How to Reach Kobe from Kansai Airport
Jul 29, 2024 By Justin Hanus
Although Kobe has its own airport, it is just for domestic flights. If you’re flying in from abroad, your closest option is Kansai International Airport. Luckily, you have a variety of options to get to Kobe, with journey times ranging from less than one hour to just over two hours....[ Click to read more ]
Where to Find the Straw Hat Pirates in Kumamoto
By Justin Hanus
The creator of One Piece, Eiichiro Oda, grew up in Kumamoto. After an earthquake severely damaged the city in 2016, he started a revival project in partnership with the prefecture to reconstruct the city. To commemorate his contribution, the prefecture installed Straw Hat Pirate statues around Kumamoto. Although there was...[ 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 ]
Luxurious Getaways Right Here in Aichi
Jun 28, 2024 By Bert Wishart
So, the summer is upon us, which means it's traditionally the time to take a break and get away for a while. However, that's not always possible. It could be that the weak yen is hurting your chances of going abroad, perhaps you're too busy with work to make a...[ Click to read more ]
Do You Know Nags? – Uncovering Nagoya’s Hidden Gems – Part 7
By Bert Wishart
Whether you’re new in the city or are a Showa Gaijin, Nagoya is a city that always surprises. New restaurants, shops, and drinking establishments spring up all the time, and you can be wandering down an oft-trodden street and come across an ancient temple that you’ve never seen before. We...[ Click to read more ]
Kiyosu Castle, The ‘Other’ Nagoya Castle
May 31, 2024 By Bert Wishart
For first-time visitors to Nagoya, Nagoya Castle is usually the first port of call. This is kind of understandable, as both its grandness and its location makes it an obvious focal point. That said, having been built after the Warring Period (15th-16th century) had come to a close, it is...[ Click to read more ]
How to Reach Kumamoto from Tokyo or Kansai
By Justin Hanus
Most visitors to Japan are aware of the top tourist destinations, such as Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and other places in Kansai. However, there are interesting spots to see all over the country, including some that are less frequented by tourists. Visiting these places often gives you a more authentic Japanese...[ Click to read more ]
Sites to See on a Trip Around Yatsushiro
By Justin Hanus
A great option for a day trip if you’re in Kumamoto is Yatsushiro. This is a top destination for learning more about history and culture in Japan. 1. Kirai Art Installment If you arrive at Shin-Yatsushiro Station, the first thing you’ll see will be the Kirai art installment. This modern...[ Click to read more ]
Best Outdoor Swimming Locations in Kansai
May 29, 2024 By Justin Hanus
Whether it’s a day trip to the beach, a dip in a pretty lake or going for a wild swim in a river, making the most of the summer sun and immersing yourself in outdoor waters is one of the best ways to relax as well as enjoy the scenery...[ Click to read more ]
Riding Kansai’s Hello Kitty HARUKA
By Justin Hanus
There is now an extra-fun way to reach Osaka and Kyoto from Kansai International Airport: the Hello Kitty HARUKA train. It’s not just for fans of Hello Kitty (although they will likely be most excited to ride this train) — it’s a fun experience for all passengers. What are the...[ Click to read more ]
