Culture Shiratori Shrine Matthew Eynon Tucked away in the village of Nagara, a suburb of Tenri City, is a Shinto shrine named Shiratori that predates the Nara Perio...
Culture Chōgaku-ji Temple Matthew Eynon Located on the Yamanobe Path at the foot of Mt. Ryūō-zan in Yanagimoto-cho, Tenri City is the Chōgaku-ji Temple, reportedly b...
Culture Paths Less Traveled – Ryūō-zan Matthew Eynon The summit of Mt. Ryūō is difficult to reach, but well worth the hike. It is often billed as a Health Trail.
12 Culture Hakone's Wonderful Open-Air Museum Larry Knipfing If you've got half a day free and will be in the Hakone area, this open-air museum is a must-see. I recommend going early in ...
8 Culture Tokei-ji, the Divorce Temple Brian Wood-Koiwa A small peaceful temple nestled in the cool shaded hillside near Kita-Kamakura station. Enjoy a walk through the lush green f...
Food Best Little Soba Shop, Utsunomiya Stacy Kurokawa Looking for an affordable Japanese meal in Utsunomiya? Skip the heavily marketed, greasy gyoza and try something healthier wi...
Activities Ueno Zoo, Taito-ku Michael Kaplan Ueno Zoo, located within Ueno Park, covers over 14.3 hectares and is home to more than 2,600 animals.
Food Yururi Café Anonymous A cafe located at Yu no Tani Onsen. Diners have the option of seating inside the café, or at an outdoor foot bath! Enjoy Ital...
Accommodation Fujiya Ginzan Ryokan Clifford Bernstein The Fujiya Ginzan is a modern architectural accomplishment in a centuries old ryokan, breathing new life into a traditionally...
