My favorite Japanese countryside escapes, perfect for your bucket list! Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a veteran traveler, there’s a countryside destination that will become your most memorable moment in Japan. Here are some of my favorite offbeat travel destinations to help you maximize your inaka adventure.
It’s Pancake’s 2nd birthday, a frantic five-day drywall marathon to get our Japanese house guest ready, plus I play tourist in my own backyard with my friend from the city.
Pancake’s Birthday, a Drywall Dash & Showing My Tokyo Friend Rural Japan Read More »
Come along as I share the top three Showa-inspired parks and museums I’ve visited in Japan
The Retro World of Showa-Themed Museums and Parks in Japan Read More »
Uncover the charm of Sakawa, where you can wander in the footsteps of Japan’s Father of Botany, witness Makino Park’s cherry blossoms, taste sake at Kochi’s oldest brewery, and browse a stylish lifestyle store housed in a former kimono shop.
Sakawa: The Birthplace of Japan’s Father of Botany & Sakura Hotspot Read More »
Catch a glimpse of that dramatic cedar roof, and it may easily inspire you to book your own traditional Japanese folk house.
We Rented a 150-year-old Traditional Japanese House on Airbnb in Japan Read More »
How we spent two nights during Christmas at one of the most magical hot spring experiences we have had in Japan.
Kurokawa Onsen: The Most Magical Hot Spring Town I’ve Ever Stayed At in Japan Read More »
Our third day exploring Miyazaki Prefecture.
A Trip to Miyazaki Day 3: The Divine Waterfalls of Takachiho Gorge and Shrine Read More »
Every year in Japan, there’s an exciting stretch of time known as Golden Week, which spans from April 29th to early May. This year (2019), there’s extra excitement due to the Emperor’s abdication, which has added more days to the holiday, resulting in an incredible ten consecutive days off for
A Trip to Miyazaki Day 1: Devil’s Washboard & Obi Castle Town Read More »
This was it – the gateway that sparked my very first and enduring love affair with Japan’s preserved Showa towns.
Showa no Machi: Japan’s Nostalgic Retro Town in Oita Prefecture Read More »
We’re so fortunate to be in Kyushu, home to some of Japan’s most renowned pottery styles and techniques. One standout is Ontayaki Pottery Village, also known as Onta-yaki, a charming little town steeped in a rich pottery history. On an incredible, cloudy weekend, we embarked on a delightful two-hour drive
Ontayaki Pottery Village: Our Favourite Picturesque Village in Oita Prefecture Read More »
On a Saturday morning, we head to a cafe called Fukamido (深見堂) after being invited to their opening the previous night at an English conversation meet-up. Our ears perk up when they mention coffee, and we don’t want to miss the opportunity to try out good cafes. It’s pouring out, a
Fukamido: A Cafe & Restaurant in a 120-Year-Old Japanese House Read More »
… and a couple of very sweaty Canadians experiencing Japan’s summer heat.
Taking an Epic Summer Hike up Kunisaki’s Futago-ji Buddhist Temple Read More »
