How (and Why) to Visit Kyoto's Kurama-dera and Kifune-jinja
Located far off Kyoto's tourist trail, Kurama-dera temple and Kifune-jinja shrine can be respites of peace in Japan's #1 tourist trap.| Japan Starts Here
Located far off Kyoto's tourist trail, Kurama-dera temple and Kifune-jinja shrine can be respites of peace in Japan's #1 tourist trap.| Japan Starts Here
Looking for a unique food day trip from Kyoto, Osaka or Kobe? Make a beeline for Uo-no-tana, a fish market in Akashi, Hyogo.| Japan Starts Here
Planning a day trip from Kyoto to Amanohashidate, Ine Fishing Village or elsewhere in Kyotango, aka "Kyoto by the Sea"? Get inspired here.| Japan Starts Here
Everything you need to know about studying Japanese in Japan: How to choose a Japanese language school and how to get a Japan student visa.| Japan Starts Here
As a traveler (and a travel blogger), I’m always reevaluating and recalibrating my stances—the topic of how many days in Tokyo you should spend is no exception.| Japan Starts Here
Archives for May 2024| Japan Starts Here
Archives for June 2025| Japan Starts Here
Japan has no shortage of superlative airline cabins. But the experience in first class onboard JAL's new A350-1000 is something else entirely.| Japan Starts Here
ANA's "The Suite" first class was revolutionary when it debuted in 2019. Here's how it's holding up more than half a decade later.| Japan Starts Here
Hot, humid July can be a surprisingly unpleasant month to visit Japan. But I've got a unique way to beat the Japanese heat.| Japan Starts Here
Curious about ANA's new 777 business class? Read my review of "The Room," which also includes which routes have the new seats.| Japan Starts Here
Archives for August 2025| Japan Starts Here
This oasis of serenity in Kanazawa is the most impressive of Japan's "three great gardens." The post Why Kenroku-en Takes the Crown appeared first on Japan Starts Here.| Japan Starts Here
When you're so far off the beaten path, a traditional "sightseeing" approach can be superfluous. The post Off the Beaten Path of Japan’s Beaten Path appeared first on Japan Starts Here.| Japan Starts Here
Having a list of things to do in Rishiri is helpful, even if it's not as necessary as one might be elsewhere in Japan. The post If Mt. Fuji Was An Island appeared first on Japan Starts Here.| Japan Starts Here
Comparing Rishiri vs Rebun isn't necessary—you will probably go to both islands if you go to one—but it can be helpful. The post Comparing Japan’s Most Remote Islands appeared first on Japan Starts Here.| Japan Starts Here
Wakkanai isn't Tokyo or even Sapporo, but it's much larger and more sprawling than you might expect for someplace so remote. The post Where Japan Begins appeared first on Japan Starts Here.| Japan Starts Here
ANA vs JAL—which is better? The post Who Wears the Wings of Japan Best? appeared first on Japan Starts Here.| Japan Starts Here
Is ANA a good airline? The post The Truth About ANA appeared first on Japan Starts Here.| Japan Starts Here
Even if flying in JAL first or business is just a pipe dream for you right now, my images and insights will inspire you to make it a reality as soon as you can. The post Inside JAL’s Pointy End appeared first on Japan Starts Here.| Japan Starts Here
The main problem with ANA's first class is that its fantastic business class is almost as good. The post Is ANA’s First Class That Much Better Than Business? appeared first on Japan Starts Here.| Japan Starts Here
ANA's "The Suite" and JAL's new A350-1000 sky apartment are Japan's most exclusive first class products. Both excel, but one clearly wins.| Japan Starts Here
Want to explore Japan's Seto Inland Sea? My Setouchi itinerary can help you explore this captivating, off-the-beaten-path region.| Japan Starts Here
Although it's located just across the sea from Okayama, many travelers skip Takamatsu. Here's why you shouldn't!| Japan Starts Here
Archives for April 2025| Japan Starts Here
Osaka doesn't have the hanami reputation of Kyoto or even Tokyo. Here's how I made the most of my Osaka cherry blossom trip.| Japan Starts Here
Looking for Takamatsu, Japan inspiration? Read about my recent return to the city to learn what makes this Shikoku city so special.| Japan Starts Here
My second cherry blossom trip through Kyushu| Japan Starts Here
In this post, I don't explain precisely why I came back to Nagasaki Ground Zero, but I do explain the way my return sojourn affected me.| Japan Starts Here
Whether you need Shimanami Kaido bike rental or simply want to know what to expect on the route, here's how to bike the Shimanami Kaido.| Japan Starts Here
Given their proximity, it's tempting to compare Okayama and Hiroshima, but the cities are very different from one another.| Japan Starts Here
Archives for December 2022| Japan Starts Here
Niigata is among the least-loved prefectures of Japan. If you follow my Niigata travel guide, however, you'll enjoy it.| Japan Starts Here
