A quiet winter visit to Iwamura Castle Ruins, one of Japan’s Three Great Mountain Castles, where ancient stone walls crown a 717-metre summit. A peaceful, history-filled walk through one of Gifu’s most beautifully preserved castle towns.

A short walk from the train station leads to Kiyosu Castle—a photogenic fortress once tied to Oda Nobunaga. Between the lantern-lined bridge, quiet museum, and stunning top-floor views, this small but historic site makes a perfect half-day trip from Nagoya.

I hiked up Mount Kinka via the Meisou no Komichi Trail to reach Gifu Castle, a mountaintop fortress once home to Oda Nobunaga. The 2.3 km trail was steep but scenic, winding through forest and rewarding me with sweeping views of Gifu City and the Nagara River from the summit.

Perched high above the town of Asago, Takeda Castle lives up to its nickname—the “castle floating in the sky.” Though winter closures meant a tougher climb and snow-covered ruins, the sweeping views and quiet atmosphere made the visit unforgettable.

I made a quick stop in Himeji to finally visit Engyoji Temple on Mount Shosha, a Buddhist site I’d always wanted to see. Instead of taking the ropeway, I hiked up through a quiet forest trail lined with fallen leaves and serene viewpoints. The temple’s scale and beauty were incredible—one of the most memorable places I’ve visited in Japan.

A quiet day exploring Tosashimizu’s coastal beauty—from underwater aquariums to windswept rock formations—before heading toward Kochi City.

A quiet coastal journey to the edge of Shikoku—walking from Cape Uno to Cape Ashizuri and visiting Kongōfukuji Temple. Between heart-shaped sea arches, ocean legends, and sweeping views of the Pacific, this section of the Shikoku Henro feels like the spiritual end of the world.

A quiet hike through Yakushidani Ravine near Uwajima—once a popular summer spot, now a peaceful trail lined with moss, waterfalls, and forest stillness.

A day in Takamori blended spirituality and pop culture. From visiting the mystical Kamishikimi Kumanoimasu Shrine and its legendary cave to spotting One Piece statues, riding an anime-themed train, and exploring Yasui Tunnel Park’s festive displays, this Kumamoto adventure was full of surprises.

A day trip to Cape Sata, Japan’s southernmost point, turned into a beautiful coastal drive through Kagoshima’s quiet countryside. From the dramatic cliffs of Cape Sata to the emerald waters of Ogawa Waterfalls and the sunset at Kihoku Observatory, each stop offered a glimpse of Kyushu’s natural beauty and local charm.

Experience the beauty of Mt. Karakuni and Ebino Plateau in southern Kyushu. Trek to the summit, explore Lake Onami, and enjoy stunning volcanic landscapes in Miyazaki Prefecture.

A spontaneous visit to Sakurajima turned into a peaceful morning of volcanic views, lazy cats, and quiet footbaths. This easy trail on one of Japan’s most active volcanoes offers the perfect mix of nature, culture, and calm.

Traveling overnight from Osaka to Shibushi, the MOL Sunflower Ferry offered private cabins, an onboard onsen, and quiet lounges. Compared to the train, it was cheaper and included accommodation, making it a surprisingly comfortable and scenic way to reach Kyushu.

Discover how I completed both the Camino de Santiago and the Kumano Kodo to earn the Dual Pilgrim certification. From choosing which pilgrimage to start with, to walking the Camino Francés and the Nakahechi route in Japan, I share my experience, timing, and tips—including why doing the Camino first lets you take part in the Taiko Drum Ceremony at Kumano Hongu Taisha.

A complete overview of overnight stays and daily costs on the Kumano Kodo trail. Learn about ryokans, minshukus, and local guesthouses, along with meal and transport expenses.

Complete the Nakahechi pilgrimage with a bus ride to Shingu, visit Hayatama Taisha, witness local tuna markets, and collect your final stamp.

Challenge yourself on the toughest Nakahechi day from Koguchi to Nachi Taisha, navigating steep ascents, mossy paths, and sacred shrines.

Hike from Ukegawa to Koguchi along well-maintained Nakahechi paths, climb scenic peaks, and enjoy a private ryokan stay.

Take a rest day exploring Yunomine Onsen and hiking shorter Nakahechi trails (Dainichi-goe & Akagi-goe), soaking in hot springs along the way.

Embark on the longest Nakahechi day from Chikatsuyu to Hongu Taisha, passing scenic fall-colored forests and receiving the Dual Pilgrim Certificate.