Planning a spring trip to Kanazawa? This city usually reaches cherry blossom season a little later than Tokyo and Kyoto, which makes it a smart choice if you are traveling in early April. For most first-time visitors, the best plan is simple: check the latest bloom timing, start with Kenrokuen and Kanazawa Castle Park, then … Read more
If you are planning a trip from Kanazawa to Shirakawa-go, the most important thing to know is this: there is no train to Shirakawa-go. The direct public transport option is the reservation-only highway bus from Kanazawa Station. For most travelers, the decision comes down to two choices: book the bus early, or use a guided … Read more
If you are planning to visit Ninja Temple Kanazawa (Myouryuji), the most important thing to know is that advance reservation is required. You cannot buy a ticket at the door, and reservations are handled by phone only. The tour inside the temple is conducted in Japanese, but foreign visitors receive an English translation booklet to … Read more
Planning a Mt. Fuji Day Trip? Start Here Taking a day trip to Mount Fuji from Tokyo is a must-do for most visitors to Japan. However, once you start planning, you will quickly realize that figuring out the logistics—choosing between trains, highway buses, large group tours, and private guides—can be overwhelming. If you want to … Read more
The Fascinating History of Meiji Shrine Unlike many ancient temples in Kyoto that date back over a thousand years, Meiji Shrine is relatively modern, but its historical significance is massive. It is dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken. Emperor Meiji was the first emperor of modern Japan. During … Read more
If you want to experience the real nightlife in Tokyo (which is why Shinjuku is often ranked as one of the best areas to stay in Tokyo for first-timers), an evening at an izakaya is non-negotiable. These lively Japanese gastropubs are where locals go to unwind, share small plates of delicious food, and drink after … Read more
Many travelers are surprised to find that most temples and shrines in Kyoto close around 5:00 PM. If you are wondering how to spend your evening after dinner, don’t worry—the city certainly does not go to sleep. Kyoto at night transforms into a beautifully illuminated, atmospheric city that offers a completely different vibe from the … Read more
If you are planning a trip to Kyoto, the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is likely at the top of your list. Walking through the towering green stalks is a quintessential Japan experience. However, the reality of visiting can be overwhelming: the crowds are dense, the area is expansive, and figuring out the best route takes time. … Read more
If you are basing yourself in Hiroshima and looking for a unique excursion, a day trip to Okunoshima—famously known worldwide as Rabbit Island—is likely at the top of your list. Home to hundreds of free-roaming, friendly bunnies and a fascinatingly dark history, it offers a stark but delightful contrast to the solemn monuments of Hiroshima … Read more