Insider guides, cultural deep dives, and travel tips from Kyoto
88 total articles
travelYes, Kyoto is worth visiting in 2026. But not for everyone, and not in the way most guidebooks describe it. If you're asking because you've heard the crowds are bad, the hotel tax is steep, and locals...
travelI've spent years watching people arrive in Japan with AI-generated itineraries that look great on paper. Then they hit the ground and find out the JR Pass doesn't cover their route, Nara is scheduled a...
food & beverageKuromon Market hits you immediately. The smell arrives first: salt-grilled squid, fresh fish on ice, the sharp tang of ponzu sauce mixing with charcoal smoke. Then the sound. Vendors calling out the da...
accommodationWhile Kyoto draws visitors to its temples and Tokyo pulls in the pop culture crowd, Osaka is where Kansai people come to eat, drink, and stay out too late. There's a local concept for it: kuidaore (食い...
cultureI have lived in Kyoto for a long time. Long enough to remember when a 5kg bag of rice at the supermarket cost ¥2,000 and nobody gave it a second thought. Long enough to have watched Japan go from a cou...
travelJapan is building a pre-entry screening system called JESTA — Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization. If you hold a US, UK, Australian, Canadian, or EU passport, it will eventually apply to y...
travelJapan Travel Costs 2026: What's Actually Changed and What It Means for Your Trip You've seen the headlines. Japan is raising visa fees for the first time since 1978. The departure tax is tripling. Kyo...
accommodationKyoto Hotel Tax 2026: What the New Accommodation Tax Actually Costs You On March 1, 2026, Kyoto introduced a new accommodation tax structure that catches most visitors off guard. Not because it is pun...
travelFujiyoshida Cherry Blossom Festival Cancelled 2026 Fujiyoshida city cancelled its annual cherry blossom festival in February 2026. The announcement caught the attention of travel media worldwide becau...
cultureIt’s common to see first-time visitors freeze at the entrance to a Kyoto temple hall, unsure about what to do next. I've watched that same scene play out a hundred times, and it doesn't have to be you...
sightseeingYou're standing on the roadside along Kyoto’s old Marutamachi Street. The first imperial guards appear through the morning haze. Followed by five hundred figures in silk colored in indigo, crimson, and...
travelOsaka isn't Kyoto. There are no geisha gliding through temple gardens, no hushed reverence at ancient shrines. Instead, you get neon-lit streets, vendors bellowing "irasshaimase!" from food stalls, and...
cultureSensoji Temple (浅草寺 - sensouji) is Tokyo's most-visited religious site, bringing in over 30 million visitors each year. It is the oldest temple in the city, predating Tokyo itself by more than a millen...
sightseeingSeven days in Japan feels both impossible and inevitable — how do you compress an entire country into a single week? The good news is that with smart planning, a 7-day Japan itinerary can let you genui...
accommodationFinding family friendly hotels in Kyoto is easier than most of you will think. For many travelers visiting Japan, Kyoto might be the main highlight of your trip! But you may worry about child friendly ...
sightseeingWheelchair Access: Available Most tourists in Kyoto head straight for iconic sites like the Golden Pavilion or the red gates of Fushimi Inari Taisha. But Nishi Hongan-ji Temple (西本願寺 - nishihonganji) ...
accommodationAs someone who lives in Japan with my wife and two young children, I know firsthand how challenging it can be to find family hotels in Tokyo that work. Hotel rooms here tend to be compact—often built f...
travelTokyo is a city of quiet contrasts and vibrant surprises—a place where centuries-old temples sit beside shining skyscrapers. Tokyo city is home to around 14 million people. This metropolis offers a ble...
sightseeingLooking for the best way to experience Kyoto’s hidden gems? Noru Kyoto Bike Tours offer intimate cycling tours that reveal secret temples, serene shrines, and quiet streets away from the crowds. Discov...
travelAlthough I really enjoy going to Universal Studios Japan (USJ), in Osaka city, my kids love it more than me! USJ consistently ranks among Japan's most visited theme parks, welcoming tens of millions ...
accommodationKyoto is not only Japan’s cultural heart—it represents Japan's ancient tradition and hospitality. And staying at a Kyoto ryokan (旅館 - ryokan - traditional Japanese inns) offers a completely different ...
travelWhen planning a trip to Japan, one of the most important decisions is how to get around. Should you buy a Japan Rail Pass for train travel or go for a car rental in Japan? With so many beautiful destin...
