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
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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
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.
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 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.
How to visit Kyoto on a modest budget in Style
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 …
How to enjoy your trip to Japan in summer
Are you planning to visit Japan in summer? While it may not be the ideal time for a trip to Japan due to the intense heat, a summer trip has some perks, too – festivals, kakigori and cheaper hotel rates! This post will help you dealing with the intense Japanese summer heat.
Famous Kyoto Cherry Blossoms without the crowds – possible or not?
Kyoto’s Cherry blossoms are famous, and Cherry blossom season is one of the busiest seasons for tourists. Can you even view cherry blossoms in relative peace in Kyoto without encountering huge crowds?
My favourite Kyoto shops: Kyukyodo Honten for quality paper and incense
In this series of my favourite shops in Kyoto, I am going to show you some wonderful tried-and-tested shops for sustainable souvenirs and quality handmade goods, starting with Kyukyodo Honten, Kyoto’s venerable manufacturer of superb paper goods and incense
Java and Bali Travel Planning made easy and stress-free
Java and Bali can easily be visited without a tour, even if you are planning to travel around these beautiful Indonesian islands. This post gives you an overview of easy and stress-free trip planning, including how to prepare, when to secure your accommodation and how to plan your individual itinerary.
My Makanai-inspired Bicycle Ride in Kyoto
Hot on the heels of my “Makanai” filming locations post, I put together a bicycle route for a leisurely day of exploring locations from this beautiful series. Cycling is the best way to get around Kyoto, and is ideal to visit locations outside Gion.
Love “The Makanai”? Visit Makanai filming locations in Kyoto!
Did you love watching “The Makanai” and are you visiting Japan soon? You can visit a lot of the filming location for this charming drama series in Kyoto – just plan a little and learn a bit about Kyoto and its geisha culture.
My Tokyo Dessert Rallye inspired by Saboriman Kantarou
Last year, I followed in the footsteps on the Sweet-toothed Salaryman and visited some dessert shops featured in the Japanese TV show. Is it all hype, or are these some great places for your sweet tooth, too? In my very own Tokyo Dessert Rallye, I may not have visited them all but there is always more to enjoy if and when I return!
An Ode to the glorious Mamachari
Oh, how little I would have seen on my recent Japan trips without a bicycle. With a slight mobility impairment, crowded buses and some accommodations away from public transport hubs, the bicycle, often provided by my accommodation, became a priceless companion. Even in 2023, when …
Cruelty-free Japanese beauty – Shop cruelty-free!
Do you like Japanese Beauty hauls? Please do it with a conscience. This post introduces you to some cruelty-free Japanese beauty brands and where to find them. Japanese beauty and skincare products are great, so buy cruelty-free and enjoy! All have been purchased and tried by me!