Unusual Attractions in Kansai
Oct 15, 2018 By Justin Hanus
Kansai has plenty of attractions that draw millions of tourists in each year, but perhaps you're looking for something a little less obvious than the many castles, temples, and parks that can be seen in its cities. Fear not, for there is plenty to see and visit that will give...[ Click to read more ]
Popular Animal Cafes in Kobe
Sep 27, 2018 By Justin Hanus
Themed cafes have been a huge hit in Japan these past few years. The themes include movies, cartoons, and just about anything else an owner could be a fan of. One of the most popular themes, though, is the animal café. These are more like petting zoos than cafés —...[ Click to read more ]
Architectural Attractions in Kobe
By Justin Hanus
When you go to Paris, you have to take a photo with the Eiffel Tower as the backdrop. When you go to London, a picture in front of Buckingham Palace is a must have. When you travel, a photo of yourself with an architectural masterpiece as a background fully completes...[ Click to read more ]
The Shibuya Stream Complex
By Jason Gatewood
With its constant stream of people, iconic street crossing, and of course one of the most recognizable canine mascots in the world, Tokyo’s Shibuya district is known worldwide, if not always by name, it arguably best matches the foreign idea of Tokyo. Currently, in the middle of an ambitious building...[ Click to read more ]
Saijo Sake Festival in Higashi Hiroshima
By Matt Mangham
In early October of every year, Hiroshima Prefecture’s Saijo town (part of Higashi-Hiroshima) lets its hair down for a massive, two-day block party. One of Japan’s three premier sake-brewing locales, Saijo is proud of its history. About thirty kilometers east of Hiroshima City, the town’s brewing industry claims roots reaching...[ Click to read more ]
Takehara Shokei-no-michi Candle Festival near Hiroshima
Sep 26, 2018 By Matt Mangham
If you missed the Onomichi Lantern Festival on the 13th, or you were blown away by it and wanted more, the Takehara Shokei-no-michi Candle Festival may be just what you’re seeking. These autumn lantern and candle festivals are increasingly popular around western Japan since they’re such an excellent way to...[ Click to read more ]
WoodEgg Okonomiyaki Museum Hiroshima
Aug 28, 2018 By Matt Mangham
I regularly meet people traveling through Hiroshima. And because my wife has suggested I be friendlier, I ask them what they’ve seen and enjoyed. Most of the answers are unsurprising, but recently a number of tourists have been especially enthusiastic about the WoodEgg Okonomiyaki Museum. The WoodEgg (yes, one word)...[ Click to read more ]
Where to Go on a Date in Kobe
Aug 22, 2018 By Justin Hanus
Whether looking to entertain on the first date or to have a memorable Valentine's evening with a long-term partner, Kobe has plenty of fun and romantic places to choose from if you're looking to go on a date. From going for a nice meal to heading somewhere to enjoy the...[ Click to read more ]
Summer Evening of Prayer and Peace in Hiroshima
Jul 30, 2018 By Matt Mangham
Let’s say you arrive in Hiroshima for the August 6th Peace Memorial Ceremony a day early. You don’t feel like sitting around the hotel room watching TV, but what feels right to do the night before attending the anniversary of the A-Bombing of this lovely little city. Anyway, it’s Sunday...[ Click to read more ]
Hiroshima International Animation Festival 2018
By Matt Mangham
Both of my daughters have attended and enjoyed this wonderful local film festival for their entire lives. If you’re living in Hiroshima, or are lucky enough to be passing through town between the August 23 and 27, you have to make time in your schedule to drop by, if only...[ Click to read more ]
