Climbing into the Pyrenees from Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port, the first stretch to Orisson was a humid, unrelenting ascent. But beyond the mist, sunlight broke through, revealing green pastures dotted with cows, horses, sheep, and even a few wandering pigs. Their quiet presence and the distant sound of bells made the climb feel almost timeless — a gentle reminder of the rhythm of mountain life.

My Camino Francés journey began under grey skies in Paris and a rain-soaked Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port. Amid excitement and nerves, I collected my pilgrim passport, met fellow travellers, and embraced the sense of community that makes the Camino truly unforgettable.

Practical preparation and packing lists for the Camino pilgrimages. Includes clothing, gear, documentation, and tips to travel light while staying comfortable.

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.

A folklore-inspired sightseeing train with coastal views, themed interiors, and regional cuisine, Ibusuki no Tamatebako offers one of Kagoshima’s most memorable rail experiences.

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.

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.

A day in Kan’onji revealed more than I expected—sweeping views of the Zenigata Sunae, the ancient Kotohiki Shrine, and the rare pairing of Jinnein and Kannonji Temples sharing one sacred space.