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There are so many wonderful places to travel and explore in this world, and it can be hard to decide where to go next. That's why we've compiled a list of our top travel advices, to help you narrow down your choices and plan the perfect trip. If you're looking for breathtaking scenery, try a journey through Patagonia or the Canadian Rockies. For an amazing cultural experience, visit Japan or India. And if you're simply looking for somewhere to relax and unwind, consider a beach vacation in Thailand or the Maldives. Wherever you decide to go, make sure to do your research beforehand and be prepared for anything. And most importantly, don't forget to have fun!
Tokyo has been named the world’s top workcation destination for 2025, according to the Work From Anywhere Barometer by International Workplace Group (IWG), with the city claiming the number one spot ahead of destinations like Rio de Janeiro, Budapest, Seoul, and Barcelona.
🍁 When and Where to See the Best Fall Colors in Korea This Year In Korea, the fall season has a certain charm. The sky turns blue and clear, the air gets crisp, and nature bursts into rich amber, crimson, and gold hues everywhere you look. Fall is an ideal season for a trip
Umeda, nestled in Osaka's Kita Ward, is a vibrant fusion of modern marvels and traditional charm. As a major transportation hub, it's not just a gateway to the city but a destination brimming with skyscrapers, shopping havens, and cultural gems. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, here's how to make the most of your time in Umeda. Ascend the Umeda Sky Building Standing at 173 meters tall, the Umeda Sky Building is an architectural icon. Its two towers are connected at the 39th floor by the Floating Garden Observatory, offering panoramic views of Osaka's skyline. The journey to the top includes a ride on the world's highest escalator that bridges the two towers, a thrill in itself. But it's not all about heights. Don't miss the Takimi Koji alley in the basement, a nostalgic recreation of a Showa-era street lined with eateries. Admission: Adults ¥2,000; Children ¥500 Hours: 9:30 AM – 10:30 PM (Last admission at 10:00 PM) Access: 7-minute walk from JR Osaka Station Address: 1 Chome-1-88 Oyodonaka, Kita Ward, Osaka, 531-6023, Japan Website: https://www.skybldg.co.jp/en/ Explore the Koji Kinutani Tenku Art Museum Art enthusiasts should not skip out on this museum located within the Umeda Sky Building. It showcases vibrant 3D artworks by Koji Kinutani, offering an immersive experience that blends traditional Japanese themes with modern techniques. Admission: Adults ¥1,300; Students ¥800; Children under primary school age free Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Fridays, Saturdays, and days before holidays until 8:00 PM) Closed: Tuesdays (or the following weekday if Tuesday is a public holiday), and during exhibition changes Access: 7-minute walk from JR Osaka Station Address: Japan, 〒531-0076 Osaka, Kita Ward, Oyodonaka, 1 Chome−1−30 TOWER WEST, 27階 Website: https://www.kinutani-tenku.jp/ Ride the HEP FIVE Ferris Wheel For a unique vantage point of the cityscape, hop on the bright red Ferris wheel atop the HEP FIVE shopping complex. Soaring 106 meters above ground, it offers a romantic view of the city, especially at night. When you're done seeing the sights from above, make sure to head back into the building so you can grab yourself a souvenir. Inside HEP FIVE, you'll find over 300 shops and restaurants, making it the perfect spot for both shopping and dining. Admission: ¥800 per person (free for children under 5) Hours: 11:00 AM – 10:45 PM (Last boarding at 10:45 PM) Access: 7-minute walk from Hankyu Umeda Station Address: Japan, 〒530-0017 Osaka, Kita Ward, Kakudacho, 5−15 HEP FIVE 7F Website: https://www.hepfive.jp/ferriswheel Shop 'Til You Drop Umeda is a shopper's paradise. Explore the interconnected malls like Lucua, Lucua 1100, and Grand Front Osaka, all accessible via underground passages from Osaka Station. These shopping complexes are home to everything from luxury fashion brands and trendy boutiques to quirky Japanese lifestyle stores and beauty counters. For electronics and gadgets, Yodobashi Camera is a must-visit; it’s an eight-floor mega-store that has everything from the latest tech to household items and toys. Whether you're after high-end fashion, unique souvenirs, or the perfect Japanese skincare find, Umeda is sure to have everything you could want and need. Lucua 1100 Hours: Shopping floors 10:30 AM – 8:30 PM; Dining 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Access: Directly connected to JR Osaka Station Address: 3 Chome-1 Umeda, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0001, Japan Grand Front Osaka Hours: Shops 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM; Restaurants 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM Access: 4-minute walk from Osaka-Umeda Station Address: 4-20 Ofukacho, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0011, Japan Website: http://www.grandfront-osaka.jp/ Yodobashi Camera Multimedia Umeda Hours: 9:30 AM – 10:00 PM Access: 1-minute walk from JR Osaka Station Address: 1-1 Ofukacho, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0011, Japan Website: https://www.yodobashi.com/ec/store/0081/ Savor Osaka's Culinary Delights No visit to Umeda is complete without indulging in local flavors. Whether you're craving something quick from a street stall or planning a slow, scenic meal, this