Posts in category Japan

Fun Things to do in Osaka Osaka is the cultural heart of Japan, full of temples, traditional practices and temples that transport you back in time. It also has some fun modern attractions too! What are the very best things to do in Osaka? Here’s a snapshot in our kawaii infographics.

As the ancient capital of Japan, Nara boasts some of the most impressive sights (and deer!) throughout the country. There are indeed numerous beautiful temples in Nara, but you don’t have to worry about not being able to see everything in one day. The main attractions in Nara are located pretty close to each other around …

I went back to Japan at the end of sakura season in 2015. It was a trip with a few friends and we were on our final day in Osaka before catching a flight to Tokyo the next day. We couldn’t agree on how to spend the last day. One friend wanted badly to remain …

Fukuoka, Japan is a large city close to Seoul. Its proximity to Korea has helped to establish its historical reputation as a trade centre and as a crossroads of different cultural influences. You’ll find this fame well-earned as there are many cultural institutions, museums and shopping malls to enthrall a visitor. Have seven days and …

By Christa Yeo – Omotenashi: Japanese for service and hospitality Google Translate could only tell me so much about this word. But to really know it took a night’s stay in a Hakone ryokan. Indulging in a reputable ryokan is an experience like no other and consider yourself warned, because it is also highly addictive. …

Konnichiwa! So many places to see, so much to do, so little time! Here’s the first in our series of kawaii infographics displaying 10 of our favourite things to do in the cities you love the most for a holiday away from Singapore. Leading the kawaii charge, here are 10 things to do in Tokyo. …

Cherry blossom viewing in Japan, also known as hanami, is an event locals and tourists from all over the world alike, look forward to each spring. Notorious for it’s immensely short bloom (just one to two weeks), planning a trip to Japan to see the cherry blossoms during the fleeting sakura season can prove to …

Tokyo might be the first thing that comes to mind when tourists plot their Japan trip, but there really is so much more to the Land of the Rising Sun. A less popular but equally fascinating destination is Okinawa, Japan’s southernmost prefecture. It consists of several dozen small islands, including Okinawa Island, where Naha, the capital city of …

By Little Miss Bento – Known as the Little Kyoto, Kanazawa is the capital city of Ishikawa prefecture. Filled with beautiful historical houses, geisha and samurai districts, traditional arts and handicrafts and beautifully preserved gardens, Kanazawa is one of the most significant cities of the Edo period. With the new shinkansen (bullet train) line directly …

Japan is one of few destinations that perfectly balances the ultramodern with respected tradition, and there’s perhaps no better place to get a good dose of both than Osaka. As Japan’s second largest city after Tokyo, Osaka is celebrated for its wacky character, tranquil parks, and world-renowned food, making it a must-visit stop within the Land of the Rising Sun. You can arrange flights from Singapore to Osaka’s Itami or Kansai International airports. Or make your way to Osaka by bullet train (approx. 2.5 hours) from Tokyo, after flying in via Haneda or Narita airport. Exploring Osaka’s various neighbourhoods isn’t time-consuming nor expensive, thanks to its sprawling railway system. Here’s a guide to help you decide where to stay in Osaka for your style of travel. 1) Namba (Minami) Referred to as Minami (or “South”), Namba makes up the eccentric heart of Osaka and the city’s major entertainment hub. Filled with neon lights hyperactivity, Dotonbori is a shopping and food paradise, with souvenirs like cookies and keychains that can only be found in Osaka, while food market Kuromon Ichiba’s mouth-watering street snacks including takoyaki, okonomiyaki and even blowfish can be enjoyed while walking along the canal. Den Den Town is a one-stop shop for all things electronic and otaku, from video games, manga and anime, while those looking for cutting-edge clothes and digging through specially curated thrift stores will have a ball at the U.S.-inspired Amerikamura. Recommended Hotel: Those looking to stay at the centre of the action will find convenience and an abundance of amenities at the Swissotel Nankai Osaka hotel. Positioned directly above Namba Station, travellers who can’t wait to dive right into shopping and entertainment can drop off their bags at the upmarket hotel before stepping out into the city, while its proximity to the train system also makes it ideal for those who want the utmost ease of getting around Osaka. For lazy days in, local and international tastes are available at the hotel’s numerous restaurants, with the comfort of foreigner-friendly staff. Find hotels in Namba 2) Umeda (Kita) Also known to as KIta (or “North”), the busy downtown district of Umeda has a slick and polished exterior that contrasts the colourful character of Namba. More cosmopolitan than quirky, Osaka’s northern district favours luxury shopping and refined dining experiences, while the architectural wonder of the Umeda Sky Building allows travellers to take in breathtaking views of the city that are perfect for romantic sunsets and photography enthusiasts. Between the towering glass structures, foodies will find restaurants and bars that specialise in upmarket fare and classy cocktail bars within the Kitashinchi nightlife district, while department stores like Hankyu and Daimaru house high-end brands for shoppers who are willing to splurge.  (CC by 2.0 / Kang Min-liu) Recommended Hotel: Reflecting the sophistication of its surroundings, Hotel Vista Premio Dojima provides guests with luxury lodging and premium service. With each room adopting a clean and minimal aesthetic, while catering to business types with convenient workspaces and free WiFi Internet, guests can look …