If you’re anything like me, by the time spring rolls around you’ll be itching to get outside to pay homage to the return of the warmer weather. One of my favourite Japan holidays to date was one such outing. Hiking through the vast ancient forests that escaped the ravages of the Second World War in [...]
In April, when the snow has melted away, there is one place you can count on for a mountain of snow. The Northern Japanese alps are the steepest and considered by some to be the most beautiful in Japan. The Alpine Route, as its highest point, has an altitude of 2500 metres. The route can [...]
It’s about that time, eh folks! Feb 6th to 12th is Sapporo’s Snow Festival or Yuki Matsuri! We’ve all heard about it: amazing snow sculptures that tower over the crowds as the snow falls all around… it’s pretty impressive and a little magical. I hear what you are saying… “It’s such a long way to [...]
In a world not so far away lies Gero Onsen, a hot spring resort in the middle of Gifu Prefecture. It has been named one of the top three hot spring resorts since the Edo Period. As long as I have been in Japan, I had been wanting to head up to Gifu prefecture to [...]
Of all of the Momiji trips I have gone on, the place that impressed me the most has to be Koya-san, Wakayama. In mid-November, 2010, I joined the Wakayama JET contingent on a weekend tour of Mt Koya (aka Koya-san), the home of Shingon Buddhism which was introduced to Japan by Kobo Daishi in the early 800’s. [...]
Shirahama is situated in Wakayama-ken, a prefecture full of amazing coastlines, beaches, and onsens – the perfect summer getaway. Since it is a popular place to visit in summer, be prepared for crowds, or visit slightly off season. Shirahama beach is a beautiful ‘Australian’ white sand beach with palm frond shelters and clear, blue water. [...]
Tottori is situated on the Sea of Japan, with the Sendai River running through it. Japan’s largest sand dunes stretch 16 km along the coast of Tottori-ken, and they are the main sightseeing destination. I have visited Tottori City twice now – in spring and in winter. It was lovely in both seasons, but with [...]
Current Issue — May 2012
From the HT Photo Group
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Maigo in Hyogo – May ’12
What temple has the weary pilgrim found?Engrish Corner
Life After the B.O.E.
