Nara is one of the most historically important cities in Japan 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. Today, … 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
Hikone Castle is one of Japan’s best-preserved original castles and an excellent destination for travelers exploring the Kyoto, Lake Biwa, and Maibara area by train. Located in Shiga Prefecture on the eastern side of Lake Biwa, Hikone is easy to reach from Kyoto and makes a particularly convenient stop if you are traveling along the … Read more
Himeji Castle is one of Japan’s most impressive historic landmarks and one of the easiest major castles to visit by train. Located in Hyogo Prefecture between Osaka and Hiroshima, the castle is served by JR Himeji Station on the Sanyo Shinkansen. From the station, you can walk straight along Otemae-dori to the castle in about … Read more