Usuki Stone Buddhas: an Oita day trip worth slowing down for
Plan a focused visit to Usuki's cliff-carved Buddhas in Oita, with verified entry details, free English audio, and bus advice that leaves time to look.
Events in Kansai: 11–18 November 2026
Autumn light-ups dominate the week across Kyoto and Osaka, with Eikandō, Tōfuku-ji, Katsuo-ji and Minō momiji alongside weekend markets and a Hisaishi
Vegetarian Food in Japan: Check the Dashi, Not Just the Tofu
Tofu and vegetable dishes in Japan can contain fish stock or animal-based seasonings. Learn what to ask about dashi, sauces and shojin-style meals before ordering.
Why Kyoto's Peak Koyo Weekends Reward the Second-Choice Temple
Mid-November in Kyoto rewards the traveler willing to drop their top-pick temple. Here's how to read peak koyo weekends without ruining the day.
Kyoto Now: Sugimoto Residence Reopens for November Weekends
Sugimoto Residence’s November 2026 opening begins November 6. Check the weekend dates, admission, handcraft display and important child and camera restrictions.
Uchiko, Ehime: A Wax-Town Day Trip by Train from Matsuyama
Visit Uchiko’s wax museum and preserved merchant streets on a half-day rail trip from Matsuyama, with realistic advice on the candle shop and theatre closure.
Events in Kansai: 4–11 November 2026
Gion Odori in Kyoto, the Hitaki fire ritual at Fushimi Inari, Arashiyama momiji on the river and the Kobe Christmas Market opening, 4 to 11 November.
Ryokan in Japan: Hot Springs, Private Baths and Meals Aren’t Guaranteed
A ryokan is not one fixed package. Learn how to check whether your Japan booking includes hot-spring water, a private bath, dinner, breakfast and the bedding you want.
Kyoto's November Light: Why Afternoon Beats Morning for Koyo
Peak autumn in Kyoto rewards the second half of the day more than the first. Here's how late light actually works on the maple routes, and why most visitors miss it.
Kyoto Now: Gion Odori’s Ticket Counter Opens October 30
Gion Odori’s online sales have ended, but Gion Kaikan’s ticket counter opens October 30. Here are the November 2026 dates, prices and booking details to check.
Wakimachi, Tokushima: Udatsu Roofs, Indigo and Merchant Wealth
Explore Wakimachi’s udatsu townscape in Tokushima: the indigo merchants behind its roof walls, a house worth entering and the station transfer to plan.
Events in Kansai: 30 October – 4 November 2026
This week in Kansai: Gion Odori and lantern walks in Kyoto, fireworks and temple light-ups in Osaka, and autumn maples and a farmers market in Kobe.