Do You Know Nags? – Uncovering Nagoya’s Hidden Gems – Part 7
Jun 28, 2024 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 ]
Boat Trips in Hiroshima
Apr 30, 2024 By Justin Hanus
With six rivers and a bay leading out to the Seto Inland Sea, Hiroshima prefecture offers ample opportunities for charming and relaxing boat trips where you can see the sights while drifting along on the water. With summer on the doorstep, it’s the perfect time to plan a cruise. You...[ Click to read more ]
Summer Days Out in Hiroshima
By Justin Hanus
Surrounded by sea, mountains and pretty waterways, Hiroshima is something of an ideal location to spend away the summer months. If you find yourself with a spare day or two in the prefecture and don’t want to travel too far out, there are plenty of great places to escape to....[ Click to read more ]
New Spots to Visit Around Kansai
Apr 26, 2024 By Justin Hanus
The pandemic shut down everything in Japan for a while, but Kansai has now bounced back with a number of new attractions. This makes right now a great time to rediscover Osaka, Kobe, Kyoto, and Nara. 1. Super Nintendo World The latest addition to Universal Studios Japan is Super Nintendo...[ Click to read more ]
New Attractions on Kyushu Island
By Justin Hanus
Across Kyushu, several new attractions have opened in the past few years. Whether you’re visiting Kumamoto, Kitakyushu, or Fukuoka, there’s plenty to see and do. 1. Kumamoto Castle Reconstruction The 2016 earthquakes severely damaged Kumamoto Castle. Although the reconstruction will likely continue until 2030, visitors are now at least able...[ Click to read more ]
