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Fukuoka, Japan – Authentic & Lively

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Rupert Diggins
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Fukuoka Travel Blog Japan
Fukuoka Travel Blog Japan
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The Lively Fukuoka

Fukuoka in the west of Japan has been a source of much confusion and research since it was announced that it was going to be the venue of the England v Australia Rugby match that I was attending in October 2019. Pronunciation alone was going to be an issue!

The city is actually on Japan’s third largest island called Kyushu. An early settlement for Japanese civilization, Kyushu has many historic treasures, natural beauty and modern cities including Fukuoka.

Getting Around In Fukuoka

Both the city and the region have very easy access whether by air to Fukuoka International Airport, by sea to Hakata Port Terminal or as I chose by train to Hakata Station.

The city is perhaps most known for its shopping and food offerings yet it even has a seaside resort. It was time to get my walking shoes on and start exploring the city of Fukuoka for myself.

Fukuoka

Staying at a hotel called “The Lively” perhaps gave us an indication that Fukuoka was going to be party central.

If you are planning to stay in Fukuoka I would wholeheartedly recommend this charming, modern and well-appointed hotel which also has locations in Osaka and Tokyo.

The fabulous bar even had while we were there, a FREE beer hour. Now for some rugby lads on a tour that was always going to be a winner although I am not sure they realised just how attractive that was going to be as hoards of thirsty rugby fans converged on the bar!

The Lively Hotel, Fukuoka, Japan, Asia

Bus Tours

A great way to see Fukuoka is by bus.

The very popular open bus tour network is available to tourists but also used by the residents to transport them from all corners of the city.

When you purchase an open bus ticket you also get free access to the Nishitetsu buses which work the city centre routes.

Hakata Old Town

Formerly a thriving port the Hakata Old Town within the city of Fukuoka is home to many attractive and historical shrines and temples.

A popular gate to visit at the entrance to the temple part of the city is the Hakata Sennen-No Mon. Here you will find many cultural attractions to fascinate you as you tour the city.

The old town is also well known for its crafts including traditional Hakata Doll Painting. Then there are the arts and cultural centres including the Hakatamachiya Furusatokan, the Hakata Traditional Craft and Design Museum and the Hakata Traditional Performing Arts Centre.

Kawabata & Kushida

The most celebrated shrine in Fukuoka is the Kushida Shrine.

This is probably the easiest one to access from the end of the popular Kawabata Shopping Arcade.

Other shrines that you may be interested in are the Tochoji Temple and the Shofukuji Temple!

Fukuoka, Japan, Asia

Fukuoka Castle Ruins

The Fukuoka castle ruins are located in the heart of the city in Maizuru Park.

Sadly just a few walls and turrets remain so most visitors tend to spend more time walking and strolling around the park and pretty surroundings.

Ohori Park

The Ohori Park is a peaceful place where you will find many people out running or walking their pets.

The pond here actually used to be part of the moat that belonged to the neighbouring Fukuoka Castle.

Take a break and relax here alongside the lake watching giant koi carp and turtles.

Shopping by the Sea

Two popular parts of Fukuoka are Tenjin, a riverside area known for its high-quality shopping at the underground mall. It is also known for its abundance of tech companies with workers spilling out into the trendy cafes and bars at the end of their working day.

Also, the seaside Momochi area is the location for several key landmarks including the striking triangular Fukuoka Tower, the Fukuoka Museum and the Yahuoku Dome. There is also some great shopping and an artificial but very popular beach for those looking to relax and enjoy some seaside sports and activities.

Shopping Mall, Japan, Asia

Nakasu

Nakasu is the “amusement” district in Fukuoka. This red light district is packed with bars, restaurants and other entertainment.

Fukuoka’s open-air food stands are called Yatai and are possibly the city’s best-known symbol. They can generally seat up to eight people and provide an atmospheric outdoor environment to enjoy various foods that are generally simple and filling.

Nakasu Island has a row of around 20 yatai that are attractively situated along the water and located in the very heart of the city.

Bars & Memories

One of my favourite memories of Fukuoka was finding a small bar to watch a game of rugby between South Africa and Japan.

The young local Japanese came out in huge numbers all dressed in their red and white hooped shirts to cheer on, very loudly, their team.

It was such a magical afternoon mixing with the locals and supporting their players who sadly put up a great show but ultimately lost. It was a long day and night with some of the most wonderful friendly people in Japan.

