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Japan

Kyoto 2 Day Itinerary: A Super Efficient Guide

January 7, 2021
Pink cherry blossoms near river and bridge spotted during Kyoto 2 day itinerary

Writing this Kyoto 2 day itinerary was an interesting challenge. Trying to condense my favorite city into 48 hours of sightseeing was no simple feat! But if you can only afford to spend two days in Kyoto, this itinerary will guide you through the ancient city’s highlights as efficiently as possible.

Read MoreKyoto 2 Day Itinerary: A Super Efficient Guide

13 Easy Day Trips from Kyoto for Nature Lovers

January 7, 2021
Miho no Matsubara beach with Mount Fuji views is one of the best day trips from Kyoto

Kyoto is a wonderfully verdant city. Travelers flock here for bamboo groves, flower-lined paths, and tranquil shrine gardens. But if you have some time to spare, there are plenty of easy day trips from Kyoto that will particularly delight nature lovers.

Read More13 Easy Day Trips from Kyoto for Nature Lovers

Osaka-Kyoto-Nara Itinerary: 6 Amazing Days in Kansai Japan

January 7, 2021
Historic Japanese lantern alley, part of Osaka Kyoto Nara itinerary

Vibrant streets, awe-inspiring temples, delicious street food… This Osaka-Kyoto-Nara itinerary has it all. If you only have one week in Japan and want to experience as much of the country’s culture and history as possible, head to the Kansai region!

Read MoreOsaka-Kyoto-Nara Itinerary: 6 Amazing Days in Kansai Japan

Lake Biwa Day Trip: Water, Mountains, and Sacred Sites

December 15, 2020
Floating torii gate at sunrise, a popular place to visit during a Lake Biwa day trip

If you’re traveling through Japan’s Kansai region, a Lake Biwa day trip is the perfect addition to your itinerary. From floating torii gates to mountain top temples, there’s more to this area than the typical lakeside activities you’d expect.

Read MoreLake Biwa Day Trip: Water, Mountains, and Sacred Sites

Japan Off the Beaten Path: 15 Amazing Japan Hidden Gems

January 7, 2021December 3, 2020
Woman with red umbrella walking through forest in Japan off the beaten path

When planning a dream trip to Japan, the bustling cities of Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka usually spring to mind. But it would be a mistake not to explore Japan off the beaten path, even if it’s your first trip to the country.

Read MoreJapan Off the Beaten Path: 15 Amazing Japan Hidden Gems

40 Best Souvenirs From Japan: From Manga to Matcha

November 10, 2020June 3, 2020
Colorful vintage kimono are the best souvenirs from Japan

As a minimalist traveler, I rarely buy things when I go abroad. But when my husband and I first visited Tokyo and Kyoto, we stuffed two bags full of the best souvenirs from Japan. In a land known for quality products, rich culture, and ultra-cute characters, you’ll want to fill every nook and cranny of your suitcase with Japanese souvenirs.

Read More40 Best Souvenirs From Japan: From Manga to Matcha

Tokyo Like a Local: 9 Unique Things to Do

January 7, 2021May 19, 2020
Typical Japan street with bikes seen when traveling Tokyo like a local

Tokyo is the world’s second largest city and one of the most popular tourist destinations. Travelers who fall in love with this city find themselves drawn back again and again. But even repeat visitors can miss out on experiencing Tokyo like a local, and often end up doing the same touristy activities time and time again.

Read MoreTokyo Like a Local: 9 Unique Things to Do

Must Eat Food in Japan: Where to Find the Best Dishes

November 10, 2020April 20, 2020
Colorful plate of sushi rolls and nigiri, a must eat food in Japan

Japan is the only country where it’s nearly impossible to have a bad meal. Even the food on my ANA flight was delicious and artfully presented, and I was seated in coach! If you want to sample the country’s best dishes, this guide to the must eat food in Japan has got you covered.

Read MoreMust Eat Food in Japan: Where to Find the Best Dishes

Alternative 10 Day Japan Itinerary: Highlights and Hidden Gems

December 3, 2020March 30, 2020
Kyoto Kitano Tenmangu temple lanterns with cherry blossoms

If you had asked me 5 years ago how to spend 10 days in Japan, I would have given the same boring answer everyone else does. A few days each in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka, with maybe a day trip thrown in. Luckily, I’ve explored a lot more of the country since then, and I’m here to share a more unique 10 day Japan itinerary.

Read MoreAlternative 10 Day Japan Itinerary: Highlights and Hidden Gems

11 Best Day Trips From Tokyo by Bullet Train

January 7, 2021March 30, 2020
Mount Fuji and purple flower field viewed from Tokyo bullet train day trip

Thanks to the expanding shinkansen network, exploring Japan has never been easier. And if you’re a foreign visitor, you can zip around the country without spending a fortune on tickets! These day trips from Tokyo by bullet train take full advantage of the Japan Rail Pass.

Read More11 Best Day Trips From Tokyo by Bullet Train

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About Me

About The Portable Wife - girl in blue and white polka dot dress knocking on door

Hello there! I’m Chelsea, a.k.a. The Portable Wife. I’ve wanted to live abroad since I was a kid, and my dream came true in 2018 when my husband and I moved to London. Now, I share authentic advice on how to maximize your vacation days, travel off the beaten path, and move abroad.

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