-
Omihachiman – Planning Your Complete Daytrip to the Venice of Japan
If there is a historical town to look out for its scenery, its Omihachiman (近江八幡) and it is one of the most well-preserved merchant towns in Japan. Omihachiman differentiates itself from other historical town with its unique townscape containing a canal that passes through the town; earning it the nickname as the ‘Venice of Japan’. With that said, let’s explore what the canal town has to offer! Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. If you book after clicking on one of these links then I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. The History of Omihachiman Read More About The Town’s Inception HERE Omihachiman is located…
-
Uji – How to Plan Your Ultimate Daytrip to the Matcha Capital
When it comes to day trip destinations from Kyoto (京都), Uji (宇治) is undeniably one of the best destinations to consider. Just 30 minutes away by train and a city that is known for its unique green tea matcha (抹茶) products. And yet, it is surprising how many tourists who visit Kyoto and Nara have not heard of it. With that said, let’s explore Uji and how to plan a day trip from Kyoto. Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. If you book after clicking on one of these links then I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. The History of Uji The city of…
-
Daimonzaka Chaya – The Ultimate Costume Experience in Japan
Have you ever dreamt of travelling back in time to travel to Kumano Nachi Taisha (熊野那智大社) from Daimonzaka (大門坂) as an aristocrat? Look no further than Daimonzaka Chaya (大門坂茶屋) or Daimonzaka Teahouse; a shop where you can rent Heian period costumes and explore Nachi Taisha and its surrounding. Today, I will be sharing the overall experience and how it adds a unique flair to your travel experience at Nachi Taisha. Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. If you book after clicking on one of these links then I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. About Daimonzaka Daimonzaka (大門坂) or ‘large gate slope’ is a path…
-
Kumano Nachi Taisha – A Complete Guide to Japan’s Stunningly Beautiful Mountain Shrine
Nestled deep inside the secluded Kii Peninsula (紀伊半島) is the scenic and majestic Kumano Nachi Taisha (熊野那智大社) shrine. Kumano Nachi Taisha is one of those destinations that has been a poster boy for many Japan travel promotional materials; and for a right reason. This is the shrine that features the iconic vermillion pagoda with a majestic waterfall in the background. And, it also happens to be one of the major spiritual sites for the renowned Kumano Kodo hiking trail. With that in mind, let’s explore what this iconic shrine has to offer. Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. If you book after clicking on one of these links then I…
-
Hikone Castle – The Ultimate Travel Guide & Must-Know Hidden Tips
Hikone Castle (彦根城) is certainly no stranger among locals when it comes to the list of impressive castles in Japan. And this is because it is one of the few remaining original-construction castles. Because of its authentic architecture, it is a MUST-VISIT castle especially for the architecture lovers and history buffs. And the BEST part of them all? It is easily accessible from the ancient capital of Kyoto (京都); making this a prime candidate to save in your next Japan travel itinerary! With that in mind, lets explore the impressive Hikone Castle itself. Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. If you book after clicking on one of these links then I…
-
Former Chikurin-in Temple – The Ultimate Travel Guide
Located in the town of Sakamoto (坂本) near Kyoto (京都), lies the small and quaint Former Chikurin-in Temple (旧竹林院). Don’t underestimate this small temple though as this place is not only a scenic beauty but also once served as a Satobo (里坊), or a residence for retired monks. Today, this place is famously known among locals for its scenery of its garden reflection captured on a low table setup in Japanese-style rooms. History A Little Historical Background This site is located at the foot of the famed Mt Hiei (比叡山 or Hiei-zan) which houses the massive temple complex of Enryakuji (延暦寺) at its summit. At its peak, Enryakuji had over…
-
Ukimido – A Complete Guide to Lake Biwa’s Iconic Scenery
Ukimido (浮御堂) is recognised one of the Eight Great Views of Omi (近江八景; pronounced Oumi Hakkei) and is easily the poster boy of the group. Ask any local who stay around Lake Biwa (琵琶湖 or Biwa-ko) to recommend a photogenic spot around the lake and most likely their answer is Ukimido. Despite locating in the city of Otsu (大津) and its close proximity to Kyoto, this little temple is still relatively unknown among the tourist radar. This is a blessing in disguise however, as this makes it an ideal spot for those looking to enjoy a lake scenery in peaceful state of mind. Now what makes this little temple so…
-
5 Secret Kyoto Travel Tips for First Timers
It is no secret that a Kyoto travel experience is highly sought after among the travel community. Being the former ancient capital of Japan, Kyoto (京都) features a plethora of beautiful historical sites ranging from temples, shrines, and even teahouses and restaurants. Despite this, Kyoto is also infamously known for its overtourism; hundreds of tourists hogging at famous sites including Kiyomizudera, Fushimi Inari Taisha and even the streets of Gion District. So much so that even the local council passed a law to banned tourists from entering certain private streets in the Gion District. Nevertheless, travelling in Kyoto can be made much more relaxing with these tips in mind. Here…
-
Kurama-dera Temple – The Ultimate Travel Guide
While my wife and I went on a day trip to escape the bustling Kyoto to Kurama (鞍馬), Kurama-dera Temple (鞍馬寺) turned out to be one of our favourite highlights in our Kyoto trip. In fact, climbing mountains was undeniably a nightmarish activity for my wife and we did not know what to expect out of Kurama Temple. To our surprise, Kurama-dera turned out to be a pleasant temple to visit. The remote natural beauty together with the lack of tourist crowds makes this one of our favourite temples to visit in Japan. Introducing Kurama-dera Location Kurama-dera is located up north of Kyoto at the base of Mt Kurama (鞍馬山).…
-
Oharano Shrine – The Ultimate Guide to Kyoto’s Hidden Gem
It is no surprise that Kyoto (京都) is home to a plethora of temples and shrines, both large and small; including the highlight of today’s post, Oharano Shrine (大原野神社). Oharano Shrine is among the hundreds of shrines in Kyoto that is relatively hidden from the usual tourist radar. While it is rather secluded; it makes up for it with its captivating nature scenery as well as a rich history behind its founding (see my trivia post about this shrine). To find out what the shrine beholds, lets explore its beautiful in today’s post. Exploring Oharano Shrine Location Oharano Shrine is located at Nishikyō Ward (Nishikyō-ku/西京区); aka the Western Capital Ward.…
