inspo & info

As long-term residents of Kobe, we know the city very well. Here are our top 25 things to see and do in Kobe, Japan: from waterfalls and ropeways, to temples and shrines; from Japanese gardens to Chinatown. Explore one of Japan's most beautiful, cosmopolitan cities as a day trip from Osaka, as your hub in Kansai, or as a cruise port.

The Hakone Open-Air Museum is a one-of-a-kind museum with a collection of sculptures and art that will enthrall visitors of all ages. But doing the museum and the entrance fee justice takes an investment of several hours out of your day in Hakone. Is it worth it? Here's our take as repeat visitors, why our kids love it and when to give it a miss.

Hakone is one of the most rewarding day trips you can make from Tokyo but it's essential that you do it right and plan your itinerary carefully. As repeat visitors to this beautiful part of Japan, we've put together a (flexible) one-day itinerary to make sure you make the most of your day in Hakone with all the highlights. We've tips on where to eat, how best to get from A to B, where to get the best views and of course the fastest, cheapest and most direct ways from Tokyo to

Hakone is beautiful year-round, but timing matters. Winter brings clear Mount Fuji views and world-class onsen; autumn offers stunning foliage (up to two weeks earlier than Tokyo); summer has fireworks and festivals despite the heat; and spring brings hidden azalea gardens. We break down each season to help you pick the perfect time.

First-time visitors often skip Hakone to chase Fuji views elsewhere. Here's why that's a mistake: Hakone offers authentic onsen culture, mountain trails, lakes, museums, and less tourist crowding than Fujikawaguchiko - all within easy reach of Tokyo. Perfect for second-timers or those seeking an authentic Japan resort experience off the beaten Tokyo-Kyoto-Osaka track

As repeat Hakone visitors, we've put together our bucket-list of the top 25 things to see, do and experience in Hakone - from onsen and water parks, gardens and nature trails, to art museums, temples, shrines and natural spectacles. And of course not forgetting those amazing views (also of Mount Fuji and even Tokyo Skytree if the weather is on your side). We've included plenty of kid-friendly activities to keep the little ones busy too.

Wondering if you need a car in Hakone? The answer depends on what you want to see, how much time you have, and your comfort with public transport. Here's how to get around Hakone and why we can recommend hiring a driver over renting a car yourself.

Choosing where to stay in Hakone depends on your priorities: budget, onsen access, proximity to attractions, or peace and quiet. We break down each region and share our family's favorite hotel for families and couples alike.

Planning a trip to Hakone? This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know: where to stay, what to see, how to get around without a car, best time to visit, costs, and insider tips from 30+ years of Japan experience.

Both offer stunning views of Tokyo, both are accessible to tourists, and both appear on dozens of Tokyo bucket lists. But they're very different experiences - and for most visitors, one will suit your itinerary far better than the other. After visiting both observation decks multiple times, we have a clear winner. Here's why.

Tokyo's most famous temple doesn't have to mean fighting through selfie sticks. Here's how to visit Senso-ji the right way - with tips on timing, what to see, and avoiding the mistakes most visitors make

Docking in Kobe? Here’s everything you need to know — from the terminal and city transport to the best shore excursions and how to squeeze in a Kyoto day trip. Practical, specific, and written by someone who knows the city well.

Himeji Castle recently more than doubled the entry fee. Is it still worth a day trip from Osaka or Kyoto... or even from Tokyo? Here's why we think it is, why the entrance fee is justified, and how to get to Himeji castle.

Tokyo has so many super observation decks - and some of the best ones are completely free. From the record-breaking height of Tokyo Skytree to the budget-friendly Metropolitan Government Building, here's our guide to the 10 best observation decks in Tokyo plus a few extra tips for getting those views in

Kobe Port Tower is back — and better than ever. After a major 2024 renovation, Japan's most recognisable red tower now has an open-air rooftop deck and a 360° rotating café. Here's everything you need to know before you visit, from tickets and opening times to the best time to go for those famous night views.

Meriken Park is Kobe's most famous waterfront spot - home to the iconic red Kobe Port Tower, the Maritime Museum, the Be Kobe sign and more. Here's everything you need to know before you visit.

Planning a trip to teamLab Planets TOKYO in Toyosu? This fully immersive digital art museum is a must-visit, but tickets sell out weeks in advance. From wading through water to exploring the infinite crystal universe, find out everything you need to know before you go. Learn how to get there, the best time to visit, ticket prices, and essential tips for clothing in our ultimate teamLab Planets guide, updated for 2026

Which is better: TeamLab Planets or TeamLab Borderless? This is the question we get asked most whenever we mention TeamLab in our Tokyo content, and, honestly, it's a good one. Both museums are created by the same art collective. Both feature amazing digital installations. Both sell out weeks in advance. And both are genuinely unlike anything else in Tokyo. So how do you choose? We definitely have our favourite. Read on and we'll tell you why

Forget about Sky Tree, Shibuya Sky and even the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building: Odaiba Beach and Odaiba Marine Park is where you'll get what we think are the best views of the city... and for free, too! If you haven't seen Rainbow Bridge and the Tokyo skyline from Odaiba Marine Park, you're absolutely missing out. Here's everything you need to know.

How dangerous is Kabukicho? Can I take my kids there? Should I Kabukicho is officially classified as an entertainment district, with bars, cinemas, restaurants... Kabukicho is also home to host and hostess clubs, love hotels, and establishments offering adult services — the industries that earn it the "red-light district" label. Here's our take on why you should visit Kabukicho but what to avoid while you're there.