National Parks to Visit Near Kumamoto
Sep 30, 2024 By Justin Hanus
Just beyond the borders of the city, the prefecture of Kumamoto is filled with natural beauty. Explore the mountains and forests, with shrines scattered in between, by visiting some of the national parks. Aso-Kuju National Park Spanning Kumamoto and Oita prefectures is Aso-Kuju National Park. It is named for Mount...[ Click to read more ]
Koyo, or Fall Colors in Nagoya
Sep 27, 2024 By Ray Proper
The Japanese are very conscious of the seasons changing around them, often celebrating little, or not so little, milestones between each to mark the transitions between their much-touted "4 distinct seasons." Long sleeve or short sleeve shirts, for example, are there one day but gone the next as the season...[ Click to read more ]
Family Days Out in Kumamoto
Aug 30, 2024 By Justin Hanus
Located in the north of Japan’s Kyushu region, Kumamoto prefecture has a rich culture and plenty of affordable attractions if you’re looking for a day out that all the family can enjoy. From fun outdoor activities to educational experiences, here are a few great destinations if you’re looking to keep...[ Click to read more ]
Planning a Visit to Sera Kogen Farm in Hiroshima
Aug 28, 2024 By Justin Hanus
Hiroshima prefecture is home to some of the most stunning nature in the country. An ideal place to see the changing seasons is in the flowers at Sera Kogen Farm. The venue also holds events throughout the year, including the Sunflower Festival, Heavenly Blue Hill, the Radish Festival, and Sera...[ Click to read more ]
Surviving Summer Weekends with Kids
Jul 31, 2024 By William Farrow
With summer comes summer vacation. What was once a strong, fond memory of days with no school or responsibility and the only challenge being determining which order to play with what toys takes a stark change in tone and goals when you find yourself on the parental side. Remote workers...[ Click to read more ]
Summer Beer Gardens in Tokyo 2024
Jul 29, 2024 By Michael Stigall
In summer, is there anything better than sipping on an ice cold beer as the city temperature rises? Well yes, actually there is: Digging into a freshly grilled piece of meat that perfectly accompanies your frosty glass. There are of course many beer gardens across the city right now, but...[ Click to read more ]
Great Places for a Sunset in Hiroshima
By Justin Hanus
Hiroshima has an array of tall buildings and places of natural beauty from where you can take postcard-perfect snaps of both day and night views to send to family, friends or social media. Nothing quite creates a “wish I was there” moment like a glorious sunset. Whether you want to...[ Click to read more ]
What to Visit in Kikuchi
By Justin Hanus
Kyushu, in general, is packed with great outdoor adventures — from mountains to climb and trails to cycle to rivers to wade in and forests to bathe in. One of the best places to enjoy all these kinds of adventures is Kikuchi. During your visit, make sure you see all...[ Click to read more ]
Where to Go Horseback Riding in Kansai
By Justin Hanus
There are few better ways to enjoy some fresh air in Kansai than on a horse. Various clubs and riding centers offer trekking opportunities and classes to riders of all abilities, including complete beginners. Miki Horseland Park One of the most popular places to ride horses in Kansai is Miki...[ Click to read more ]
Get the Wind in Your Summer Sails with Water Sports in Aichi
Jun 28, 2024 By Bert Wishart
When I first moved to Nagoya, I was pretty happy because it was right near the coast. I had visions of the sorts of beaches one sees in Thailand or Okinawa. Unfortunately, though the Ise and Mikawa bays are meccas for fishing, they are not exactly the most picturesque of...[ Click to read more ]
