A quiet day in Hualien after plans to visit Taroko Gorge were cancelled. With storms in the forecast, I wandered along the coast, found art-filled streets, and embraced a slower pace amidst the lingering signs of nature’s power.

A short, accessible hike up Mount Jiantan offers scenic city views, a playful airplane observation deck, and glimpses of Taipei landmarks like Taipei 101 and The Grand Hotel. Ideal for nature and city enthusiasts alike.

A humid, overcast hike up Mount Xiangshan (Elephant Mountain) offers glimpses of Taipei 101 and sweeping city views. Navigate mossy stairs, enjoy the fresh mountain air, and take in the urban landscape from one of Taipei’s most popular trails.

A rainy day in Shifen reveals a charming mix of tradition and nature. Watch sky lanterns float above the old street, stroll mossy paths to Shifen Waterfall, and explore a historic town in Taiwan’s Pingxi District—a memorable stop just outside Taipei.

A rainy day at Houtong Cat Village reveals a peaceful mix of history and feline fun. Wander streets filled with cats, visit cat-themed cafés, and glimpse the town’s coal mining past—a playful and charming stop on Taiwan’s northeast coast.

A rainy day on Taiwan’s northern coast turns into an adventure. Discover Yehliu Geopark’s iconic rock formations, enjoy quieter trails toward the lighthouse, and wander Jinshan Old Street before tasting local crab congee—a day full of scenery, history, and flavour.

A rainy day in Jiufen turns into a cultural adventure. Walk the quiet old streets, taste local street food, explore the Gold Museum, and climb moss-covered shrine steps with glimpses of Teapot Mountain—a day rich in history, flavour, and atmosphere.

Flying ANA First Class on the Boeing 777-300ER from Tokyo to Chicago was one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences I’ll never forget. From the calm of the ANA Suite Lounge to the incredibly spacious seat, personalised service, and exceptional in-flight dining, everything felt thoughtful and quietly luxurious. It was the kind of flight that makes you appreciate every minute in the air.

Hike Mt. Tomi in Chiba to explore the sacred Fusehime Rouketsu cave, scramble rugged trails, and enjoy panoramic views from the summit platform. A rewarding adventure for hikers seeking history, culture, and nature.

Hike Mt. Nokogiri in Chiba to explore a historic quarry, climb the Sharikimichi trail once used by women hauling stone, and discover the massive Buddha and Kannon carvings at Nihon-ji Temple. Stunning views of Tokyo Bay and the unique blend of nature and history make this a must-visit hike.

Hike through sacred forests to Oiwa Shrine and Mt. Oiwa in Ibaraki Prefecture, enjoying ancient trees, panoramic views of the Hitachi Alps, and a glimpse into one of Japan’s oldest Shinto sites.

Experience the frozen beauty of Fukuroda Falls in Ibaraki, Japan, and hike to the summit of Mt. Tsukiore for panoramic views. This winter adventure offers icy cascades, forested trails, and a glimpse of castle ruins, making it a unique and scenic escape.

Experience Mount Omuro, a perfectly conical dormant volcano on the Izu Peninsula. Take the chairlift to the summit for breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji, the Izu Seven Islands, and Sagami Bay. A short visit makes it ideal to combine with nearby attractions.

Explore the Kawazu Seven Waterfalls on Shizuoka’s Izu Peninsula, a short, shaded trail linking seven scenic cascades. Easy paths, lush greenery, and quick access from Kawazu Station make this an ideal stop for a half-day adventure.

Hike the Jogasaki Coast for dramatic cliffs, suspension bridges, and sweeping Pacific views. Trails are well-marked and accessible, with quieter stretches offering breathtaking scenery and centuries-old temples along the way.

Mount Yokoyama is an easy hike in Shima, Japan, offering stunning views of Ago Bay’s islands and coastline. With a visitor centre, multiple viewpoints, and peaceful trails, it’s ideal for a scenic half-day excursion.

An easy yet rewarding hike up Mt. Asamagatake offers panoramic views of the Ise-Shima islands, a temple midway along the trail, and a peaceful mountaintop with teahouses and a foot bath. Perfect for travellers seeking a mix of nature, culture, and coastal scenery.

A journey through Yoshino’s temples, shrines, and sacred peaks. From Kinpusenji’s towering wooden hall to the Sky Gate of Kinpu Shrine, this hike offers a glimpse of Nara’s spiritual heart—magnificent even without the cherry blossoms.

A spontaneous decision led me from Tsubosaka-dera Temple to the mountaintop ruins of Takatori Castle—one of Japan’s Three Great Mountain Castles. The hike offered centuries of history, quiet forest paths, and sweeping views that made this unplanned detour a highlight of my Nara trip.

Riding the Kitaro Train from Yonago to Sakaiminato turns a simple regional journey into a whimsical experience, complete with yokai-themed interiors, character announcements, and manga-inspired station stops along the JR Sakai Line.