japan – Jellybeans in the City

Navigating Nagoya: Must-see sights in and around Japan’s historic city

Nagoya, Japan’s fourth-largest city, often remains overshadowed by the glamour of Tokyo, the cultural richness of Kyoto, and the hustle and bustle of Osaka. Yet, Nagoya is definitely a hidden gem, a vibrant city waiting to be explored.

Here, history mingles seamlessly with modernity, offering a unique travel experience which I discovered when I joined the international trip qualifiers of Sun Life Philippines’ 42nd Macaulay Club during their six-day sojourn in Nagoya.

So sit back and check out all the must-see sights that made our trip truly memorable!

Discovering Nagoya’s Rich History and Modern Wonders

Nagoya’s story is one of resilience and transformation. Ravaged by heavy bombing during World War II, the city emerged from the ashes as a modern metropolis. Today, Nagoya is a testament to the juxtaposition of rich history and futuristic architecture. History enthusiasts and modern architecture admirers will both find their niche here.

Must-See Tourist Destinations in Nagoya

Nagoya Castle

Nagoya Castle stands as a symbol of Nagoya’s history and recovery. Destroyed in a 1945 bombing raid, the castle was meticulously reconstructed in 1959, preserving its original look with a modern interior. Here, you’ll encounter vintage exhibits from the Edo Period, including sliding doors, beautifully painted screens, swords, and helmets. A ride on the elevator to the 5th floor affords visitors with for breathtaking views of Nagoya City. The iconic golden tiger-headed dolphins on the roof add a touch of regal elegance. Surrounding the castle, cherry blossoms bloom in late March and early April, or in our case, the trees change into their autumn foliage, creating a mesmerizing scene.

Location: 1-1 Honmaru, Naka Ward, Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture 460-0031, Japan

Atsuta Shrine

Atsuta Jingu, one of Japan’s most important shrines, boasts a history that dates back over 1,900 years. It is renowned as the guardian of the legendary Kusanagi-no-tsurugi sword, one of the three sacred treasures of the Imperial House. While the sword remains hidden from the public eye, the shrine houses thousands of traditional and culturally significant artifacts, including sacred garments, furniture, mirrors, ancient masks, and documents. The sprawling shrine complex also features buildings for weddings and tea ceremonies.

Location: 1 Chome-1-1 Shrine, Atsuta Ward, Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture 456-8585, Japan

Osu Kannon Temple

Osu Kannon Temple offers a unique blend of spirituality and shopping. Founded in 1612 and relocated in the 17th century, the temple stands as a serene oasis with a Japanese pagoda, Buddha statues, and a massive red paper lantern. Stroll through the bustling Osu outdoor shopping mall, filled with souvenirs, household items, traditional crafts, food, and antiques. You may also chance upon the Fuji Sengen Shrine which features statues of kitsune (Japanese for fox) guarding the entrance.

Location: 2 Chome-21-47 Osu, Naka Ward, Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture 460-0011, Japan

Tokugawaen Park

Tokugawaen, a Japanese garden, is a visual masterpiece with a central pond and stunning natural beauty. The design, which includes a clear stream flowing from a waterfall through a ravine to the pond, symbolizes the essence of Japanese nature. The garden’s unique landforms, untouched woods, and the magnificent stereoscopic rock garden make it a true daimyo garden. Visit at any season to witness the changing colors and the blossoms of peonies and irises.

Location: Tokugawacho, Higashi Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 461-0023, Japan

Nabana No Sato

Nabana No Sato, located in Kuwana City, is a family-oriented theme park filled with beauty and attractions. It is famous for its illuminated features, including the romantic Tunnel of Light and the Cloud of Lights. While entry may seem a bit expensive at times, the cost includes vouchers worth 1,000 yen, which can be used at restaurants and facilities, effectively reducing your admission fee.

Location: Komae Urushibata 270, Nagashima Town, Kuwana City, Mie Prefecture

Takayama Old Town

Takayama’s old town is a well-preserved relic from the feudal ages when the city thrived as a wealthy merchant town. Stroll through the southern half of the old town, especially Sannomachi Street, where old homes, shops, cafes, and sake breweries await. Some have been in business for centuries. Visit the Fujii Art Gallery, also known as Fujii Folk Craft Museum, located in a charming old building, and explore the various household items and art objects on display.

Location: Takayama, Gifu Prefecture

Shirakawa-go Village

Hidden in the mountains and forests of neighboring Gifu and Toyama prefectures, the Historical Village of Shirakawa-go is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its unique Gassho-zukuri architecture, characterized by thatched roofs shaped like praying hands, is extremely rare in Japan. These houses were constructed without nails or metal materials, using only natural resources like wood and straw. The village, isolated for a long time due to its location, retains dozens of historical houses and a glimpse into a bygone era.

