13 Easy Day Trips from Kyoto for Nature Lovers

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.

Miho no Matsubara beach with Mount Fuji views is one of the best day trips from Kyoto.

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

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!

View over Kyoto city from Kiyomizudera main gate area as seen during Osaka Kyoto Nara itinerary.

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

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.

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

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Japan Off the Beaten Path: 16 Amazing Japan Hidden Gems

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.

Woman with red umbrella walking through forest in Japan off the beaten path.

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17 Must See Cities For Your First Time in Europe

Narrowing down the must see cities for your first time in Europe is a daunting task. In a sprawling continent full of grand cathedrals, romantic cityscapes, and decadent dishes, how do you choose where to go?

London skyline with river in foreground, one of the must see cities for first time in Europe.

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40 Best Souvenirs From Japan: From Manga to Matcha

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.

Colorful vintage kimono are the best souvenirs from Japan.

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Tokyo Like a Local: 9 Unique Things to Do

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.

Typical Japan street with bikes seen when traveling Tokyo like a local.

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Visiting Amsterdam in Spring: 7 Bucket List Experiences

Summer is when most cities shine their brightest, but for Amsterdam the spring season takes the crown. After a dreary winter, Amsterdam comes alive with flowers in the parks, sunshine in the skies, and boats along the canals. Visiting Amsterdam in spring is an enchanting, colorful experience that belongs on every traveler’s bucket list.

Pink tulip baskets by black door spotted while visiting Amsterdam in spring

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

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.

Colorful plate of sushi rolls and nigiri, a must eat food in Japan.

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