Views from Japan

06/09/2024

KYOTO - A secret garden hidden away amongst 72 acres of private forest,  is located on the north side of Japan’s ancient capital and feels completely secluded from the outside world. Huge moss-covered pathways lead you through the enchanted grounds, and each timber-clad pavilion takes inspiration from traditional Japanese inns - some housing guest rooms, and others the on-site restaurants, offering a contemporary take on Japanese cuisine. Staying here is like being transported to another world 👘

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04/09/2024

CRAFTS – When I moved to Japan, I quickly became obsessed with all types of Japanese folk crafts and traditions. From sword-makers to silk weaving, and glass makers to ceramic artists, Japan is home to some of the world’s most treasured craftspeople, and I am proud to have been able to discover so much about these often untold stories for my personal ‘Shokunin’ project.

Literally translating to ‘artisan’ or ‘craftsperson’ in English, the Japanese meaning runs much deeper. A true Shokunin is someone who dedicates their life to mastering their craft, it’s a relentless pursuit towards perfection, an elite standard of self‑discipline and a personal responsibility to preserve their tradition for future generations.

Craftspeople listed in order:

1. Matsuda Sensei – Samurai Sword, Kanazawa
2. Sakurai Kokeshi – Kokeshi Dolls, Miyagi
3. Kitamoto Dyeing – Kimono Printing, Kyoto
4. Sugahara Glass – Glass Blowing, Chiba
5. Shimatani Syouryu Koubou – Orin Gongs, Toyama
6. Nishimura Orimono – Silk Weaving, Fukuoka
7. Moriyama Kanzan Gama - Ceramics, Fukuoka

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02/09/2024

AUTUMN - It’s quickly approaching that time of year when Japan’s countryside, cities, parks and gardens evolve into vibrant shades of orange, red and yellow. Autumn in Japan is by far my favourite time to travel, with the summer temperatures finally cooling down and the landscapes across the country being completely transformed. Whether you’re an outdoor adventurer or a city dweller, there are so many (free) places to experience Japan’s autumn leaves, from the mountains of Hokkaido to the temples of Kyoto and many places in between. In no particular order, here are a few of my favourites 🍁

1. Kenroku-en Garden, Kanazawa (Best time: Mid-November - Late November)
2. Kawaguchiko, Yamanashi (Best time: Late October - Mid-November)
3. Arashiyama, Kyoto (Best time: Mid-November - Mid-December)
4. Kamikochi, Nagano Early (Best time: Early October - Mid-November)
5. Lake Shikotsu, Hokkaido (Best time: Late October - Mid-November)
6. Shirekawa-go, Gifu (Best time: Mid-October - Mid-November)
7. Shiretoko National Park, Hokkaido (Best time: Early October - Mid-November)
8. Noboribetsu, Hokkaido (Best time: Early October - Mid-November)

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25/08/2024

🇯🇵 Comment “TRIP” below to receive your free Tokyo Day Trips eBook direct to your inbox! 📥

If you’re dreaming of your next trip to Japan, there’s no doubt Tokyo will be high on your list of places to visit. But what most people miss when planning a first time itinerary to Japan, is the wealth of day trips on offer on the outskirts of Japan’s capital. Mt Takao and Okutama sit on Tokyo’s western edge and offer a completely different side to Tokyo, surrounded by nature and mountains, and north of the city, Nikko and Kawagoe are great places to experience more of Japan’s traditional culture and hot springs.

Locations Listed:
• Kawaguchiko, Yamanashi Prefecture
• Kamakura, Kanagawa Prefecture
• Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture
• Mt Takao, Tokyo Prefecture
• Okutama, Tokyo Prefecture
• Hakone, Kanagawa Prefecture
• Kawagoe, Saitama Prefecture

🏯 In this guide I feature 8 ultimate day trips from Tokyo, tips & tricks to help you plan for your next adventure and an extensive travel resources section for accommodation, transport, etiquette and more.

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16/08/2024

🇯🇵 Comment “TOKYO” below to receive your free Tokyo Neighbourhoods eBook direct to your inbox! 📥

Tokyo can often feel like a real paradox. How can somewhere so busy be so quiet? How can somewhere so modern and feel so traditional? You’ll find neon-clad towers next door to age-old temples, and traditional coffee shops alongside modernist architectural masterpieces. One minute you’re on a busy main road surrounded by thousands of people and the next you’re in a leafy suburb with just a few locals. One of my favourite pastimes has always been exploring these smaller neighbourhoods, finding unique homes, quiet corners and seeing local life unfold.

