JAPAN

Gunma

Hiking Mt Akagi: My Short but Steep Climb to Mt Kurobi

I hiked Mt Kurobi, the highest peak of Mt Akagi, in about three hours. Here's what the steep climb, descent and mountain views were actually like.
Gifu

Is Takayama Jinya Worth Visiting? What I Found Inside

Is Takayama Jinya worth visiting? I went inside this former Edo-period government office and found it much more interesting than I expected.
Gifu

Can You Explore Takayama on Foot? My Experience Without a Car

Do you need a car in Takayama? After spending three months getting around on foot, here's where you can walk and when I'd use a bus instead.
Gifu

Takayama in Winter: What It’s Actually Like

What is Takayama like in winter? After spending almost three months there, here's what I found about snow, cold weather, clothing and winter sightseeing.
Gifu

Takayama Travel Guide: What to See, Eat & Know Before You Go

Planning a trip to Takayama? After living there for three months, here's what I'd see, eat and know about this quiet mountain town in Gifu.
JAPAN

Complete Hakone Travel Guide: What to See, Where to Stay & How to Get Around

Planning a Hakone trip? My guide covers what to see, where to stay, how many days you need, transport, food and practical tips from my own visits.
JAPAN

Hakone for First-Time Visitors: What I’d Do on My First Trip

Visiting Hakone for the first time? Here’s what I’d prioritise, where I’d stay, what I’d eat and the mistakes I’d avoid after exploring Hakone myself.
JAPAN

Owakudani Guide: Is It Worth Visiting? What I Actually Thought

Is Owakudani worth visiting in Hakone? My experience of the volcanic scenery, black eggs, crowds, food and how long you actually need there.
JAPAN

Is Gora a Good Place to Stay in Hakone? What It’s Actually Like

Is Gora a good place to stay in Hakone? My experience of its steep hills, quiet nights, limited dining and easy access to Owakudani.
JAPAN

Hakone Sekisho & Hakone Hachiri: Why This Mountain Pass Mattered in Edo Japan

Why was Hakone so important in the Edo period? Discover Hakone Sekisho, Hakone Hachiri and what I found while walking around Lake Ashi.