Tag Archives: history

Tokyo National Museum

The Tokyo National Museum (東京国立博物館) is the first stop for anyone with a keen interest in Japanese history, art, design or fashion. It is the oldest national museum in Japan and has by far the deepest, richest variety of exhibitions. With over 110,000 objects and 87 national treasures, you will need at least a fewContinue reading “Tokyo National Museum”

Izu Peninsula

Izu Peninsula (伊豆半島) is a famous hot spring and sightseeing destination, and a popular side trip from Tokyo. While not that popular with foreign tourists, it is becoming increasing well-known. A host of passes make it a great travel idea for budget travellers. Budget travel tips The Minami Izu Free Pass is great for travel in andContinue reading “Izu Peninsula”

Shirakawa-go

Shirakawa-go (白川郷) and nearby Gokayama (五箇山) are secluded World Heritage villages known for their vernacular farmhouse-style houses called Gassho-Zukuri. These unique buildings have their style to withstand the heavy snow in the winter. Definitely a place to bring the camera. Budget travel tips If coming from Osaka or Nagoya, the Takayama-Hokuriku Area Tourist Pass is a great wayContinue reading “Shirakawa-go”

Yanagawa

Yanagawa (柳川) is a lovely town with some beautifully quiet canals to explore. It is located between Fukuoka and Kumamoto, and so is a cool place to stop off on the way if you want some time away from big cities. The waterways go all around the town, including the old castle ruins, traditional townhousesContinue reading “Yanagawa”

Kumamoto

Kumamoto (熊本) is a medium sized city in Kyushu well known for it’s wonderful castle, and now also famous for its mascot, Kumamon. Thousands come here to pick up Kumamon souvenirs and to enjoy this quiet city. Budget travel tips A useful Information Center is located in the main Kumamoto train station. They have various dealsContinue reading “Kumamoto”

Shimabara

Shimabara (島原) is a small castle town, from which tourists can take a ferry to Kumamoto. It has a few attractions to visit while you wait or relax before the very, most famous of which is one of the best castles in Kyushu. Budget travel tips Book early, as budget options are sometimes limited. NotContinue reading “Shimabara”

Nagasaki

Nagasaki (長崎), just like Hiroshima, is an extremely emotional place to visit, but well worth seeing. Nagasaki also experienced a nuclear bomb and there are some places related to this, as well as to the cities rich history of foreign influences. At the time of writing many of the sites are up for becoming WorldContinue reading “Nagasaki”