Josh Kyushu is one of Japan’s best regions for combining train travel with hot springs. Some onsen towns make the experience especially easy by offering a foot bath or hand bath right at the railway station, so the relaxation can begin almost as soon as you step off the train. This guide focuses on three particularly … Read more
Sakura castle parks in Japan are especially memorable during cherry blossom season, and several of the best are surprisingly easy to reach by Shinkansen. The five places in this guide are particularly useful for train travellers because you can arrive by Shinkansen and continue to the castle on foot without needing a complicated bus connection. … Read more
ashiyu-in-tokyo-7-foot-bath-spots-to-soak-tired-feet-between-sights Tokyo is a city that can wear out your feet surprisingly quickly. Long station corridors, huge sightseeing areas, and hours of walking can add up fast — especially after several days of exploring. One very Japanese way to take a break is an ashiyu, or foot bath. You simply remove your shoes and socks, … Read more
If you are travelling through Hiroshima with children, Hotel Granvia Hiroshima South Gate is one of the most convenient places to stay in the city — especially if you are arriving by Shinkansen or planning a day trip to Miyajima. Opened in March 2025, the hotel sits directly above JR Hiroshima Station, so there is … Read more
The Furano Lavender Express is one of the easiest ways to travel directly from Sapporo to Furano during Hokkaido’s summer sightseeing season. Operated by JR Hokkaido, this seasonal limited express runs between Sapporo and Furano without requiring a transfer. In 2026, the journey takes about two hours, making it a practical option for a long … Read more
Looking for the best ekiben in Japan? One of the highlights of travelling by train is enjoying these regional boxed meals made especially for railway journeys. Ekiben are sold at major stations, inside station shopping areas, and sometimes on station platforms. Many feature local ingredients and regional specialties, so they are more than just a … Read more
You can save money when traveling in Japan without sacrificing the experiences that make the trip special. With a little planning, you can reduce the cost of trains, accommodation, meals, luggage, attractions and everyday purchases. The biggest savings usually come from making a few smart decisions before you travel — especially choosing the right rail … Read more
This Nara travel guide covers one of Japan’s most historically important cities and one of the easiest cultural day trips from Kyoto or Osaka. In 710, Japan’s capital was established at Heijokyo in present-day Nara. During the Nara period, Buddhism flourished and some of the country’s most important temples, sculptures, and religious traditions developed here. … Read more
Dotonbori is one of the places that immediately comes to mind when people picture Osaka: giant illuminated signs, crowded streets, takoyaki, restaurants, the canal, and the famous Glico running man overlooking Ebisubashi Bridge. Located in Osaka’s lively Minami district, Dotonbori is both a major sightseeing destination and one of the city’s best areas for eating, … Read more
Okayama is one of those Japanese cities that many international travelers pass through without ever leaving the station. Sitting on the Sanyo Shinkansen between Osaka and Hiroshima, it is often treated simply as a place to change trains. I think that is a mistake. Okayama combines one of Japan’s most celebrated landscape gardens, an impressive … Read more