Boasting over 100 years in business, Yojiya has become almost synonymous to Japanese visitors to Kyoto. The Kyoto cosmetics brand is most well known for its signature face oil blotting paper featuring an image…

Hosenin is a temple in Ohara district in Kyoto that holds many mysteries and delights of natural beauty. From the garden view framed by temple pillars and ceilings to the soothing sound…

Hosenin is a temple in Ohara district in Kyoto that holds many mysteries and delights of natural beauty. From the garden view framed by temple pillars and ceilings to the soothing sound of water dripping against a buried jar, to the traces of blood on the ceiling left behind by fallen samurai, Hosenin is a fascinating place to explore no matter where your interests lie. Address: 187 Ohara Shorin-in-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto Website: www.hosenin.net    Tel: 075-744-2409

Just off the picturesque Philosopher's Path, you'll find Yojiya Cafe Ginkakuji inside an old machiya — an expansive wooden townhouse typical of the Kyoto area. Here you can lounge in style as you take in the view of the traditional garden and imagine what it would have been like to live here when it was still a private home. Walk across the garden after your relaxing escape from hectic sightseeing to drop by the Yojiya shop, located in the same area. Here you'll find typical Yojiya products such as face oil blotting sheets, but also limited edition skincare items and seasonal sweets to take home and share with friends. Address: 15 Shishitagani, Honenin-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto Website: www.yojiya.co.jp/english/    Tel: 075-754-0017

Miffy, the popular rabbit from the mind of Dutch artist Dick Bruna, is making her way to Japan. Two shops, Miffy Sakura Kitchen and Miffy Sakura Bakery, will open in Kyoto on…

You’ll find The Dorm Hostel Osaka smack dab in the middle of Osaka’s entertainment district of Shinsaibashi — a convenient place to stay for travelers with a passion for books. Budget Lodging in…

Your guide to Herbis Plaza and Herbis Plaza ENT – for the best shopping, eating, and entertainment in Osaka. If you find yourself in Osaka looking for an afternoon activity or a…

Plenty of people have heard of the city of Nara, but what they may not know is that between 710 and 794 it served as the capital of Japan. Even today, 1,300…

All right. It’s your first time in Japan and after the hullaballoo that was the crowds, salarymen, otaku, robots, and bright billboard glare of Tokyo, you’re hoping two days in Kyoto will…

Shiga is generally noted for surrounding Japan’s largest enclosed body of water, Lake Biwa, but the area has much more to offer than just its impressive lake-side scenery. Though often overshadowed by…

Visit Shimogamo Saryo in Kyoto or Tokyo to experience traditional sado (Japanese tea ceremony) and kaiseki (multi-course) dining. An expansive restaurant with a garden in a traditional vein, Shimogamo Saryo opened in…

Steeped in the rich tradition of Kyoto, Shimogamo Saryo’s satellite shop in Ginza offers a unique opportunity to savor the old capital’s cuisine in Tokyo. The restaurant’s name Higashi no Hanare means “the eastern detachment,” indicating Shimogamo Saryo’s dedication to its roots in the ancient capital while making room for some modern Tokyo flair. The Kyoto-based executive chef arranges the menus for both Kyoto and Ginza locations to ensure the spirit of Shimogamo Saryo holds true even in the east, and features seasonal options and ample Kyoto-sourced vegetables. A great believer in maintaining tradition when needed and innovating when it’s not, the Ginza outfit serves Kyoto classics with an innovative twist in an intimate environment, perfect for dates nights or casual business dinners. Address: 11F Tokyu Plaza Ginza, 5-2-1 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo Website: shimogamosaryo.co.jp/ginza Tel: 070-5345-5761