Yufuin Itinerary: an Ideal Hot Spring Retreat in Kyushu
One of my favourite destinations in Japan is Yufuin in Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. This charming country town should be on any itinerary if you decide to explore Kyushu, Japan's third largest island. This onsen town has an enchanting landscape with Mount Yufu in the background, peaceful rice fields and a river, making you feel like you've stepped into a fairytale.
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.
Tokyoās Best Cherry Blossom Spots: A Sakura Loverās Guide
In this article, I introduce famous and lesser-known places in Tokyo that I have visited or would like to go to to admire these beloved flowers, as well as some tips to know in advance to make the most of this incredible and busy period.
Exploring Nachi-Katsuura: Japanās Tuna Capital on the Kumano Kodo
Tucked along the southeastern coast of Wakayama Prefecture, Nachi-Katsuura is a fishing town on the Kii Peninsula, best known for its tuna fishing industry and proximity to Kumano Nachi Taisha and Nachi Falls. If youāre looking for a different side of the Kumano region, shaped by early-morning auctions, quiet harbor walks, and evenings spent soaking in hot springs overlooking the sea, then Nachi-Katsuura is a coastal gem you wonāt regret adding to your itinerary.
Shiratani Unsuikyo Hiking Guide: Discover Yakushimaās 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.
Discover Kibitsu Jinja: An Enchanting Shrine in Okayamaās Countryside
As a shrine and temple lover, I enjoy using this blog to introduce lesser-known places I discover while exploring Japan. Just 20 minutes from central Okayama, Kibitsu Jinja is a beautiful and atmospheric shrine set in peaceful countryside. In this article, Iāll share why you should visit this shrine, what it was like exploring the area, and some tips to help you plan your visit.
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!
Three Plum Blossom Walks Not to Miss Around Tokyo
Each year I lived in Tokyo, I looked forward to plum blossom season as the first true sign of spring. Lesser known than cherry blossoms, plum blossoms in Tokyo are just as delightful: fragrant, colorful, and quietly uplifting. In this article, I share three scenic plum blossom walks in and around Tokyo that are especially worth adding to your itinerary.
One Day in Snowy Takayama: My Walking Itinerary
Takayama is one of those places in Japan that took me completely by surprise and quickly became one of my top recommendations to include in a Japan itinerary, especially in winter. Tucked away in the mountains of Gifu Prefecture, this historic city still feels relatively under the radar, yet it offers a wonderful glimpse into Japanās Edo-period. I only had one full day to explore Takayama, so in this article Iām sharing my one-day walking itineraryto help you plan your visit, together with some travel tips based on my experience.
Where to See Plum Blossoms in Tokyo: A Beautiful Afternoon Walk in Bunkyo
In this article, Iād like to share another plum blossom-themed walk in Tokyo. Plum blossoms, or ume (ę¢ ), mark the early arrival of spring, blooming as some of the first flowers of the year. As a flower lover, I set out on a plum blossom walk in Bunkyo Ward, where you can visit three charming festivals located close to each other.
Amazing Plum Blossoms Near Tokyo: the Soga Plum Festival
The Soga Plum Festival is my favorite Ume matsuri (plum blossom festival) near Tokyo. It is held every year in February to celebrate the blossoming of 35,000 plum trees. Located to the north-east of Odawara, it is easily accessible by train from central Tokyo, and makes a great day-trip idea from the Japanese capital in February.
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.
How to Spend a Day in Himeji: A Perfect Stop Between Hiroshima and Osaka
If youāre traveling between Hiroshima and Osaka (or Kyoto), Himeji makes a perfect stopover, with its main attractions all within walking distance of the station. Home to Japanās most spectacular original castle, itās a city I like to stop in when Iām traveling between the Kansai region and Hiroshima. Whether you only have a few hours or a full day to explore, I hope this guide and itinerary suggestion will help you make the most of your time in Himeji!
Visiting Shirakawa-go in Winter: A Practical Guide to Japanās Snowy Village
Shirakawa-go is a beautifully preserved traditional village tucked away in Gifu Prefecture in central Japan. Seeing Shirakawa-go covered in snow is one of the most beautiful sights Iāve experienced in Japan, and honestly, one of the most magical places Iāve ever visited. In this guide, Iāll share my winter day-trip experience, with my favorite places to see in Shirakawa-go and things to do during the snowy season, as well as practical tips to help you plan your own visit to this unforgettable village.
Otaru in Winter: an Unforgettable Day Trip from Sapporo
Located north-west of Sapporo in Hokkaido, Otaru is a charming port town that, in my opinion, should be on every Hokkaido/Sapporo itinerary. Known for its glassworks, music boxes and sake breweries, the town is particularly beautiful in winter when covered in snow. My two visits to Otaru gave me a glimpse of this very cute town which I would like to share with you in this short guide.
21 Best Things to Do in Tokyo This Winter
Whether youāre a Tokyo local looking for new inspiration or a traveler visiting Japan for the first time, this guide brings together 25 of the best things to do in Tokyo in winter, from seasonal events and cozy indoor activities to cultural experiences, winter comfort food, and easy winter trips. I hope it helps you plan a fun and memorable winter in this fantastic city!
Japan Grand Prix International Orchid and Flower Show
An event in Tokyo in February for flower lovers is the Japan Grand Prix International Orchid and Flower Show, one of the largest orchid exhibitions in the world. It is an event where hundreds of thousands, if not millions, of orchids are displayed in a huge exhibition hall, the Tokyo Dome.
Matsumoto Guide: Top Things to Do and Travel Tips in Nagano's Castle City
Matsumoto is one of my favorite destinations in Nagano Prefecture: itās a compact, walkable city surrounded by mountains, full of museums, culture, and of course one of Japanās most iconic castles. This guide is based on my own trip to Matsumoto and includes personal tips, practical advice, and ideas for day trips if you want to explore more of Nagano.
Japan on a Budget: My Top Saving Tips For Your Japan Trip
After years of living and traveling around Japan, Iāve gathered plenty of practical ways to make your trip more affordable without missing out on amazing experiences. Whether youāre planning a trip to Japan on a budget or are just interested in some saving tips, I hope this article can be useful to you.
Sapporo Guide and Five-Day Itinerary During the Snow Festival
As the capital city of Hokkaido and Japanās fifth largest city, Sapporo is a city with plenty of things to see and do. Its annual Snow Festival, held every February, attracts tourists from all over Japan and the world. In this article, I will be sharing with you the 5-day itinerary I made for my own trip in February 2023 to enjoy both the festival and explore Sapporo and its surroundings, as well as some tips to help you prepare for your visit of this great city.
Hi, Iām Sarah! I hope you enjoy reading my blog.