Location: Ono District, Gifu Prefecture

Practical Tips for Travelers

Nagoya experiences a range of weather throughout the year. Dress accordingly, with light clothing for summer and layers for winter. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, especially when exploring historical sites.

Carry an umbrella in case of sudden rainshowers, eco bags for shopping, and a credit or GCash card, widely accepted in large stores and convenience stores. Local currency is useful for smaller shops.

Consider using Google Maps for easy navigation. Get a prepaid pocket WiFi hotspot or subscribe to your local carrier’s roaming service for mobile data.

Nagoya, a city teeming with rich history and modern charm, is a destination for the curious traveler. It beckons you to experience its unique blend of old and new, and as you navigate its streets and attractions, you’ll uncover the city’s captivating story.

So why wait? Plan your journey to Nagoya and explore the beauty of this vibrant city for yourself. #NavigatingNagoya is your passport to a unique and unforgettable adventure.

Book your accommodations and tours for your Nagoya trip via Klook. Enjoy discounts (5% for new users, 3% for existing users) by using my code JELLYBEANS.

Disclosure: I was awarded an all-expense paid trip to Nagoya, Japan, joining the international trip qualifiers of the Macaulay Club which includes a 6D/5N stay at the Courtyard by Marriott Nagoya, after winning the first Sun Talks Digital Media Edition contest of Sun Life Philippines for bloggers. Accommodations and the tour were organized by World.Destinations Travel Corp.

Get your Japanese food fix from Katsu-Sama: Japan at your doorstep

As the rainy season casts a shadow over outdoor plans and traffic jams make venturing out a daunting task, there’s no need to compromise when you crave for Japanese food.

You won’t need to leave the comfort of your home or the convenience of your office when you want to savor the delicious flavors of Japan. Thanks to Katsu-Sama, a Japanese food delivery service, you can enjoy delectable Japanese cutlets and more, without stepping foot outside.

Katsu-Sama’s Solo Offerings

Katsu-Sama’s Solo Meals are perfect for a satisfying solo dining experience. For just Php259, you can indulge in a delectable combination of Meat and Rice. Choose from an array of mouthwatering viands, including Pork Katsu, Chicken Katsu, Pork Katsudon, Chicken Katsudon, Gyudon, or Chicken Karaage.

How About an Upgrade?

Enhance your Solo Meal experience with affordable upgrades. For an additional Php69, you can add a refreshing beverage to your order. Choose from House-blend Iced Tea, Green Apple Iced Tea, or Lychee Iced Tea. If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, why not upgrade your rice to Kimchi rice for just Php39?

The Super Meal: A Hearty Feast

When hunger strikes with a vengeance, go for Katsu-Sama’s Super Meal. For only Php599, you’ll be treated to an expansive feast, featuring your choice of meat (either Pork Katsu or Chicken Katsu), Gyudon, a Large Rice, Miso Soup and your preferred Iced Tea.

Customization and Add-ons

At Katsu-Sama, the power of customization lies in your hands. Enhance your meal by selecting from an array of add-ons such as soft drinks, Japanese mayo, fried egg, and more. This level of personalization allows you to create the perfect Japanese culinary experience tailored to your preferences without burning a hole through your wallet.

Japan at Home

Embrace the feeling of Japan at your doorstep with Katsu-Sama’s delectable offerings. Craving a Japanese cutlet? Katsu-Sama’s Solo Meals are meticulously crafted to bring the taste of Japan’s street food to your dining table. The convenience of ordering from home means you don’t have to brave the rain or navigate through heavy traffic just to enjoy a scrumptious meal.

Japan at the Office

In the hustle and bustle of the workday, treat yourself and your colleagues to a delightful Japanese lunch without leaving the office. Katsu-Sama’s delivery service offers a practical solution for satisfying your cravings during those busy work hours. With options like the Yokozuna Feast, designed for groups of four, or the Katsu Platter to Share, ideal for groups of eight, you can share the joy of Japan’s culinary wonders with your colleagues.

Branches and Delivery Options

With branches located at Katipunan, Aurora Boulevard, San Juan, Sheridan, and Mall of Asia, Katsu-Sama ensures that Japan’s culinary delights are accessible to Japanese food enthusiasts all over the metro. Whether you’re residing or working near these areas, you can conveniently enjoy Katsu-Sama’s offerings.

Plus, the hassle-free delivery service via Grabfood and FoodPanda brings Japan to your doorstep with just a few taps on your phone.

