Loading map...

Japan

Serene. Authentic. Timeless.

About

As one of the top destinations of the world, Japan offers a unique blend of ancient traditions and cutting-edge modernity. However, coverage of the country is often limited and repetitive, focusing heavily on the same areas and activities. This space aims to provide a more diverse view of what Japan has to offer, showcasing lesser-known places and experiences that highlight the country's rich culture and natural beauty that the locals enjoy.

Places

OSAKA

KYOTO

OKAYAMA

HYOGO

NARA

FUKUI & SHIGA

Recommended Attractions

MEN LEADS NAKANO

Nara

Men Leads Nakano is a popular ramen specialty shop tucked away in Tenri, Nara. A favorite among Tenri University students and local residents, it’s the perfect spot for those seeking authentic Japanese ramen in a cozy setting. It's my favourite Ramen that I've ever had, by far.

KORAKUEN GARDEN

Okayama

Best known as one of Japan's three great gardens, Korakuen is a garden like nothing you've ever seen before. With construction of the garden started as far back as 1687, the beautiful landscape and design are a breathtaking view in person.

MOUNT WAKAKUSA

Nara

Wakakusa offers the finest vantage point in Nara for observing deer. This stunning park, enhanced by breathtaking views of the city, is the perfect spot to appreciate Japan's natural beauty.

MOUNT IKOMA OBSERVATORY

Osaka

Mount Ikoma Observatory, also known as Bokurano Hiroba, is a hidden secret, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Osaka cityscape. Apart from the scenic hike that is popular amongst locals, visitors can immerse themselves in Japanese culture at the nearby Hozanji Temple, a historic spiritual site nestled in the mountains.

AOI CAPE

Fukui & Shiga

Tucked away in the coastal town of Obama, Aoi Cape remains a cherished secret among locals. My own discovery of this enchanting spot was made possible by the guidance of a resident of the town. It's the perfect venue to relax and observe the sun's descent as it dips into the ocean.

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.

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.

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.

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.

ISHIHARA FARM

Okayama

Ishihara Farm, perched atop a mountain in Okayama, is a renowned local farm celebrated for its exquisite fruits. This destination attracts visitors from all parts of Japan, as it's a great place to learn about the intricate process of harvesting Okayama's prized fruits, which are considered some of the most expensive in Japan. It's most famous for its grapes, especially the Shine Muscat which is one of the most expensive and delicious fruits in the region.

GOJO CITY

Nara

Gojo is a tranquil city nestled in the mountains of Nara Prefecture, offering a serene escape and a glimpse into Japan’s rich historical heritage. It's a perfect getaway for those seeking peace, quiet, and an authentic historical experience away from the bustling tourist hubs in Japan.

UMEDA SKY BUILDING

Osaka

Famous for its unique twin-tower design, the Umeda Sky Building features an unforgettable 360-degree open-air observatory. Offering unmatched, panoramic views of Osaka, this architectural marvel is a true castle in the sky.

FUKUCHIYAMA RAILWAY TRAIL

Hyogo

Discontinued in 1986, the Fukuchiyama Railway Trail still shows remnants of its vibrant past. Once a bustling railway line, it has transformed into a long, scenic trail featuring beautiful views and walkable train tunnels that can span almost up to 1 km! It's truly a hidden gem for nature lovers, but hike at your own risk!

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.

EXPO MEMORIAL PARK

Osaka

Once home to the 1970 World Exposition, Expo '70 Commemorative Park in Suita has evolved into a lush cultural haven featuring expansive gardens, museums, and Taro Okamoto’s famous Tower of the Sun. It stands as a premier destination for both nature lovers seeking seasonal blossoms and history enthusiasts eager to explore Japan's modern heritage.

OHAMA BEACH

Hyogo

Experience the beautiful Japanese nature and beach at Ohama. Located on the coastal line of Awaji Island, it's far away from the busy city of Kobe and Osaka, making it a great getaway place for families and tourists who want a change of setting from the usual city life.

BYODO-IN TEMPLE

Kyoto

A historic symbol as featured on the Japanese 10 yen coin, Byodo-in is one of Japan's most famous and treasured temples. With over 1,000 years of history, it stands as a testament to the country’s rich cultural heritage.

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.

Dec 2024: Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Nara, Nagoya, Takarazuka
Apr 2024: Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Wakayama, Nara, Awaji Island
Aug 2018: Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, Nara

Japan

About

Places

OSAKA

KYOTO

OKAYAMA

HYOGO

NARA

FUKUI & SHIGA

Recommended Attractions

MEN LEADS NAKANO

KORAKUEN GARDEN

MOUNT WAKAKUSA

MOUNT IKOMA OBSERVATORY

AOI CAPE

PHILOSOPHER'S PATH

KADOYA KAKIGŌRI

YAMAZAKI DISTILLERY

MINOH FALLS

KAYABUKI NO SATO

ISHIHARA FARM

GOJO CITY

UMEDA SKY BUILDING

FUKUCHIYAMA RAILWAY TRAIL

AMANOHASHIDATE

EXPO MEMORIAL PARK

OHAMA BEACH

BYODO-IN TEMPLE

SENNAN LONG PARK

Stay History

Japan

About

Places

OSAKA

KYOTO

OKAYAMA

HYOGO

NARA

FUKUI & SHIGA

Recommended Attractions

MEN LEADS NAKANO

KORAKUEN GARDEN

MOUNT WAKAKUSA

MOUNT IKOMA OBSERVATORY

AOI CAPE

PHILOSOPHER'S PATH

KADOYA KAKIGŌRI

YAMAZAKI DISTILLERY

MINOH FALLS

KAYABUKI NO SATO

ISHIHARA FARM

GOJO CITY

UMEDA SKY BUILDING

FUKUCHIYAMA RAILWAY TRAIL

AMANOHASHIDATE

EXPO MEMORIAL PARK

OHAMA BEACH

BYODO-IN TEMPLE

SENNAN LONG PARK

Stay History