Unjetlagging in Sakai
Visit Sakai if you land in Kansai Airport, and you prefer a soft landing, full of food, comfy beds and Japanese attractions… then buy a superb handcrafted kitchen knife from one of its many workshops.
Travelling
Asia
How to enjoy Kyoto with limited mobility
Are you living with limited mobility and wish to visit Japan, and Kyoto in particular? This post will give you some useful insights on enjoying Kyoto with limited mobility, from taking public transport, to accommodation options and best way to sightsee.
How to prepare for your Japan Trip
A short and concise post about preparation for a Japan trip. Japan is one of the safest countries to visit, and it does not the much to prepare for an independent trip on a self-made itinerary. Here are my concise tips on transport, money, accommodation and being a good tourist in this wonderful country.
Cycling in Kyoto – Genius or Madness?
The post discusses the benefits and challenges of cycling in Kyoto, a city with crowded public transportation, especially on buses. Kyoto is navigable by bike with available rentals and parking. This post highlights how to hire bicycles, recommended routes, cycling rules, and hotels that accommodate cyclists.
Short and Sweet Kansai trip: 1 week of Small towns, Crafts and Zen Riddles
Reporting on a week-long solo trip to Kansai, Japan. I explored various locations, mixing well-known spots with lesser-known attractions. Highlights included cultural experiences in Sakai, Tambasasayama, and Kyoto. Transportation and lodging were efficient and on a budget but emphasizing traditional stays. The trip balances sightseeing with practical advice for future travelers.
Fabric Shopping in Nagasaki: Gorgeous cloth galore!
A hobby sewist shares insights from fabric shopping in Nagasaki. The blog details various high-quality Japanese fabrics available, from traditional prints to modern designs, and provides a thorough guide on fabric types such as cotton, chirimen, and Liberty Tana Lawn. Key fabric stores in Nagasaki are highlighted for their selection and decent prices. The post emphasizes personal experiences and advice for fabric enthusiasts.
Short and Sweet 1-week Kansai Itinerary
The post details travel plans for a week-long trip to Japan’s Kansai region. We aim for a culturally immersive experience, visiting grand sites and exploring new ones on a modest budget. Practical aspects like transportation, accommodation, and daily activities are meticulously planned, including considerations for cost-effective traveling and managing sightseeing around Kyoto, Sakai, Tambasasayama and possibly Nara or Uji.
The Beauty of Nagasaki Temple Street
Nagasaki Temple Street, located in a picturesque area of Nagasaki City, offers an enriching cultural exploration of Buddhist and Shinto sites. Accessible via a delightful tram ride, this 3km trail promises a day’s journey amidst historic temples such as Kofuku-ji and enchanting gardens, with convenient city center proximity. Alongside religious monuments, vibrant shops and dining options enhance the experience, making it a must-see for travelers.
3 Days in Nagasaki: My favourite Nagasaki itinerary
My Nagasaki itinerary showcases a practical and enriching three-day itinerary for exploring Nagasaki, with an emphasis on local transport and key attractions. Highlights include historic sites like the Suwa Shrine, engaging museums, scenic walking routes, and the stunning Mount Inasa Night View. The guide also covers practical accommodation options, transport tips, and dining suggestions to enhance the visitor experience in Nagasaki, reflecting its rich history, cultural diversity, and natural beauty.
Shu Matsubara Knives – the perfect Kyushu Souvenir
My first Nagasaki souvenir, a Shu Matsubara knife, remains sharp a year after purchase, evoking fond memories of Kyushu each time I use it. Shu Matsubara, located in Omura, offers traditional and modern Japanese knives forged by the dynamic Katsuto Tanaka, who trains the next generation of smiths. My initial purchase led to subsequent visits, enriching my collection with a personalized knife. Shu Matsubara Knives, not just a store but a workshop, provides an enriching experience for those looking to own quality Japanese knives.
Relax at Nagasaki Onsen – with a detailed onsen guide
Exploring onsens in Nagasaki offers a quintessential Japanese experience, highlighted by visits to various natural hot springs. Each onsen provides distinct experiences—from serene, traditional settings to modern facilities with diverse baths and saunas. Essential tips for onsen usage include proper etiquette and what to bring. Also outlined are directions for reaching each location. Whether seeking relaxation, therapeutic baths, or cultural immersion, Nagasaki’s onsens cater to all.
Nagasaki – the perfect small Kyushu city to visit
Nagasaki, offers a rich mixture of history, from its trading past with Dutch and Chinese through Dejima Island to the poignant Atomic Bomb Museum. The city also boasts a scenic location with a pleasant climate and is surrounded by forests and volcanoes. Despite its traumatic history, Nagasaki is forward-looking and cheerful. Visit Nagasaki on your Japan trip!
Cool Oman mini road trip to Al Hamra and Nizwa
On a mini road trip in Oman, I explore beyond Muscat, visiting culturally and naturally rich destinations like Nizwa, Bahla, and Al Hamra. Highlights include the UNESCO-listed Bahla Fortress, charming traditional villages, and bustling souks, all easily navigated by a hired car for an immersive two to three-day journey.
Diving in Muscat, Oman
Can you dive well in Oman? And what is diving in Muscat like? The coastline of Oman is over 3000km long, with plenty of diving opportunities along larger settlements. And yes, you can dive really well in Muscat. Prime diving spots, starting with the North, …
Where to stay in Muscat on a budget
Oman is still an affordable destination, but definitely not a budget destination. Are there even nice hotels to stay in Muscat on a budget? When I recently visited the capital of Oman on a diving trip, I was quite conscious on where to find good …