JAPAN
Kawazu Seven Falls: A Nature Lover's Hidden Gem on the Izu Peninsula
After Ito, let me introduce you to Kawazu, another hidden gem on the Izu Peninsula, in Shizuoka Prefecture, Japan. As a nature lover who spent a week discovering the hidden beauty of the Izu Peninsula, I was intrigued to see the Kawazu Seven Falls, located in the mountains above the coastal town of Kawazu. You can read about my experience in this article, as well as some recommendations if you are interested in visiting this wonderful natural site.
A Nature Day Trip to Izu: Jogasaki Coast and Mount Omuro Itinerary
The Jogasaki Coast and Mount Omuro are two natural wonders of the Izu Peninsula located in Ito city that can easily be combined as a day trip from Tokyo, Atami or other nearby towns in the Izu Peninsula. If hiking along a scenic coastline and walking around the crater of an extinct volcano sounds intriguing to you, then this day trip itinerary should interest you!
A Hiking Guide to the Magome-Tsumago Nakasendo Trail
A new article in which I share my experience of walking one of Japan's most popular hiking trails: the path between the two historic post towns of Magome and Tsumago on the Nakasendo in the Kiso Valley. What I particularly enjoyed about this hike in the Japanese countryside was the variety of landscapes, from rice paddies and bamboo groves to cedar forests and small rural villages.
Nakasendo Torii Pass - A Rewarding Hike From Yabuhara to Narai
Japan is full of magnificent hiking trails, such as the Torii Pass, which connects Yabuhara and Narai and is one of the most challenging sections of the ancient Nakasendo trail. Less well known than the Magome-Tsumago section of the Nakasendo, it nonetheless makes a lovely half-day hike, perfect for appreciating off-the-beaten-path Japan while getting some exercise on a quiet hiking trail.
Yakusugi Land, Yakushima's Ancient Cedar Paradise
If you're planning a visit to Yakushima, Yakusugi Land is one of the places not to be missed, as is the Shiratani Unsuikyo ravine. As its name suggests, this nature park is home to a number of Yakusugi (Yakushima cedars over 1,000 years old).
Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine in Yakushima: Hiking in the Mononoke Forest
The Shiratani Unsuikyo ravine was my favourite place in Yakushima and one of most beautiful hikes I have ever done. With its ancient trees and moss-covered stones, the Shiratani Unsuikyo ravine exudes a unique and mystical atmosphere. No wonder it was the inspiration for the famous animated film Princess Mononoke, and you can easily see the resemblance once you enter this beautiful, lush forest.
Yakushima Island Itinerary: A Nature Paradise in Southern Japan
Yakushima is one of my favourite destinations, not just in Kyushu, but in the whole of Japan! Wild and mysterious, Yakushima is a nature lover's paradise and is notably famous for inspiring the forest in Ghibli's Princess Mononoke. As a big Ghibli fan, this was my main motivation for visiting this island, but I discovered that it had much more to offer than I had expected.
Nokogiriyama: a Unique Hike Near Tokyo
Another day trip from Tokyo that should be of particular interest to hiking enthusiasts is Nokogiriyama in Chiba Prefecture. It concentrates many things to see and do: a ferry crossing of Tokyo Bay, a nature hike, beautiful views, a dose of culture and history, the largest Buddha statue in Japan and a ropeway.
Everything You Need to Know Before Visiting Koyasan
Useful travel tips to keep in mind when traveling to Koyasan.
A Memorable Day Trip to Koyasan from Osaka
A detailed itinerary for a one day trip to Koyasan from Osaka to enjoy the most of this enchanting area tucked away in the mountains, with many temples and a beautiful and ancient cemetery.
Hi, Iām Sarah! I hope you enjoy reading my blog.