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10 Fun Things to do in Taito City, Tokyo
Taito City or Taitō is a district in northeastern Tokyo. Taito City is known for Ueno Park which is home to many world class museums, Tokyo’s largest Buddhist Temple, Senso-ji, and Ameyoko, a shopping street full of shops and restaurants. If you are traveling to Tokyo and looking for an authentic Japanese experience, this must visit district in Tokyo is full of historical landmarks, traditional shrines and temples, genuine Japanese food, with a lively atmosphere and bustling nightlife. Looking for fun things to do in Taito City? I spent three full days exploring Taito City and this post is a list of my recommendations and must visit places. **This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of the links or banners throughout the page, whether it be TripAdvisor, Booking.com. Agoda.com, or any other affiliate, I might receive commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, you can visit my affiliate link page here. Thanks for the support! 10 Things to do in Taito City Taito City, a historical district located in Tokyo’s northeast region is a district that is often overlooked. Travelers head to other parts of Tokyo like Shinjuku or Shibuya and may often take a day trip to Taito City to see a museum or Senso-ji. But after spending three days in Taito City and still not being able to see everything I had planned, this district deserves more time and attention. The list of things to do in Taito City below is a recommended list of must visit places and things to do in Taitō based on my experiences and research. 1. Ameyoko: Shopping and Food Ameyoko, A lively shopping district in Ueno is full of shops, vendors, and restaurants. Street markets in Japan are not as common as other parts in Asia. Early on, I was told that rent is so cheap in Japan that there really is not a need to be outside. But for those that do love markets, thankfully Ameyoko is just across the main street from the train station. You can find all sorts of goodies from the street vendors here. Many food items can be found here, from Takoyaki to fresh seafood. Besides food, there are many shops to brose through. You can find a lot of cheap goods here as well. Shops include everything from discount stores to pharmacies. 2. Explore the Temples and Nature at Ueno Park Surprisingly, Tokyo has so many parks and natural areas to visit, Ueno Park is no exception. If you are looking for things to do in Taito City then I highly recommend the Ueno area and especially Ueno Park. Ueno Park is home to the Ueno Zoo, museums, temples and shrines, walking paths, cafés, and so much more! You could spend almost an entire day walking the park and exploring the many attractions. The Ueno Toshogu Shrine and the Fivefold Pagoda of Kan’ei-ji are a must visit temple in Ueno Park. Kiyomizu Kannon-do Temple and Shinoazunoike Benten-do are well worth visiting as well. Enjoying my photos and want to see more? Check out my Picfair Store. 📸 3. Nakamise-dori Street: Souvenirs and Local Goodies One of the more popular and fun things to do in Taito City is walk Nakamise-dori to Senso-ji. If crowds are not your thing, you might want to find a different way to get to Senso-ji, because going up the center of Nakamise-dori is shoulder to shoulder traffic. Nakamise-dori is between the famous Kaminarimon and Hozomon Gate of Senso-ji. This crowded street is full of fun souvenir shops and places selling Japanese treats on either side. It can seem overwhelming with the amount of shops and people here, but it’s all part of the experience. After all, would it really be Tokyo without all the people? 4. Nezu Shrine: Seasonal Flowers and Torii Gates Technically in Bunkyo City and not in Taito City is Nezu Shrine but it’s within a 15-minute walking distance from Ueno Park and a must visit Shrine when in the area. Nezu Shrine is considered one of the oldest in Japan and one of Tokyo’s prettiest and most visited. Nezu Shrine offers all the quintessential Japanese Shrine features you can think of. The bright red Torii Gates, ponds full of Koi Fish, a natural setting, and sense of peace and calmness. Nezu Shrine is especially beautiful during the Spring season when thousands of Azaleas are in full bloom. 