My Takayama winter trip was interesting—and not just because the end-of-January snow was rapidly melting when my bus pulled into town.| Japan Starts Here
Want to visit Wakayama? Whether you plan to hike the Kumano Kodo or spend a night at Koyasan, here's what you need to know.| Japan Starts Here
Though popular among Asian tourists, the sakura tunnel in Kitakami is relatively unknown among Westerners. Here's how to get there.| Japan Starts Here
The bad travels? It can be a nightmare to travel during Golden Week in Japan. The good news? It doesn't have to be, if you follow my advice.| Japan Starts Here
Planning a trip to Japan's Nagano prefecture? Here's a rundown of things to do in Nagano, including the Snow Monkeys.| Japan Starts Here
Considering whether to visit Japan's sup-tropical islands of Shikoku and Kyushu? Let me litigate the Shikoku vs Kyushu debate for you.| Japan Starts Here
Unsure how many days you should spend in Osaka? Read. this guide to Japan's underrated second city to help you decide!| Japan Starts Here
It's easy (and, for Americans and Europeans, relatively quick—and jet lag free!) to travel between Australia and Japan. Here's how!| Japan Starts Here
Although Yakushima Island didn't impress me the second time quite as much as it had the first, my trip there—my last in Kyushu, for now—was moving.| Japan Starts Here
Is it worth renting a car in Japan? The answer might surprise you, given Japan's reputation for stellar public transportation.| Japan Starts Here
There are few more quintessentially Japanese views than Mt. Fuji rising over verdant tea fields. Here's how to capture them for yourself.| Japan Starts Here
Tea ceremonies are a quintessential Japan experience, but they're also artificial and touristy. Here's how to decide whether to book one.| Japan Starts Here
Considering a day trip to Uji from Kyoto? Here's how to decide whether Uji is worth visiting, and what to do there if you go.| Japan Starts Here
It might surprise you to learn that the best Matcha farms in Japan are located less than an hour from Kyoto. Plan your visit today.| Japan Starts Here
With Mt. Fuji on one side and some of Japan's best beaches on the other, the Izu Peninsula is a treasure. Here's my Izu Peninsula itinerary.| Japan Starts Here
Want to watch Noh in Japan? While Niigata prefecture's Sado Island is the most scenic place to see a performance, there are other options.| Japan Starts Here
Is Sado Island worth visiting? Well, I can tell you that this idyll off the coast of Niigata is an absolute gem. Here's why.| Japan Starts Here
Even if you disregard its place in Japanese history, Shimoda is an amazing modern destination, and is home to some of Japan's best beaches.| Japan Starts Here
Fukushima is so much more than its reputation. Use my Fukushima itinerary to plan your trip to Japan's most misunderstood prefecture.| Japan Starts Here
To hear some people tell it, Japan's Fukushima will be a no-go zone for centuries or even millennia. But is this actually the case?| Japan Starts Here
Is Nagoya worth visiting? If you do come to here—most don't—I encourage you to get inspired by my Nagoya travel guide.| Japan Starts Here
The wide array of things to do in Aizu-Wakamatsu disproves so many stereotypes and false ideas about what Japan's Fukushima prefecture.| Japan Starts Here
Whether you're searching for photo spots in Kyoto, or just want to get inspired for your trip, my pictures of Kyoto will do the trick.| Japan Starts Here
After several aborted past trips, I've finally visit Mie, one of Japan's most underrated prefectures. Here's why should you follow in my footsteps.| Japan Starts Here
Considering a visit to Beppu Onsen? Whether you stay at a sea-view onsen or simply take a trip to hell, you'll want to read what I have to say.| Japan Starts Here
Wondering whether you should take the Narita Express or the Keisei Skyliner? Here's how to decide the best way from Narita Airport to Tokyo.| Japan Starts Here
All Nippon Airways is one of the Japan's best airlines. Read my ANA airlines review for the pros and cons of flying ANA.| Japan Starts Here
What to do in Kobe, Japan for a day? Whether you're looking for a run-down of things to do in Kobe or a Kobe itinerary, you're in the right spot.| Japan Starts Here
Though I'd been to Matsuyama Castle before, seeing the fortress during peak sakura season was more than a little special.| Japan Starts Here
In an island country like Japan, peninsulas (known as "half islands" in Japanese) are a big deal. These are the best peninsulas in Japan.| Japan Starts Here
You could spend a lifetime exploring Japan's former capital, but you likely have less than a week. Here's how many days you need in Kyoto.| Japan Starts Here
Should you visit Naoshima? Do you need to stay at Benesse House "Musuem Hotel"? Allow me to answer these questions—and all your questions.| Japan Starts Here
Most people use Okayama merely as a stopover between Tokyo or Osaka and Hiroshima. Here's why I consider Okayama worth visiting in its own right.| Japan Starts Here
