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Situated on an artificial island just off the coast of Kobe, Kobe Airport opened in 2006 and has since become an efficient and compact alternative to the larger regional hub. The airport lies about 8 km south of central Kobe (Sannomiya), making it a very convenient option for travellers staying in or around Kobe. Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission, ♡ at no extra cost to you ♡. Jump to: (1) Ko

I've you've already read our post on KIX and our guide to Kansai's three hubs (if you haven't, you can find them here and here ), you'll already know that Osaka has not one but two airports. This is our guide to Itami Airport (airport code ITM), Osaka's smaller gateway for domestic flights. Find out why Itami might be a good option for you and why it's essential that you check your tickets in good time before you fly! Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you cl

Are you ready to explore cities like Osaka, Kyoto, Kobe, and Nara? Then you might well decide to fly into or out of the Kansai region. Unlike many other regions, Kansai is served by three major airports that operate under a single management group: Kansai International Airport (KIX), Osaka Itami Airport (ITM), and Kobe Airport (UKB). Choosing the right one depends entirely on your itinerary: are you arriving internationally? Traveling domestically? Headed straight to Kyoto or

Especially with the jump in the price of the Japan Rail Pass in the last years, more and more visitors to Japan are catching on to the idea of flying into Tokyo and leaving again from Osaka, or the other way around, therefore saving one trip between the two regions on the Shinkansen. Many are unfamiliar with Kansai's airports, however, and you might have seen stories of travellers showing up at Osaka Itami to check in for their international flight, only to be told that they

Travelling between Kyoto and Osaka by train is a total breeze- they are right next door to each other! But because there are three different train companies running between the two cities, it's easy for first-timers to get a bit overwhelmed.Here is the ultimate, no-nonsense breakdown of your options (and why you definitely shouldn't waste your money on the Shinkansen bullet train!).

Dragging a suitcase through crowded stations, weaving through narrow streets, and clattering over train platforms — sound familiar? Japan has a simple, brilliant solution: luggage forwarding (takkyūbin 宅急便). It’s a service that lets you send your suitcase directly from the airport to your hotel, from hotel to hotel, or even back to the airport at the end of your trip — so you can travel hands-free. How great would it be to jump on the Shinkansen with just a small day pack? Im

Traveling on Japan’s famous Shinkansen is one of the highlights of any trip, but if you’re carrying bulky suitcases or extra bags, it pays to know the rules before you board. While the bullet train is fast, efficient, and comfortable, luggage space is more limited than many travellers expect. In recent years, new regulations have been introduced for oversized bags, and there are specific places on each train where your luggage must be stored. Read on to find out what you need

From the historic charm of Asakusa to the futuristic cityscape of Odaiba, a cruise down the Sumida River (Sumidagawa) is both a feast for the eyes and a welcome break for your weary feet. Contents Is a Sumida River cruise worth it? What boat should I choose for a Sumidagawa cruise? How much is a Tokyo river cruise? What can I see on a Tokyo river cruise? What special Sumidagawa cruises are there? Sumida River cruise FAQ The Hotaluna is one of the Suijobus company's three futu

Tokyo to Kyoto is one of Japan’s most iconic journeys — and the best way to make it is on the Shinkansen, Japan’s world-famous bullet train. Covering roughly 450 kilometres in as little as two hours and twenty minutes, this high-speed route connects the nation’s modern capital with its ancient one in comfort and style. Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission, ♡ at no extra cost to you ♡ Jump to: (

Picture this: you settle into a comfy seat, leg-room galore and suddenly you're zipping across the Japanese countryside at over 300 kilometres per hour, the landscape a verdant blur outside your window. There's no turbulence, no traffic, just the soft hum of an incredibly smooth, efficient machine... and the occasional surprise of a whoosh through a tunnel. Welcome to the world of the Shinkansen! Especially if you're in Japan for the first time, organising a journey on the Sh

There are around 50,000 taxis in Tokyo alone. They're a bit spendy but can be your saviour in a transportation tight-spot. So, you've landed in Japan, navigated the train system like a pro, and maybe even mastered the art of the vending machine. But what about those times when the last train has gone, your feet are protesting, or you're just juggling a bit too much luggage? Enter the Japanese taxi – often seen as a luxurious (and yes, sometimes pricey!) saviour. While they mi

With 5+ different operators, the Tokyo transportation system can seem overwhelming at first glance. To navigate the city effectively in 2026, you need to understand the distinction between the JR Lines (overground) and the Tokyo Subway (underground). While many travel guides endless plug the iconic green Yamanote Loop, it is rarely the most efficient way to see the city. The subway network - comprised of Tokyo Metro and Toei Subway - is denser, faster for cross-town trips, an