5. Sample Craft Beer If like me, you are into craft beer and quickly do your research to see if there are any breweries, taprooms, or beerhalls in the area you are traveling to, then don’t worry, Taito City has all of the above! Three beer related places we visited during our 3 days in Taitō include Yanaka Beer Hall, 2nd Cooper, and the Asahi Sky Room. Yanaka Beer Hall is a taproom located in a traditional Japanese home. The atmosphere was notable and relaxing, I could have stayed here for hours. The beer on the other hand was just alright. They serve you typical Lagers, IPAs, and Stouts. The Brewery on tap was called August Beer. The Yanaka Black and the August IPA were my favorites on tap. 2nd Cooper was our go to beer hall in the Ueno area. 2nd Cooper was a great place to visit at the end of the day to kind of reflect and relax. This beer hall had several beers on tap and a large variety of bottles and cans from beers around the world. They also serve bar food. One beer place that we visited that was alright but felt like it was a must do thing in Tokyo was visiting the Asahi Sky Room. Finding this building was a little confusing. It’s located in Google Maps. Visitors need to take the elevator to the top floor. Here you can get a variety of Asahi Beers on tap. I ordered the Asahi Kuronama and rated it pretty high, it was good for an Asahi Beer. 6. Senso-ji: Tokyo’s Largest Buddhist Temple Tokyo’s most famous temple and largest Buddhist temple is Senso-ji. When visiting Tokyo, Japanese and foreigners flock to Nakamise-dori and Senso-ji. If you’ve seen photos of Tokyo, you’ve seen photos of Kaminarimon or the “Thunder Gate.” This gate has a famous giant lantern that is popular in almost all photographs. After passing through Kaminarimon and walking past Nakamise-dori, the next gate is Hozomon. The main hall is Kannondo and is well worth walking up the stairs to see the inside. Gojunoto, the beautiful Pagoda towers above the walls on the west side. If you are looking for must see things or things to do in Taito City, besides Ueno Park, Senso-ji in Asakusa cannot be missed. 7. Sit Down and Sample Food at a Local Izakaya Want to experience a true Japanese sit down restaurant/bar that serves some of the best food in Japan? Then head to a local Izakaya just outside Ueno Station a block away from Ameyoko Shopping Street. This area was lined with Izakaya’s and so many great looking ones to choose from. Many Izakaya’s in Ueno had English menus. Izakaya’s are the best way to sample small amounts of Japanese cuisine. This is especially nice when going with a group of people, you can order a cheap drink and plate after plate of delicious food. We found an Izakaya we liked so much, we went twice! 8. Visit One or Many of the World-Famous Museum Ueno Park is home to many of Japan’s best museums. Many people venture to Ueno just to visit the museums. You have the Tokyo National Museum, National Museum of Western Art, National Museum of Nature and Science, and the Shitamachi Museum. While on our long three day weekend in the Ueno area, we visited the Tokyo National Museum and National Museum of Nature and Science. The Tokyo National Museum is a must. You can potentially spend all day here. We spent about 3 hours here before realizing we still had a full schedule of other things to see and do around Taitō. The Tokyo National Museum has an extensive collection of exhibits and items all related to Japan. I found the archaeology exhibit to be the most impressive. They also have rotating exhibits here. The National Museum of Nature and Science was another good one where you can spend several hours in. I mainly came here to see Hachiko, the famous Akita who was known for his loyalty to his owner. But this museum had a nice collection of taxidermied animals from around the world, and other exhibits related to Japanese history, geology, and space. 9. Wait in Line and Enjoy the Views at Tokyo Sky Tree Tokyo’s Skytree is technically not in Taito City, but it’s close enough. The Tokyo Skytree is a quick and easy walk from Senso-ji, so I recommend doing both attractions while in the area. The Tokyo Skytree is the tallest structure in Tokyo, at 634 meters or around 2,080 ft. Visitors can take the elevator to the 450th Floor to receive the best views of Tokyo. I recommend coming in the late evening hours to see the city at night, it’s beautiful and mind blowing seeing how huge Tokyo really is. Tokyo Skytree was up there with places I wanted to visit in Tokyo. I purchased tickets in advance for the Tembo Deck and Tembo Galleria. At the time of visiting (October, 2023) I purchased tickets for 17:00. Unfortunately, the management of Skytree was very poor. We had to stay in line to get tickets, even though we already paid and had a time slot. Then we were herded like cattle through a maze toward the elevators. Once at the top, it was already so crowded with people there and groups of people