The ultimate Japan golden route guide: 7, 10, 14, and 21-day classic itineraries
Planning a trip to Japan? Whether you have one week or three, here are my exact classic golden route itineraries covering my favorite Tokyo spots, Kyoto, Hiroshima, and chill hidden gems by train.
HOW TO VISIT TASHIROJIMA CAT ISLAND FROM MATSUHIMA OR SENDAI
A practical and personal guide to visiting Tashirojima, Japan’s famous cat island in Miyagi Prefecture. How to get there from Sendai or Matsushima, ferry tips, what to expect, and why this tiny peaceful island full of cats is worth the trip.
A 3-DAY WEEKEND IN MIYAGI PREFECTURE: MATSUSHIMA, CAT ISLAND, ONSEN & COASTAL JAPAN
A 3-day Miyagi itinerary from Tokyo by train, visiting Matsushima, Tashirojima Cat Island, Ishinomaki and Shiogama. Peaceful islands, a cozy ryokan stay, onsen baths, seafood, temples, and one of Japan’s most famous cat islands.
A WHOLESOME HIKING DAY FROM TOKYO: MT MITAKE TO MT ODAKE
Looking for the perfect hiking day trip from Tokyo? Here’s my full guide to hiking Mt Mitake and Mt Odake from Tokyo, including the early morning train route, Mt Fuji views, ropeway tips, the beautiful Rock Garden trail, bear warnings, and the best ending possible: an outdoor onsen in Okutama.
5 OF JAPAN MOST SCENIC TRAIN ROUTES
Discover five of the most scenic train routes in Japan, from the iconic Tokyo to Kyoto Shinkansen view of Mount Fuji to river valleys, Pacific coastlines, hot spring towns, and mountain journeys through rural Japan. These unforgettable rail trips are perfect for adding slow travel and spectacular views to your Japan itinerary.
IS THE JR PASS STILL WORTH IT IN 2026 (AND WHAT TO DO INSTEAD)
Wondering if the Japan Rail pass is still a good deal after the recent price hikes? Here is a breakdown of when to buy it and when to book individual train tickets instead.
7 JAPAN TRAVEL MISTAKES TO AVOID (ETIQUETTE GUIDE FOR TOURISTS)
Avoid looking like a clueless tourist. Learn the essential unwritten rules of Japanese etiquette, from train manners to dining rules, before your trip.
BEYOND THE NEON: 4 ORIGINAL THINGS TO DO IN TOKYO FOR AN AUTHENTIC ESCAPE
Discover Tokyo's hidden side: from the 19th-century houses of Edo-Tokyo Museum to secret wine bars in Kagurazaka. Forget the tourist traps and explore like a local.
THE ULTIMATE KOBE TRAVEL GUIDE: WHAT TO DO, SEE, AND EAT
Everyone knows about the legendary beef, but Kobe has so much more to offer! Read my travel diary for the best off-the-beaten-path eats, hidden art, and the ultimate Japanese sauna experience.
HOW I SPENT 3 DAYS IN KYOTO
Here is how I navigated Kyoto away from the crowds! I share my favorite temples, restaurants and things to do.
MY JR PASS ITINERARY: HOW I SAVED 40€ AND GAINED PEACE OF MIND
Is the JR Pass worth it? Check my complete itinerary with the JR Pass, the tips along the way and discover how I saved money and gain peace of mind.
TOKYO TO ODAWARA BY TRAIN: A PEACEFUL, CULTURAL ESCAPE JUST OUTSIDE THE CITY
Just 30 minutes away from Tokyo with the Shinkasen, Odawara is an awesome city break. I share my favorite cafe and best tips to enjoy the trip.
Zen in Kamakura: A spiritual day trip guide to zazen & secret temples
Kamakura is an awesome day trip from Tokyo. You can explore endless shrines and temples, get lost on forest paths and experience zazen meditation.
MY TOP 3 BEST AND AFFORDABLE SUSHI RESTAURANTS IN TOKYO
Top 3 sushi restaurants in Tokyo (from someone who lives here).
MY EXPERIENCE AT FUJI ROCK FESTIVAL AS A FOREIGNER
My experience as a foreigner going to Fuji Rock Festival. Best tips for a great festival.