A Walk in Setagaya: Plum Blossoms and Lucky Cat Temple
This walk features two must-visit spots of Setagaya in Tokyo, especially during the plum blossom season from February to March: Hanegi Park, celebrated for its stunning plum blossoms, and Gotokuji Temple, famous as the birthplace of the iconic lucky cat. If you like flowers, fun temples, and lesser-known places, this walk itinerary might be perfect for you!
Autumn Walk Around Jindai-ji: Discover Tokyoās Hidden Gem for Fall Foliage
Located in the quiet suburb of Chofu, the area around Jindai-ji is one of my favorite places to visit in autumn in Tokyo. With its ancient temple, small-town charm and beautiful nature, this underrated but wonderful district in western Tokyo is a must-see destination for nature and temple lovers looking for a quiet stroll, especially in autumn. I spent half a day exploring this area and am happy to share with you this guide to Jindai-ji, as well as the route I took to do some momijigari (or leaf hunting).
A Guide to Goshuin: the Perfect Souvenir for Temple and Shrine Lovers in Japan
For those who love exploring Japanās temples and shrines, some of the most meaningful souvenirs you can take home are goshuin. Embarking on a goshuin collection as you explore Japanās 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, Iāll introduce what goshuin are, where to get them, and why they are the perfect souvenir for Japanese shrine and temple lovers!
Kurama to Kibune Hike: A Guide to Kyotoās Mystical Mountain Trail
If youāre visiting Kyoto and looking for nearby hiking options, the Kurama-Kibune hike should be at the top of your list! This beautiful mountain trail connects two historic shrine and temple, offering the perfect nature escape from the city. In this article, I'll share the itinerary I followed so you can get an overview of this wonderful hike, as well as practical information for planning your getaway from Kyoto.
Hidden Tokyo: An Autumn Walk from Todoroki Valley to Futako-Tamagawa
If you're looking for hidden autumn spots in Tokyo and an off-the-beaten-path walk to admire autumn colors without the crowds in a peaceful, lesser-known neighborhood, this Todoroki walking route might just be for you! This itinerary is more suited to Tokyo residents looking for off-the-beaten-track walks, or to travelers keen to visit Todoroki during the fall season and looking for other things to see in the area.
27 Essential Japan Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors: What You Need to Know
Planning your first trip to Japan? You're in for an unforgettable adventure! Japan often leaves a deep impression, that draw travelers to return! However, navigating this incredible country can feel overwhelming for first-time visitors. Thatās why Iāve put together these 27 essential Japan travel tips, based on my experience of living in Japan for over 4 years and organizing trips for family and friends. I hope this guide can help you to make your trip smoother, so you can focus on just having the most enjoyable, unforgettable experience in Japan!
Yakushima Travel Guide: Top Things to Do and Essential Tips in Japanās Nature Gem
Yakushima is one of my favourite destinations in Japan! This wild and mysterious island is a must-visit for nature lovers and is famous for its lush forests that inspired Studio Ghibli's Princess Mononoke. As a 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, with its ancient cedar trees, stunning hiking trails and more hidden gems. Whether youāre a Ghibli enthusiast or an outdoor adventurer, Yakushima offers unforgettable experiences!
Autumn in Kyoto: A Complete One-Day Walking Itinerary in Higashiyama District
The historic Higashiyama District is one of the best places to experience the beauty of autumn in Kyoto. In this one-day walking itinerary, Iāll guide you through popular and hidden autumn spots, perfect for momijigari (leaf hunting) in Kyoto. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this itinerary will help you navigate the crowds and make the most of your autumn day in one of Kyotoās most charming areas.
Day Trip to Uji from Kyoto: Perfect Itinerary for Temple and Matcha Lovers
Just a short 30-minute train ride from Kyoto, Uji offers a perfect escape for those looking to immerse themselves in Japanās cultural heritage and indulge in its most iconic teaāmatcha! 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.
