Sanjo, Kyoto

XING JI

/ 行跡

Simple. Local. Genuine Travel.

About

An avid traveler passionate about exploring the places less travelled. This space is dedicated to sharing hidden travel gems I’ve discovered through locals. I only write about places I've experienced firsthand to bring authenticity to you. If you’re looking for genuine, local experiences while you travel and explore, you’ve come to the right place.

Places

JAPAN

TAIWAN

HONG KONG

Highlighted Attractions

SENNAN LONG PARK

Osaka

Tucked away in the Kansai region, Sennan Long Park is a local sanctuary perfect for unwinding as the sun dips below the horizon. Beyond its stunning sunset views, the park frequently hosts vibrant community events and art exhibitions, making it a dynamic spot to experience local life.

AMANOHASHIDATE

Kyoto

Known as the "Bridge to Heaven," Amanohashidate features a breathtaking three kilometer sandbar lined with thousands of pine trees sweeping across Miyazu Bay. To capture its full magic, head to the mountaintop park and try the traditional matanozoki, peering upside down through your legs to see the sandbar float like a dragon suspended in the sky. While it takes a quick journey from central Kyoto, the tranquil atmosphere and iconic scenery make it an unmissable coastal escape.

PHILOSOPHER'S PATH

Kyoto

One of my favourite short and relaxing walks in Japan. It’s a rare place where Japan’s deep historical soul and its vibrant natural seasons coexist, allowing you to reset and escape away from the crowds in Kyoto.

DAKENG TRAIL NO.9-1

Taichung & Changhua

DaKeng is a beloved hiking spot in Taichung by the locals. It's a perfect spot for those who want to experience Taiwan's nature, culture, and community. The trail winds uphill through greenery, with local vendors selling everything from fresh produce to hot street food. An easy climb that leads to scenic views, it's high on my list for recommendations to experience Taiwan's local life.

KADOYA KAKIGŌRI

Osaka

Kakigōri, Japanese shaved ice, is Japan's elegant answer to the summer heat. While you may find it all over Japan, none compare to the mastery of Kadoya, a hidden gem in Osaka that serves what I believe is the finest Kakigōri in all of Japan.

WANGYOUGU HIKE

Keelung

Wangyougu (望幽谷) is a breathtaking coastal valley nestled along Taiwan’s scenic northeast coast near Keelung. Famous for its lush green cliffs, ocean views, and serene hiking trail, it’s a hidden gem perfect for nature lovers and photographers.

HEPING ISLAND

Keelung

Heping Island, located off the coast of Keelung in Taiwan, is a beautiful destination celebrated for its stunning natural landscapes and rich history. Featuring numerous remnants of historical military installations, and paved paths to its picturesque beaches and scenic viewpoints, it’s an ideal spot for anyone looking to explore both history and nature in one captivating location.

MINOH FALLS

Osaka

Minoh Falls is a scenic and accessible hike located just north of Osaka’s city center. Though short, the trail offers a beautiful journey through Japan’s lush naturescape. It’s especially popular in autumn, when the path is lined with vibrant maple leaves, creating a breathtaking seasonal display. Needless to say, it's also home to one of Osaka's most famous and tallest waterfall.

KAYABUKI NO SATO

Kyoto

Kayabuki no Sato is a picturesque, historic village in Miyama, Kyoto, renowned for having one of Japan's highest concentrations of traditional thatched-roof farmhouses preserved amidst one of Japan's most beautiful scenic mountain landscapes.

Unlike the flashy hotel bars or the luxury restaurants in Hong Kong, Date Cafe (同芯冰室) is one of the go to places for locals trying to get a taste at one of Hong Kong's most traditional type of restaurants. the cha chaan teng. With great portions and an affordable price, it's easily one of my top favourites in Hong Kong.

YAMAZAKI DISTILLERY

Kyoto

Even as a novice, a tour of Suntory's Yamazaki Distillery offered the perfect introduction to one of Japan's most underappreciated treasures: its whisky. With free admission and a wide selection of affordable whiskys to sample, it’s an ideal place to explore the art of Japanese whisky-making.

TONG KEE BAO DIM

Hong Kong Island

Dim Sum has long been one of Hong Kong’s most beloved and delicious dish. Traditionally, it’s a dish meant to be savored slowly, enjoyed while seated among company. But as the world grows increasingly fast-paced, Tong Kee Bao Dim is making delicious Dim Sum more accessible for the everyday person like me, on the go.

LAU HING KEE PAN FRIED BUNS

Hong Kong Island

Lau Hing Kee is a cherished local restaurant famed for its masterful Pan Fried buns. A humble yet legendary spot, it has built its reputation over decades and I can testify that it's been one of my favourite spots ever since coming to Hong Kong.

EDWARD YOUDE AVIARY

Hong Kong Island

Edward Youde Aviary, situated near the Central business center, provides an immediate retreat from bustling city life. It’s a great place for visitors to relax and reconnect with one of nature’s most amazing creatures; birds.

LUGANG OLD STREET

Taichung & Changhua

Lugang Old Street is a popular traditional market frequented primarily by Taiwanese locals. The street is lined with well-preserved old-fashioned shophouses and crowded food stalls, with all kinds of classic Taiwanese cuisine. It's the perfect destination for anyone looking for an authentic glimpse into the local culture and daily life of a person living in Taiwan.

XING JI

About