getting off the elevators. Then when leaving we stood in line just to get on the elevator down. In the end, we stood in line longer then actually viewing the city which was kind of a let down. Once we got a clear view of the city from Tokyo’s Skytree, the views were spectacular. At night, you can see city lights as far as the eye can see. In the end, I am glad I visited Tokyo’s Skytree, the views were incredible but the management and lines were horrible. If you are looking for things to do in Tokyo. Maybe visit the Skytree at a random time on a random day. 10. Walk Through Yanaka Ginza Yanaka Ginza is a must when visiting the Ueno area. Roughly a 20-minute walk from Ueno Park or a 5-minute walk from Nippori Station, this popular shopping street is full of fun local shops, food vendors, and cafés. Yanaka Ginza has an old town feel to it yet it is located in the middle of a residential area. I believe this area is also know as cat alley. Many of the shops here are cat themed and there were cat statues scattered throughout Yanaka Ginza. Aside from shops and cafés, there were Sake Breweries offering locally made Sake and liquor stores with locally crafted beer. Conclusion Taito City, offers a nice variety of activities and attractions for anyone visiting the Taitō District of Tokyo. From must visit museums to Tokyo’s biggest Buddhist Temple – Senso-ji, there is something for everyone. Plan at least a two day visit to Taito City to see what Ueno and Asakusa has to offer. Taito City is a must visit district of Tokyo and should not be overlooked. Enjoying my photos and want to see more? Check out my Picfair Store. 📸 Plan Your Trip: 🗺️✈️🇯🇵 Booking Accommodations ⛺️🛖 For booking recommendations on the best deals and locations, check out Agoda or Booking.com Activities and Tours 🏖️🚁 Find fun activities and things to do through Tripadvisor. If you are looking for tours and day trips, Viator and Get Your Guide have a lot of great options. In need of a car rental? 🚗🚘 I recommend checking with Rental Cars. Train Travel
Hanoi Travel Guide: All you Need to Know for First Time Visitors
Hanoi is the capital and second largest city in Vietnam. With its rich culture, complicated history, and unique identity, Hanoi is a must visit destination for any traveler. Hanoi is an easy city to explore and is very welcoming to foreigners and first time visitors. This Hanoi travel guide is designed for first time visitors so that anyone can navigate the chaotic streets of Hanoi as we did on our first visit. From must visit attractions to dining experiences, and insider tips, this guide includes all you need to know for a first time visit to Hanoi. ** This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of the links or widgets throughout the page, whether it be Viator, Booking.com, Agoda, or any other affiliate, I might receive commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, you can visit my affiliate link page here. Thanks for the support! Summary Why Visit Hanoi: Hanoi is rich in culture, has many attractions to visit, and is known for its incredible food scene. Top Things to do in Hanoi: Visit the Old Quarter. Temple of Literature. Sample Local Food. Where to Stay: One of the best hotels I’ve stayed at was the Imperial Hotel and Spa. I was blown away by the staffs professionalism and the hotel in general. Location was in the Old Quarter and their breakfast was delicious. First time visiting Hanoi? Consider a Private Walking Tour or Guided Food Tour. Applying for an E-Visa For some countries, it is required to apply for a Visa before traveling to Vietnam. There are multiple countries that are exempt from needing a visa to enter Vietnam. My website, should not be used to apply for a Visa, this portion is just my personal experience with applying for a Visa. I hold citizenship from a country that required an eVisa. The process is straight forward and there are multiple websites that can be used to obtain an eVisa to enter Vietnam. eVisa Vietnam has a lot of helpful information on applying for an eVisa. There are multiple Visa options as well that can be applied for depending on length of stay. Our experience applying for an eVisa was not particularly great. We applied online, paid the fee, and signed in all the required information about 2 weeks prior to visiting Vietnam. About a week later, we received an email that our Visas needed to be updated. There was no description on what fields needed to be updated. We quickly redid the application and submitted the eVisa again. I got another email about 4 days before our trip that the Visa was denied again. In