Arashiyama Bamboo Grove in Kyoto

December 21, 2022/in Best of Japan/by Becki Benedict

The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a picturesque, iconic sight in Kyoto, Japan. The tall stalks of bamboo reach over 50 meters into the sky. Read more

Do I Need a Japan Travel Power Adapter?

December 2, 2022/in Practical Tips/by Shawn Weldon

Although talking about having a Japan travel power adapter is not the most romantic topic, it is something you will need to think about if you’re planning on traveling to Japan.

Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto

November 26, 2022/in Best of Japan/by Becki Benedict

Kiyomizu-dera Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site founded in 778. Kiyomizu means pure water and was given the name because of the Otowa Waterfall within the grounds. Read more

Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto

November 21, 2022/in Best of Japan/by Becki Benedict

Fushimi Inari Taisha is one of the oldest shrines in Kyoto, founded in 711 AD. Read more

5 Hyperdia Alternatives for a Japan Train Travel App

November 11, 2022/in Practical Tips/by Becki Benedict

To everyone’s surprise, Hyperdia discontinued its timetable and route searches on April 1, 2022. This was a complete shock because Hyperdia had been the leading Japan train travel app and website since the early 2000s. Read more

Ryoanji Temple in Kyoto

November 6, 2022/in Best of Japan/by Becki Benedict

Ryoanji Temple is a Zen Buddhist temple founded in 1450. It contains one of the best examples of a dry landscape garden. Read more

Do I Need a Japan Travel SIM Card?

October 28, 2022/in Practical Tips/by Shawn Weldon

What is a Japan travel SIM card, and why would you need one? For those of you that travel around the world with an unlocked phone, you’re probably used to picking up a SIM card soon after landing. Japan is no different, right? Well, kind of…

Kinkakuji Temple in Kyoto

September 3, 2022/in Best of Japan/by Becki Benedict

Kinkakuji Temple in Kyoto is the site of the Golden Pavilion, formerly called Rokuonji. The top two floors are completely covered in gold foil. Read more

7 Travel Necessities for Japan: What You Need to Pack for Your Trip

August 8, 2022/in Practical Tips/by Shawn Weldon

Packing for Japan can sometimes feel a bit overwhelming. So to help you out, we’ve put together a list of 7 travel necessities for Japan. We hope this travel tip will help you make a packing list of what to pack and give you an idea of what things not to bring to Japan.

Best Backpack for Japan Travel

June 10, 2022/in Practical Tips/by Shawn Weldon

The best backpack for Japan travel is 30 liters, or smaller, and waterproof. The style and brand are not that important. Instead, I suggest focusing on comfort and practicality.