When the rainy season or a busy workday confines you to the comfort of your home or office, know that you can always count on the Kastu Master, Katsu-Sama to come to your aid and bring you yummy and affordable Japanese fare.

Know more about Katsu-Sama’s menu and offers by following it on Facebook and Instagram.

Disclosure: Product samples were provided to facilitate this feature.

Rediscover Japan in a Historic Gassho Home in World Heritage Site Gokayama, Now on Airbnb

Suganuma village, a hidden gem in Japan and a World Heritage Site, is opening its doors to overnight guests for the first time in decades. After three years of travel restrictions and lockdowns, travelers now have the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the history and heritage of this picturesque village, which is typically only accessible to residents after sunset. The Nakashima family, fifth-generation locals, are hosting guests in their 170-year-old thatched-roof family home for an authentic two-night stay. This collaboration between Airbnb, Nanto City, and the Nakashima family allows visitors to rediscover the beauty of Suganuma village in an incredibly authentic way.

Suganuma Village: A Hidden Cultural Time Capsule

Situated on the breathtaking shores of the Sho River, surrounded by majestic rugged mountains, Suganuma village is one of Japan’s most beautiful and charming places. It is also one of the country’s best-kept secrets. This summer, Airbnb is offering guests a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience this World Heritage Site by staying in one of its historic homes.

Immerse Yourself in Tradition and Heritage

With the generous support of Nanto City and the Nakashima family, Airbnb is listing their centuries-old, thatched-roof house on its platform. This collaboration enables guests to explore Suganuma village in an incredibly authentic way, preserving its traditions and heritage for generations to come. After years of isolation, both locals and travelers are seeking connections with the world around them. In a recent survey, over 60 percent of respondents expressed that traveling on Airbnb provided a closer connection to the local culture compared to staying in hotels or resorts. Suganuma, often referred to as a “hidden village,” remains without tourist accommodations and restricts entry to residents after dusk, making it a true cultural time capsule. This unique Airbnb stay provides guests with an unparalleled opportunity to experience the village and immerse themselves in its rich traditions.

Gassho-zukuri Farmhouses: A Testimony to Time and Harmony

The village’s Gassho-zukuri style farmhouses, including the Nakashima family home, are unique to the region. Their pitched, thatched roof structures are designed to withstand heavy winter snowfall and have stood the test of time. Thatching is a local tradition that requires immense time and effort, fostering a spirit of mutual support known as “yui” among the locals. Suganuma village embodies the harmony between its people and nature.

Quotes from Local Authorities

Mr. Mikio Tanaka, Mayor of Nanto City, Toyama Prefecture, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “We are honored to offer a truly unique experience in Suganuma village, a World Heritage Site, through our collaboration with Airbnb. The rich history and vibrant culture of this charming small town, coupled with the warm hearts of the people who live there, will make for a fascinating and restorative stay. We hope this campaign brings attention to this beautiful destination for both Japanese residents and guests from around the world.”

Mr. Shinichi Nakashima, Airbnb Host and a resident of Suganuma, added, “I am delighted to open my family’s home for a unique stay that will enable guests to enjoy the traditional life of our beautiful village of Suganuma. Through our collaboration with Airbnb, my family and I look forward to providing guests with unique experiences that have been part of our village for centuries.”

Unforgettable Experiences Await

During their two-night stay from July 17-19, 2023, guests will be treated to a range of unforgettable experiences:

Traditional Welcome and Local Cuisine: Mr. Nakashima will personally prepare a welcome tea and serve local dishes such as Gokayama tofu, mountain vegetables, and freshly-caught river fish.
Learn Local Traditions: Guests will have the opportunity to learn about local traditions that have been sustained for centuries. This includes the art of making washi, a paper made from local fiber, and the creation of sasara, a traditional instrument featured in one of the region’s oldest folk songs.
Evening Light Show and Folk Song Experience: Witness a magical evening as locals illuminate their traditional homes while showcasing local songs and dances.
Thatched Roof Workshop: Participate in a hands-on workshop where guests can learn and craft thatched roofs, representing the local Gassho-zukuri building techniques.
Guided Bike Ride: Explore the village’s lush surroundings and enjoy the serenity of nature with a relaxing guided bike ride.

To enhance the experience of disconnecting from technology and reconnecting with nature, guests will receive a “Disconnect to Connect” kit. The kit includes a stationary set made of traditional washi paper, an instant camera, and a local aromatherapy kit.

