• Cosmos in Kameoka

    Cosmos, which bloom from early to mid October in Japan, always remind me of home. The flowers aren’t native to South Africa, but they might as well as be. Brought…

  • A Quick Guide to Kyoto’s Sake District

    This article is now available to take with you on the GPSmyCity app. That means you can access a map with all the attractions mentioned while you travel—no wifi needed!…

  • Kinkakuji: The Golden Pavilion

    One of the most famous images associated with Kyoto is that of a golden temple. Kinkaku-ji, as it’s known, is indeed completely covered in gold leaf—the top two floors, at…

  • Heian Shrine and Gardens

    On the 1,110th anniversary of the founding of Kyoto, which was once known as Heian, a shrine was built to mark the occasion. Heian Shrine is dedicated to the spirits…

  • Inside MUCA: ICONS of Urban Art

    Kyoto’s KYOCERA Museum of Art recently hosted the Kansai leg of the MUCA: ICONS of Urban Art—From Banksy to KAWS exhibition, which is currently on tour in Japan. As a…

  • Hatsumode at Fushimi Inari Shrine

    While most of the world rings in the New Year with partying and fireworks, celebrations in Japan are a little more subdued. That’s because shōgatsu, as it’s known here, is…