A number of UNESCO Heritage Sites, National Treasures and Special Places of Scenic Beauty, what else can make you go to the ancient capital? Try Jidai Matsuri. It’s one of the three great festivals of Kyoto, along with the Aoi Matsuri and Gion Matsuri. All three are celebrated annually on October 22, May 15…
It’s only the second day in the city and it felt like I’ve been here for a week. That’s how much there was to see in this ancient capital. Day 2 listed more Unesco World Heritage Sites to visit. First up: the Nijo Castle. The flatland castle is located a couple of…
ON THE list: visit as many United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization World Heritage sites in Kyoto as I can. I had five days in the ancient capital of Japan and that was my plan. First up, the Tenryu-ji Temple. It’s nestled at the foot of the mountains on the western outskirts of…
It’s strong, resilient and very much part of Japan’s culture: the bamboo. It’s in a folklore and used in expressions, you’ll find it in the cuisine, plays an important part in festivals, it’s used for construction, handicrafts and art, and perhaps, in so many ways, a lifesaver, because the people are told to run…
ARASHIYAMA. The image of the bamboo forest comes to mind. The path of the tall grass was the only thing I know of the place, but there was so much more the area offers than the verdant trail I desired to traverse. There are Kyoto attractions, just like the Tenmangu Shrine at the end of…
DO: Fly the ultralight plane When in Mati, before you hit Dahican’s surf do check the waters—from above ground. There’s no better way to do that than taking a ride on an ultralight plane. The light plane aerial tour of Mati City by Mindanao Saga Flying Club (MSFC) must be topping…
If you’re the seasoned traveler chances are you have done a research on the best sites to visit in your next destination. For first timers, the list may hold the usual popular attractions, which could probably become favorites and worth the revisit on the next trip. The excitement of travel lies on the unexpected….
First order of the day: visit the market. It is not just any market, but Nishiki Market, Kyoto’s go-to place to acquire the best traditional foods, ingredients and kitchen-related goods. It’s the largest traditional market in the city and the locals refer to it as “Kyoto’s pantry”. Arriving…
I DID. Finally, I did. The idea of sleeping in a pod always excited me. Wouldn’t it be great to try something new, something economical in a country where most accommodations can be costly especially on peak seasons? Capsule hotels were born out of necessity in Japan. The salary men, either too tired…
Yes, it’s true shinkansen, aka bullet train, is quite an expensive ride, perhaps the same cost as taking a plane, but no doubt it’s a wiser choice than the winged ride. Minus the airport pre-departure requirements, travel time is cut short and you get to enjoy your destination more. Driving can be fun with…