Bar, Japanese People, Japan, Asia

Arigato Fukuoka

Whilst not the most attractive or lively (aside from the hotel that is) part of Japan it was really enjoyable to see an area not known for tourism and as such part of authentic Japan.

As always the charm of the Japanese people shone through during another great stop on my tour of the country.

Fukuoka, Japan, Asia

Pre-bookable Excursions

If you are planning a trip to Fukuoka and want to pre-book some excursions here are three of the very best.

Contact Information

For further information on taking a trip to any part of Japan or Asia either contact your local travel agent, a specialist tour operator or the Japan Tourist Office.

Check out my Japan Blogs for Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Hiroshima, Yokohama, Fukuoka and Fujikawaguchiko.

Hiroshima, Japan – A City of Peace & Reflection

By
Rupert Diggins
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Hiroshima Travel Blog
Hiroshima Travel Blog
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12 Hours In Hiroshima

Without doubt Hiroshima is a must see when taking a tour across Japan. I was arriving by train and was only stopping for the day so my focus was on the key tourist sites.

Looking back I wish I had stayed the night and had two full days as I have heard only good things about the cities nightlife, the nearby nature and cultural sights. In addition to that the cuisine is renowned as some of the best in Asia.

Getting Around In Hiroshima

Getting around the city was easy as it is compact not to mention safe. There is an excellent and regular electric tram network and you can buy a one-day pass relatively inexpensively. Cycling is also very popular in the city with tours and bike hire readily available.

As I hopped off the train I chose another great way to get around – I walked. It was just 30-40 minutes to the centre during which time I started to get a feel for the city. There were some busy streets full of shoppers and a market however it all felt a little strange. Was that me and my preconceptions or was it just a very sombre and quiet city – I guess time would tell.

Of course, Hiroshima and its name is forever going to be associated with the tragedy that unfolded here on the 6th of August 1945 when an American B-29 bomber dropped the world’s first deployed atomic bomb on the city is truly humbling. The explosion wiped out 70% of the city’s buildings and immediately killed 80,000 people with tens of thousands more later dying of radiation exposure.

The majority of visitors to Hiroshima will head towards the location of the nuclear attack which is separated into three distinct areas – the Memorial Park, the Museum and the Atomic Bomb Dome.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

As I approached the park I crossed a bridge where small boats were taking tours along the river and a fruit and vegetable market was busily selling produce to locals.

I picked up a map to get my bearings and started to walk through the park stopping frequently at the many different structures and monuments dedicated to the legacy of Hiroshima.

The Cenotaph – pictured, also known as the Memorial Monument for the A-bomb Victims is located in the heart of the park. It consists of a stone monument beneath an arch and within it are the names of victims of the atomic bombing. If you look through the arch you can see the dome in the distance.

There are many guides offering tours of the park and museum. I was particularly taken with the lady pictured. An elderly lady, maybe a school teacher presents her folder of images to school children. Some people you see in life have a story to tell and I could tell from how she commanded the kid’s respect, that her story was from the heart… perhaps a broken one. That was a special moment to just sit quietly and observe.

The park was busy but peaceful and reflective with people of all ages respecting all that was around. It was a pleasure and an honour to witness.

Hiroshima, Japan, Asia

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum

The pretty park’s main facility is the Peace Memorial Museum. Consisting of two buildings, the museum charts the history of Hiroshima and the advent of the nuclear bomb. Its main focus though is on the events of 6th August, the dropping of the bomb and the subsequent human suffering.

The personal details displayed are quite distressing and serve to remind us all that we should not take peace for granted.

Just outside the museum, I enjoyed seeing the many groups of Japanese school children all immaculately turned out and well behaved learning of the story behind these tragic events. You cannot rewrite history – or delete it despite what many are trying to do in today’s world. It’s so important these kids and all of us all learn both these lessons and learn from the mistakes of the past.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum, School Children, Japan, Asia

Atomic Bomb Dome

The Atomic Bomb Dome is known as the Hiroshima Peace Memorial and is what remains of the former Prefectural Industrial Promotion Hall.

The building served as a location to promote Hiroshima’s industries. When the bomb exploded, it was one of the few buildings to remain standing and remains so today.

A Unesco World Heritage site the A-Bomb Dome is a tangible link to Hiroshima’s unique past.

As I wandered around and stood and looked at the building it was hard to believe what actually happened here. Nearby older ladies and gentlemen sat quietly with their thoughts to themselves or reading the daily news. Elsewhere tourists snapped away and took selfies.

Bringing life and colour to the area are numerous flowers and shrubs like this one. I took a moment here to take this simple photo and wondered who planted it and who perhaps it was in memory of.