How to Book

Those interested in exploring Suganuma village can request to book this unique stay starting Friday, June 30, at 9 a.m JST (Thursday, June 29, at 8 p.m. ET) at airbnb.com/gassho. Guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements to and from Suganuma village. It is important to note that guests must adhere to applicable local rules and guidelines, as well as Airbnb’s COVID-19 Safety Practices. These practices include wearing masks and practicing social distancing according to local laws and guidelines. On-site staff will also strictly adhere to local rules and guidelines and follow Airbnb’s enhanced cleaning process.

Join the Airbnb Community

If you’re interested in becoming an Airbnb host, visit airbnb.com/host to learn more about the rewarding experience of hosting.

Details and images provided in a recent press release.

Top 10 most wishlisted Airbnb Stays for your next trip to Japan

It’s time to include Japan on your travel destination list! The Land of the Rising Sun fully reopened for visa-free, individual travel earlier this month and the Japanese Embassy in the Philippines has announced that they are now accepting applications for all visas.

According to latest data from an Airbnb survey conducted among Filipinos this October, 9 in 10 Filipino adults intend to travel to Japan when they are able to and 45 percent ranked Japan their number one travel wishlist destination. The data also showed that 71 percent of Filipino respondents would like to visit a major city in Japan. Approximately a third indicated that having a unique accommodation was important when traveling to Japan.*

Airbnb has further revealed the top searched destinations in Japan by global travelers on the platform:**

Osaka
Tokyo
Shinjuku
Shibuya
Fukuoka

Kyoto
Taito
Sapporo
Okinawa
Niseko

Amanpreet Bajaj, Airbnb’s General Manager for Southeast Asia, India, Hong Kong and Taiwan, said, “We greatly welcome the lifting of Japan’s travel restrictions, as it is an extremely popular destination for international travelers including Filipinos. We know that many are excitedly gearing up to plan holidays for the end-of-year festive season and next year.”

Whether you want to immerse yourself in the buzzy vibes of downtown Tokyo, indulge in Osaka’s incredible culinary scene, or go off-the-beaten-track and discover something new in lesser known but equally beautiful regions like Tohoku — Japan definitely has something to offer for every type of traveler. To help you plan your much-awaited adventure, here are Airbnb’s top 10 most globally wishlisted stays in Japan.*** Dou itashimashite!

For a taste of Japanese living

1 tatami house — An old folk house guest house with a goat! Equipped with Wi-Fi – Matakitai (Iwate)

2 yanagdori home — A modern Japanese-style luxury house with an open-air bath limited to two people (Tokyo)

For an eccentric yet exciting experience

3 handmade strawbale house — Handmade strawbale house in in Koshimizu city (Hokkaido)

4 manga design home — Hotel room with MANGA design, all-you-can-read comics (Kyoto)

For the minimalist enthusiast

5 4 beds in tokyo — Cozy room in boutique hotel 3 minutes from the station (Tokyo)

6 ginza tokyo — Room in boutique hotel near Tsukiji and Ginza (Tokyo)

7 yanaka sow — Yanaka Sow studio rental unit (Tokyo)

8 shinagawa oimachi — A stylish designer hotel with good access to airport and Shinkansen (Kyoto)

For some off-grid exploration

9 anoie sauna house — Detached house with private sauna and superb view of Lake Nojiri (Nagano)

10 elegant secluded cabin — Elegant, secluded cabin for couples & families (Nagano)

As travel returns, Airbnb recently announced an exciting new partnership with MUJI Japan to renovate empty homes, shopfronts and government-owned real estate to drive new and creative types of travel accommodation in towns across the country. To start, both parties are converting accommodation owned by Shimizu-cho, Hokkaido into unique stays for travelers – with two MUJI-designed and styled homes now bookable exclusively on Airbnb here and here. Both feature local Hokkaido timber furniture and MUJI-branded tableware, cooking utensils, and home appliances.

*Based on data from a YouGov survey commissioned by Airbnb, that polled 1063 respondents in the Philippines between 6-12 October 2022.

**Based on guest locations that generated the most searches for Japan on the day of the

Japanese government’s announcement, 23 September.

***Based on most wishlisted listing data from Sept 1 – Sept 22, 2022. All Homes referenced are intended purely to inspire and illustrate. Airbnb does not recommend or endorse specific Home listings on the Airbnb platform.

About Airbnb

Airbnb was born in 2007 when two Hosts welcomed three guests to their San Francisco home, and has since grown to over 4 million Hosts who have welcomed more than 1 billion guest arrivals in almost every country across the globe. Every day, Hosts offer unique stays and one-of-a-kind activities that make it possible for guests to experience the world in a more authentic, connected way.

Header photo by tawatchai07 on Freepik