Tag: nature
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900 Years of History and the Beauty of Nature
Beautiful Scenery in Japan In this blog, I will gradually introduce some of the beautiful scenery of Japan that I have photographed myself over the years. This is a photograph of the autumn leaves at Chūson-ji Temple in Iwate Prefecture. Chūson-ji Temple, along with Byōdō-in’s Phoenix Hall in Kyoto, is considered a representative example of…
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Finding Peace in a Beautiful Gorge
Beautiful Scenery in Japan In this blog, I will gradually introduce some of the beautiful scenery of Japan that I have photographed myself over the years. This is a photograph of Oirase Gorge in Aomori Prefecture. Oirase Gorge stretches for approximately 14 kilometers and is a peaceful and refreshing place where you can enjoy the…
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The Beauty of Wisteria
Beautiful Scenery in Japan In this blog, I will gradually introduce some of the beautiful scenery of Japan that I have photographed myself over the years. This is a photograph I took at Ashikaga Flower Park in Tochigi. The park is particularly famous for its beautiful wisteria flowers, and during the blooming season from April…
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Japan’s Great Gardens
Japan’s Three Great Gardens (And the Modern Champion That Outranks Them All) Beyond the famous temple gardens of Kyoto, Japan has a separate, official trio of gardens recognized as the country’s finest: Kenroku-en, Kairaku-en, and Koraku-en. Collectively known as Nihon Sandai Teien (Japan’s Three Great Gardens), each was built as a strolling garden for a…
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Best Hiking Trails in Japan
Best Hiking Trails in Japan (Beyond Mt. Fuji): Mt. Fuji gets most of the international attention, but Japan has an enormous range of hiking trails suited to every level, from short, family-friendly walks to multi-day pilgrimage routes through remote mountains. This guide covers some of the best options beyond Fuji. Kumano Kodo: Japan’s Ancient Pilgrimage…
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Autumn Is One of the Best
Why Autumn Is One of the Best Times to Visit Japan: Spring gets most of the international attention thanks to cherry blossoms, but autumn foliage season, known as koyo, deserves just as much consideration, and in some ways makes for an easier trip to plan around. If you haven’t seriously considered a fall trip to…
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How to Stay at a Ryokan
What to Expect: A ryokan, a traditional Japanese inn, is one of the most memorable overnight experiences you can have in Japan, but the format is different enough from a typical hotel stay that first-timers often aren’t sure what to expect. This guide walks through the full experience, from check-in to check-out, so you can…
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Solo Travel in Japan
A Complete Guide: Japan is consistently ranked among the best destinations in the world for solo travel, combining excellent public transportation, low crime, and a culture that’s genuinely comfortable accommodating solo diners and sightseers, unlike many destinations where traveling alone can feel awkward or restrictive. This guide covers what makes Japan work so well for…
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How to Visit a Shrine or Temple in Japan
Prayer Etiquette Explained: Shrines and temples are among the most visited spots on any Japan itinerary, but many travelers walk through the gate unsure of what they’re actually supposed to do once they’re inside. The good news is that the core steps are simple and easy to pick up quickly. This guide walks through exactly…
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Best Time to Visit Japan
A Month-by-Month Guide: “When should I visit Japan?” doesn’t have a single answer, since each month offers a genuinely different experience in terms of weather, crowds, pricing, and what’s in season. This guide breaks down what to actually expect month by month, so you can match your trip to what matters most to you. Quick…
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Cherry Blossom Season in Japan
When and Where to See Sakura: Cherry blossom season is the single most searched-for travel window for Japan, and for good reason, but the timing is notoriously unpredictable, and the best viewing spots vary significantly by region. This guide covers what actually determines the timing, and where to go depending on when you’re able to…
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How to Use an Onsen
Etiquette, Rules, and the Tattoo Policy Explained: Soaking in a natural hot spring is one of the most relaxing experiences Japan has to offer, but it comes with a specific set of customs that catch many first-time visitors off guard, including a tattoo policy that stops some travelers from going at all. This guide covers…
