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Beyond the viral tourist spots are parts of Japan that preservers through time and globalization. Among them are historical towns, craftsmanship, and festivals for you to discover.
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Saitama Part 1: For the museum & history lover
Prior to moving to Japan, I haven't been to or even heard of Saitama. Today it's one of my favorite day trip destinations from Tokyo.
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Tohoku Series: Aomori & Sukayu Onsen
At the very northern part of Japan's Honshu Island is Aomori. It's also home to Japan's snowiest place: Sukayu onsen.
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Tohoku Series: Kakunodate, Akita Prefecture
Kakunodate is known as the town of Samurais. It is a former Samurai stronghold with beautiful autumn foliage and strong Akita-Inu dogs.
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Tohoku Series: Morioka and Tsunagi Onsen (Iwate Prefecture)
Famous for noodles and the vibrant Morioka Sansa Odori festival, Morioka is the capital of Iwate prefecture
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Tohoku 5-Day Trip with the JR EAST Rail Pass
How to get the best out of early autumn in Tohoku with an all-you-can-ride pass.
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Where to Find Autumn Leaves in Tokyo : Maple & Ginkgo
Tokyo city center's autumn leaves usually peak in late November to early December. From popular to quiet hidden spots, this blog post cover some of my favorite places.
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Nikko: Autumn Day Trip from Tokyo
The most spectacular autumn destination from Tokyo with historical sights and beautiful nature is only a quick ride away.
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Mt. Fuji in Peak Autumn: Kawaguchiko
When is the best time to see autumn leaves with Mount Fuji, and what are the best places to go to?
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Fukuoka Guide | 2 Day Itinerary with Kids
Last I visited Fukuoka was 5 years ago in 2016. Back then I didn't have a kid, I was travelling solo so I did a tour around Kyushu in 3 days, making it to Fukuoka, Nagasaki, and Kumamoto.
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Hiroshima in-depth Part 1: The Road Well Travelled
You might know about the famous Itsukushima shrine and the atomic bomb dome. Here are some more locations you can add to your trip to Hiroshima.
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Early Cherry Bossoms in Kawazu & Matsuda
Before moving to Japan, I didn't know much about Cherry Blossoms, let alone the fact that there are different breeds. Since moving here, I have absolutely fallen in love with the early-blooming bright pink Kawazu-zakura.
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Goto Islands : Activities to best enjoy its nature
Located in Kyushu, Goto Islands has stunning nature without the crowds. You can relax on the many beautiful beaches and go on simple hikes to recharge.
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Saitama Part 2: Unique walks & Shrines
Prior to moving to Japan, Saitama was not on my radar at all. I didn't know how much I was missing out on, and now it's one of my favorite day trip destinations from Tokyo.
Read post
Saitama Part 1: For the museum & history lover
Prior to moving to Japan, I haven't been to or even heard of Saitama. Today it's one of my favorite day trip destinations from Tokyo.
Read post
Tohoku Series: Aomori & Sukayu Onsen
At the very northern part of Japan's Honshu Island is Aomori. It's also home to Japan's snowiest place: Sukayu onsen.
Read postTravel Guides
I combed through Japanese websites about cherry blossoms, autumn leaves, and more about Japan to compile these mobile-friendly travel guides with maps and links to help you plan your trip of a lifetime.
I'm Ariel, a Taiwanese American travel blogger and photographer based in Tokyo. On Arielland, I share about life in Japan through travel guides, cultural insights, and family-friendly adventures. As a mom and expat, I love capturing the beauty of everyday moments and inspiring others to explore Japan with curiosity, creativity, and an open heart.





