Autumn Day Trip to Mizumoto Park: Tokyo's Hidden Nature Gem
Located in Katsushika Ward, this spacious park, which is actually Tokyoās largest park, offers stunning nature, peaceful waterways, and fewer crowds. Renowned for its birdlife, Mizumoto Park is particularly beautiful in autumn, when its Ā« metasequoia forest Ā» changes color. If you're craving wide open spaces and quiet waterfront views, Mizumoto Park is your perfect autumn getaway!
One Day in Mitake: A Perfect Autumn Escape from Tokyo
Autumn is a wonderful time to explore Japan, and Mitake is the perfect destination for a nature getaway from Tokyo, especially when the vibrant fall foliage transforms this countryside and mountain scenery. In this article, Iām excited to share the itinerary I followed to explore this stunning area, including hidden gems and personal tips for making the most of your time in Mitake.
Discover Matsushima: Complete Travel Guide to Japanās Scenic Bay
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, Iāll share my favorite spots in Matsushima, travel tips and recommendations for accommodation and restaurants.
Hidden Gems of Miyagi Prefecture: What to See and Do
I'd like to share with you 5 little-known places to visit on a trip to Japan's Miyagi prefecture, in the Tohoku region. Miyagi Prefecture is still relatively unknown to foreign travelers, but it is full of amazing places to visit. In this article, I'll focus on the off-the-beaten-track places that I particularly enjoyed when I visited Miyagi Prefecture and that I would recommend to travelers looking for things to do when spending a few days in this prefecture.
Where to Eat in Tokyo? A Selection of My Favorite Restaurants
When it comes to eating out, Tokyo has SO MUCH to offer. If you are looking for affordable and delicious meals in Tokyo, here is a list of my favorite restaurants. I have visited these restaurants many times and have always been very pleased with the experience and prices.
Discover Two Stunning Hydrangea Spots Near Mt. Fuji by Lake Kawaguchiko
In this short article, I'm going to share with you two spectacular places to admire hydrangeas in Yamaguchi Prefecture, near Lake Kawaguchi. If you're planning to explore Fujikawaguchiko to see Mount Fuji in summer and you're also a flower lover looking for places to admire hydrangeas during your stay, read on!
Explore Sarushima: A Unique Day Trip Destination in Tokyo Bay
Located not far from the port of Yokosuka, in Kanagawa Prefecture, Sarushima is the only uninhabited island of Tokyo Bay. With its fort ruins, luxuriant forest, clear sea and barbecue and leisure facilities, it is great destination for a half-day or a full day trip from Tokyo. In this article, you can learn more about this hidden gem near Tokyo and get useful information to prepare for your own visit of Sarushima.
Guide to Kyotoās Gion Matsuri, One of Japanās Biggest Summer Festivals
Gion Matsuri (ē„åē„) is one of Japan's biggest summer festivals, taking place in Kyoto every year for a month from 1 July. I attended the main event of the Gion festival, the Yamaboko Junko, in 2022. It was a very memorable experience for me, that Iād like to share with you, along with a few tips on how to prepare for this great event.
Discover Kamakuraās Hydrangeas: Perfect One-Day Itinerary
Kamakura is a fantastic and popular excursion from Tokyo all year round, but particularly in June, when the rainy season transforms this ancient city into a hydrangea fairytale. In this article, you can read about the walking itinerary I followed on a day trip from Tokyo to admire the hydrangeas in Kamakura, but also to see many of the main sights of Kamakura while introducing some lesser-known spots that I particularly enjoyed.
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.
Five Flower-Viewing Day Trips from Tokyo Youāll Love in Spring
In this article, I want to share my top 5 flower-viewing day trips to do from Tokyo in spring. I am a big flower lover, and I am always enjoying sharing flower-related events, walks and day trips in Japan. I thought Iād share my top picks for flower-viewing spots, from February to May, that can all easily be enjoyed as day trips from central Tokyo.
Hi, Iām Sarah! I hope you enjoy reading my blog.