Nakasendo Trail Travel Guide

Woodland birds call to one another as you ascend the mountain trail – flat stones like cobblestones in the rich earth. Trees that appear too narrow to uphold their own great height mingle with verdant green undergrowth. This is just one of the peaceful scenes that the Nakasendo Trail has to offer. Other portions pass alongside the fields and homes of local residents, intersecting with modern roads. Each end of the trail is capped with a charming historic village. Use this handy travel guide to begin planning your adventure today.

Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and district in Kyoto: Travel guide

Located at the foot of the “Storm Mountains” in the north of the city of Kyoto, this world-famous, seemingly endless forest of swaying bamboo boughs is perfect for a relaxing retreat to nature during a stay in Japan. The Arashiyama bamboo grove is open 24/7 and admission is free. The surrounding Arashiyama district, known for unique fishing methods which involve using trained cormorant birds, is also well worth a visit.

Visiting the Izu Peninsula with the Izu Craile Train

Natural hot springs, beaches, mountains, and scenic coasts. This is just a taste of what the Izu Peninsula has to offer. Located conveniently near Tokyo and the Mount Fuji area, this resort area is the perfect getaway during your next trip to Japan. Start planning your vacation today using this helpful guide.

The 10 best onsen and onsen towns in Japan

No trip to Japan is complete without a relaxing dip in an onsen. What is an onsen? Onsen are natural hot springs, fueled by volcanic activity, as well as the resort atmosphere that has emerged around many such springs. Japan offers around 2,300 onsen to choose from, many of them included in ryokan (traditional inns). We’ve compiled a list of ten of the best onsen in Japan. No matter what region you’re traveling to, you’ll be able to unwind. Reaching the onsen is simple and affordable when you use Japan Railways and the Japan Rail Pass.

Visiting the snow monkeys of Jigokudani Monkey Park

For decades, nature lovers have reveled in documentaries featuring snow monkeys that warm themselves in natural hot springs. Did you know that you can view these unique creatures in person? You can at the Jigokudani Monkey Park. The park’s monkeys are Japanese macaques, which live in large social groups. They have become accustomed to human visitors, and so their playful antics can be observed as they interact with one another. The phenomenon of the bathing monkeys occurs nowhere else in the world.

How much does it cost to go to Japan? Traveling on a budget

If you’ve ever thought of traveling to Japan, you’ve probably heard the myth that it is one of the most expensive destinations in the world. Certainly, Japan travel can rack up a big bill – international flights, luxury trains, and Kobe beef may come to mind. However, you can see Japan on the cheap if you put your mind to it, and if you are willing to do your homework in advance.