In the West, illuminations during winter are usually associated with Christmas and traditional holiday celebrations. In Japan, however, Christmas is mostly commercial rather than religious or traditional, and illuminations are celebrated as a way to brighten the long winter nights, create festive experiences, and offer romantic […]
Kyoto is one of Japan’s most visited cities and for good reason. Its carefully preserved traditions, historical landmarks, and beautiful scenery make it a great place to experience various aspects of Japanese culture. Whilst the summers are hot and humid, the cooler autumn season in Kansai […]
Known worldwide for its high-quality matcha and deep cultural roots, Uji in Kyoto provides the perfect backdrop for Incense Kitchen's unique craft. At Incense Kitchen, Kyoko Goto-san transforms unused matcha tea into KOTOHA incense, blending sustainability with tradition in a truly innovative way. Guests can even […]
This is it! Autumn is finally in full swing, there’s a slight chill in the air, and the leaves are turning beautiful reds and oranges. Quieter than spring and cooler than summer, autumn is one of the best times to travel to and around Japan, with […]
Kyoto is well known for holding lots of festivals and events in the summertime, with the Gion Matsuri lasting the whole month of July, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing to do when the summer heat eventually starts to die down. As Kyoto’s landscapes turn from […]
Hotel SOWAKA Gion in Kyoto is the perfect getaway for those seeking the luxury of a traditional Japanese Ryokan with modern comforts. Located in the historic area of Gion, Hotel SOWAKA represents the best of life in Japan; an effortless blend between traditional craftsmanship and modern […]
Just 2 hours from Kyoto and 3 hours from Osaka, you can find the breathtaking northern Kyoto Sea region. This serene area is home to a collection of picturesque cities, including Ayabe, Fukuchiyama, Ine, Kyotango, Maizuru, Miyazu, and Yosano. Kyoto by the Sea helps tourists find […]
What’s a summer in Kyoto without fireworks and flea market bargaining? With some art exhibitions thrown into the mix, Kyoto’s event calendar this August is chock-full of activities that will keep you happily busy. Without any further ado, let’s get to exploring all the excitement that […]
Let me just say, as a Kyotoite myself, I’ve stayed at quite a few hotels here. But it always felt like I was just staying there to sleep, take a bath, and store my luggage. That’s it. My recent stay at the Hotel Seiryu Kyoto Kiyomizu, […]
Looking for a summer experience that blends tradition, celebration, and unforgettable sights? Well, the Gion Festival might be exactly what you’re looking for. Every July, the city of Kyoto transforms into a vibrant stage for one of Japan’s most famous and beloved celebrations, the Gion Matsuri! […]
