Why You Should Visit Shirakawa-go in Spring: A Complete Guide
Shirakawa-go, tucked away in Gifu Prefecture in central Japan, is a beautifully preserved traditional village best known for its gassho-zukuri farmhouses (steeply thatched roofs built to withstand heavy snow). Registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site in 1995, Shirakawa-go is known for its fairytale snowy landscapes in winter, but spring also brings its own colourful magic. In this guide, I’ll share my favorite spots, things to do, and travel tips to help you plan a spring visit to this beautiful village.
A Relaxing Weekend Getaway in Atami: An Easy Onsen Escape from Tokyo
After exploring destinations around Tokyo like Hakone and Odawara, I was looking for a relaxing getaway, an onsen town where I could unwind. Atami, nestled along the eastern end of the Izu Peninsula, seemed like the perfect choice. Known for its hot springs, scenic coastline, and fresh seafood, this seaside city has long been a favorite for Tokyoites seeking a quick and easy getaway from the city's hustle and bustle.
Garden Necklace Yokohama: A Colourful Springtime Stroll Through Yokohama Harbour
Yokohama is one of my favourite day trips from Tokyo. Every year, the city organises the ‘Garden Necklace Yokohama’ Event, which celebrates flower blossoming and springtime in the city's various green spaces. From March to June, Yokohama's parks and gardens celebrate spring with impressive flower displays, from cherry blossom to tulips, roses, azaleas and much more.
One Day in Wakayama City: Best Things to Do and Itinerary Guide
Wakayama City, the capital of Wakayama Prefecture, is often overlooked by travelers in the Kansai region who focus on Osaka, Kyoto, and Nara. But this coastal city has plenty to offer: an impressive castle, quiet temples, delicious seafood, and scenic coastal views. In this guide, I’m sharing the exact itinerary I followed, perfect if you want to experience the best of Wakayama City in just one day.
Discover Takaya Shrine: A Hiking Guide to Shikoku’s ‘Torii in the Sky’
Perched on a mountain in Kagawa Prefecture, Takaya Jinja Shrine is a hidden gem that rewards hikers with one of the most breathtaking views in Shikoku. Known as the “Torii in the Sky”, this stunning shrine gate stands at the edge of the 404-meter Mt. Inazumi, overlooking the coastal city of Kanonji and Seto Inland Sea below. If you're looking for a picturesque, off-the-beaten-track hike in Shikoku, this is one you won't want to miss!
Naoshima Travel Guide: Complete One-Day Itinerary for Art and Nature Lovers
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’.
Tsurugi, Hakusan – A Secret Gem and Fun Day Trip From Kanazawa
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...
A Half-Day Trip to Matsushiro, a Samurai Town in Nagano
If you're in Nagano and looking for a quiet, off-the-beaten-path destination, I highly recommend Matsushiro. Nestled in the foothills of Nagano, this former castle town—now part of the city—offers a fascinating glimpse into Japan’s samurai past. Once the stronghold of the Sanada clan, Matsushiro is home to well-preserved samurai residences, a scenic castle park, and more. I spent a morning exploring Matsushiro and am excited to share in this article my experience and the itinerary I followed.
Hiking the Akame 48 Waterfalls Trail in Japan: A Complete Guide
Having recently written about the town of Iga, an underrated but unique destination in Japan for ninja and nature lovers, I wanted to continue sharing in more detail my experience of hiking the Akame 48 Waterfalls trail in Mie Prefecture.
If you're a nature lover and would like to discover a great hike to do in the Kansai region, while getting some practical tips to prepare your visit, read on!
Nokogiriyama Hiking Guide: A Unique Day Trip from Tokyo
A 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.
Iga Travel Guide: Best Things to Do in Japan’s Ninja Town
As a Naruto fan and someone fascinated by ninjas, Iga had long been on my Japan bucket list. This small city in Mie Prefecture is known as the birthplace of one of the most renowned school of ninjas, where real-life shinobis once trained in the art of espionage and assassination. In this guide, I’ll share my top recommendations and travel tips to help you make the most of your visit to this fascinating yet underrated destination in rural Japan.
Where to Stay in Osaka: Osaka Hinode Hotel Nipponbashi Review
Recently, some friends asked me for hotel recommendations in Osaka. As Japan's second largest metropolitan area after Tokyo, there are indeed many options to choose from when it comes to accommodation in this gigantic city, which offers so much to do and is also a great starting point for exploring the Kansai region. On my last few trips to Osaka, I stayed each time at Osaka Hinode Hotel Nipponbashi, a hotel that has, in my opinion, the best value for money in Osaka! I explain why in this article.
12 Unforgettable Romantic Date Ideas in Tokyo
With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, I thought it would be fun to share some date ideas in Tokyo. Some of these ideas come from my own date experiences with my husband, while others are still on my Tokyo bucket list. Whether you're looking for an out-of-the-ordinary experience or a casual but charming outing, I think this list has something to offer all couples looking to create special memories in Tokyo!
Ueno Peony Garden: a Must-see in Tokyo for Flower Lovers
An article to learn more about the Ueno Toshogu Peony Garden, an absolute must for flower lovers in Tokyo.
Jewellumination: A Sparkling Winter Wonderland Near Tokyo
If you're looking for an unforgettable winter experience near Tokyo, Jewellumination at Yomiuriland is a must-visit! Known for its breathtaking light displays designed by world-renowned artist Motoko Ishii, Jewellumination transforms the theme park into a dazzling wonderland of color.
I was amazed by the beauty of the illuminations and highly recommend this visit for a romantic date or family getaway in winter!
Kusatsu Onsen Guide: Top Things to Do and Perfect 2-Day Itinerary
Kusatsu Onsen, located in the beautiful mountains of Gunma Prefecture, is known as one of Japan's top hot spring towns. With the famous Yubatake hot water field, soothing outdoor baths, and the special Yumomi water-cooling show, it offers a unique experience for onsen enthusiasts. After spending two days there, I’d like to share my guide and a two-day itinerary to help you enjoy this wonderful onsen town.
Autumn Walk Around Jindai-ji: Discover Tokyo’s 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 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!
Kurama to Kibune Hike: A Guide to Kyoto’s Mystical Mountain Trail
If you’re 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.
Hi, I’m Sarah! I hope you enjoy reading my blog.