Wifi (at least free Wifi), can be very difficult to find in Japan. Many of our customers will often ask why there are no, or very few, Wifi hotspots available at hotels and cafes in Japan. They mention that in their countries, many places offer free Wifi for guests. Often it is completely open, or...Read More
At first glance, “Jiro Dreams of Sushi” is a foodie’s dream. A documentary made by David Gelb, it tells the story of 85 year-old Jiro Ono, generally considered to be one of the best, if not the best sushi chef in the world. The Japanese government has designated him as a Living National Treasure. His...Read More
After traveling around Japan for all these years, I have come to really enjoy and appreciate the Japanese style baths. It is truly relaxing, and part of the Japanese experience that shouldn’t be missed. Bathing is an important part of Japanese life and culture. And one of the best places to experience bathing in Japan...Read More
The 1953 film “Tokyo Story” (東京物語 or Tokyo monogatari) by Yasujiro Ozu was selected as “the greatest film ever made” in a poll of movie directors conducted once a decade by the British Film Institute. The organization’s monthly publication, Sight and Sound, reported that Ozu’s masterpiece was the top choice of 358 film directors, including...Read More
There is little doubt that Himeji Castle is the best castle to visit in Japan About three years ago, the renovation of Himeji Castle was announced in order to preserve the castle for future generations, and to pass on the old methods to the future generations for whenever the next renovation will be needed. The...Read More
The late Edo Period and early Meiji Period (approximately 1855 to 1875) was a very chaotic time in Japan and Kyoto. In 1854, the Tokugawa Shogunate was accused by fuedal lords around Japan of caving in to demands from Commodore Perry to open the harbors to American whaling ships. This was seen as an act...Read More
One of the biggest misconceptions about Japan we run into commonly is the idea that food in Japan is very expensive. While some things such as fruit are much more expensive (but usually much better), there are many things that are not. And there are many things you can do to save money dining out...Read More
Today was our free day in Kyoto. I have to be honest, I just came down with a nasty cold, so I spent most of the day relaxing in our room. However, in our itineraries, we provide lots of information of fun things you can do with your free time. Tonight, we had our sayonara...Read More
Today was also a busy, packed schedule of wonderful sites to see. First thing in the morning after breakfast, we all headed toward Fushimi to see the Inari Shrine. It was a very large place, with lots of color (mostly orange). There seemed to be noticeably more attendants at this particular shrine, as well as...Read More
Today was a very fun-filled and packed day! We started the day at the Ryoan-ji, which is known for their rock garden. In this particular garden, there are 15 rocks in raked sand. When sitting on the deck, only 14 rocks can be seen at one time. You can try to move and see the...Read More