🗼 In this free guide I take you to some of my favourite suburbs in Tokyo, low rise and walkable and away from the crowds.

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09/08/2024

Wander through the ancient pilgrimage trails of the Kumano Kodo, where nature, history and culture combine in the spiritual heartland of Japan.

Wander through the ancient pilgrimage trails of the Kumano Kodo, where nature, history and culture combine in the spiritual heartland of Japan.

08/08/2024

Kyoto is definitely a city that has shaped my Japan experience. Since my first ever visit on a personal trip to Japan in 2019, I’ve seen the city in freezing snow, humid summers, cherry blossom and autumn leaves. I’ve written articles for magazines, stayed in over 30 different hotels (big, small, old, new, you name it), and even had the joy of showing my mum and dad around towards the end of last year!

07/08/2024

NAOSHIMA - A world class museum doubles up as a hotel, contemporary artworks flows along the coastline, and disused buildings are transformed into pop-up galleries; just a snapshot of what to expect from Japan’s Art Islands. Located in the Seto Inland Sea, Naoshima, and neighbouring island Teshima, are home to artworks from the likes of Yayoi Kusama, James Turrell and Lee Ufan and the majority of the galleries on the island are designed by world-renowned architect, Tadao Ando - It’s not one to miss for fans of art and architecture 🇯🇵

Locations to Visit:

1. Valley Gallery – As you walk up the long path, you’ll find more artworks by the likes of Yayoi Kusama and Tsuyoshi Ozawa.

2. Benesse House – Tadao Ando’s main museum on the island, it also doubles up as the island’s resort hotel.

3. Lee Ufan Museum – Artworks made from stone, concrete and iron are displayed in the combined indoor and outdoor space.

4. Naoshima Pavilion – Designed by Sou Fujimoto, this crystal-like ‘island’ was created to provide an escape from the hot summer sun.

5. Chichu Art Museum – Built mostly underground and designed to integrate seamlessly into the landscape.

6. Naoshima Terminal – Another example of unconventional design on the island, the terminal even glows like a beacon when illuminated at night.

7. Teshima Art Museum – Tip-toe around tiny water droplets, constantly changing appearance and gathering in the centre of the polished concrete floor.

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07/08/2024

A world class museum doubles up as a hotel, cutting edge modern art flows along the coastline, and disused buildings are transformed into pop-up galleries.

A world class museum doubles up as a hotel, cutting edge modern art flows along the coastline, and disused buildings are transformed into pop-up galleries.

06/08/2024

Discover exciting summer activities in Hokkaido, from lavender fields to outdoor festivals.

Explore the best summer activities in Hokkaido this season, from camping, paragliding, hot air balloons and so much more.

05/08/2024

Japanese transport is clean, reliable, and quick. But which should you use to get around? In this article, we’ll find out.

Japanese transport is clean, reliable, and quick. But which should you use to get around? In this article, we’ll find out.

04/08/2024

A private cabin, toasted marshmallows and breakfast at the foot of Mt Fuji. Hoshinoya Fuji is Japan’s first ever glamping resort, immersed seamlessly amongst a towering red cedar forest with picture perfect views over Mt Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi.

03/08/2024

Views from Japan is now officially available via Amazon! If you are a UK prime customer, you will benefit from FREE next day delivery, along with any other Prime benefits.

Ben Richards is a travel and architectural photographer based in Tokyo. Over five years, Ben has travelled extensively across 30 Japanese prefectures, tried and tested experiences from all corners of the nation and built a client list of leading tourism boards, luxury hospitality brands and globa...

02/08/2024

Echigo-Tsumari Art Field seamlessly combines rural Japan with modern artistic expressions from both local and international artists.

Echigo-Tsumari Art Field seamlessly combines rural Japan with modern artistic expressions from both local and international artists.

01/08/2024

KYOTO – Kyoto has been in a news a lot recently, with visotor numbers reaching record highs, and a few badly behaved tourists to go along with it. Here are a few tips to avoid contributing to over-tourism in Kyoto 👘

1. Stay in Local Accommodation – Smaller ryokans and family-run hotels give you an opportunity to give back to local businesses, spreading the tourist spend away from chains and business hotels.