district has it all. Enjoy a truly local experience at Nishinari Nidaime Nishikawaya Umeda, a cozy kushikatsu (deep-fried skewer) joint tucked beneath the JR train tracks, perfect for a late-night bite. If you’re in the mood for a nostalgic café break, YC Umeda Coffee House offers warm Showa-era vibes and classic Japanese kissaten charm. For those wanting a meal with a view, head to Garb Monaque, a stylish café-restaurant overlooking a nearby park, ideal for brunch, coffee, or a relaxing dinner. There is no end to the culinary adventures to be had in Umeda, after all, Osaka is considered Japan's Culinary Capital! Nishinari Nidaime Nishikawaya Umeda Hours: Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun – 5:00 PM – 03:00 AM (Last Order 02:30 AM) Tuesday – 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM (Last Order 11:30 PM) Closed on irregular days, New Year’s Eve & New Year’s Day Access: About a 5-minute walk from Osaka or Umeda Stations Address: 2 Chome-2-6 Nakazakinishi, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0015, Japan Tablelog: https://s.tabelog.com/osaka/A2701/A270101/27017985/ YC Umeda Coffee House Hours: Open daily, typically 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM Access: A 2-minute walk from Umeda Station Address: 9-21 Kakudacho, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0017, Japan Website: https://yc-syokuhin.com/ Garb Monaque Hours: 7:30 AM – 1:00 AM Access: Located directly across from Grand Front Osaka Address: Japan, 〒530-0011 Osaka, Kita Ward, Ofukacho, 4−1 Umekita Plaza, 1F Website: http://www.garbmonaque.com/ Finally, if you're in the mood to explore Osaka’s nightlife, don’t miss out on Arigato Travel’s Craft Beer and Bar Hopping Tour in Umeda. This guided experience takes you to some of the best hidden bars and taprooms, offering an unforgettable taste of the local beer scene and a great introduction to the world of Craft Beer. Please note that any guests on the tour must be at least 20 years of age, which is Japan's legal drinking age. Discover Nakazakicho's Retro Vibes Just a short walk from the bustling center, Nakazakicho offers a glimpse into pre-war Japan. This charming neighborhood is dotted with preserved wooden houses, cozy cafes, and vintage shops. It's a serene escape from the city's fast pace. Access: 6-minute walk from Umeda Station or directly from Nakazakicho Station on the Tanimachi Line Nakazakicho Station Address: 1-chōme-5 Nakazaki, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0016, Japan Station Website: https://subway.osakametro.co.jp/station_guide/T/t19/ Visit Ohatsu Tenjin Shrine Also known as Tsuyuten Shrine, this historic site dates back over a millennium. It's famed for the tragic love story of Ohatsu and Tokubei, immortalized in Japanese theater. Today, couples visit to pray for lasting love, making for a romantic stop on your Umeda itinerary. Hours: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM Access: 5-minute walk from Higashi-Umeda Station Address: 2 Chome-5-4 Sonezaki, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0057, Japan Website: https://www.tuyutenjin.com/ Step Back in Time at the Osaka Museum of Housing and Living Experience Osaka's history firsthand by walking through life-sized reconstructions of Edo-period streets and homes. The museum provides a tactile journey into the past, complete with seasonal displays and interactive exhibits. It's truly one of the best ways to not only see but experience just what it was like walking around and living in Edo-period Japan. Admission: Adults ¥600; Students ¥300; Children under 15 and Elderly over 65 are free Hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last admission at 4:30 PM) Closed: Tuesdays Access: Directly connected to Tenjinbashisuji Station Address: Japan, 〒530-0041 Osaka, Kita Ward, Tenjinbashi, 6 Chome−4−20 大阪市立住まい情報センタービル 8F Wander Through Tenjinbashisuji Shotengai Stretching over 2.6 kilometers, this is Japan's longest shopping street. Lined with over 600 shops, it's the perfect place to hunt for souvenirs, sample local snacks, and soak in the everyday life of Osaka's residents. Hours: Varies by shop; Open 24 hours Access: Accessible from multiple stations, including Tenjinbashisuji Station Address: Tenjinbashi, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0041, Japan Website: https://www.tenjin123.com/ Enjoy a Show at the Umeda Arts Theater For a dose of culture, check out the Umeda Arts Theater. It hosts a variety of performances, from musicals and plays to concerts, featuring both local and international artists. Be sure to check the schedule in advance to catch a show during your visit. Admission: Varies by performance Hours: Varies by performance Access: 5-minute walk from Hankyu Osaka-Umeda Station Address: 19-1 Chayamachi, Kita Ward, Osaka, 530-0013, Japan Seamlessly blending the old with the new, Umeda offers visitors a diverse and varied experience that captures the essence of Osaka. Whether you're gazing at the city from the heights of the Sky Building, savoring street food, or exploring hidden alleys, Umeda promises memories that will last a lifetime. So when you're planning your next trip to the culinary capital of Japan, don't forget to add Umeda to the list. We certainly won't, and we can't wait to see you there! Featured Photo Credit: beeboys There is certainly no end to the discoveries you can make when visiting Umeda. Join us on our Umeda Craft Beer & Bar Hopping Tour to experience the area's nightlife just like a local would!
