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Browse every Japan Wander Bites travel story, sorted by region and theme.

7 articles

Kyoto +1How to Spend Obon in Kyoto: Gozan Okuribi, Rokusai Nenbutsu, and Traditional EventsI explored Kyoto's traditional Obon events in 2026—from Shimogamo Shrine's Yatori Shinji to Kiyomizu Temple's Sennichi Mairi, Rokusai Nenbutsu, Todai-ji Temple's Manto Kuyo-e in Nara, Gozan Okuribi, and Daikaku-ji Temple's Yoi Kobo—with schedules, viewing spots, arrival times, and wait time tips.Aug 202615 daysCulture & HistoryCity Walk

OkinawaMiyakojima in Three Days: Miyako Blue Seas and a Tour of the BeachesTwo nights and three days on Miyakojima — three days of soaking up Miyako Blue. From 17END to Yonaha Maehama and Higashi-Hennazaki, I toured the beaches, and at Aragusuku Beach I snorkeled straight from the shore and met sea turtles. I've also rounded up the places I stopped to eat, including Attakaya and Pani Pani.Jul 20263 daysScenic ViewsGourmet +2

NaganoKamikochi: A Half-Day Summer Hiking TripA half-day hiking report from Kamikochi in Nagano — often called "the Swiss Alps of Japan." I took an overnight bus from Shibuya, then walked from Kappa-bashi Bridge to Myojin Pond, Tashiro Pond, and Taisho Pond before noon — with mist-shrouded landscapes, bear precautions, and a real timetable.Aug 20251 dayScenic ViewsNature & Hiking +1

Ishikawa +1Winter Workation in Ishikawa: Shirakawa-go, Noto Peninsula, and Kaga OnsenA journey to the fantastical gassho-zukuri village of Shirakawa-go and the Noto Peninsula, including Wakura Onsen's Kagaya ryokan, Notojima Aquarium, and the Notojima Glass Art Museum. Access from Kanazawa and reflections on each stay included.Jan 202310 daysWorkationScenic Views +3

Ishikawa10-Day Winter Workation in Kanazawa: Sightseeing & Culinary GuideA 10-day winter workation in Kanazawa. From Kanazawa Castle's defensive features and Kenrokuen's snow-covered pines to fresh seafood at Omicho Market and Kanazawa oden, a complete guide to the city's sights and best restaurants.Jan 202310 daysGourmetWorkation +3

AomoriOirase・Lake Towada (Aomori Prefecture) 2 nights 3 days - Solo trip to fully enjoy the lush greenery - JuneA solo journey through Oirase's fresh green beech forests in June, an unexpected gorgonzola chawanmushi in Hachinohe, and the thrill of watching scenery unfold from the bus window over three unforgettable days.Jun 20233 daysScenic ViewsNature & Hiking +3

Travel notes

Essays where the words matter more than the photos.

Aug 11, 2025What It Means to TravelThe ¥5 billion spent restoring Kanazawa Castle matched my service's ad budget exactly. That shock sparked my journey across Japan to uncover hidden gems. I also share the secrets behind Shirakawa-go's gassho-zukuri houses.