Our first-hand guide to a Koyasan temple stay. We share what to expect, how to book, and if it’s really worth it.
JR West Pass Comparison: Which Is Best for Your Trip?
As a Japan-based travel agency, we see the same problem all the time. You’re excited to plan your trip to Western Japan, but you hit a wall: the train passes. You’re staring at five different...
The 8 Most Unique (& Weird) Museums in Japan
Your dream trip to Japan probably includes stunning temples, neon-lit cityscapes, and incredible food. But what about a museum dedicated entirely to poop? Or one showcasing a nine-metre-long...
3 Ways to Experience Sumo in Japan: Tournament, Morning Practice & Interactive Lunch
When travellers ask us for a truly Japanese cultural experience, watching sumo is always high on our list. It’s an incredible mix of power, history, and tradition. Seeing it live is a real highlight...
JR EAST PASS (Tohoku): Is It Actually Worth ¥30,000 in 2025?
So, you're planning a trip to Japan and Tokyo is the main event. But have you thought about exploring the areas north of it? For example, have you heard of Nikko, with its incredible temples...
Kyoto Sake Tasting: A Guide to the Best Breweries of Fushimi & Beyond
When you think of Kyoto, what comes to mind? Probably temples, shrines, and maybe some beautiful old streets, right? While all that is true, there's another amazing thing to do in Kyoto that you...
Tokyo Wide Pass Guide: Explore Mt. Fuji, Nikko & Top Day Trips in 3 Days
Want to see more than just Tokyo during your Japan trip? You might be thinking about visiting Mount Fuji, the famous shrines in Nikko, or the snow in GALA Yuzawa. But when you check the prices, you...
The Ultimate Guide to the JR West All Area Pass: Is It Worth It?
A trip to Western Japan is an incredible experience. You could be enjoying the amazing food scene in Osaka, reflecting at the historic sites of Hiroshima, exploring the classic Himeji Castle, and...
Complete Guide to the Kansai-Hokuriku Area Pass: Is It Worth It?
Planning a trip to Japan can feel like trying to solve a giant, exciting puzzle. You’ve got the bright lights and incredible food of Osaka on one hand, and the historic temples of Kyoto on the...
The Ultimate Nagoya Travel Guide: Is It Worth Visiting?
When you’re planning a trip to Japan, your list probably fills up fast with the bright lights of Tokyo and the historic streets of Kyoto. Then you look at a map and see Nagoya, a huge city right in...
Kansai-Hiroshima Area Pass: The Ultimate 2025 Guide
When you look at a map to plan your trip to Japan’s Kansai Region, you’ll probably circle Osaka and Kyoto first. But then your eyes will likely drift west to another famous name: Hiroshima....
1-Day Kyoto Itinerary for First-Timers & Beyond
Trying to decide how to spend just one day in Kyoto can seem like a challenge. With its countless temples, gardens, and historic districts, it’s easy to wonder if you can truly get a feel for the...
Kansai Area Pass: Worth It for Your Japan Trip?
So, you’ve set your sights on Japan’s incredible Kansai region? Excellent choice. You're picturing the iconic red gates in Kyoto, grabbing street food under the neon glow of Osaka, and maybe even...
The Ultimate Kyoto Area Guide: Sights, Stays & Itineraries
Kyoto is a must-see for nearly everyone visiting Japan, from first-timers to those who have been several times, and for good reason. It’s the city people imagine when they think of classic Japan—a...
Kansai Wide Area Pass: Is It Actually Worth ¥12,000 in 2025?
It’s no wonder why you’re planning a trip to Japan’s Kansai region! You’re probably dreaming of exploring Kyoto’s beautiful temples and eating ‘till you drop on Osaka’s lively streets. But what...