The best books about Kyoto: my favourites
This post will help you choose literature about Kyoto – whether travel guide, history and culture books or fiction – with my tried and tested recommendations
Travelling
Destinations
Where to try Japanese Incense in Kyoto – and beyond
fragrant, sustainable and usually inexpensive gift from Japan – especially if you stick to reputable or traditional Japanese products. This post tells you where to try and buy incense in Kyoto and beyond
Where to buy matcha in Japan – when the media tell you there is a shortage
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
Shopping with Purpose: Shopping in Japan, Hanami 2025 Edition
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. …
2025 Gift Guide: Japan Edition
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 …
10 Reasons why I love Komeda Coffee in Japan
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!
A Kyoto-based cherry blossom viewing Itinerary (with mobility issues)
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
Zen in the Woods: A Day Trip to elegant Eiheiji
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.
Staying at a Business Hotel in Japan
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.
My Quest to find the best dessert in Kyoto
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.
Hotel Review of Gallery Nozawa Inn, Kyoto: Perfection without the price tag
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!
Visiting Kyoto’s stunning UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Part 2
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!
How to enjoy a Capsule Hotel Stay in Japan
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.
How to choose between 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites in Kyoto, Part 1
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.
Hotel Review of Prince Smart Inn Kyoto Sanjo: clean, comfy, central – and on budget
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.