Insider guides, cultural deep dives, and travel tips from Kyoto
25 total articles
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) ...
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 stands as Japan's second most visited theme park, bringing in over 10 million visitors...
travel1. Is Universal Studios Japan Worth It? In truth, popular rides at Universal Studios Japan (USJ) can have wait times stretching up to 90 minutes. Although the average wait time at USJ is 50 minutes. T...
sightseeingKyoto city isn’t just another stop on your Japan itinerary—it’s the soul of traditional Japanese culture. If you’re planning your Kyoto travel and wondering how many days in Kyoto you should dedicate t...
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...
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 fe...
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...
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...
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...
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 Japa...
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