Daikon radish garden

This island fishing village specialty is to shred daikon radish then boil and dry to preserve. Shipped all over Japan.

Yakitori dinner, Fukuoka

Eating yakitori at Nobunaga, a local Japanese grill, just a few minutes from the hotel. You pick your own choice of meats and veggies for grilling. Shochu is a great drink.

Hot Spring outdoor bathing

One of seven outdoor onsen (hot spring baths) at a 150 year old inn. Bathing in Japan is not only for cleansing but also for relaxation. Bathing is optional.

Kiyomizu Temple, Kyoto

This temple was built without using a single nail. Click here to learn more about this UNESCO heritage site.

Nijo Castle, Kyoto

Nijo Castle, Kyoto. Unesco World Heritage site. In 1603 this is where the Tokugawa Shogun declared his sovereignty over Japan. The Tokugawa family Shogunate held power until the Modern Meiji era began in 1868. Unique squeaking "nightingale" floor.

Silver Pavilion, Kyoto

Ginkakuji (Silver Pavilion) garden is my second favorite garden in Kyoto. Sand sculptures are impressive. It is said that at night with a full moon shining on the sand, it's like a beautiful silver sea.

Saihoji Zen Temple, Kyoto

Saihoji Zen Temple (Moss temple) in Kyoto. UNESCO World Heritage site. Over 120 varieties of moss in this exquisite garden. This is my favorite garden in Japan. Reservations can only be made using snail mail.