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!
Tag: Kyoto
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
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 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.
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 …
Hotel Review of Tabist Kiki Hotel Kyoto Sanjo Takakura: comfortable and stylish Downtown kyoto hotel
Looking for an affordable yet stylish and comfortable hotel in Downtown Kyoto, where you can walk everywhere, and have good access to public transport? Consider Tabist Kiki Hotel Kyoto Sanjo Takakura for your next stay. Its mid-priced, mid-range style will appeal to mosts tastes, and it is friendly and in a great location!
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
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!
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 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.