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Naoshima is a fantastic island for art and nature lovers in Japan, easily accessible as a day trip from Okayama. Famous for its contemporary art museums, outdoor installations, and its iconic pumpkin sculptures by Yayoi Kusama, Naoshima is a fantastic destination in Japan for those looking to immerse themselves in world-class art while enjoying the island’s tranquil coastal scenery. Discover the itinerary I followed to spend a day exploring Naoshima, along with my recommendations and travel tips to help you make the most of your visit to Japan's famous ‘art island’.

Autumn in Tokyo is a magical time, and I’m very excited to share this fall foliage guide with you. During this season, the city’s parks and gardens burst into vibrant shades of red, gold, and orange. After living in Tokyo for over four years, I’ve explored not only the famous spots but also some hidden gems that offer equally stunning autumn foliage views without the crowds. In this guide, I’ll introduce both popular and lesser-known places to enjoy fall foliage in Tokyo, not just in the heart of the city but also through day trips to scenic spots nearby.

Located in the Tohoku region, Matsushima is renowned for its stunning bay, dotted with over 260 small islands covered by pine trees. This scenic wonder is a must-visit destination in Miyagi Prefecture for nature lovers and travelers looking for a relaxing getaway. In this article, I’ll share my favorite spots in Matsushima, travel tips and recommendations for accommodation and restaurants.

Just a short 30-minute train ride from Kyoto, Uji offers a perfect escape for those looking to immerse themselves in Japan’s cultural heritage and indulge in its most iconic tea—matcha! Famous for its ancient temples, serene river views, and rich tea culture, Uji is an underrated day out for Japanese history and culture enthusiasts, and should definitely be on the travel bucket list of matcha lovers.

For those who love exploring Japan’s temples and shrines, some of the most meaningful souvenirs you can take home are goshuin. Embarking on a goshuin collection as you explore Japan’s sacred sites is a fun and rewarding activity, that will give you a beautiful and unique physical memento of your journey in Japan. In this guide, I’ll introduce what goshuin are, where to get them, and why they are the perfect souvenir for Japanese shrine and temple lovers!

This Tsurugi area walking itinerary in Hakusan is the ideal day trip from Kanazawa if you are looking for a lesser-known destination during your stay in Ishikawa prefecture. The area around Tsurugi station has a lot to offer: beautiful shrines, sake breweries, an insect museum, mountain gondolas where you can admire the Sea of Japan on sunny days...