Fukuoka is a lively city on Kyushu Island in southern Japan. I was born and grew up an hour north in Kita-Kyushu City until 10 years old, so Fukuoka was our big city adventure spot. It felt huge and exciting, always buzzing with activity. Nowadays, it's not just popular with us locals but also with tourists from Taiwan, Korea, and China, since it's just a short flight away for them. The city has a cool mix of old and new,

It is the largest city in Kyushu and is considered one of the country's most livable cities. Fukuoka has a unique blend of modernity and tradition, offering us a chance to experience the best of both worlds. One of the city's most famous attractions is the Fukuoka Tower, where we enjoyed stunning panoramic views of the city and the sea. The tower is a popular spot during the evening when visitors can enjoy the illuminated cityscape. In addition to the tower, we found several other attractions, including historical temples and shrines, bustling shopping districts, and relaxing hot springs.

Fukuoka is also renowned for its cuisine, which is a mix of local specialties and international flavors. We can savor delicious ramen noodles, fresh seafood, and mouth-watering street food at local markets and restaurants. Fukuoka is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars and clubs catering to various tastes. We loved the experience at Nakasu Yatai Yokocho.

Overall, Fukuoka is a lively city that offers something for everyone. Whether you're interested in history, culture, food, shopping, or nightlife, Fukuoka has it all, making it a must-visit destination in Japan.

Bill & I visited Fushimi during our honeymoon for the first time. Since then, we have taken a trip to Fushimi while we stay in Kyoto. The city is a picturesque district located in the southern part of Kyoto Prefecture. The district is famous for its historic sake breweries, stunning temples and shrines, and traditional architecture.

One of the district's most iconic landmarks is the Fushimi Inari Taisha, which features thousands of vermilion torii gates that create a stunning tunnel effect. We hiked through the gates and up the mountain for panoramic views of Kyoto and the surrounding area. Additionally, Fushimi boasts several other temples and shrines, such as the Tofukuji Temple and the Daigo-ji Temple, which offer visitors a chance to experience Japan's rich religious and cultural heritage.

Fushimi is also renowned for its sake breweries, which produce some of the finest sake in Japan. We have taken tours of the breweries, learned about the sake-making process, and sampled different types of sake. We also enjoy Fushimi's well-known traditional cuisine, such as udon noodles, tofu dishes, and wagashi (Japanese sweets), which can be enjoyed at local restaurants and cafes. In addition, Fushimi has several beautiful parks and gardens, such as the Fushimi Momoyama Castle Park and the Jonan-gu Shrine Garden, where visitors can relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.

Fushimi is a charming district that offers us a chance to experience Japan's rich history, culture, and cuisine. Whether you're interested in temples and shrines, sake breweries, or traditional food, Fushimi has something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination in Kyoto.

We had the pleasure of exploring several cities in Hokkaido, and I must say, Hakodate really stood out as one of our favorite spots. There's just something about this charming city that grabs us—the fresh seafood, the stunning ocean views, and the rich history all make it a place we couldn’t get enough of.

Our journey to Hakodate was quite an adventure! We opted for the Shinkansen because we thought we get to see the changing landscapes, but we soon realized there were many tunnels rather than viewing the scenery.  So, we flew directly into the city for the next trip. Once there, getting around was a breeze as it is a small city. For anyone planning a trip, I highly recommend checking out our guide, “Two Perfect Days in Hakodate,” for a roundup of our top picks and tips.

Located on the southern tip of Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, Hakodate is a gem that offers a little bit of everything. From the lush natural scenery and relaxing hot springs to a variety of festivals throughout the year, it’s easy to see why we fell in love with the place. The city is particularly famous for Mount Hakodate. The panoramic views from the mountain’s observatory, especially at night, are nothing short of spectacular. Rated as one of the top three night views in Japan, the sparkling city lights and the vast sea create a magical scene that’s truly unforgettable.

