inspo & info

With more trips to Japan under our obis than we care to admit, Japansophy knows a thing or a hundred about prepping for that long-awaited Tokyo adventure. We remember way back then writing to the tourist office in Hiroshima or Fukuoka or Sendai (pen and paper, peeps!) and asking for the telephone numbers of local hotels so we could book in advance. These days, of course, the info is all at your fingertips on websites like this one. Still, we know what it feels like to plan th

Are you planning to spend the last week or two of the year in Japan? Whether you’re dreaming of romantic illuminations or wondering if you’ll actually be able to find dinner on 1st January, here is everything you need to know about navigating the holiday season in Japan. Jump to: (1) Christmas in Japan (2) New Year in Japan (3) What to see and do at Christmas and New Year in Japan (4) Travelling in Japan at Christmas and New Year: what to think about (5) Christmas and New Yea

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

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 Kyot

So, you're venturing beyond Tokyo, and heading down to Kansai is the natural choice. But choosing where to base yourself is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when planning a trip to Japan’s cultural heartland. For most travellers, the debate quickly narrows to two cities: Kyoto vs Osaka. Both offer exceptional experiences, but each city offers something completely different in terms of vibe, price, convenience and attractions. If you’re wondering whether to stay

It's basically just a hop, skip and a jump on the train from Kyoto to Osaka but the variety of train lines and routes throws many a traveller into a bit of a tizzy. We break your options down for you and tell you why you shouldn't take the Shinkansen between Osaka and Kyoto! Jump to: (1) JR Kyoto Line (2) Hankyu Kyoto Line (3) Hankyu special sightseeing train GARAKU (4) Keihan Line (5) Why you shouldn't take the Shinkansen from Kyoto to Osaka (6) FAQs on the train from Kyoto

Osaka is famous for its eat-'til-you-fall-down street food and neon-lit nightlife, but it's also the perfect strategic base for unlocking the treasures of the Kansai region. Japan’s highly efficient rail networks mean you can leave Osaka in the morning and be exploring ancient capitals, feeding deer, sampling world-class sake or feeling like John Blackthorne at the feet of a feudal castle before lunch. These eight incredible destinations offer a perfect blend of culture, natu

November is a great time to visit Japan. For many travel experts, it's the best time to visit and it's certainly the time of year that Japansophy recommends to our friends. Why? It's the colour – yellows, reds, and orange everywhere, against clear blue skies – and perfect sightseeing weather. Read on to find out about what you can expect for a November trip to Japan. Jump to: Weather in Japan in November What to pack for Japan in November What to see and do in November in Jap

Everything you need to know about this classic Kanto-Kansai route If you are planning a trip along Japan's iconic Golden Route, the Tōkaidō Shinkansen is your fastest, most comfortable option. The Tōkaidō route runs between Tokyo and Osaka with stops in major cities such as Yokohama, Nagoya and - especially interesting for tourists - Kyoto. Now, we have covered most of the basics in our article on Taking the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Kyoto , so click on that link to read all a

Dragging a suitcase through crowded stations, weaving through narrow streets, and clattering over train platforms — sound familiar? Japan...

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...

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: (1)

Picture this: you settle into a comfy seat, leg-room galore and suddenly you're zipping across the Japanese countryside at over 300...

Bored of Tokyo? Never! It would take a lifetime to experience everything this city – the biggest in the world, don't forget – has to...

Choosing where to stay in Tokyo can be a bit of a headache, especially for first-timers. Let our guide narrow it down for you Tokyo is...

Want to get up close and personal with Mt Fuji? A day trip is very doable from Tokyo Planning a day trip to Mount Fuji from Tokyo can be...

So you're thinking of visiting Japan in October? Perhaps you're envisioning crisp, clear skies, the subtle start of autumn colours, and a break from the sweltering heat of summer. October is a glorious time in Japan, offering a perfect balance of pleasant weather and unique seasonal experiences. While the country is still buzzing with energy, the intensity of summer has given way to a more comfortable and leisurely pace. Read on to find out about what you can expect for an Oc

Pack like a pro for your Japan trip So, you're heading to the land of dazzling neon, serene temples, and the world's politest people?...

Typhoons are a natural part of Japan's climate You’ve pictured yourself strolling through tranquil gardens, sipping a matcha au lait on a...