![Bullet Train vs Plane in Japan: Which Saves You More? [2025]](/_next/image/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fcdn.sanity.io%2Fimages%2Fx0c10dda%2Fproduction%2F50d804c13ccafe75ad5655fb5875a64a44819576-1600x900.jpg&w=3840&q=75)
travelJapan's Rail Pass price jumped up 70% recently, making many travelers wonder about their best transport options. The 7-day rail pass now costs ¥50,000, pushing people to rethink their travel plans. Tru...
travel1. Is Universal Studios Japan Worth It? USJ is the only place on earth where you can ride a Mario Kart inside Bowser's Castle, walk into Hogsmeade for a Butterbeer, then catch a limited-run Evangelion...
lifestyleHave you ever dreamed of starting a new life in Japan? Maybe you've been eyeing those abandoned akiya houses or even heard the bizarre rumors about a so-called "breeding visa." But what if I told you t...
sightseeingKyoto city isn’t just another stop on your Japan itinerary. It’s the soul of traditional Japanese culture… And I seriously advise you don’t miss it! I often see online, people planning their Kyoto tra...
travelI recommend a minimum 3 day itinerary in Kyoto city. Some people think that they can do Kyoto in a day or two. Well, I’ve lived in Kyoto for many years, and I can confirm that this is a city you need t...
lifestyleWhat is the Cost of Living in Japan Compared to the US? You will find that living in Japan is much cheaper than living in the US. Especially if you are earning US dollars! Moving to Japan is an exciti...
sightseeingMany people don’t know this, but cherry blossom season in Japan only lasts a short time. Once those cherry blossom trees start to bloom, you’ve got about two weeks until it’s all over. Miss it by a few...
sightseeingI can personally confirm that SOME of Kyoto's popular tourist spots have become overcrowded. For example, the path leading up to Kiyomizu-dera Temple (清水寺) is the worst of these sightseeing spots. As ...
lifestyleFor many international exchange students, the cost of living in Japan can be an eye-opener. When I first arrived in Japan as a student, I burned through my savings faster than expected and had to call ...
food & beverageThe legal drinking age in Japan is 20 years old. This might be sad news for any tourist coming to Japan between the age of 18 and 19 years old. Some people dream of sipping Japanese alcohol like sake a...
accommodationThe first time I walked into a love hotel (ラブホテル - rabuhoteru) in Japan, I was completely lost as to what to do. I stood in the lobby in front of the room selection panel for about two minutes before I...
accommodationMoving to Japan and into your first Japanese apartment is a unique experience. Your Japanese apartment will come with strict noise rules, detailed garbage sorting, and unique (cramped) living layouts. ...
travelWhen is the best time to visit Japan? Well, that depends on your preferences, travel goals, and tolerance for tourist crowds. My Japanese students used to proudly announce that “Japan has four season...
lifestyle1. Fact Checking the Japan Breeding Visa The “Japan breeding visa” is NOT a real Japanese visa option. I'm sorry if you thought this was your way into Japan. However, the term "Japan breeding visa" re...
lifestyleThis guide sheds light on popular jobs for foreigners in Japan. Including sectors like education, teach English in Japan, as well as positions in technology, healthcare and hospitality, which are high ...
sightseeing1. Why Genkoan Temple is a Hidden Gem Resting on a steeply sloped road on a hill in the northern suburb of Kita-ku, is a Kyoto hidden gem, Genko-an Temple. Hands down, this is one of my favorite Zen B...
cultureThe work culture in Japan is known for its unique challenges and complexities. If you're planning a new life in Japan, you need to know about: the long working hours, high levels of stress, and ...
cultureUnderstanding Etiquette and Manners in Japan Visiting Japan is an exciting adventure, but you should be aware of local Japanese manners and customs. Otherwise, your lack of knowledge could lead to uni...
lifestyleAs a 20-year resident of Japan, I can guarantee that making Japanese friends in Japan is harder than you think. The fact is that forming close friendships with Japanese people so not easy for foreigner...
lifestyleLiving in Japan has long been a dream for many, but the cost of living often raises concerns. Can you truly experience the Land of the Rising Sun on a budget of $2000 USD (around ￥280,000 JPY) a month?...
