Nagasaki is one of the most unique cities in Japan. With its long history of international trade, it offers a rare blend of Japanese culture and strong European influence. If you’re wondering what to see in Nagasaki Japan, this guide covers my personal top 10 recommendations (in no particular order)! From scenic viewpoints to historic … Read more
Huis Ten Bosch is a European theme park in Japan that honestly doesn’t feel like Japan at all. Located in Kyushu near Nagasaki, this Dutch-style park is filled with canals, windmills, and even seasonal flowers like tulips. It’s a very different kind of Japanese theme park, more relaxed, less crowded, and surprisingly immersive. But because … Read more
When people think about an amusement park in Japan, famous places like Tokyo Disneyland or Universal Studios Japan usually come to mind. However, hidden between Osaka and Kyoto lies a charming and historic theme park that many travelers overlook is Hirakata Park. Located in Hirakata City, this historic park is often called “Hirapa” (ひらパー) by … Read more
Hakone is one of the most rewarding trips. Mountains, lakes, ropeways, art museums, and relaxing Hakone hot springs. Everything packed into a small area. Because transport here connects trains, buses, cable cars, boats and even a ropeway, the best way to travel is using the unlimited pass. From Odawara Station to almost anywhere in Hakone, … Read more
As soon as you arrive at the Hakone Venetian Glass Museum, you can’t help but say, “Wow.” It feels like stepping into a dreamlike Japanese forest where everything sparkles. The trees shimmer. The leaves glitter. Even the flower seem to grow in the sunlight. This is not an ordinary museum. It is a magical fusion … Read more
When people think about the best place to see Mount Fuji, famous viewpoints like Kawaguchiko or Hakone’s Owakudani often come to mind. While those spots are undeniably beautiful, they can also be extremely crowded, especially during peak travel seasons. However, there is one location in Hakone that remains surprisingly underrated, peaceful, and visually stunning: the … Read more
If you’ve ever played Momotetsu, there’s a good chance you’ve dreamed about playing it in real life. The popular Japanese board game sends players racing across Japan’s railway network, rolling dice, buying properties, and discovering train stations you’ve never heard of. It’s chaotic, and strangely educational, especially when it comes to geography and Japan’s many … Read more
When people imagine Japan’s sacred sites, they often think of Kyoto temples, famous torii gates in photos or major shrines crowded during New Year. But hidden in the rural heart of Nara Prefecture sits something far older and more profound: Oomiwa Shrine (大神神社), recognized as the oldest Shinto shrine in Japan. Unlike more modern shrines, … Read more
In Japan, the beginning of the year is marked by Hatsumode. The first shrine or temple visit of the New Year. Even people who do not consider themselves religious often take part. Families, couples, and friends visit a Japanese shrine or temple to pray for good health, safety, happiness, and a peaceful year ahead. It … Read more
Are you staying in Kyoto and planning a trip to Nara, but feeling like trying something a little more special than a regular train? If you’re in the mood for a fancy, romantic train experience, then the Aoniyoshi train might be exactly what you’re looking for. This luxury sightseeing limited express runs between Kyoto, Nara, … Read more
