Insider guides, cultural deep dives, and travel tips from Kyoto
74 total articles
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 excit...
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...
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...
accommodationIf you really want to experience modern Japan, then I recommend some time in a Japanese ‘love hotel’ (ラブホテル - rabuhoteru)! Love hotels are also referred to as a 'adult only hotel', ‘couples hotel’ or ...
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...
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