Great Places for a Date in Kumamoto

May 19, 2023 By Justin Hanus

Kumamoto has many romantic spots that are ideal for a date. Whether you’re looking for places to spend the weekend together or want somewhere you can go for a few hours after work, you have some great options. Suizenji Jojuen Garden A highlight of Kumamoto for tourists and a romantic...[ Click to read more ]

Exploring the Sacred Mountains of Kansai

Apr 28, 2023 By Justin Hanus

Mountains are sacred places in many cultures for reasons ranging from the inspirational views from the summits and their impressive heights (which are said to reach the heavens) to the fact they are often a source of water and, therefore, life. Japan has several sacred mountains, three of which are...[ Click to read more ]

Summer Days Out in Hiroshima

Apr 20, 2023 By Justin Hanus

With the warm summer months nearly upon us, what better time to turn our attention to some of the glorious outdoor activities in Hiroshima? Whether you're after a relaxing time soaking up the sun's rays or fancy something that will get the blood flowing, the prefecture has many fun days...[ Click to read more ]

The Top Places to Visit in Onomichi in Hiroshima

By Justin Hanus

The port town of Onomichi in Hiroshima prefecture may be small, but it's packed with things to do. Although it's ideal for walking around and discovering little gems, it's even better if you know where some of the top places to visit are before you go. Temple Walk The main...[ Click to read more ]

Exploring the Amakusa Islands Near Kumamoto

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 ]

Must-See Historical Sites in Hiroshima

Mar 27, 2023 By Justin Hanus

Hiroshima is a city full of history. Although the atomic bomb destroyed many places, several landmarks were rebuilt, new ones were constructed to commemorate the events, and some ancient sites still stand. During your time in the city, there are a few places, in particular, you must make sure you...[ 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 ]

Inuyama Festival Near Nagoya

Mar 21, 2023 By Bert Wishart

Not content with being the site of Japan's oldest (arguably most elegant) castle or being a staggeringly beautiful city, Inuyama hosts a particularly spellbinding festival every spring. The Inuyama festival is held annually on the first weekend of April and was begun under the orders of Owari clan retainer Hayatonosho...[ Click to read more ]

Traveling by Bus on a Budget from Hiroshima

Feb 22, 2023 By Justin Hanus

In addition to sites within the city itself, there’s plenty to explore around Hiroshima. A convenient and cost-effective way to travel is by bus. International visitors can take advantage of discount bus tickets to ride at a fraction of the regular price. There are several places, in particular, you should...[ Click to read more ]