Is Shirakawa-Go Worth Visiting in 2025?
In the heart of Japan’s mountainous Gifu Prefecture lies Shirakawa-go. Famous for its traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers a serene escape from Japan’s bustling cities.
Simose Art Garden Villa: Where Art, Nature, and Architecture Converge
Winding pathways, contemporary art installations, and sweeping views of the Seto Inland Sea – Simose Art Garden Villa is a designer’s paradise just an hour outside Hiroshima.
A Stay at Hoshinoya Karuizawa: A Tranquil Retreat in Nature
Nestled in a secluded valley, Hoshinoya Karuizawa is more than just a luxury resort—it’s an immersive experience in nature, wellness, and refined Japanese hospitality.
Family-Friendly Destinations for Design-Loving Parents
Japan offers a wealth of destinations where art, architecture, and nature come together–for design-loving families, here are some of the best spots in Japan to experience art and architecture with the whole family.
Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto: A Serene Hilltop Retreat
Perched high above Kyoto’s historic Higashiyama district, Banyan Tree Higashiyama Kyoto is an architectural masterpiece that redefines luxury in the ancient capital.
How to Spend 72 Hours in Kusatsu Onsen
One of Japan’s most celebrated hot spring towns, Kusatsu Onsen has drawn visitors for centuries. Once a retreat for samurai and scholars, today it remains a place where tradition thrives—steaming bathhouses, wooden ryokan, and time-honoured bathing rituals are all part of daily life.
Azumi Setoda: A Contemporary Ryokan Rooted in Tradition
Set along the shores of the Seto Inland Sea, Azumi Setoda redefines the ryokan experience by blending contemporary elegance with centuries-old traditions.
What to Look for When Booking Your Accommodation
Unique hotels with a deep sense of place and culture can become as memorable than the journey itself. Here’s what I discovered after staying in 57 hotels last year.
How to Spend 24 hours on Miyajima Island, Japan
Just a short ferry ride from Hiroshima, Miyajima offers a slower, more serene pace of life. The island is most famous for its ‘floating’ red torii gate and the UNESCO World Heritage site of Itsukushima Shrine.
How to Spend a Day in Tomigaya, Tokyo
Tucked away just west of Shibuya, Tomigaya feels worlds away from the chaotic nature of Tokyo. This is a place where creativity and design thrive behind understated facades; a neighbourhood that has excellent coffee, thoughtfully designed shops, and polished dining.
Traditional Craft Experiences You Can Book Right Now
One of the best ways to understand Japan on a deeper level is through it’s strong connection to crafts. Here are a few traditional Japanese craft experiences you can book right now.
The Magical World of The Site of Reversible Destiny
Abstract architecture, pristine nature, and undulating landscapes surrounded by mountains. The Site of Reversible Destiny in Gifu is unlike any park in Japan.
A Private Island Hot Spring Hotel: Kumano Bettei Nakanoshima
From its secluded surroundings to its famed outdoor onsen, Kumano Bettei Nakanoshima is the ideal retreat for weary travellers. Here’s what to expect at this private island hot spring hotel.
Lessons Learned: How Living in Japan Changed My Perspective
Five years ago, I made the life-changing decision to pack up my life in the UK and move to Japan. From navigating a new culture and language to building a career as a photographer and travel writer, these are the lessons I’ve learned.
Craft Stories: Learn the Way of the Samurai in Kanazawa
Well-preserved architecture, stunning gardens, and historically significant. Kanazawa invites travellers to explore its legacy and discover the craftsmanship behind one of Japan’s most revered crafts.
Luxury Meets History: A Stay at Tachibana Ohana, Fukuoka
Japan offers a diverse range of hotels to accommodate every kind of traveller. Those venturing to Fukuoka will find a luxurious experience intertwined with historical roots at Tachibana Ohana.
Download Your FREE Tokyo Neighbourhoods eBook
Kickstart your Tokyo travel plans with my latest snapshot guide, featuring 10 of my favourite Tokyo Neighbourhoods. I’ll take you to some of my favourite hidden corners and offer a more thoughtful, slower way to appreciate Tokyo, away from the usual tourist traps.