Category: Travel Guide
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A Gentle Autumn Journey Through Nakatsugawa: Magome-juku to Tsumago-juku on the Nakasendō Trail
Walking the Magome‑juku → Tsumago‑juku section of the historic Nakasendō Trail is one of the most peaceful ways to experience the charm of the Nakatsugawa region in Gifu Prefecture. My husband and I recently enjoyed this walk during autumn, and the journey turned into a beautiful blend of crisp colour, traditional streets, local food, and…
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A Gentle Escape to Fukui: Camping by the Sea, Local Flavors, and the Beauty of Mikata Lakes
There’s something about the sea that instantly softens your mind.It might be the sound of waves, the cool air brushing against your face, or the slow rhythm that reminds you to pause.Our short trip to Fukui Prefecture had all of that — quiet mornings, coastal views, warm food, and a little bit of adventure. It…
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A Visit to Ochobo-san: The Little Fox Shrine of Blessings and Business
Tucked away in the quiet countryside of Kaizu, Chiyoho Inari Shrine, lovingly called Ochobo-san, is a place where faith and daily life meet. For over a thousand years, people have come here to thank the gods for prosperity, family safety, and the simple joys of each month. Visitors light candles and offer fried tofu to…
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A Gentle Autumn Day Trip to Nagoya: Our Relaxed Journey from Gifu
A personal yet practical guide to an ideal autumn day trip from Gifu to Nagoya — exploring Sakae, Nagoya Castle, Osu Kannon Temple, and café moments along the way. Includes itinerary, local tips, and must-try Nagoya dishes.
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Half a Day in Gifu City — A Gentle Walk Through History and Hills
From a butter-toast breakfast near Gifu Station to the golden smile of the Great Buddha by afternoon — this quiet half-day in Gifu City blends history, nature, and gentle living. The perfect slow adventure between mountain and river
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A Golden Giant in Gifu — The Great Buddha of Shōhō-ji
Behind a quiet lane in Gifu lies a 13-metre golden Buddha built of bamboo, clay and layered prayer. At Shōhō-ji, the Gifu Great Buddha invites quiet reflection — here’s its story, its meaning, and how to visit.
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Kurikinton in Gifu – Japan’s Pure Chestnut Sweet That Marks the Start of Autumn
Discover Gifu’s kurikinton (栗きんとん) — a simple chestnut + sugar wagashi that signals Japan’s autumn. Learn the difference between osechi 栗金団 and Gifu’s fall version, explore Nakatsugawa & Ena shops, and taste the spirit of the season.
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What Is a “Day Service” in Japan?
Every day service in Japan is unique — each with its own rhythm and personality. Here’s what daily life looks like at the warm, café-style day service where I work in Gifu.
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A Morning at 251 Café – Simple, Cozy, and Worth the Wait
Hidden in Gifu, 251 Café (ニコイチカフェ) offers a warm and minimalist space perfect for slow mornings. Enjoy a beautiful Morning Set with croissant, salad, and latte — simple, cozy, and worth the wait.
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The Morning Set Culture in Gifu: Discover Japan’s Unique Breakfast Tradition
One of the things I’ve grown to love about living in Gifu is the morning set culture. Unlike in other parts of Japan, where breakfast might mean grabbing an onigiri from the konbini, in Gifu it’s all about heading to a cozy kissaten (coffee shop) and enjoying a full plate of food that comes free…
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