Originally from the UK, I moved to Nagoya, Japan in August 2016 to start teaching English. I like hiking, camping, snowboarding, and exploring Japan forever in search of tanuki.
This article was originally published in August, 2017. Photos by Rachel Taylor. The three kanji in the sign: 三 san (three), 段 dan (step), and 峡 kyō (gorge). The three steps actually refer to Sandan-taki, an impressive three-tiered waterfall after which Sandan-kyō, the gorge, is named. Located approximately 75 minutes northwest of Hiroshima via express bus, Sandan-kyō … More This spectacular gorge | Beyond Chubu
by Rachel Taylor and Meagan Scott Situated between rolling mountains and the coastline of Osaka Bay, Kobe has cemented itself as a tourist hot spot. As one of the ten biggest cities in Japan, the area has plenty to see and do no matter what your interests are. From succulent, local beef all the way … More Kobe part II | Beyond Chubu
Anything that can go wrong, will go wrong. This phrase popped into my head a couple of days into my Golden Week vacation: a solo bicycle tour around Shikoku. I pride myself on being prepared. I spent the months running up to the holiday preparing; planning a schedule almost down to the hour, I Google … More Murphy’s week
Nothing beats the level of relaxation you feel after a soapy scrub and a long, hot (HOT) soak in an onsen. While planning a long weekend trip to Kobe, a side trip to Arima was swiftly added to the list. Nestled at the base of Mount Rokkō, this quaint onsen town is easily accessed from … More Arima Onsen|Beyond Chubu
Doburoku Sake Festival, Inuyama January 6, 7, 8, 13, and 14 Open 11 am–4 pm Admission Free Description Sankō Inari Shrine, located on the grounds of Inuyama castle, holds their annual sake festival. Also a great chance to check out one of Japan’s 12 original construction castles if you haven’t already. Access Take the Meitetsu … More Upcoming! January events
City Light Fantasia by NAKED, Nagoya Now–January 6 Open 6 pm–10 pm Admission Adults ¥1,000. Junior high school and elementary school students ¥500. Children 6 and under are free of charge. Description Visual effects, light projections, and interactive art installations commemorating the renovation of Nagoya TV Tower which will begin in January of next year. … More Upcoming! December events, 12/1–12/15
Samurai and Ninja Festival, Nagoya City November 18 Open 10 am–4 pm Admission Free Description A huge day festival featuring all things samurai and ninja, including demonstrations and processions, sword-duelling bootcamps, a falconry show, and Nagoya meshi—the “samurai cuisine”. Link http://www.samurai-ninja-fes.com/en/ Access From Nagoya Station there are two options. You can take the Meitetsu Nagoya … More Upcoming! November events, 11/15–11/30
Aichi-Nagoya Performing Arts Folk Festival, Nagoya November 3–4 Open Sat: NTK Hall 1 pm–5 pm, Dolphins Arena 11 am–4 pm. Sun: NTK Hall 12 pm–4 pm, Dolphins Arena 11 am–4 pm. Admission Free Description Taking place over two locations (NTK Hall and Dolphins Arena), this event showcases traditional regional art performances. Advance reservation is necessary … More Upcoming! November events, 11/1–11/14
Higanbana (red spider lily) viewing, Handa City Early October Open All day Admission Free Description Known as higanbana in Japan, the striking red spider lily blooms when the temperature starts to drop, heralding the arrival of Fall. Walk along the banks of the Yakachigawa River in Handa to see this spectacular—and free—natural event. Access Walk … More Upcoming! October events, 10/1–10/14
The world of Japanese snacks is ever-changing, and we aim to bring you the very latest news in Nihon nibbles! One of Japan’s most beloved fall foods is the humble sweet potato. Pop into stores now and you’ll see sweet potato-themed snacks and sweet potato limited editions dotting the shelves. Sweet potatoes are revered here … More Snack news: sweet potato edition
ChuMedia 