regards to sightseeing, on each of the prefectures within Kansai – from a personal perspective. … More What & Where is it? Kansai Explained
If you are currently living in Japan, consider visiting these popular sightseeing spots before inbound tourists are allowed back into the country. Due to overtourism, the atmosphere of many of these locations has changed dramatically in recent years. They are currently more relaxed, but when the country opens up, they will, again, be inundated with … More Living in Japan: Places to visit before international tourists return
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
A number of small cities and towns make up a sightseeing region in Iwate Prefecture called Morioka-Hachimantai. In addition to historic sites, hot springs, pristine wilderness, etc. – there are many local experiences that can be enjoyed by visitors. Rinzai-ji is a lovely 360-year-old temple in the town of Shizukuishi. The head priest, his wife, … More Experience Morioka-Hachimantai Iwate Prefecture
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
Many of Japan’s best tourist destinations have been preserved due to their locations well off the beaten path. The town of Tsuwano sits in a valley in western Shimane Prefecture near the border with Yamaguchi Prefecture. It is known as the Little Kyoto of the San-in Region and is highly recommended for travelers willing to … More ‘Little Kyoto’ – Tsuwano, Shimane Prefecture
Matsumoto, a lovely small-sized city in Nagano Prefecture, is home to one of Japan’s most beautiful castles and is well worth a visit.Matsumoto-jo has the oldest donjon remaining in Japan – construction began in 1592. It is one of five castles designated a ‘National Treasure of Japan’. It has also earned the name, Karasu-jo, or … More One Night in Matsumoto
excursionsjapan.com 