JAPAN
“If I had to eat only in one city for the rest of my life, Tokyo would be it.”
- Anthony Bourdain
Culture and Gastronomy Beyond Tokyo
When visiting Japan for the first time, most people will focus their travels around Tokyo. During my recent trip, I realized there is so much more to see in Japan other than Tokyo. Dedicating time to stay in Osaka and Kyoto was the best decision I’ve made and I found myself to be even more in love with Japan than ever. Perhaps as we get older, we appreciate the slower pace and the intricate cultural details of smaller towns. This trip was truly a time to escape the hustle and bustle of major city life and stop and smell the takoyaki.
Osaka, also known as Japan’s Kitchen, blends modernity with rich tradition. Known as a culinary mecca, it tempts visitors with street food delights such as kushi-katsu and okonomiyaki. The city’s lively atmosphere is complemented by historic sites like Osaka Castle and Shitenno-ji Temple, showcasing its cultural heritage. With bustling districts like Namba and Umeda, Osaka offers a dynamic shopping and entertainment scene. The city's warm, welcoming spirit makes it a must-visit destination, where every corner offers a unique blend of past and present.
Kyoto, the historic heart of Japan, is a captivating blend of ancient tradition and modern elegance. Renowned for its stunning temples, like Kinkaku-ji with its shimmering golden pavilion, and the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine dotted with thousands of vermillion torii gates, the city offers a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural heritage. Stroll through the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove or wander the charming streets of Gion, where geisha continue to preserve age-old arts. With its seasonal beauty, from cherry blossoms in spring to vibrant maple leaves in autumn, Kyoto is a timeless destination that invites exploration and reflection.
I hope you can take some inspiration from these posts and create your path throughout Japan to make memories to keep in the years to come.
OUR JAPAN GUIDES