Hiroshima, Japan, Asia

Local Delicacies

There is plenty more to Hiroshima than just these three areas.

The city is renowned for its food and specialist local delicacies.

The most famous dish in Hiroshima is called okonomiyaki. It is a savoury Japanese pancake made with wheat flour, eggs, cabbage, yam and a variety of other ingredients.

Shellfish and in particular oysters are also popular so make sure you check out a local restaurant or go on an organised food tour while you are visiting.

There are evening cooking classes you can do if you want to take home some local tips and knowledge.

Shukkeien Gardens

The Shukkeien Gardens were opened to the public in 1940, yet burned to ashes by the atomic bombing.

Located just east of Hiroshima castle it has been lovingly restored to its original glory and is now one of Hiroshima’s main attractions and worth a visit. There is a central pond and a bridge to switch off and while away an hour or two.

Hiroshima Castle

Hiroshima Castle is better known as ‘Rijou’- Carp Castle. It got its name from the black wooden slats attached to the outer walls of the Castle Tower that look like the carp’s fish scales. Again this was destroyed by the bomb but rebuilt in the 1950’s.

Getting to the castle is easy by either tram or just a short ten-minute stroll from the Peace Memorial Park.

After passing through some attractive gardens and crossing the moat there is a small entrance fee to enter. Within you will discover a shrine, ruins and some reconstructed buildings.

It is sad like so many places in our world that have been destroyed that it is sometimes more pertinent what is not there than what is!

Miyajima Island

Less than an hour south of Hiroshima is Miyajima Island. This is a very popular hiking area and ideal for those wanting to experience wonderful nature. The area is also the location of some of the best views and vistas in all of Japan.

One particularly popular sight is the Itsukushima Shrine and its floating Torii gate.

Arigato Hiroshima

Hiroshima for me was all too brief. I think an ideal visit would be two days – one day to see the city and the second day to visit Miyajima island and the surrounding areas.

That said my day here was an experience I will never forget as it truly makes you grateful for what we have in life – peace… long may that continue!

Hiroshima, Japan, Asia

Pre-bookable Excursions

If you are planning a trip to Hiroshima and want to pre-book some excursions here are three of the very best.

Contact Information

For further information on taking a trip to any part of Japan or Asia either contact your local travel agent, a specialist tour operator or the Japan Tourist Office.

Check out my Japan Blogs for Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Hiroshima, Yokohama, Fukuoka and Fujikawaguchiko.

Kobe, Japan – A Port City Reborn

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Rupert Diggins
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Kobe Travel Blog Japan
Kobe Travel Blog Japan
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Kobe

A visit to the Japanese city of Kobe, much like Hiroshima, was always going to be thought-provoking and reflective. This is a city that as recently as January 1995 endured the pain and heartache of an earthquake that killed almost 6,000 people.

Memorials and galleries dedicated to those who lost their lives are all around.

Life however must go on and over the past quarter of a century the city has been born again with a variety of attractions that will entice visitors once more.

Not least is its cuisine and in particular the world-famous Kobe beef for which I was going to indulge as I enjoyed 24 hours in a city that provides a true taste of the Japanese spirit.

Kobe

The port city of Kobe is the capital of the Hyogo Prefecture and has a population of about 1.5 million. Located 33km to the west of Osaka. Kobe has always been an important Japanese trading port and today is considered one of Japan’s most easygoing and relaxed cities. Back in the late 19th and early 20th centuries it also lays claim to hosting Japan’s inaugural football (soccer) match and is also the location of the country’s first golf course!

For lovers of history and culture, Kobe is home to many museums and galleries so if maritime history, art or indeed the story of the earthquake is of interest then Kobe is a must-visit in Japan.

Getting around is best on foot with pretty easy access to all the main areas including Sannomiya Station, the Motomachi Shopping Arcade, the Old Settlement area near the City Hill, Daimaru Department Store and Kobe City Museum.

We stayed at the large business-style Ana Crowne Plaza hotel which was ideally connected just a minute’s walk to the Shin Kobe Shinkansen Station and a gentle stroll from the heart of the city.

Kobe, Japan, Asia

Kobe Harborland

So with my walking shoes on we began to discover Kobe by heading first towards a rather odd area known as Kobe Harborland.

En route, my attention was taken by a rather questionable statue of Elvis Presley. Whilst Kobe is known more for its jazz than its rock n roll this statue used to be in Tokyo outside the Love Me Tender store but when that closed it was relocated to Kobe in 2009. My first rather weird observation! 