food & beverageIf you're visiting or living in Japan, you need to know how to use chopsticks. Learning how to hold chopsticks properly is an essential skill and basic etiquette in Japan. Proper use of chopsticks will...
cultureThe history of manga (Japanese comics) is the history of Japanese art and its portrayal of Japanese culture. Understanding manga and it past will help you to better understand Japanese society and how ...
travelYou've been planning you trip to Japan for a while, and you've finally made it long-awaited dream holiday. You're excited, but a little nervous. You've heard about issues caused by overtourism in Japan...
accommodationIf you are planning to live in Japan, you are most likely looking to rent a place to live. Renting in Japan can be a scary experience for foreigners who are new to the country. But with the right infor...
lifestyleYou may have heard news of free homes in Japan, referring to Japanese akiya houses for free. In recent years, Japan has seen a surprising trend that puzzles both locals and potential foreign buyers mo...
food & beverageAddress: Kyoto Royal Building, 2Floor, Nishikiyamachi Takoyakushi Nakagyouku, Kyoto City, Japan Website: http://www.kyotoingbar.com 1. Uncover Kyoto's Most Popular Late-Night Hangout In the late...
lifestyleThere is a growing number of foreigners buying houses in Japan. The country's population is in decline as the migrant workforce expands. This means that as more people move to Japan the demand for Japa...
cultureWhen I first moved to Japan as an adult, I struggled to make meaningful friendships. I would invite people out, only to have them cancel later and realizing they had no intention of meeting up. In fact...
lifestyleMaybe you're making the leap to move to Japan or simply planning an unforgettable Japanese holiday. Here are some crucial points for you to know to better understand about Japan's cost of living. 1...
travelDo you need a visa to go to Japan? That depends how long you wish to stay. Navigating the Japan visa requirements is crucial for anyone looking to either visit or start living in Japan, whether for tra...
sightseeing1. Discovering Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple: Kyoto's Hidden Gem Otagi Nenbutsu-ji Temple is a small but unique Buddhist Temple. It nestles into the side of a hill in the west of Kyoto city and is home to ...
cultureSumo wrestling is more than just a competitive sport—it’s a living tradition rooted in Japan’s ancient Shinto rituals. With a history spanning over 1,500 years, sumo embodies both cultural heritage and...
sightseeing1. Discover Heian-Jingu Shrine: Kyoto's Iconic Red Shrine Heian-Jingu Shrine (平安神宮) stands proudly among Kyoto's many historical treasures as one of Japan’s most renowned shrines. Famous for its str...
sightseeingLocal officials in Kyoto city, Japan, banned tourists from entering the narrow backstreets of the famous Gion district from April 2024. These steps have been taken to protect the local geisha, known lo...
travelWhen you say "Japan", for many it musters up traditional images like beautiful geisha or iconic sumo wrestling. However, for many it is the picturesque image of Mount Fuji, seen on so many Japanese-rel...
cultureI first discovered manga (Japanese comics) while living in Japan as a teenager. At the time, I was still learning Japanese and had plenty of free time, so I picked up a Dragon Ball volume out of curios...
cultureJapanese animation, known as anime (アニメ), is a unique and popular form of storytelling that has gained fans worldwide. With its recognizable art style and engaging stories, anime appeals to people of a...
travelJapan is a top travel destination. In 2024, it welcomed a record 36 million tourists. This surge has led to overcrowding in popular spots like Kyoto and Tokyo. Such overcrowding affects both locals and...
transportation1. What are Prepaid IC Cards? A Japanese IC card contains a microchip that stores purchased credit in Japanese yen. Referred to as electronic money, or ‘e-money’, or even 'e-wallets'. Credit cards in ...
travelIf you’re staying in Tokyo and want a quick, easy way to pay for trains, buses, and small purchases, then the Suica card is your perfect cashless solution. And if you're living in Japan or thinking abo...
accommodation1. What is a Ryokan? A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn that offers a unique and authentic accommodation experience. Ryokans also provide visitors with a glimpse into the country's history and cus...
sightseeingKinkaku-ji Temple (金閣寺 – Kinkakuji), often called the Golden Temple of Japan, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most popular Kyoto things to do—for good reason. Known for its dazzling gold...
