A Hidden Gem That Feels Like the World of Your Name: A Visit to Hoshida Myoken-gu Shrine
Located in Katano City, Osaka, Hoshida Myoken-gu Shrine is known as a sacred place of star worship. Among fans of the anime film Your Name (Kimi no Na wa), it has also become a popular spot due to its mystical atmosphere that evokes the film’s enchanting world. I recently visited the shrine and was surprised […]
Chinchillas, Hydrangeas, and Hidden Temples: Our Unforgettable Shiga Countryside Adventure
Whenever we chat with travelers planning their trips around Japan, they always rave about the hyper-efficient bullet trains and pristine subway lines of the major cities. And it’s true – public transit here is a marvel! But if you really want to experience the heart of Japan, you have to venture out into the countryside. […]
Discover Omihachiman: Shiga’s Historic Canal Town & La Collina
Located just an hour east of Kyoto along the shores of Lake Biwa, Omihachiman is a beautifully preserved castle town that offers a perfect blend of Edo-period history and whimsical modern design. Famous for its historic merchant architecture and scenic waterways, the town is also home to La Collina, a stunning, green-roofed confectionery paradise that […]
Experience the Pink Peaks of Mount Yoshino: Japan’s Ultimate Sakura Escape
Have you ever wanted to feel like you’re in a dream, entirely surrounded by sakura trees? As someone who has lived in Japan for several years, I’ve seen my fair share of cherry blossoms, but Mount Yoshino (Yoshinoyama) remains one of my most unforgettable hanami experiences. Located in Nara Prefecture, this UNESCO World Heritage site […]
Seeing Mount Fuji for the First Time – Japan’s most sacred ground
After 4 years in Japan, I finally had the opportunity to go see Mount Fuji from up close. If you’re living in Japan, you probably get to see Mount Fuji at some point pretty rapidly. However, I have spent most of my time in Kansai and I always used the night bus to go to […]
Bear Encounters in Japan: What Travelers Should Know Before Exploring Nature
Japan is widely known for its vibrant cities, reliable public transportation, and rich cultural heritage, but beyond the urban areas lies a vast natural landscape of forests, mountains, national parks, and rural countryside. For travelers interested in hiking, countryside walks, or exploring less-touristy regions, Japan offers incredible natural beauty throughout the year. However, these natural […]
Discover the Enchanted Island of Tomogashima
A Mysterious Blend of History and Nature Just a Day Trip from Osaka For those seeking a quick escape into nature with a touch of adventure, Tomogashima is the perfect destination. Floating off the coast of Kada in Wakayama Prefecture, this group of uninhabited islands is steeped in both history and natural beauty—an unforgettable place […]