Realising that with only 24 hours in Kobe, it was perhaps a case of a little less conversation and a little more action I swiftly made for the enormous Ferris wheel guarding the entrance to Harborland. This is the shopping and entertainment district between JR Kobe Station and the waterfront of the port area.

A popular tourist area it offers a decked promenade hosting a large selection of slightly tacky, uninspiring restaurants, shops, cafes and other amusements all overlooking the waterfront and port.

I found it all a bit soulless and lacking an atmosphere and identity however I guess it was very much geared towards families and entertainment – maybe my head wasn’t in the mood for Nintendo’s, bright lights and fairground rides!

Kobe, Japan, Asia

Kobe Commercial Centre

South of Sannomiya Station is Kobe’s commercial centre which hosts the City Hall and Kobe museum.

The tree-lined streets of Kyukyoryuchi form part of a former foreign settlement that began trading in 1868 and where many western-style buildings in both European and Japanese styles were built.

Throughout there are plenty of upmarket shops and trendy cafes with at its heart the 10-story Kobe Daimaru Department Store which boasts over 60 branded stores and numerous restaurants including a popular Beer Garden during the summer season.

Kitanocho

The historic Kitanocho quarter with its many cool cafes, antique shops, museums and boutiques is a great place to stroll and discover the essence of the city.

Much like Kyukyoryuchi it is also well known for its western style mansions built in the 19th and early 20th centuries.

Other popular places of interest are the Kobe Kitano Museum and the English House. 

Meriken Park

Meriken Park is a spacious waterfront where you will find the Kobe Maritime Museum, the Hyogo Prefectural Museum of Art as well as well-tenured gardens and several statues and monuments.

The park was decimated by the earthquake back in 1995 and an area has been left as a reminder to show the appalling level of destruction that was created.

The iconic red, cylindrical Port Tower standing at 108 metres in height overlooks Meriken Park and provides visitors with wonderful views across the city as the tower is open from 9 am every day.

You can also get some magical views from the top of the Shin-Kobe Ropeway cable car which is based in the Kitano area of the city.  

Kobe, Japan, Asia

The Memorial Museum

Kobe of course is sadly most famous in in recent times for the Great Hanshin Awaji Earthquake on the 17 January 1995, resulting in the death of nearly 6,000 people and the destruction of tens of thousands of homes. The earthquake measured 7.2 on the Richter scale.

The Earthquake Memorial Museum is a modern state-of-the-art glass building dedicated to the memory of all those that lost their lives in the Great Hanshin Earthquake.

Kobe, Japan, Asia

Kobe Chinatown (Naking Machi)

An area that I loved was Nanking Machi which is their Chinatown. Bustling and full of life and people going about their daily business, the colourful stalls sell everything from pop socks to ice creams. I reckon Naking Machi must surely be the pop sock capital of the world– I nearly succumbed to a pair myself!

Whilst not in the same league as some in Japan, Kobe Chinatown is west of Sannomiya and is still a great place to spend a couple of hours and just mooch around and take in the sights.

Kobe Nightlife

One of the top attractions of Kobe is its nightlife which includes a wide choice of establishments offering fine Chinese and Indian cuisine not to mention the numerous bars and clubs.

If you wander around any of the key areas such as Sannomiya, Kitano or Motomachi you will be sure to find something to entertain you for the evening.

I particularly liked Higashimon Street where you should check out the “Old Kobe Bar” which is a sophisticated whiskey bar oozing charm and history.

I cannot write this piece on Kobe and not mention a gentleman at our hotel who wanted a picture taken of us “beefy” rugby lads – well we were in Kobe after all! For some bizarre reason, he wanted a selfie so despite difficulties in understanding each other we obliged – maybe he thought we were rugby World Cup players.

Long after he had gone we went to settle up at the hotel bar and he had left his credit card details with the waiter to cover all of our drinks for that evening – another example of the amazing Japanese hospitality we received… Arigato my friend.

Kobe, Japan, Asia

Kobe Beef

Aside from the earthquake, the city of Kobe is world famous for its beef and my word it is good but boy it is expensive. It is however supposed to be the best in the world so I guess quality comes at a price.

Yes, it was delicious but to be fair I could have eaten three more portions at £50 a pop (not socks). I thought it best to control my hunger and look after my wallet.

Now I have never been a lover of taking photos of food but given the amount of time I had been looking forward to sampling this dish I made an exception.

