Sightseeing

How to Get to Kamakura from Tokyo: A Complete Travel Guide

Kamakura lies just an hour south of Tokyo, but the shift in pace and atmosphere feels far greater. Once the political center of medieval Japan, this coastal town blends historical weight with relaxed seaside charm, famous for its numerous temples, breezy beaches, and the iconic Great Buddha watching over it all. For first-time visitors to Tokyo, Kamakura offers one of…

How to Use Shinjuku Station Without Getting Lost

Shinjuku Station in Tokyo has a reputation for confusing even seasoned travelers. As the world’s busiest train station, it channels millions of passengers each day through a maze of platforms, exits, and underground corridors. For first-time visitors, the scale alone can be disorienting and overwhelming. However, with a bit of planning and a clear route in mind, navigating Shinjuku Station…

Best Picnic Spots in Osaka Castle Park: Stay Cool and Enjoy Summer in Japan

Osaka Castle Park is one of the city’s most inviting green spaces—a welcome break from the concrete and heat of an Osaka summer. While it’s a popular destination year-round, the park takes on a different character in the warmer months. Tall trees provide shade, grassy lawns stretch out under blue skies, and the castle stands quietly in the background, anchoring…

A Photo Guide to Ushiku Daibutsu — One of the World’s Tallest Buddha Statues!

Standing tall in Ushiku City, Ibaraki Prefecture, Ushiku Daibutsu is a towering statue of Amida Buddha, renowned for its overwhelming scale and presence. Recognized by the Guinness World Records in 1995 as the world’s tallest bronze Buddha statue, this enormous figure attracts visitors not only from across Japan but also from countries throughout Asia, including Thailand and Taiwan, where it…

Tokyo Tower vs. Tokyo Skytree: Which Observation Deck Should You Visit?

Tokyo’s skyline is defined by two standout structures: Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree (officially stylized in English as “TOKYO SKYTREE”). Both showcase sweeping views of the city, but the experiences they deliver are far from the same. For first-time visitors—or anyone trying to make the most of limited time—choosing between them can be surprisingly tricky. This guide breaks down what…

Best Shimbashi Restaurant Guide: Top 5 Places to Eat and Drink Like a Tokyo Local

When you think of what makes Tokyo unique, which area comes to mind? Some might picture Ginza, a shopping district lined with world-famous luxury brands, while others think of Shibuya, a hotspot for the latest trends. Everyone has their own image of Tokyo. But when it comes to food, no conversation about Tokyo’s culinary scene is complete without mentioning Shimbashi….

Discover Kichijoji: Tokyo’s Most Charming Neighborhood and What Locals Love

Just 20 minutes by train from Shinjuku or Shibuya, Kichijōji is a one-of-a-kind neighborhood where the bustle of the city and the calm of nature coexist in perfect balance. From longstanding yōshoku (Western-inspired Japanese cuisine) restaurants to hubs of cutting-edge culture, Kichijoji offers new discoveries with every visit as past and present blend seamlessly. Unlike Asakusa, Kichijoji doesn’t boast historical…

Japan 7-Day Itinerary for First-Time Visitors: Culture, Food, and Cities

Embarking on your first trip to Japan is an exciting prospect, filled with dynamic cities, deep-rooted traditions, and unforgettable food. Although a week may feel short for such a diverse country, thoughtful planning makes it possible to see the highlights and gain a real sense of its character. This 7-day itinerary has a well-rounded mix of urban discovery, cultural immersion,…

Mount Fuji Day Trip from Tokyo on a Budget: Access, Routes, and Costs

Mount Fuji, Japan’s most iconic peak, is a bucket-list destination for many travelers. While guided tours and elaborate itineraries can get expensive fast, it’s entirely possible to enjoy the majesty of Fuji-san on a budget day trip from Tokyo. With a bit of planning and smart choices around transportation and activities, you can take in breathtaking views and create lasting…

Best Okinawa Beaches for Families: Safe, Facility-Rich Spots by Season

What makes a beach family-friendly in Okinawa? Okinawa’s clear waters and powdery white beaches make it a favorite spot for family getaways. But when you’re visiting with young children, a pretty view isn’t the only thing that matters. A good family beach should also be safe, easy to navigate, and equipped with the right amenities. Shallow, calm water lets kids…

Hiking Mount Misen: A Journey Through Miyajima Island’s Natural Beauty

Mount Misen, the tallest peak on Miyajima Island, not far from Hiroshima, Japan, offers hikers an unforgettable mix of panoramic views, lush forests, and spiritual heritage. Rising 535 meters (1,755 feet) above sea level, this mountain is not just a scenic gem but a sacred site steeped in history. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a casual walker seeking fresh…

Navigating Miyajima Island: Access, Transportation, and Seasonal Highlights

Miyajima Island, also known as Itsukushima, is one of Japan’s most enchanting destinations. Located in Hiroshima Bay, this small island is famed for its spiritual ambiance, scenic landscapes, and iconic floating torii gate. While major landmarks like Itsukushima Shrine and Mount Misen draw thousands of visitors, understanding the best ways to get to and around the island—as well as what…

Miyajima Island: Exploring the Sacred Itsukushima Shrine and Its Floating Torii Gate

Miyajima Island, officially known as Itsukushima, is a spiritual and scenic treasure nestled in the Seto Inland Sea of Hiroshima Prefecture. Famous for the iconic “floating” torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-visit destination that seamlessly blends natural beauty with centuries-old tradition. This guide follows a step-by-step walking route that highlights both the spiritual…

Foxes and Fortunes: Understanding Fushimi Inari’s Symbols and Traditions

Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto is known around the world for its breathtaking Senbon Torii—thousands of vermilion gates lining the forested trails of Mount Inari. But beyond the iconic photos lies a world rich in cultural symbolism and centuries-old spiritual traditions. From mysterious fox statues to charming fortune slips, the shrine offers a fascinating glimpse into the spiritual life of…

Walking Through Thousands of Torii: The Fushimi Inari Hiking Experience

Few places in Japan capture the imagination quite like the vermilion gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha. While the shrine is world-famous for its Senbon Torii (Thousand Torii Gates), many travelers miss out on the full experience: hiking the entire trail up the holy Mount Inari. If you’re eager to explore beyond the photo-op at the base, this guide will walk…