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.

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.

A hike to Japan’s only surviving mountaintop castle, Bitchu-Matsuyama in Okayama, offered more than history—it brought misty mountain views, quiet castle town streets, and a meeting with Sanjuro, the resident “Cat Lord.”

A quiet countryside walk, a steep forest climb, and 270 stone steps lead to the Sky View Torii Gate of Takaya Shrine—an unforgettable mountaintop view overlooking Kanonji and the Seto Inland Sea.

The Shikoku Tosa Toki no Yoake no Monogatari is one of Japan’s luxurious sightseeing trains, blending history, scenery, and hospitality. With themed cars, scenic stops at Awa and Susaki, local performances, and regional snacks, this journey from Kochi to Kubokawa felt both cultural and unforgettable.

The Ai Yoshinogawa Trolley Train offers open-air views of Tokushima’s rivers, mountains, and countryside. With onboard commentary, a student welcome at Sadamitsu, and a delicious Awaodori chicken bento, this charming two-and-a-half-hour ride to Awa-Ikeda is a unique way to experience rural Shikoku.

Naruto, Shikoku, is famous for its dramatic whirlpools in the Naruto Strait. Visit the Uzu-no-Michi Walkway, take a sightseeing boat, explore Naruto Park, and enjoy local cuisine while discovering this scenic and cultural hotspot.

Hiraizumi is a small town rich in history, offering stunning temples and gardens. Highlights include Chusonji Temple’s Konjikido Hall, Takkoku-no-Iwaya Bishamondo carved into cliffs, and Motsuji Temple’s serene Pure Land garden—perfect for history and culture lovers.

Geibikei Gorge in Iwate offers a tranquil escape with dramatic cliffs, calm waters, and traditional boat tours. Enjoy the natural scenery, toss “lucky stones,” and experience a centuries-old connection to Japan’s rivers and folklore.

Togakushi Shrine in Nagano is a sacred complex of five shrines linked by forest trails and ancient mythology. I hiked from the upper to lower shrines, passing towering cedars, quiet lakes, and centuries-old temples along the way. Between the legends of Amaterasu and encounters with kind locals, it became one of my most memorable hikes in Japan.

Bessho Onsen in Nagano offers a perfect mix of history, culture, and relaxation. Wander among centuries-old temples, admire the rare octagonal pagoda at Anrakuji, stroll past the thatched-roof Jorakuji, and soak your feet in a riverside foot bath while taking in the peaceful autumn scenery.

A quiet hillside filled with over 200 hand-carved tombs, Yoshimi Hyakuana offers a glimpse into Japan’s ancient Kofun Period and its wartime past. Peaceful, eerie, and far from the tourist crowds, it’s one of the country’s most overlooked historic sites.

Chureito Pagoda, perched on Mount Arakura, offers one of the most photographed views of Mount Fuji. Climb 398 steps from Arakura Sengen Shrine to the five-story pagoda and enjoy seasonal beauty, from cherry blossoms in spring to autumn foliage. A short walk from Shimoyoshida Station makes it an easy, unforgettable excursion.

A detailed look at my 28-day Australia July 2023 trip, including itinerary, accommodations, expenses, and travel tips. Covers Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, and Cairns with realistic cost breakdowns for mid- to high-range travelers.

A serene after-hours visit to the Cairns Aquarium, complete with a guided Twilight Tour through quiet galleries and nocturnal displays. Smaller groups, hands-on learning, and the chance to see marine life more active at night made this experience both educational and memorable.

A full-day adventure through the ancient Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation, featuring a crocodile-filled river cruise, guided rainforest walks, coastal views, freshwater swimming holes, and tropical fruit ice cream. An unforgettable journey into one of Australia’s most unique ecosystems.

A scenic journey through Queensland’s ancient rainforest aboard the Kuranda Scenic Railway, paired with a peaceful Skyrail ride back down to Cairns. Even with rainy weather, the day offered charming heritage carriages, views of Barron Falls, a relaxed wander through Kuranda Village, and a misty walk among the treetops at Red Peak.

A full day exploring the Great Barrier Reef from Cairns, complete with snorkelling, marine biology insights, and a delicious onboard BBQ. Rough waves and a cancelled helicopter tour couldn’t take away from the unforgettable experience of swimming above colourful coral gardens and spotting sea turtles on the journey back.

A relaxing stroll along the Cairns Esplanade, from wildlife sightings and scenic boardwalks to the vibrant night markets and evening fireworks. This easy waterfront walk offers the perfect introduction to Cairns for first-time visitors, combining nature, culture, and leisurely sightseeing.