Kobe Beef Japan

Arigato Kobe

I am glad I visited Kobe however it would not be the first place I would return to in Japan.

The history is both interesting and heartbreaking and so I guess for that reason I was never going to be bowled over.

Kobe is a city that has been rebuilt and reborn and for that memory alone it is worth your visit.

Contact Information

For further information on taking a trip to any part of Japan or Asia either contact your local travel agent, a specialist tour operator or the Japan Tourist Office.

Check out my Japan Blogs for Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Hiroshima, Yokohama, Fukuoka and Fujikawaguchiko.

Yokohama, Japan – A Big Surprise

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Rupert Diggins
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Yokohama Travel Blog Japan
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Yokohama

Yokohama was perhaps the greatest surprise of my three-week tour of Japan following England in the Rugby World Cup finals. It was the last stop on a tour of the country that truly changed my outlook on people, a nation and even life in general. I was tired however I was ready for one last major city fix on a far eastern adventure that had gone better than my wildest dreams.

England was in the final against an old foe in South Africa. I had 24 hours in which to discover Yokohama. For some bizarre reason, all I knew about the place was that it was a centre for tyre manufacture – hardly a thought to inspire excitement however like all of Japan and Asia in general, I need not have worried!

Yokohama

I had not realised that Yokohama was Japan’s second-largest city or that there were 3 million inhabitants. I mean what exactly had I been researching before this adventure – don’t answer that!

So after just a 30-minute train journey south of Tokyo, it was a blue sky day – probably the best on my entire trip. I donned my walking boots and headed out with a map in hand to discover what this surprise had in store in the way of … well surprises!

Yamashita Park

My day started with a walk down to the beautiful port and through Yamashita Park where I randomly visited a North Korean military spy ship that had been captured off the coast of Japan in 2001.

The guide who took us around the hangar was particularly proud of his capture and was so so passionate in pointing out every bullet hole on the rusty scarred remains of the vessel. A rather odd experience but one I enjoyed.

Elsewhere in the park, you can enjoy well-manicured gardens and watch people strolling around in the fresh seaside air.

Yokohama, Japan, Asia

Red Brick Buildings

Just minutes from Yamashite Park are in my eyes the beautiful Red Brick buildings a must-visit in Yokohama.

The government built these warehouses between 1911 and 1913 to cope with the increased trade demands on the port. They were used until 1989 at which time they were renovated and now house stylish fashion and souvenir shops as well as many restaurants. 

Yokohama, Japan, Asia

The Cup Noodle Museum

More beautifully manicured lawns and then a boardwalk promenade consisting of restaurants, bars and stylish shops followed and eventually led down to one of the most bizarre experiences of this or any other holiday.

Yep, a visit to the Cup noodle museum is as cool as you can get. Here you can indulge in the madness of this enormous Tate gallery-style museum dedicated to this timeless classic snack.

Completely bonkers and the reason I love Japan!

Yokohama, Japan, Asia

Minato Mirai 21

Walking further along the seafront takes you to a place called Minato Mirai 21 which means ‘Harbour of the Future’. This is a seaside urban development as well as the city’s central business district.

Featured here are many futuristic buildings including the country’s tallest building, the Landmark Tower.

Visitors to the area will find shopping centres along with hotels, a convention centre, an amusement park full of noisy and very tacky kids’ machines and museums.

Yokohama, Japan, Asia

Chinatown

Japan’s largest Chinatown is here in Yokohama and is bustling from the break of dawn with locals buying everything from aromatic spices to pop socks.

As with any Chinese neighbourhood, the area is adorned with colour in the form of dragons, lanterns and fashion items.

Noge

Just a stone’s throw from here takes you through into the historic area of Yokohama called Noge. Best discovered at night Noge is where you will find niche bars and eateries as well as many of the more typical izakaya and yakitori shops.

Old karaoke snack bars are located next to more contemporary fusion restaurants.

One of the charms of Noge is for you to wander the ancient streets and find a bar or a restaurant that opens onto the street and draws you in. Each establishment is only small catering for a maximum of 20 people but what a truly unforgettable experience and cuisine to die for!

Noge was one of my favourite places in all of Japan.

Yokohama, Japan, Asia

Arigato Yokohama

These were my highlights from 24 hours in Yokohama. Given its size I know I only touched the sides of what there is to offer in this city but what I uncovered on a glorious day caused me to sign off my Japanese adventure in style with yet another unforgettable experience!

Yokohama, Japan, Asia

Pre-bookable Excursions

If you are planning a trip to Yokohama and want to pre-book some excursions here are three of the very best.