But the allure of Hakodate doesn’t stop at Mount Hakodate. The city is steeped in history, evident in the old Motomachi district with its blend of Eastern and Western architecture, and the star-shaped Goryokaku Fort that tells tales of past battles. We spent a morning wandering through the Motomachi area, soaking in the vibe of the quaint streets lined with historic buildings, each with a story to tell.

One of our favorite experiences was the Hakodate morning market. Imagine this: rows upon rows of fresh seafood, with vendors calling out the day's specials. We couldn’t resist trying some of the local delicacies—squid, crab, and scallops that tasted like they were caught just minutes before we ate them!

And, if you're looking to unwind, Hakodate’s onsen resorts are the place to be. The hot springs here aren’t just about relaxation; they're an experience. Bathing in the natural, mineral-rich waters while looking out over the city or forests—it’s pure bliss.

Overall, Hakodate offers a perfect blend of nature, history, culture, and gastronomy. It's an ideal destination for those wanting to experience the best of Hokkaido and Japan. Whether you’re up for an adventure or just want to chill and soak in some local culture and cuisine, Hakodate has something for everyone. It’s no wonder we’re already planning our next visit!

Bill and I have always cherished our adventures, and our trip to Hakone, Japan, definitely ranks as one of the top experiences we've shared. Just a stone's throw from Tokyo, about an hour by train, Hakone is nestled in the mountainous folds of Kanagawa Prefecture. It’s a town that bursts with natural beauty, offering breathtaking views of Mount Fuji, and it’s famous for its therapeutic hot springs and rich cultural tapestry.

We were captivated by the sheer beauty of the place from the moment we arrived. Imagine stepping off a train and finding yourself surrounded by mountains draped in lush greenery, with the iconic silhouette of Mount Fuji in the distance—it's the kind of view that makes you pause and soak it all in. And soak we did, both in the views and literally, in Hakone's famed onsens (hot springs). These natural pools, believed to have healing properties, are dotted all over the town and provide a perfect remedy for the weariness of travel.

But it wasn’t just about relaxation. We got our fill of adventure too, hiking through serene forests that felt like something straight out of a fairytale. Each trail offered a new panorama, and we often found ourselves alone with nature, save for the occasional fellow hiker nodding a silent "Konnichiwa" as they passed by. For a different perspective, we hopped on a boat across the tranquil waters of Lake Ashi. The lake was like glass, mirroring the sky and mountains around it, making for stunning photos—though pictures hardly do it justice.

Our explorations took an aerial turn with the Hakone Ropeway, which offered us a bird’s eye view of the volcanic landscape below. Drifting over the steaming vents and rugged terrain, we were reminded of the earth's power and beauty, a truly humbling experience.

Hakone is also a sanctuary for art lovers. We spent an afternoon wandering the Hakone Open-Air Museum, where art installations stand against a backdrop of natural splendor. The sculptures, elegantly interspersed among the gardens and reflecting pools, offered a unique blend of human creativity and nature’s artistry.

Visiting Hakone felt like stepping into another world, one far removed from the buzz of Tokyo. It’s a place where you can truly disconnect and find peace amidst the natural landscapes and soothing hot springs. Whether you’re an art aficionado, a nature enthusiast, or just looking to escape the relentless pace of city life, Hakone offers a slice of paradise. For us, it was more than just a trip; it was a memorable chapter in our life's journey, a testament to the beauty and serenity that awaits in Japan’s hidden corners. We left with rejuvenated spirits and a deeper bond, carrying with us the calm and beauty of Hakone in our hearts.

When we first traveled to Honolulu together, it felt like stepping into a vibrant blend of cultures, especially Japanese. It's intriguing how deeply Japanese culture is woven into the fabric of Honolulu. It's not just in the cuisine or the festivals, but in every corner of the city—from the architecture to the everyday hustle and bustle. The sheer number of Japanese tourists flocking there is equally staggering. It's almost as if Honolulu serves as a bridge between Japan and the U.S., bringing together the best of both worlds.