According to forecasts, Hiroshima would be one of the first places in Japan to see 2021's sakura bloom. But Hiroshima's cherry blossoms proved fickle.| Japan Starts Here
The harbor city of Onomichi is one of Hiroshima's—and Japan's—best-kept secrets. Here's how to plan your trip there.| Japan Starts Here
More than a decade after the Great East Japan Earthquake, many people are wondering if Fukushima is safe to visit. It is—and it's delightful.| Japan Starts Here
Planning a trip to Japan's Mie prefecture? Follow my Mie itinerary to eat Matsusaka beef and visit Mikimoto Pearl Island.| Japan Starts Here
Although it's close to both Osaka and Nagoya, many tourists skip Wakayama. But is Wakayama worth visiting?| Japan Starts Here
Planning a trip to Japan this year? These Japan trip ideas provide the perfect mix of information and inspiration.| Japan Starts Here
Should you visit Hachinohe? Read my travelogue to get an honest impression of the hub of Japan's Sanriku Coast.| Japan Starts Here
Akita's Kakunodate Samurai village is famous among Japanese, but relatively unknown among foreigners. Here's why you should visit.| Japan Starts Here
I've wanted to bathe at Tsuru no Yu for years, but did my experience at this legendary onsen live up to my expectations?| Japan Starts Here
With most of the world still locked out of Japan (ostensibly) due to Covid-19, I enjoyed the bloom of Tohoku's cherry blossoms basically unencumbered.| Japan Starts Here
On Awaji Island, Japan is both at its most authentic and its most atypical. Read about my experience on Awajishima, which links Honshu and Shikoku.| Japan Starts Here
Heading to Japan in summer 2025? Here's how to decide between the Akita Kanto Matsuri and Aomori Nebuta Matsuri festivals.| Japan Starts Here
Learn how to perfectly time your 2025 autumn trip to Japan with my comprehensive guide, which features the best Japan autumn leaves spots.| Japan Starts Here
Planning a trip to Hokkaido in autumn? Use my Hokkaido autumn itinerary to find all the information—and inspiration—you need.| Japan Starts Here
A small port on the Sea of Japan, Sakata is full of culture, cuisine and character, and devoid of tourists. Of course it's worth visiting!| Japan Starts Here
Search for an Okayama itinerary? Whether you want to hang out in Koraku-en garden or take a day trip to Naoshima, Okayama starts here.| Japan Starts Here
Is Hiroshima worth visiting on your next trip to Japan? Yes—and use my Hiroshima itinerary to plan what you should do once you get there.| Japan Starts Here
When is the best time to visit Japan? These photos will have you booking your ticket to visit Japan in autumn.| Japan Starts Here
Whether you're curious about the JR Pass price or just want to learn more about train travel in Japan, you're in the right place.| Japan Starts Here
Planning a trip to the Japanese Alps? No matter when you plan to visit, you can start building your Japanese Alps itinerary today.| Japan Starts Here
Whether you're eyeing a Kumano Kodo 3-day itinerary or want to take a longer trek, I've got everything you need to plan your trip.| Japan Starts Here
Considering a shubuko (temple stay) atop Japan's Mount Koya? Read my perspective to help get you off the fence.| Japan Starts Here
Not so many people come here when it's cold, but my Kanazawa winter adventure changed everything I thought I knew about the city.| Japan Starts Here
Whether on a day trip or overnight, it's easy to visit Japan's best onsen hot spring—Takaragawa Onsen—from Tokyo.| Japan Starts Here
Is Aomori worth visiting? I have a feeling that after you take a look at my Aomori itinerary, your answer will definitely be "yes"!| Japan Starts Here
Planning a trip to Japan's Akita prefecture? From Kakunodate Samurai village to Tsuru-no-yu onsen, create your Akita itinerary here.| Japan Starts Here
Planning a visit to Japan's Akita prefecture? My post will give you an idea of how many days to spend there, as well as what to do.| Japan Starts Here
Whether you come for the Awa Odori festival, or to visit the Naruto Whirlpools, check out my Tokushima travel itinerary.| Japan Starts Here
From Kochi Castle, to udon shops in Marugame, to the onsens of the Iya Valley, my Shikoku itinerary spotlights Japan's smallest island.| Japan Starts Here
Plan your 2025 winter trip to Japan, even if you don't ski. See snow monkeys of Nagano, "drift ice" in eastern Hokkaido and so much more.| Japan Starts Here
Japan can be hot, humid and miserable during the summer, but it can also be magical. Here's how to plan your Japan summer itinerary for 2025.| Japan Starts Here
Searching Japan destinations for your post-pandemic Japan trip? My guide outlines all the best places in Japan, no matter when you come.| Japan Starts Here
Is Hokkaido's Shirogane Blue Pond worth visiting? Here's how, why (and when!) to visit the Hokkaido blue lake for the best pictures.| Japan Starts Here
When you head to far eastern Hokkaido in winter, you're faced with an important choice: Should you visit Kushiro, Abashiri or both?| Japan Starts Here
