Top Cherry Blossom Spots in Kyoto

There are so many great places to see cherry blossoms in Kyoto, so here are some of my highlights! You could save some money and walk between them all, so use our Google Map below or circle them on one of the free tourist maps that are available from tourist information centers and stations allContinue reading “Top Cherry Blossom Spots in Kyoto”

10 amazing things not to forget about Japan

I recently came back to the wonderful land of Japan after a long break (think that’s a pretty good joke for those that know I broke my arm!). It was too long away! As I travelled around the country again, I was reminded about some of the best, most fascinating things about this country. ThisContinue reading “10 amazing things not to forget about Japan”

Izumo-taisha

Izumo Taisha (出雲大社) is a grand shrine, considered one of Japans top 3. Located in northern Chugoku, it is an essential stop if you are in the region. It is therefore a hugely popular shrine, but never feels overly crowded. The folklore behind the shrine says that the gods from all over Japan gather atContinue reading “Izumo-taisha”

Quick Japan – Main Tourist Spots in 1 Week

A guide to the main hot spots in Japan, all in just a week! Because of Japan’s excellent transportation, it is possible to see quite a lot in a week.  You could use either the Japan Rail Pass or Japan Bus Pass, but because your time is really tight, the Japan Rail Pass is probably best.  ThisContinue reading “Quick Japan – Main Tourist Spots in 1 Week”

Osaka and Around Kansai in 1-2 Weeks

While Tokyo and the surrounding areas are great, a holiday down south around Kyoto and Osaka has its own charm and delights. This itinerary uses a few bus/train passes for each tourist area, so you probably don’t need a  Japan Rail Pass or  Japan Bus Pass.  For long distances use a night bus. Cost: 120,000 yen – 140,000 yen per person DayContinue reading “Osaka and Around Kansai in 1-2 Weeks”

Tokyo and Kanto in 1-2 Weeks

There is so much to do around Tokyo in a few weeks, it really is a city of cities. There is probably no need to buy a  Japan Rail Pass or Japan Bus Pass, but make use of the special passes for most of the areas.  If you have less than 2 weeks, just cut out the placesContinue reading “Tokyo and Kanto in 1-2 Weeks”

Getting Away From The Big Cities – Japanese Alps in 1-2 Weeks

Want to get away from the big cities like Tokyo and Osaka? Try this itinerary!  It will take 1-2 weeks, depending on how much hiking and/or snowboarding or skiing you want to do.  This guide is therefore showing just our recommended route. As there are so many different bus companies and train companies, you probably don’t need a JapanContinue reading “Getting Away From The Big Cities – Japanese Alps in 1-2 Weeks”

Japan’s Main Spots in 2 Weeks

2 weeks is a good amount of time to see what Japan has to offer in terms of culture, tradition and history. This could be done with either the more expensive but faster Japan Rail Pass or the cheaper Japan Bus Pass.  Go for the Japan Bus Pass if you don’t mind a few night buses and slow trains. IfContinue reading “Japan’s Main Spots in 2 Weeks”

Top Guesthouses and Hostels in Kyoto

As Kyoto is mostly still a traditional place the guesthouses and hostels continue this style, while still offering low prices. Therefore most of these recommendations, but not all, will have rooms with traditional Tamami floors and futons.   Even if this does not sound appetising, just try it for one night! Backpackers Hostel K’s HouseContinue reading “Top Guesthouses and Hostels in Kyoto”

Top Guesthouses and Hostels in Tokyo

There are plenty of cheap guesthouses and hostels in Tokyo, including right in the center.  They are also a great places to meet people and pick up some traveling tips or recommendations.  Here are some of the best: Khaosan Hostels This well-known guesthouse chain has a variety of cheap and clean guesthouses in central locations.Continue reading “Top Guesthouses and Hostels in Tokyo”