Contact Information

For further information on taking a trip to any part of Japan or Asia either contact your local travel agent, a specialist tour operator or the Japan Tourist Office.

Check out my Japan Blogs for Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Hiroshima, Yokohama, Fukuoka and Fujikawaguchiko.

Osaka, Japan – A Naked Ambition

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Rupert Diggins
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Osaka Travel Blog Japan
Osaka Travel Blog Japan
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Osaka & The Onsen

Now if I was to say that there is a city in the world where my overriding memory was getting naked with one of my good pals and leaping into a variety of cloudy and somewhat smelly baths then you may think I have a strange way of enjoying myself. Well, I am not ashamed to admit it but Osaka in the heart of Japan is the city and I had a blast!

Whether you come to Osaka for the history, the bright lights of the evening or indeed the spa and the Onsen scene that I threw myself into – quite literally – you are sure of another great time and a wonderful stay.

Osaka

Osaka is Japan’s second-largest metropolitan area after the capital Tokyo. This port and commercial centre has been an economic powerhouse of the Kansai Region for many centuries.

The city is known for its spa world, its gardens, temples and for the passion and creativity that the locals put into their gastronomy.

Prices in Osaka are considerably cheaper than Tokyo so it’s a great alternative for partying the night away amongst the late-night bars and restaurants.

There are plenty of walking and biking tours that you can take from local shops or through your hotel as the city’s green and open spaces are ideal for mooching!

We took a mini river cruise down the river to Osaka Castle Park passing under the many bridges and with an English-speaking guide pointing out the key attractions including the Japanese Mint that has its headquarters in Osaka.

Osaka Castle

Constructed in 1583, Osaka Castle is worth a visit to explore its history. The adjacent Nishinomaru Garden is a lawned garden with 600 cherry trees, a tea house, the former Osaka Guest House and wonderful views across the city.

The entire Osaka Castle Park covers an area of about two square kilometres. It’s lovely to get out and walk in the green spaces and view the sports facilities where I witnessed baseball practice, a popular pastime in Japan.

Osaka is also a popular hanami spot during the cherry blossom season, which takes place in early April.

Osaka, Japan, Asia

Kuromon Market

The 600-metre-long Kuromon Market is full of fresh street food selling a variety of fish and shellfish. If you like your photography make sure you visit this market as it offers plenty of opportunity for street and culture shots.

This image always makes me laugh and demonstrates the English Rugby fan’s height compared to the locals of Osaka.

Osaka, Japan, Asia

Shitenno Ji

For more history, Shitenno-ji is a stunning Buddhist temple and pagoda structure in the heart of the city.

It is sometimes referred to as the oldest temple in all of Japan and was founded by a prince in the late 6th century.

Dotonbori

At night Osaka comes alive with its bright lights and enticing restaurants and bars offering a variety of attractions and watering holes.

Dotonbori is quite possibly the most hectic part of Osaka, with plenty of shops, restaurants and stalls to keep you entertained.

Onsen

As you know I also tried out the Japanese speciality of the Onsen. This consisted of getting naked and wallowing in a variety of pools, some hot some cold, some salty some freshwater. There were others that I could not even try to explain without putting you off the entire experience!

It wasn’t for me but if there was a chance it would make me feel healthy and live longer then of course I was all for it!

This is the before photo. I would post some during and after shots however I am not sure the World Wide Web is ready for such a showing!! 

An amusing evening – when in Rome and all that !!

Osaka, Japan, Asia

Universal Studios

Universal Studios Japan is a must for the family. The park is just 10 minutes on the train which is the most convenient way to get there, especially at peak times. Kids will delight in the range of different experiences and attractions on offer with all the familiar entertainment brand names to enjoy. There is the most popular Harry Potter World plus other favourites such as The Minions Park, Nintendo, Jurassic Park and more.

Buying tickets in advance is recommended as at peak times queues can be very long. A little tip is to buy an Express Pass 7 which fast-tracks you into the park. The park is huge and at least a day’s entertainment with hundreds of food and drink outlets to keep you well fuelled during the day.

Arigato Osaka

Spending time walking around the city and seeing people going about their daily lives whether meeting for a chat or going to the baseball game like here was a real authentic Japanese experience. It’s one that I will always remember.

I preferred the quiet part of Osaka to the bright lights of the city but maybe it was because I had already experienced Tokyo and how was I ever going to top that?

The memory of the Onsen will live long – I just hope that experience has the same effect on me!

