Destinations
Kyoto Travel Guide-Complete Guide to Visiting Kyoto, Japan
Welcome to a place where tradition and modernity dance harmoniously amidst enchanting cherry blossoms and ancient temples. Kyoto, Japan, is…
Japan Travel Guides
Ancient temples, mountain villages, and the art of traveling slow
Japan taught me what it really means to slow down — from the meditative calm of Koyasan’s temple stays to the backstreet izakayas of Osaka and the thatched-roof villages of Shirakawago. These guides cover the big cities and the rural heartland alike, with practical tips on rail passes, seasonal timing, and the experiences that made Japan unforgettable.
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The classic route
I spent a month exploring Japan, from the country’s most famous cities to some of its quieter mountain towns. While Kyoto, Osaka and Nara are must-visits for a first trip, it was getting beyond the typical tourist route that made me fall in love with Japan.
- Kyoto — everything you need to know about the city’s temples, historic districts and the best way to experience them.
- Osaka and Nara — whether you’re planning to stay overnight or visit on a day trip from Kyoto.
- Koyasan — a peaceful mountain temple town that’s well worth spending the night in rather than rushing through as a day trip.
The Japanese Alps
The Japanese Alps ended up being my favourite part of Japan. If you have the time, this region offers a completely different side of the country, with traditional towns, mountain scenery, relaxing onsen towns and some of Japan’s best hiking.
- The Japanese Alps — everything you need to know about visiting the region, including Kamikochi, scenic mountain towns and unforgettable onsen stays.
- Takayama and Shirakawa-go — two of the Alps’ most popular destinations, known for their beautifully preserved streets and historic villages.
Planning your trip
If you’re visiting Japan for the first time, start with my Ultimate Japan travel guide, which covers everything from transport and rail passes to local etiquette and planning your itinerary. You can also browse my guide to the best places to visit in Japan for destination ideas, or dive into the Japan digital nomad guide if you’re planning a longer stay.