Walk with the Animals, Talk with the Animals…
Jul 31, 2020 By Hugh Cann
Look I’m just going to say it. I’m not a fan of zoos and my first visit to Japan and see the zoo in the 1980s left me indignant and determined never to go again. HOWEVER. Japanese notions of animal care have evolved a lot and while it’s not Taronga...[ Click to read more ]
Golfing in and Around Nagoya
By Bert Wishart
Though Mark Twain once remarked of golf that it was 'a good walk spoiled,' it seems that the witticism didn't quite make it out to Japan where golfing is a trendy sport, particularly amongst women. Previously, golf was a prohibitively expensive pursuit in Japan, however recently, prices have dropped dramatically,...[ Click to read more ]
Great Camping Venues in Kansai
Jul 30, 2020 By Justin Hanus
Camping is a great way to experience the outdoors in an authentic fashion. Camping is a popular pastime for those wanting to escape the crowded neon-lit urban areas of Japan. With an abundance of parks, beaches, mountains, and forests surrounding its cities, Kansai offers many natural delights to campers. You...[ Click to read more ]
Tokyo’s Best BBQ Spots
Jul 13, 2020 By Bert Wishart
The best barbecue is the one you grill yourself. You may think this would be difficult in the city, what with a limited yard and garden space, but in actual fact, there are plenty of spots around Tokyo in which to get your grill on. Sona Area Tokyo BBQ Garden...[ Click to read more ]
Let’s Tour: Western Tokyo’s “backcountry”
Jul 01, 2020 By Jason Gatewood
I’ll be the first to admit that 2020 has not been kind to we who like to explore, trek, and wander outdoors. We’ve all become more adept at video conferencing apps, picking out the most stylish face coverings, and knowing which restaurants in our area. But nothing can replace the...[ Click to read more ]
Beaches Around Tokyo
Jun 27, 2020 By Bert Wishart
As the summer heat rises it’s tempting to retire to your air-conditioned room with your necktie fan on full blast. However, with Japan being an island nation we are completely surrounded by the sea, and thus, beaches. So get out from that darkened room and head for the coast. Beaches...[ Click to read more ]
Mitaki Temple
Jun 26, 2020 By Matt Mangham
Mitaki Temple (or Mitaki-dera) isn’t as off the beaten path as it once was. All the online references to a “hidden gem” seem to have had their inevitable effect, and the last few times I’ve been there I’ve had plenty of company. Still, except for sunny weekends in cherry blossom...[ Click to read more ]
Best Beaches in Kansai
Jun 17, 2020 By Justin Hanus
The Kansai region is perhaps better known for its urban life and attractions in cities such as Osaka, Kyoto, and Kobe but the area also has a surprising number of beaches along its coastlines in both the north and south. These beaches attract many locals and tourists in the summer...[ Click to read more ]
Places to Fly a Kite in Kobe
By Justin Hanus
There are few more pleasant ways to spend a breezy summer afternoon than heading to a nice open space and flying a kite. Although not well known, Japan has its own unique kite flying traditions. Kites were brought to the country from China in the 14th century and enjoyed a...[ Click to read more ]
Jet Around Nagoya with Bicycle Sharing
May 28, 2020 By Bert Wishart
While it may not be the biggest or even the most congested of cities, sometimes getting around Nagoya can be a bit of a pain in the backside. Yes, there are bus and subway systems, but it's no fun getting stuck in traffic, and if you need to make numerous...[ Click to read more ]