Osaka, Japan, Asia

Pre-bookable Excursions

If you are planning a trip to Osaka and want to pre-book some excursions here are three of the very best.

Contact Information

For further information on taking a trip to any part of Japan or Asia either contact your local travel agent, a specialist tour operator or the Japan Tourist Office.

Check out my Japan Blogs for Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Hiroshima, Yokohama, Fukuoka and Fujikawaguchiko.

Kyoto, Japan – Gion But Never Forgotten

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Rupert Diggins
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Kyoto Travel Blog Monkey Japan
Kyoto Travel Blog Monkey Japan
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Falling For Kyoto

I had heard positive reports about Kyoto in the heart of Japan but never in my wildest dreams did I expect to fall for this city like I did.

From the nature, the gardens, the scenery and the snow monkeys of Arashiyama, to the history, beauty and charm of the Gion quarter, Kyoto was a delight.

Add the hilarious moments trying to get the briefest glimpse of a Geisha and my brief stay in Kyoto was undoubtedly one of the highlights of a sensational three weeks in Japan.

If I had to choose one place that I would return to in the blink of an eye it would be here – I loved Kyoto – here are some of the reasons why!

Kyoto

Kyoto was the capital of Japan until 1868 and is one of Japan’s signature cities with a population of over 1.5 million people.

Over the centuries despite wars and fires, not to mention the threat of atomic destruction in World War II, the city has been able to preserve so many temples, buildings and shrines making it a true place of worldwide significance.

In direct contrast to the historic city that we were pulling into, we arrived aboard the modern and state-of-the-art Shinkansen bullet train- an experience to excite and savour forever despite the occasional flying beer caused by the driver taking a bend at 200 mph.

We were based out in the suburbs of the city at the Ana Crowne Plaza which conveniently offered a free shuttle from the railway station. The hotel, in a quiet leafy area of town, was a great base from which to walk, explore and access the bus routes that either take you into town or to some of the best attractions.

From here we could explore! 

Arashiyama, Kyoto, Japan, Asia

Gion District

The Gion district of Kyoto is one of the most famous areas of Japan and is located around Shijo Avenue between Yasaka Shrine in the east and the Kamo River in the west.

It is full of shops, restaurants and ochaya (teahouses), where geisha entertains.

Now seeing a real Geisha in Kyoto is a highlight that is never guaranteed and when it happens it tends to be for just a fleeting moment. I was given a tip to hang around the end of Shijo Avenue at about 6 pm. These mysterious Geisha whose numbers are dwindling often arrive in taxis for engagements around that time but you need to be quick as well as respectful to take a photo.

After many false dawns finally, a beautiful kimono-clad Geisha arrived looking immaculate yet scurrying as if she was in a hurry. Scrambling for my camera and with time of the essence it failed to go off and before you knew it she was gone. About to give up I headed off only to hear that another, like London buses, was on her way This time I got my shot as she prepared for her engagement that evening. What a wonderful experience and fun too! 

It’s not just the Geisha’s that make Kyoto’s bustling centre magical. The traditional wooden Machiya merchant houses that line the streets are so beautiful. There is plenty of high-quality shopping for those in need of some retail therapy. Down by the river as the sun sets friends and many lovestruck youngsters sit and chat on the banks. Meanwhile, herons swoop down and prey on the fish in the river in front of ancient buildings and bridges.

This place is pure gold!

Kyoto, Japan, Asia

Nishiki Market

Located in the downtown district of Kyoto, and just off the stylish Shijo Street, you will find the busy and thriving Nishiki market.

Dating back to the 17th century this daytime market is home to over 100 stalls and shops lining the 400 metre-long covered street. Stalls sell all manner of foods and goods from fresh food to knives and kitchen utensils.

The market is generally open from around 10 am to 6 pm and is a wonderful place to observe local people going about their business.

Kyoto, Japan, Asia

Fushimi Inari Shrine

Founded in 711 the Fushimi Inari Shrine is Japan’s most iconic Shinto shrine and a World Heritage Site. The shrine is perhaps most famous for the tunnels that wind around the hill of Mount Inari all of which are lined with thousands of closely spaced orange torii gates.

Around the shrine are many statues of small foxes who are considered the messenger of Inari who is worshipped as the protector of rice and grain which in ancient times meant wealth.

The street approaching the main entrance of Fushimi Inari is full of stalls selling snacks, fortune cookies, painted handmade dolls and good luck charms. 

The luck was to be here in the first place!!

Arashiyama

A short 20-minute bus journey Northwest from Kyoto took us to Arashiyama.

