Honshu | Japan
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Honshu, Japan
Honshu
captivating tapestry of cultural landmarks
The Heart of Japan’s Heritage and Innovation
Nature enthusiasts will find Honshu equally enchanting, with its breathtaking landscapes ranging from the majestic snow-capped peak of Mount Fuji to the idyllic coastline of the Noto Peninsula. The Japanese Alps offer year-round adventures, from skiing in winter to hiking in summer, while hot springs like those in Hakone provide a soothing escape. Seasonal beauty is a hallmark of Honshu, with cherry blossoms in spring, vibrant autumn foliage, and colorful summer festivals like Gion Matsuri in Kyoto. Whether you’re drawn by history, culture, or natural beauty, Honshu offers an unforgettable journey through the essence of Japan.
Jackelyn Approved
...and It Was Worth It. 
Exploring Asakusa: Temples, Street Food & Stunning Views
Step into Tokyo’s historic heart with a visit to Asakusa. From exploring Nakamise Shopping Street and Sensō-ji Temple to collecting our first goshuin stamp and enjoying panoramic views of Tokyo Skytree, this iconic neighborhood delivered the perfect mix of culture, food, and unforgettable memories.
Visiting Ueno Zoo & Ueno Park
Spend a peaceful morning exploring Ueno Zoo and Ueno Park in Tokyo before the crowds arrive. Home to giant pandas, elephants, and beautiful green spaces, this popular attraction is best experienced when the gates first open. Here’s what to expect and why it’s worth adding to your Tokyo itinerary.
35 years later I return to Japan (日本)
More than thirty years after my first exchange trip to Japan, I’m finally returning. From Hokkaido school days and government exchange programs to teaching English in Sendai, Japan became a second home during my youth. This August, I’ll be sharing that world with my daughter as we reconnect with lifelong friends, revisit cherished memories, and explore both familiar and new corners of Japan.
It’s a little thing called being respectful
Etiquette and respect are highly valued in Japan, and misbehaving tourists are increasingly causing frictions. In order not to annoy or offend the locals, foreign visitors should be familiar with at least the basic rules…
Matsushima Bay (松島) Pine Islands
Matsushima has been written about in poetry since ancient times. Its 260 small pine-covered islands arising from the pale blue sea leaves people at a loss for words.
Following Snow to Yokohama (横浜市)
Who did we follow to Yokohama you may ask? Well, we went to go see Snow, the Canadian reggae musician, rapper and singer. His 1992 single “Informer” spent seven weeks at No. 1 on the US Billboard Hot 100. That’s right, the Canadian Vanilla Ice.
Overnight Trip to Nikko (日光)
The protector of travellers and children, a series of nearly 100 small stone effigies of the Buddhist at Kanman-ga-Fuchi Abyss. Nikko is a truly diverse destination. Ornate shrines coexist with towering peaks, dramatic waterfalls, rejuvenating hot springs and sublime cuisine.
Day Trip to Kamakura (鎌倉)
What do you get when you cross an 80s inspired rockabilly pompadour with a rat tail in the front over the forehead? Japanese High School boys hairstyles in the 90s. It was the most rad thing ever.