PLACES Hinoki Land Review: A Unique Japanese Cultural Experience in Thailand Posted on November 7, 2024December 18, 2024 Experience Japan in the heart of Thailand at Hinoki Land, where koi ponds, Torii gates, and a four-story Hinoki Castle transport you to a serene world of Japanese culture. Whether you’re dressing in a kimono or savoring fusion dishes at Hinoki Coffee, this immersive escape promises unforgettable moments. Read more
PLACES Fushimi Inari Temple Guide: How to Explore Kyoto’s Iconic Shrine and Torii Gates Posted on October 18, 2024November 8, 2024 Asia is filled with temples and shrines, but after a while, they can blur together. However, my visit to Fushimi Inari was different. From the first steps under its towering torii gates, I realized this place was special. In this Fushimi Inari Temple Guide, I’ll share what makes it stand out, from the striking red gates to the peaceful paths that wind up Mount Inari. Every moment felt unforgettable, and now every torii gate I see reminds me of that serene, beautiful walk. Read more
PLACES How to Book a Kyoto Geisha Performance: Tips and Expectations Posted on September 30, 2024October 31, 2024 Japan is synonymous with Geisha. Well, at least it used to be. Nowadays, they are not as common as you might think. And their services are costly. I am not kidding. Time spent in the company of a geisha is ridiculously expensive. And more often than not, you’ll see Geisha… Read more
PLACES Ultimate Guide to Famous Temples in Kyoto and Spiritual Sites in Japan Posted on November 6, 2015December 12, 2024 Kyoto at first glance doesn’t appear to be a traditional city. Kyoto Station is modern and surrounded by other modern buildings… just like any other city. It has modern conveniences just like any other city. It’s one of the only places you’ll see women in traditional kimonos and no one stops to stare. It’s a land of a thousand temples and where traditions flourish alongside cell phones and everything else modern. Read more
PLACES Tokyo: Exploring the Biggest City on the Planet Posted on November 6, 2015October 18, 2024 Pickup a map to make sure you are buying the correct ticket or you may be blocked from boarding the train. Having access to all three will make travel easier below ground, but you can get around the city using only the metro, as long as you are diligent and plan accordingly. Like traffic above ground, the trains and the walking patterns run reverse to what you are used to. There are signs to help you if you forget. Read more
PLACES Tokyo Harbor Dinner Cruise: The Ultimate Guide to Night Views and Fine Dining Posted on October 29, 2015October 31, 2024 5 days exploring the quirky neighborhoods of Tokyo culminates on a sunset dinner cruise around Tokyo Bay with delicious food, awesome service and amenities, and a great picture window to see the Tokyo skyline. Read more
PLACES Living in South Korea and Traveling Asia Posted on August 9, 2015July 28, 2024 I was very excited when I found out we would be heading back overseas. The idea of living in South Korea intrigued me. I lived in Korea many years ago as a child. So I immediately began researching Daegu. I looked for blogs that could provide some insights for what to expect. But I couldn’t find any that were very helpful. Moving to South Korea came with the expectation of exploring Asia. I decided to be the research I was looking for. Here, I share some valuable travel tips and ideas that I have learned while living in South Korea and traveling across Asia. Read more