Visitors come to this area in all seasons to witness the changing colours of the beautiful gardens but also for the temples and shrines that you can admire as you walk through the magnificent bamboo grove.

Pretty little stalls and food outlets provide the opportunity to stop and relax before continuing across the river. En route you are likely to observe traditional rickshaws, artists painting, kids playing and locals in national costume attending special occasions.

Once across the river and if you are fit, climb the steep mountainside to an area where you can view the wild snow monkeys which come down from the mountainside at various intervals in the day to take food from the park wardens. Be careful not to try to touch them or make eye contact as they are wild. It was such a treat and allowed me to take some fabulous photos like the one here – such amazing animals and very mischievous!

Kyoto Travel Blog Monkey Japan
Kyoto Travel Blog Monkey Japan
Arashiyama, Kyoto, Japan, Asia

Nijo Castle

Built in 1603, Nijo Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site was the residence of Tokugawa Leyasu, the first shogun of the Edo Period. In the late 19th century the castle was used as an imperial palace before being donated to the city and opened up to the public as a historic site.

Visitors enter through the east gate and from there you can arrange English-speaking guides who will take you through to the key areas of significance including the Ninomaru Palace.

Kyoto Imperial Palace

The Kyoto Imperial Palace is located in the lovely Kyoto Imperial Park which also features another popular attraction the Sento Imperial Palace.

The Imperial Palace had to be reconstructed in 1855 after it had burnt down. Today it consists of long walls and several gates, halls and gardens. Guided tours take visitors around the palace buildings and grounds however you cannot go inside the buildings – just marvel from afar!  

Pontocho

This narrow lane runs from Shijo-dori to Sanjo-dori and is known for being one of the very best streets for dining in terms of quality of cuisine and atmosphere.

There is a wide choice of restaurants available from inexpensive yakitori to traditional and modern Kyoto cuisine, foreign alternatives and then some high-end eye-watering expensive establishments.

Kyoto Railway Museum

The Kyoto Railway Museum has over 50 trains on display, spanning over 130 years of train history. Attractions include “Yoshitsune”, the very first steam locomotive imported from the USA as well as steam engines, diesel, diesel-hydraulic and electric models. 

Many of the exhibits are interactive and there are simulators where you can even get to “drive” the incredible Shinkansen bullet trains the type of which brought me to Kyoto. There is also a small track where you can jump on board a steam model train and the lovely Kyoto Railway Museum Terrace View where you see across the city skyline.

The museum is a great place for adults or children with plenty of attractions for both.

Arigato Kyoto

In short, Kyoto is the real Japan experience. Beautiful people, stunning history, great shopping, nature and then there was the mystery and intrigue of spotting the Geisha.

I never believed that experience would excite me in the way that it did but witnessing this piece of history was one of the moments of my Asian adventure.

Arashiyama, Kyoto, Japan, Asia

Top 10 Things to See & Do In Kyoto

  1. Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion): Marvel at this stunning Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf, set amidst beautiful gardens.
  2. Fushimi Inari Taisha: Explore the iconic shrine famous for its thousands of vermillion torii gates winding through wooded hills.
  3. Kiyomizu-dera: Visit this historic temple, known for its wooden stage overlooking cherry and maple trees, offering breathtaking views.
  4. Arashiyama Bamboo Grove: Wander through the serene bamboo forest, a surreal natural wonder just outside the city.
  5. Gion District: Experience traditional Kyoto in this historic geisha district, renowned for its preserved wooden Machiya houses.
  6. Nijo Castle: Discover the ornate architecture and beautiful gardens of this UNESCO World Heritage site, once the residence of the Tokugawa shoguns.
  7. Philosopher’s Path: Take a peaceful stroll along this scenic canal-lined path, bordered by cherry trees and temples.
  8. Kinkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion): Admire the tranquil beauty of this temple surrounded by moss gardens and a reflective pond.
  9. Kyoto Imperial Palace: Step back in time as you explore the former residence of Japan’s Imperial family, set in expansive park grounds.
  10. Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion): Enjoy the serene atmosphere of this temple, known for its minimalist architecture and stunning sand garden.

Pre-bookable Excursions

If you are planning a trip to Kyoto and want to pre-book some excursions here are three of the very best.

Contact Information

For further information on taking a trip to any part of Japan either contact your local travel agent, a specialist tour operator or the Japan Tourist Office.

Check out my Japan Blogs for Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe, Hiroshima, Yokohama, Fukuoka and Fujikawaguchiko.

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