Tag: Kyushu

3 Days in Nagasaki: My favourite Nagasaki itinerary

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

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

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 – 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!

Treasure Hunting in Arita

Treasure Hunting in Arita

Treasure Hunting in Arita  was dream come true. I love Japanese ceramics and porcelain.  Many years ago, trips to the now defunct Oriental City were a wonderful respite from  toiling away in a laboratory. Years later, my already decent Japanese tableware collection was supplemented by 

Okawachiyama, the Beautiful Village of the Secret Kilns

Okawachiyama, the Beautiful Village of the Secret Kilns

When you love Japanese ceramics, visiting Saga Prefecture on Kyushu Island is highly recommended. I studied in Nagasaki this year , so a trip to the kilns of Arita and Imari was pretty high on my wish list. When I wrote my Japanese Ceramics Dream trip 

The Tasty Tea of Sonogi on Kyushu Island

The Tasty Tea of Sonogi on Kyushu Island

Now that I had successfully made it to the University of Nagasaki, I spent my first two weeks there studying, venturing out on trips inside the city only. Then my husband came to visit, so we hired a car and went to explore the countryside.