2. Ask Yourself ‘Why?’ not ‘Where?’ – A good challenge for travel in general. If social media didn’t exist, would you still visit that infamous photo spot?

3. Shop Local – ****There are many things to buy in Kyoto. Why not support independent artists, such as investing in a Japanese knife or ceramics from a master craftsman.

4. Spend time doing nothing – Visit a day spa, traditional ryokan or hot spring in a nearby onsen town.

5. Experience the culture – Many temples like Kenninji and offer private meditations and tea ceremonies, just make sure to research and book ahead.

6. Think modern – Many don’t realise how contemporary Kyoto is, with many innovative design spaces across the city.

7. Respect the etiquette – Remember that Kyoto is a place where locals live their daily lives, not a theme park.

8. Rent bikes – Kyoto is often best seen on two wheels and it allows you to see the city away from the crowds.

Looking for more Japan itineraries and inspiration? Comment GUIDE below to receive a link to my brand new Views from Japan guidebook direct to your inbox 🇯🇵

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01/08/2024

What are your top 3 Japanese prefectures? Mine have to be Hokkaido, Tokyo, Okinawa.

31/07/2024

Set on the edge of Lake Poroto and enfolded in forest, this 42-room ryokan convincingly blurs the line between man-made structures and its bucolic surroundings.

Set on the edge of Lake Poroto and enfolded in forest, this 42-room ryokan convincingly blurs the line between man-made structures and its bucolic surroundings.

30/07/2024

Explore the lively summer festivals in Hokkaido, showcasing local culture and traditions.

Check out dates for the local summer festivals in Hokkaido to visit in 2024!

29/07/2024

For the innately curious and open-minded travellers amongst us, the Golden Route won’t always cut it. Delve deeper into the historical and cultural side of Japan with this two week intermediate itinerary.

For the innately curious and open-minded travellers amongst us, the Golden Route won’t always cut it. Delve deeper into the historical and cultural side of Japan with this two week intermediate itinerary.

28/07/2024

Are you subscribed to the Views from Japan newsletter yet? Follow the link to receive your FREE summer guide now.

Claim Your Free Summer in Japan eBook Summer in Japan is the perfect time to climb the majestic Mt Fuji, take a trip to the tropical islands of Okinawa, or embark on a pilgrimage along one of Japan’s spiritual hiking trails. Enjoy this free guide and as always, I would love to hear which places ar...

26/07/2024

What's the most memorable experience you've had in Japan?

24/07/2024

"Residents say personal publicity stunts have overtaken serious campaigning to a degree never seen before"

This year's wackiness — notably from non-candidates renting campaign billboard space — is proving exceptional, and residents have flooded election offices with angry calls and messages.

22/07/2024

I’ve spent five years exploring all corners of the country and now reveal everything I have learnt in my brand new travel guidebook.

Tired of seeing the same recommendations for over-crowded locations in Japan? Views from Japan is a brand new travel guidebook encouraging you to explore Japan like a local. Quantity: Add to Cart Views from Japan features over 250 individual locations, as well as places to stay, travel tips, itinera...

21/07/2024

From hiking Japan’s greatest ancient pilgrimage trail to getting lost in centuries-old forests and visiting cultural centres filled with art, here are 6 under-the-radar destinations waiting to be explored.

20/07/2024

Japan doesn't have too many tourists, statistics suggest. It just feels that way.

The country received 0.2 tourists per capita in 2023, compared with France's 1.5, Greece's 3.4, Portugal's 2.5 and Spain's 1.8.

19/07/2024

I want to help you experience the best Japan has to offer; a mix of big hitters and niche neighbourhoods, lesser-travelled destinations and unique cultural experiences.

I want to help you experience the best Japan has to offer; a mix of big hitters and niche neighbourhoods, lesser-travelled destinations and unique cultural experiences.

18/07/2024

From design hotels and creative living spaces to art islands and floating tea houses, Japan has so many unique places to experience art and architecture.

18/07/2024

Looking to dive deeper into Japan’s culture and history? Traditional inns might just be the unique accommodation option you’ve been looking for.

Looking to dive deeper into Japan’s culture and history? Traditional Japanese inns might just be the unique accommodation option you’ve been looking for.