Rain changed our Kyoto plans again, so we explored the Manga Museum and returned to a much busier Nishiki Market for lunch.
Nishiki Market in Kyoto: What We Wish We Knew Before Going
What is it really like to eat at Kyoto’s Nishiki Market? Here’s what we learned about the crowds, food stands, eating rules and more.
Japan Day 6: A Rainy, Slower Day in Kyoto
A rainy day in Kyoto changed our plans, bringing us to Nishiki Market and the Samurai Museum, where kid 2 unexpectedly won a shuriken contest!
Japan Day 5: A Short Train Ride… That Didn’t Feel So Short
A travel day from Osaka to Kyoto that turned out to be a little more complicated than expected, followed by a much-needed quiet afternoon to settle in and recharge.
A Beginner’s Guide to Gashapon in Japan
A beginner’s guide to gashapon in Japan: what they cost, how they work, where to find them and why those ¥200 toys add up fast.
Japan Day 4 – Sometimes the Best Discoveries Aren’t on the Itinerary
A day of crab, shopping and gashapon in Osaka ended with a peaceful evening surrounded by lights and colors at TeamLab Botanical Garden.
Japan Day 3: Universal Studios Japan Was Worth Every Yen
A full day at Universal Studios Japan, from our favorite rides and the Express Pass to intense July heat and one attraction that definitely didn’t live up to the hype.
A Beginner’s Guide to Japanese Mochi: More Than Just a Sweet Treat
Think you know mochi? From fresh fruit daifuku to mochi ice cream, discover some of the delicious varieties you can find in Japan.
Japan Day 2: Shopping, Rainy Weather, and Osaka Aquarium
Shopping, fresh fruit mochi, and a rainy afternoon at Osaka Aquarium Kaiyukan made for a busy second day in Japan.
Japan Day 1: We Finally Made It to Osaka!
Our Japan adventure begins! From landing at Kansai Airport to riding the Hello Kitty HARUKA Express, settling into our Airbnb, and discovering our very first Japanese 7-Eleven.