Hotel Review: Gate Hotel Kyoto Takasegawa
My honest review of The Gate Hotel Takasegawa by HULIC Kyoto, perfect for a central yet quiet premium stay for sightseeing, shopping and nightlife.
Tag: Kansai
Hotel Review: RAK Kiyomizu, a charming and very private hostel in a beautiful central Kyoto Neighbourhood
I stayed at this wonderful all-private-room hostel called RAK Kiyomizu in Gion, Kyoto, and recommend this as one of the the best value for money places to stay in the Gion area of Kyoto! Quiet, clean, friendly, and very comfortable.
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
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.
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.
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?
Hotel Review: Gion Shinmonso Kyoto: Comfortable Gion hotel in a perfect location
When it comes to finding a good value for money Kyoto hotel, trust me to review some pretty good ones – so here is another one I recommend, for those who wish to stay in Gion and not pay through the nose for location – quiet, clean, four stars, for just over 100 Euro!
Hotel Review: Kyomachiya Ryokan Sakura Urushitei, the best well-rounded accommodation for Kyoto tourists
Kyomachiya Ryokan Sakura Urushitei is one of the nicest mid-range hotels I stayed in in Kyoto, combining comfort and traditional Japanese culture in an easy to access modern hotel. Its location between Kyoto Station and Downtown means good public transport links, yet it’s calm and quiet and very comfortable. And if that weren’t enough, its excellent staff will make you feel welcome!
Is Flying KLM in Premium Economy to Japan worth it?
Is flying KLM to Japan, with a transfer at AMS/Schiphol, good? Here I share my personal experience flying KLM to Kansai International Airport in Premium Economy during high season in April. Please consider reading before you book!
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.
Kyoto Autumn Leaves without the Crowds
Can you enjoy the autumn leaves in Kyoto without encountering huge crowds? It’s possible, it all take a little research beyond, being open to venture past the touristic centre, and an appreciation for quiet admiration and blending in with the local visitors.
How to buy a Japanese cooking knife in Sakai
How about a top-notch cooking knife as a long-lasting useful souvenir from your Japan trip? This post is about where to view the production process and then shop for a Japanese cooking knife in Sakai