The smallest of the mainland islands, Shikoku has gone by many names over the year. Literally translated as “four countries”, it refers to the four former regions: Awa, Tosa, Sanuki, and Iyo. It, to this day, still has four prefectures.Delight in 6 Floor Kochi Castle Unique with its Palace
高知城, Kochi Castle, is the only of the 12 original Japanese castle that remains ALL of it’s original Edo period architecture in the main citadel. Like the other castles, this …
12 Original Japanese Castles: Conquer These Masterpieces Now
If you have been following along for a while, it should come as no surprise to you that I love Japanese castles! If you’ve missed the articles and IG posts …
Matsuyama Castle: How to Visit Mountain Top Complex Fortress
Matsuyama Castle (松山城, Matsuyamajyou) is officially my favorite Japanese Castle. One of the original twelve Edo period castles remaining, first constructed in the 1600s. It is located on Shikoku, the smallest …
How to Use Buses in Japan: 5 Tips for Fearless Travel in Japan
As someone who never a day in her life in America rode a bus, they can be intimidating. Sure, I used the subway or metro in bigger cities, but let’s …
200 Famous Castles in Japan: How to Best Stamp Rally!
Oh, Japan. Land of got-to-collect-them-all, including hundreds of castles in varying levels of existence. There are thousands of ruins from almost indistinguishable mounds to castle walls with no castle structures. …
What is Yosakoi? You’ll Love Japan’s High Energy Dance
The first time I saw Yosakoi (よさこい) was when I was in Japan on a work trip in 2013. I had no idea what it was called. I couldn’t read …
Inuyama Castle – Original 12 Japanese Castle Tour
This is it! Inuyama castle (犬山城) was the last of the 12 original castles for me to visit. Located in Aichi Prefecture, it claims to be the oldest castle. Claims …
Marugame Castle – Japanese Castle Tour
Castle number 4 of my made-up castle tour to see 6 of the 12 remaining Edo castles was the last stop on 四国 Shikoku, the smallest of Japan’s four main …
Uwajima Castle – Japanese Castle Tour
Uwajima Castle, 宇和島城, was Japanese Castle No. 2 for my castle tour weekend. One of the 12 remaining pre-Meiji era castles. It was also built around 1600. Which really, why are …
What is Obon? Japan’s Festival of the Dead
If you are in Japan in August, most likely you will stumble upon a festival in the evening time. Obon – Japan’s Festival of the Dead, was officially from August …