travelis It appears that the popularity of social media, led by a government tourism campaign, may be partially responsible for the modern overtourism trend in Japan. In the digital age, social media platfo...
sightseeingLocated in the south of Kyoto city, Japan, Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shrine is one of the most iconic and revered Shinto shrines in the country. Its vibrant red tori gates, winding trails, and serene atmo...
cultureIn recent years, Japan has seen an influx of foreign nuisance YouTubers and social media influencers. Rather than respectfully engage with the culture, these people choose to cause disturbances and eng...
travelWhen choosing between Japan's Shinkansen train and airplane, I'll take the Shinkansen every time! I've been traveling around Japan since the mid '90s and in my opinion, taking the bullet train from Tok...
sightseeingSurrounded by centuries of history and vibrant culture, Kyoto offers a window into Japan’s rich heritage. The city beautifully blends time-honored traditions with modern comforts, giving visitors an au...
lifestyleWhen moving to Japan, the Residence Card, also known as the Zairyū Card (在留カード, zairyuu kaado), is the first crucial official document you will need to acquire. The Residence Card represents a foreign ...
lifestyleReal Japanese wages have changed very little over the last 30 years. Despite this, real wages in developed countries have continued to increase since the early 1990s. Even though Japan the third-larges...
cultureJapan is not living in the future. Japan has long been recognized for its technological innovations and its unique blend of tradition and modernism. And although Japanese technology is often seen as en...
lifestyleThinking about moving to Japan? You're not alone. Each year, thousands of people consider relocating to this fascinating country. Drawn by its unique culture, advanced technology, and high quality of l...
sightseeing1. Best Things to Do in Osaka: Japan’s Food, Fun, and Cultural Hub Wondering what makes Osaka one of Japan’s must-visit destinations? Known for its lively neighborhoods, unbeatable street food, and vi...
sightseeingPersonally, I think that Shodenji Temple (正伝寺 - shoden-ji) is the most underrated Kyoto attraction. Kyoto's major temples are known to get overcrowded, which can kill the Kyoto vibe that people are see...
travelYou finally start planning your dream trip to Japan. But you've heard news about the issue of overtourism in Japan and now you are worried. What do Japanese people really think about foreign tourists? ...
travel1. What is Overtourism? Overtourism, or the negative impact of unsustainable tourism on the environment and local communities, has become a growing concern in popular tourist destinations worldwide. T...
culture1. Japan: A Rapidly Aging Society Due to the rapid progression of Japan's aging population, the country stands to be the world's first "hyper-aged" population, or super aged society. In 2022, the deat...
lifestyleLiving in Japan is a vastly different experience from visiting Japan as a tourist. Many people who visit Japan claim to fall in love with Japanese culture. They fall in love with the Japanese temples, ...
sightseeingNara is an ancient cultural heartland that predates Kyoto and Tokyo, standing as Japan’s first permanent capital. It’s a historical and spiritual landmark, home to sacred temples, wandering deer, and l...
cultureIs Japanese hard? Yes, Japanese is a difficult language to learn. However, it is not impossible. To get good at Japanese language all it takes is practice and hard work. If you're planning to move t...
food & beverageSometimes it can be hard to be a vegan or vegetarian in Japan. But if you know what you're doing and plan ahead, you can pick up your chopsticks and try some great Japanese food. Modern Japanese ...
travelJapan's payment methods are not overly complicated. But, there are some noticeable differences from other countries. This article explains money in Japan and breaks down different payment options. Wh...
sightseeingTourists usually come to Kyoto to see the best temples in Japan. So they should. They're the best in the country! These are the historical places you should see if you're only Kyoto for a short time. ...
accommodationThere is a lot to see and do while in Japan. And let's face it, few people can afford to do it all. That's why it is important to think about reasonably priced accommodation options. Kyoto accommodatio...
travelDeciding on where to stay during your time in Japan can often depend on your budget. This article details the different types of accommodation you can book and save money while experiencing Japan as a ...
transportationI remember a time when the Japan Rail Pass (JR Pass) was an absolute steal. Over a decade ago, I used the pass multiple times and traveled to places I might never have visited otherwise. One of my fa...
sightseeing1. What is the Matsu-age Fire Festival? Matsuage is a fire festival held on August 24th, at the end of summer in the northern mountains of Kyoto, Japan. It is also the best Japanese festival you've l...
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