WELCOME

Most international travelers stop at Himeji to visit its majestic castle, but miss this fantastic half-day excursion to Mount Shosha, a sacred mountain where stands an atmospheric temple complex over 1000 years old. As a nature and shrine/temple lover, visiting Mount Shosha had been high on my Japan Bucket list for a long time, and I finally had the opportunity to do so on my last trip to Japan in the spring.

In this article, I’ll share about my experience exploring Mount Shosha, and all the things you need to know to plan your own visit.

As my Japan blog keeps growing, I thought it would be useful to summarize resources from my blog as well as other websites and apps that I use to plan for my own trips to Japan. I hope they may serve you as well!

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.