Travelling
Nikko is an easy day trip from Tokyo, has several sights designated as UNESCO World Heritage, and is surrounded by hills and lakes. A perfect storm, you might think. Yet it would be a shame to miss it, just because of its huge crowding potential. …
Have you wondered where to buy matcha in Japan when all you hear is about the matcha shortage and limitations on how much you can buy? Here, I am sharing my tips on where to buy good matcha, even in a touristy city like Kyoto
When I relax and scroll, Instagram usually, I see tons of Japan videos popping up lately – lots and lots of shopping, Matcha hauls, Donki hauls, Beauty hauls, and whatnot. Okay, I am the first one to admit it, I love a good shop, too. …
Since this blog has become pretty much a Japan appreciation blog in the past 18 months, it comes quite naturally that my gift guide is fairly Japan-centric this year. it is also fairly minimalistic – since I don’t shop much any more myself, online shopping …
Komeda’s Coffee is a Japanese coffee shop chain that few foreign visitors know – here is why I love them and why you should consider visiting on your next trip!
It is your first trip to Japan, you have mobility issues, you want to see historical and cultural sights – and cherry blossoms. Is that even possible? I tried, and this is the outcome. Welcome to my Kyoto-based cherry blossom viewing Itinerary with mobility issues
In my quest for learning more about zen Buddhism -and getting away from crowds, I came to Fukui and Daihonzan Eiheiji. It is an easy visit thanks to the Shinkansen, and an excellent calm place of beauty and learning. I highly recommend this wonderful temple-monastery to anyone wishing to leave the realm of Kyoto and Nara for something a bit different.
When you travel around Japan and want comfort and convenience at a competitive price, a Business Hotel might be the answer! I introduce you to the concept of Japanese business hotels, and show you my favourites.
On a quest to find the best dessert in Kyoto? Let’s search together! A work in progress, this post introduces you to some outstanding dessert restaurants of Kyoto, and give you an introduction to classic Japanese desserts.
Gallery Nozawa Inn is a charming tiny guesthouse in a restored Kyoto townhouse with just two rooms – but bags of charme and attentive service at high-class ryokan level but at a fraction of the price. This is my honest review of Gallery Nozawa Inn, no promotion, just a honest recommendation!
Here comes Part 2 of Kyoto UNESCO World Heritage Sites – which ones to visit, and how to avoid the biggest crowds! Starting with the two sites in Uji, we’re going from mid-Heian period to the “newest” site, which is Nijo Castle. Complete with advice how to visit, and less crowded alternatives!
Have you considered staying in a capsule hotel on your Japan trip? Here is a handy guide if you are not familiar with this convenient budget friendly type of accommodation.
Visiting all 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites in Kyoto might be an ambitious undertaking – can you reasonably visit them all, and if not, which ones are especially worthwhile which ones are easy to visit and crowd-free? This post comes in two parts and will give you a short introduction, photographic impression, and a very personal view on the sites I have visited so far.
Are you looking for nice and clean central Kyoto accommodation, but have grown out of hostels? The Prince Smart Inn Kyoto Sanjo is a superb value for money: clean, comfortable Downtown Kyoto hotel with great access to public transport, shopping, and restaurants.
Kyoto, with all its attractions – and the crowds it pulls, can be a drain on your holiday finances – but you can visit Kyoto on a modest budget, too. But who am I to tell you how to have a great time in Kyoto …