Although Honolulu is thousands of miles away from Japan, the city pulses with a strong Japanese heartbeat. During the years of the Covid pandemic, when Japan was a distant dream due to travel restrictions, we found ourselves drawn more and more to Honolulu. It became our go-to spot to quench our thirst for Japanese experiences. Each visit made us fall deeper in love with the city, and eventually, we decided to include it in our "JP Connection" series.

Honolulu is a treasure trove of Japanese culture, with its history steeped in the stories of Japanese immigrants who have played a pivotal role in shaping the island's cultural landscape. The influence is palpable, from the traditional Japanese celebrations to the daily routines of the locals. A visit to the Japanese Cultural Center of Hawaii is a must for anyone interested in understanding the rich heritage of Japanese Americans in Hawaii. The center showcases a myriad of exhibits that delve into the lives and contributions of the Japanese community on the islands.

The culinary scene in Honolulu is a paradise for lovers of Japanese food. The city is dotted with authentic Japanese eateries ranging from cozy ramen shops to upscale sushi bars. Places like Wasabi Bistro and ZIGU offer a culinary journey that feels genuinely Japanese, with dishes meticulously prepared to satisfy the most discerning palates. Furthermore, Japanese food markets such as Nijiya Market and Don Quijote are bustling hubs where one can pick up everything from Japanese snacks to specialty ingredients, making it easy to bring a taste of Japan back home.

Honolulu’s architecture also tells stories of Japanese influence, with landmarks like the Mō'ili'ili Field, which holds historical significance as the site of a former Japanese language school. Now transformed into a community park, it remains a symbol of the Japanese imprint on the city. Additionally, the historic Hawai'i Theatre, with its Japanese-inspired design elements, stands as a stunning reminder of the architectural and cultural melding that occurred over the decades.

Our trips to Honolulu offer more than just a getaway; they are a deep dive into a culture that, while distinctly Japanese, is uniquely Hawaiian at the same time. Each visit is an opportunity to explore, taste, and experience a wonderful, vibrant city that harmoniously blends the essence of Japan with the aloha spirit of Hawaii. There’s always something new to discover, and we find that each trip brings us closer to understanding this dynamic cultural fusion.

Ibaraki, nestled in the Kanto region of Japan and conveniently located northeast of Tokyo, is a place we find ourselves returning to time and again. Each visit is like coming home, partly because my little sister and her family live there, and partly because of the prefecture’s irresistible charm. With its stunning natural landscapes, deep historical roots, and vibrant cultural scene, Ibaraki always has something new to offer.

Mount Tsukuba is a must-visit whenever we're in Ibaraki. It’s not just any mountain—it’s a favorite among locals and visitors for its spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. Whether we're up for a challenging hike or just in the mood to take in the scenery, Mount Tsukuba is our go-to spot for nature at its best.

But there’s so much more to Ibaraki than its natural beauty. The region is dotted with historical sites and cultural treasures that are well worth a visit. Uchiku Daibutsu, located in the city of Ushiku, is a standout with its human engineering prowess and spiritual transcendence. Over in Mito, Kairakuen Garden offers a tranquil escape with one of Japan’s top three gardens, famous for its stunning plum blossoms that light up every spring.

And then there's the food—simply talking about it makes me hungry! Ibaraki is a treat for any food lover, with its rich offering of fresh seafood, crisp vegetables, and traditional Japanese fare. Natto, the local specialty of fermented soybeans, might be an acquired taste, but it’s a classic here, often enjoyed over hot rice. For those looking for heartier options, there’s katsudon, a comforting bowl of pork cutlet and egg, or tsukemen, where ramen noodles are dipped into a rich, savory broth. And you can’t leave without trying the Hitachi wagyu beef, known for its melt-in-your-mouth texture and rich flavor.

Visiting Ibaraki is always an adventure, whether we're exploring its picturesque mountain landscapes, stepping into the past at its historic sites, or sampling its delightful culinary offerings. Each experience is a reminder of why we keep coming back. Ibaraki isn’t just a place we visit; it’s a collection of memories and moments that stay with us, making each goodbye a little harder.