Japan

It’s common knowledge that Kyoto and Osaka are two of Japan’s most popular destinations. What many travellers don’t realise, though, is how many great day trips from Osaka and Kyoto there are that add another …

While international travellers often explore Gifu Prefecture, they usually don’t actually visit its capital, Gifu City. Located barely outside of Nagoya, the city of Gifu hides within its vast metropolitan area. What people don’t realise …

Countless travellers pass through Okayama Prefecture when moving between the popular cities of Kyoto and Hiroshima. But I think many would stop along the way if they knew what it was like visiting Kurashiki, a …

Looking for a quieter alternative to the canals of Kurashiki and one of the most underrated day trips from Kyoto? Then head to the merchant town of Omihachiman along the shores of Lake Biwa in …

Japan has a handful of big-name destinations that most travelers focus on with their first trip. But it feels like, while people talk a lot about making the most of Tokyo or Kyoto, there’s less …

Travelling around Japan, tourists often pass by small cities on their way to the country’s most famous destinations and attractions. Pass through Nagano Prefecture, and the city you’re likely to see all too briefly is …

It seems strange, but one of the holiest places in Japan doesn’t receive much notice from international visitors. But that’s what I found when visiting Ise during Japan’s high tourism season. Apart from a few …

Travellers regularly pass the towns and cities along Lake Biwa in the Shiga Prefecture when visiting Japan. Places like Hikone lie just off the bullet train route between Tokyo and Kyoto. Many don’t realise what …

Japan is home to many smaller cities that tourists might glance at briefly before settling for more familiar names. The small city of Ogaki, just outside Nagoya, is one of those smaller destinations of Gifu …