If you need some ideas for a more calm travel experience, Tatler Asia recently highlighted a list of destinations around the world where "doing nothing feels just right." Among them were a couple of quiet gems in Japan, proving that you don’t need a jam-packed schedule!
Tokyo Wasshoi takes place on Gyoko-dori Avenue, September 12-14, 2025! Traditional performing arts and festival performances from across Tokyo come together for this event. Experience Edo culture and enjoy Tokyo’s diverse festivals this fall.
Tokoname City, located 30 minutes by train from Nagoya and close to Chubu Centrair International Airport, is a pottery town that produces the most maneki-neko (beckoning cats) in Japan and has recently been gaining attention as a tourist destination. ♪ Tokoname City has begun selling a "Suberanyai" charm featuring Tokotan, the maneki-neko (beckoning cat) local mascot. ♪
Whether you are experienced, sporty, or you just want to feel the wind in your face whilst traveling around the country, cycling tours are a must-try in Japan! Grab a bicycle and ride through nature and cities to fully dive into the country’s beauty. Trust us, there is no better way to experience the land of the rising sun. But with so many options available, it can be hard to know where to start. Well, no worries, we built up a list of 10 short and fun cycling routes to get your adventure started! First, let’s start with some possible cycling routes in the Tokyo area. Imperial Palace - Ueno - Asakusa Loop For a 1 to 2-hour ride, you will get to explore Koto city with this popular 24 km loop trail from Ryogoku that will bring you through many culturally popular areas along the trail, such as Asakusa, Ueno, and the Imperial Palace, before returning to your starting point. And, as a bonus, you might also have a view of the Skytree, near Sumida Park. This trail is particularly enjoyable during the Sakura season, so make sure to save it for Spring! Keep in mind, though, you might encounter many pedestrians, as it is also a popular walking trail. (Check alltrails.com for more info about the route.) Many rivers also pass through Tokyo, and you can easily follow their banks for a nice bicycle tour around the prefecture’s cities! Let's have a look at a couple of these that you could try. Edogawa River Let’s start with the Edogawa river for a 64 km long (around 4 hours) cycling course starting from Saitama, following Tokyo and Chiba’s common borders. Many people shorten this cycling route and start from Mizumoto Park in Katsushika city to end up in Shibamata city. There is also the Tora-san museum, temples, beautiful nature, and many bike rental locations along the way! The course is really flexible and customisable, allowing a lot of freedom. Here’s an example of an itinerary on Google Maps. Arakawa River From Tokyo Bay to Saitama’s Chichibu area, you can engage in an 80 km cycling tour along the Arakawa River. On the road, enjoy a break in a café or a restaurant as there are many along the route, admire the city’s green scenery, and have wonderful views of the ocean. As the river runs for around 170 km in total, there are a lot of possible paths to follow, but spots not to miss are probably Kasai Rinkai Park and Sakura-Tsutsumi Park to take a rest. Here’s a guide to the Arakawa Cycling Route. Not far from Tokyo, in the Yamanashi prefecture, there are also many places offering beautiful landscapes that can be appreciated while riding a bicycle. Lake Kawaguchi On this route, you can go for an 18 km loop around Lake Kawaguchi, the most popular of the Fuji Five Lakes, and enjoy wonderful views of Mount Fuji all along the cycling route, which is clearly guided through a continuous blue line. Oh, and don’t forget to take pictures. There are many nice spots on the road, as well as bars and other stops to rest, with entertaining festivals and events all year round. There is a rental bike shop near Kawaguchiko station, from where you can easily access the lake with the directions indicated. Go south from there, and you’ll find the prefecture of Shizuoka, which is overflowing with wonderful cycling routes! To help you, our friends and partners, Visit Suruga has put up several cycling tours with electric bikes provided to guide you through all of Suruga’s beauty! E-bike tour of Suruga Bay coastline and harbor Engage in a 4-hour ride around Suruga Bay coastline and Harbor, with many entertaining activities, experiences, and spectacular views along the way. The cycling route schedule starts at Shimizu Fish Market, goes along the Pacific Ocean in Miho after having boarded on a water bus, and ends with a relaxing time in Mochimune. If you are looking for a nice group trip to discover the beauty of Suruga Bay, you can check the tour information here.
Hokkaido’s summer is all about clear skies, refreshing air, and low humidity — a perfect escape from the heat. Lavender fields in full bloom, mouthwatering seafood, and juicy seasonal fruits make it even more irresistible. In this post, we’re sharing some must-visit spots to make the most of your summer trip to Hokkaido.