For those of you who have traveled to Japan before, you might have noticed that each region has local food products that they are famous for. Domestic and international tourists alike will sometimes travel to a specific region just to sample a scrumptious specialty. When traveling around the island of Kyushu there are many wonderful sites including onsen, volcanoes and country scenery, in-between enjoying site-seeing […]

April 2020 Beth, Food, Kyushu, Self-drive

  Recently, I spent a day in Beppu, in Oita prefecture, Kyushu, and I loved it so much, I had to write about it! Beppu Onsen, as the name suggests, is well known for being one of the largest onsen towns in Japan! The hot spring water of hundreds of public baths is sourced from eight different springs! The eight springs are named Beppu Onsen, Kannawa […]

April 2020 Beppu, Carly, Kyushu, Onsen Hot Spring

  Japan is renowned for its tea and has had a proud tea tradition for the past 1500 years.  The country produces hundreds of unique varieties and grades of tea throughout its regions. Tea is considered the most commonly drunk beverage in Japan and it is integrated heavily in Japanese culture. It is often served with or at the end of the meal for free. It […]

March 2020 Culture, Food, Michelle, Travel tips

  Nagasaki Facts Nagasaki is a cute and historical port city on the northwest of Kyushu island. It takes about 2 ½ hours to get to Nagasaki from Fukuoka Station by JR Train.  Nagasaki has been a well-known tourist spot for domestic Japanese tourists. On the other hand, Nagasaki is still a hidden jewel among foreign tourists. It is worth it to take the time to […]

March 2020 Culture, Kyushu, Nagasaki, Parks, Tak

  When going on any trips anywhere, travel preparation can be a little stressful and overwhelming especially when it comes to packing. Things that you would need to consider when it comes to packing are things like the type of clothing items to bring, whether it will be suitable for the weather, essential items to personal items, travel guidance, medications and a few things to be […]

Jacquie, Travel tips

  Beyond Japan’s Golden Route Kyushu may be lower on travelers’ radar going to Japan, but this volcanic island abounds with century-old temples, natural hot-springs and gourmet treasures. It’s time to put it back on the map!   Accessing Kyushu Kyushu is the 3rd largest island of the Japanese archipelago and is located south of the main island of Honshu. It is extensively connected to the […]

Aude, Kyushu, transport

  Japan has a long tradition of different religious beliefs coexisting, and even merging, creating a unique spiritual landscape. During your trip, you will come across many temples and shrines. While it may all look similar to unfamiliar eyes, some basics will help you gain understanding and enjoy your travels further. What are the main differences between Shinto and Buddhism? Let’s take a look!   Shinto […]

Aude, Culture, History, Religion

NOTE: as of 2024 – the JR National Pass prices have changed, which may make it cheaper to purchase individual point-to-point train tickets, please look up the latest JR and Train ticket prices. (for the convenience, it may still be worth it to buy a pass where you can use unlimited JR transport; consider local JR passes too, not just the national pass.)   The Japanese […]

JR Pass, Tak, transport

NOTE: as of 2024 – the JR National Pass prices have changed, which may make it cheaper to purchase individual point-to-point train tickets, please look up the latest JR and Train ticket prices. (for the convenience, it may still be worth it to buy a pass where you can use unlimited JR transport; consider local JR passes too, not just the national pass.) Konnichiwa! (G’day in […]

Josh, JR Pass, Shinkansen Bullet Train, transport, Travel tips

    Japan is not a budget destination to many regards, and even a local like me easily agrees with that. When traveling with your family, spendings in Tokyo can add up quickly. Let me introduce to you 5 great parks in Tokyo for a lovely family time!   Ueno Park    Ueno Park is one of the oldest parks in Japan, and it was established […]

March 2020 Family, Nature, Park, Sakura Cherry Blossoms, Tak, Tokyo

  Every country has its own social rules of conduct that you would need to follow and what is considered acceptable might be unacceptable to others. In Japan, there are several customs and rules that is best to be aware of and avoid doing them when traveling around in another foreign country such as Japan. The things that you may do and behave while traveling in […]

Culture, Jacquie, Travel tips

    It is well known around the office that I don’t care for ramen. Sometimes I get asked how I can claim to love Japanese food when I am not a fan of what is arguably one of Japan’s most well known and loved noodle dishes. So I jumped at this chance to explain my position and perhaps convert others to my way of thinking.  […]

Beth, Culture, Food

    Tokyo is well known as a shopping paradise. With a large variety of shops and long opening hours, you have many hours of fun ahead. The plethora on offer can be overwhelming, and if you are not looking for the obvious, a little guidance is crucial. Let’s have a look at where to find great vintage shops in Harajuku!     Behind Harajuku: ‘Ura Hara’ […]

Kimono, Shopping, Tokyo

  If you’ve had a search for family rooms in Japan, you’re probably becoming more and more exasperated trying to find something that will suit all of your requirements. Before we get started, it’s important to understand a few cultural differences that will explain the headaches that you have been getting: Hotel Sizes Japanese hotel rooms are smaller than what we are used to in Australia. […]

accommodation, Family, Hotel, Onsen, Ryokan