Exploring the Amakusa Islands Near Kumamoto
Apr 20, 2023 By Justin Hanus
Around 60 kilometers from Kumamoto City is a group of unique islands called Amakusa. There are two main islands (Shimoshima and Ueshima) and hundreds of smaller ones. Isolated from the rest of Kyushu, a sizeable Christian population lives here, whose ancestors were converted by missionaries shortly before the religion was...[ Click to read more ]
Summer Days Out in Kumamoto
By Justin Hanus
Located in the center of the southern Kyushu island of Japan, Kumamoto is known for its gorgeous scenery. There is certainly no shortage of fantastic days out during the summer months here, from picturesque hikes to relaxing boat trips to festival fun. Much has been written about famed attractions such...[ Click to read more ]
Top Five Parks Near Nagoya
Apr 17, 2023 By Ray Proper
A list of the top 100 Japanese city parks was compiled by the Japan Green Parks Institute in 1989, and on that list, you can find five parks in Aichi Prefecture, all within a reasonable distance from Nagoya City itself. If you are looking for a great day trip for...[ Click to read more ]
Mother Farm: Enjoying Chiba’s Pastoral Theme Park
Mar 28, 2023 By Michael Stigall
Mother Farm (マザー牧場) is an expansive working “entertainment” farm that is located in Chiba’s central Boso Peninsula countryside sitting 300m atop Mt. Kanozan. These qualities combine to create the perfect outing for those wanting to escape the metropolis’s traffic-choked, building-lined streets and looking for some open space with the kids...[ Click to read more ]
Great Places to Spot Wildlife in Kansai
Mar 27, 2023 By Justin Hanus
Japan may have a reputation as being a country filled with ultra-modern built-up urban environments flashing neon signs at you, but it also has an abundance of natural beauty. From large national parks to river wetlands to mountains to beaches, there is plenty of nature to savor in Japan. This...[ Click to read more ]
Great Walks in Kumamoto
By Justin Hanus
As we approach the warmer weather, savoring the great outdoors becomes a must for most. The volcanic island of Kyushu is arguably the best in Japan for hikes, many located around Kumamoto. The prefecture is blessed with mountains, gorges, and picturesque nature trails to thrill everyone, from experienced hikers to...[ Click to read more ]
Water Sports in Hiroshima
By Justin Hanus
Are you raring to get into the water in Hiroshima and experience some fun activities? The good news is this Japanese city has plenty of waterways and facilities offering everything from a nice relaxing day out to a white-knuckle, thrill-seeking extravaganza. Here’s a selection of sports and activities to try...[ Click to read more ]
Inuyama City: Historical Castle Town and Much More…
Mar 23, 2023 By Bert Wishart
Just half an hour from Nagoya is Inuyama, an ancient town once one of the most important domains of the ruling Oda clan. It is especially renowned for its stunning castle that overlooks the Kiso River, a popular spot for viewing cherry blossoms in spring and the turning of the...[ Click to read more ]
Top Hanami Sites in Kumamoto
Feb 24, 2023 By Justin Hanus
With spring approaching fast, people's attention starts to Japan's Hanami season. Hanami means "flower viewing," and it's the annual period in Japan, usually around late March and early April when people gather in public spaces to watch the blooming of the country's cherry blossom (Sakura) trees. Hanami is a centuries-old...[ Click to read more ]
Top Things to Do in Aso, Kumamoto
Feb 22, 2023 By Justin Hanus
Best known for being the largest inhabited caldera in the world, Aso in Kumamoto has plenty to offer. It offers fantastic hikes and cultural spots you won’t want to miss. 1. Mount Aso The main reason to come to Aso is to visit one of the largest active volcanoes in...[ Click to read more ]
