walk – Super Cheap Japan

Snowy Buddhist mountain town – Koyasan Day 1

Koyasan is a secluded town south of Osaka, full of temples for people to stay in and view. I went here last week and had one of my holidays in Japan. This UNESCO World Heritage site is so stunning in the winter. Day 2 report can be found here. Here are some highlights from my trip:Continue reading “Snowy Buddhist mountain town – Koyasan Day 1”

Exploring Yanaka

Yanaka is a peaceful neighborhood that is perfect for a morning stroll and that rewards exploration. A straightforward walk from Ueno to Nippori will take you along quiet streets of undamaged pre-war buildings, quiet temples and an eclectic selection of contemporary artist’s studios and galleries. Most notable among them is the Asakura Museum of SculptureContinue reading “Exploring Yanaka”

A Walk along the Kanda River – Sekiguchi Bashoan (FREE)

Sekiguchi Bashoan (関口芭蕉庵)is where the poet Matsuo Basho lived for four years (1677-1680), supervising the Kanda waterworks. His famous frog haiku was likely written here. While the garden and buildings are not original, they recall the essential elements of Basho’s aesthetic. Short paths lead to a still green pond. The sounds of the season surroundContinue reading “A Walk along the Kanda River – Sekiguchi Bashoan (FREE)”

Minoo Park

Minoo Park (箕面公園) is a popular day trip from Osaka, a great place to go hiking or enjoy some local food and buy some souvenirs. It is what Mount Takao is to Tokyo, a very accessible and inexpensive to access hiking area, with all sorts of hiking routes for all sorts of difficulty. Most people takeContinue reading “Minoo Park”

Imperial Palace Walk or Cycle Route

Making your way around the Imperial Palace complex is a simple to follow, flat walking route in central Tokyo. It the most must-do walk in Tokyo and a favourite for locals looking to relax or exercise. Difficulty: Easy Walking time: 3-4 hours depending on ability. Start at Tokyo station, and make your way out of Maronouchi CentralContinue reading “Imperial Palace Walk or Cycle Route”

Beautiful temples in snowy mountains – Koyasan Day 2

After our first day in Koyasan, I we went to the west side to see the famous Buddhist temples and pilgrimage trails that have made this place a UNESCO World Heritage site. Day 1 report can be found here. This is Daimon, at the entrance to Koyasan’s west side. After Daimon, we went on aContinue reading “Beautiful temples in snowy mountains – Koyasan Day 2”