Himeji, Osaka, and Nara each delivered a distinct slice of Japan, blending history, energy, and unexpected moments. Himeji Castle, widely considered Japan’s finest surviving feudal-era castle, was nothing short of breathtaking with its brilliant white façade and elegant tiers rising like a perfectly preserved relic of the samurai age. In Osaka, the pace shifted dramatically:…Continue reading Japan – Osaka & Himeji & Nara
Tag: Sushi
Japan – Fukuoka & Hiroshima & Miyajima
Fukuoka, Hiroshima, and Miyajima delivered a seamless blend of culture, cuisine, and unforgettable moments. In Fukuoka, we lucked into tickets for a sumo championship (an electric atmosphere made even more memorable by meeting some of the wrestlers), and visited Nanzoin Temple to stand before the world’s largest bronze reclining Buddha, an awe-inspiring figure tucked into…Continue reading Japan – Fukuoka & Hiroshima & Miyajima
Japan – Matsumoto & Takayama & Shirakawa & Kanazawa
The Japanese Alps offer enchanting mountain villages and scenic towns steeped in tradition. This week, we traveled through Matsumoto, Takayama, Shirakawa-go, and Kanazawa—places that felt like stepping into Japan’s living history. Here, ancient traditions and modern life blend seamlessly, with centuries-old customs, architecture, and cultural practices still woven into everyday routines. Matsumoto captivated us with…Continue reading Japan – Matsumoto & Takayama & Shirakawa & Kanazawa