Exploring Asia

Everything you need to know: Travel guides, itineraries, travel costs and more

Travel Budget Japan: How much it costs and how to save

Travel Budget Japan: How much it costs and how to save

Are you planning a trip to Japan and wondering how much it will cost you? You've come to the right place. In this article, we outline our actual travel costs during our three-month trip to Japan in 2023. Contrary to popular belief, Japan can be an affordable travel...

Unwind and recharge with a (multi)day trip to the stunning Kerama Islands

Unwind and recharge with a (multi)day trip to the stunning Kerama Islands

With crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches and colourful coral reefs, the Kerama Islands offer a wonderful respite from the busy-ness of Japan's mainland cities. Whether you choose to explore charming Zamami [Google Maps location] on foot or by bicycle, join a...

No single-use: How to limit your plastic waste as a traveller in Japan

No single-use: How to limit your plastic waste as a traveller in Japan

Sustainability is one of our shared values. And living our values (as much as possible) means we try and limit our ecological footprint wherever we are in the world. As we prepared for our trip to Japan in early 2023, we realised the biggest challenge while travelling...

Ready to hike the Nakasendo? Here are the best itineraries for 1, 2 and 3 days

Ready to hike the Nakasendo? Here are the best itineraries for 1, 2 and 3 days

Whether you’re a novice looking for a pleasant day hike or an expert seeking a more challenging multi-day hike, the Nakasendo offers a range of options to suit all interests and abilities. We have collated 1-, 2- and 3-day itineraries along the best-preserved segments...

Want to run a marathon in Japan? Here is your 2024 Nagano Marathon guide

Want to run a marathon in Japan? Here is your 2024 Nagano Marathon guide

Would you like to run a marathon in Japan but don't qualify for Tokyo and are not keen to join the crowds in Osaka? Well, come to Nagano. Framed by the snow-capped Japanese Alps and with on-course entertainment that puts many majors to shame, the Nagano Marathon makes...

Beyond the famous beef: How to spend 24 hours in Kobe

Beyond the famous beef: How to spend 24 hours in Kobe

The name Kobe is synonymous with the famous Wagyu from this region. But there's so much more to Japan's sixth-largest city than a melt-in-your-mouth piece of meat. In this article, we'll take you on a 24-hour journey through Kobe, showcasing the best experiences this...

Nara’s hidden treasures: A 1-3 day itinerary for the offbeat traveller

Nara’s hidden treasures: A 1-3 day itinerary for the offbeat traveller

Usually overlooked in favour of its more famous neighbours Kyoto and Osaka, people who do visit Nara usually come to see just the attractions around Nara Park - including its famous deer. But there is so much more to see and do in Japan's ancient capital. From the...

One Day in Himeji: The Perfect Itinerary for First-Timers

One Day in Himeji: The Perfect Itinerary for First-Timers

Known for its majestic 17th-century castle, Himeji offers a unique glimpse into Japan's rich history and culture. In this article, we present the perfect itinerary for those who have just one day to explore Himeji. From a visit to the famous castle to strolling...

Experience the Best of Hiroshima and Miyajima in Three Days

Experience the Best of Hiroshima and Miyajima in Three Days

Hiroshima and nearby Miyajima Island should be on every traveller's Japanese bucket list. From the iconic A-Bomb Dome [Official website, Google Maps location] in Hiroshima to the giant floating vermilion-coloured Torii off Miyajima [Official website, Google Maps...

Budget like a pro: How much does it cost to hike the Kumano Kodo?

Budget like a pro: How much does it cost to hike the Kumano Kodo?

If you are looking to explore the natural beauty of Japan, the Kumano Kodo should be a must-do on your itinerary. In this article, we will break down the expenses associated with hiking the Nakahechi route of the Kumano Kodo - including transportation, accommodation,...

80 inspiring travel movies that bring the world to you

80 inspiring travel movies that bring the world to you

Being nomads, cooped up in New Zealand during the COVID-19 restrictions (of 2020 to 2022), we must admit had their challenges. And while it was only three years, we knew at the time, that we couldn't wait to just grab our travel packs and go wherever we’d like to go,...

21 surprising things about Japan – Know before you go

21 surprising things about Japan – Know before you go

Japan is a country where the ancient and modern seemingly coexist in perfect harmony. But there's much more to the Land of the Rising Sun than meets the eye. With a rich history and complex social norms, Japan may surprise even the most seasoned travellers. In this...