panic, I contacted our hotel, the Hanoi Imperial Hotel and told them that I was unable to get my Visa approved in time. Without hesitation, the hotel told me that they could take care of it for us (of course, there was a fee) and within a day, both Jill and myself had our eVisa for Vietnam. Advice on Applying for an eVisa for Vietnam Apply for the eVisa well in advance to ensure there is enough time to update the visa in case it is send back. Fill out the information properly and double check required fields are filled in. Pay attention to the photo upload requirements. I downloaded a passport photo app on my phone. If all fails, contact your hotel and see if the staff can take care of the Vietnam eVisa. You’ll pay extra but it is worth the peace of mind. Double check the eVisa website if your country is listed as exempt from needed a visa to travel to Vietnam. Where is Hanoi? Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam. Located in northern Vietnam, Hanoi is about 100 km from shores of the South China Sea. Hanoi is situated in the Red River Delta. The country of Vietnam shares its border with three other countries: Cambodia, China, and Laos. Travel to Hanoi Beside overland or by sea, the best way to reach Hanoi is through the air. Most people visiting Northern Vietnam will land at Noi Bai International Airport. Noi Bai is about 35 km to the north of Hanoi. Drive time to and from Noi Bai International Airport from the city center can take anywhere from 40 60 minute depending on traffic. From Okinawa, we flew to Seoul and caught a flight with Asiana Airlines from Seoul to Hanoi. Asiana Airlines is one of our favorite 5-star airlines. Once at Noi Bai International Airport, unless you have a private transfer I’d recommend hailing a cab. We booked pick up and drop off to and from the airport through our hotel. We stayed in the Old Quarter and the price for a private pickup was under $25. 📸 Enjoying my photos and want to see more? Check out my Picfair Store. 📸 Where to Stay If staying in Hanoi, it is recommended to stay within the Old Quarter. The Old Quarter is a great pedestrian friendly district in Hanoi with tons of great options for restaurants, cafés, entertainment, nightlife, and attractions. We booked the Imperial Hotel & Spa Hanoi via Agoda. To be honest, within our price range, there were so many options it was hard to just pick one. Hotels in Vietnam are cheap but that doesn’t mean the quality is cheap. For under $100 you can find luxurious hotels that make you feel like a celebrity! Again, after doing our research on Agoda we booked our hotel at the Imperial Hotel & Spa and we can’t recommend this hotel enough! Imperial Hotel & Spa The Imperial Hotel & Spa is a fabulous hotel situated in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Within walking distance from major attractions like Den Ngoc Son, Ho Hoan Kiem Lake, and the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre we highly recommend the Imperial Hotel & Spa. Prior to our trip to Vietnam, we had difficulties obtaining our E-Visa. We contacted the hotel and they took care of the E-Visa process for us. We also booked airport transfer and the driver was there on time to pick us up and drop us off. A hotel staff met us out front to guide us to the hotel entrance. The staff politely opened the door for us, made us a welcome tea, and went over important information regarding the hotel, Hanoi, and safety. The front counter had a travel agent that can book trips. We booked our Hanoi Countryside on a Motorbike Tour through the hotel and it was one of the better tours we did while traveling Vietnam. The rooms at the Imperial Hotel & Spa were very nice. Somewhat basic yet comfortable and spacious. The morning breakfasts were one of my favorite parts of staying at the Imperial Hotel and Spa. The menu changed daily and everything on the buffet was fabulous. Imperial Hotel & Spa had a spa area on the same floor as the restaurant. Here you can book various spa treatments and massages. We did a full body massage here and it felt great after a long day of exploring. On our final day in Hanoi, our flight was at midnight. We explored Hanoi that day. Worried we’d be sweaty after walking all day, our plan was to freshen up a bit at the hotel bathroom. Before we could even sit down, the staff offered the spa area for us to shower and change clothes. Imperial Hotel & Spa, was one of the best hotel experiences I’ve had while traveling the world. I’d love to come back! Website and Address Below: Hanoi Imperial Hotel & Spa 2RJX+FW Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Vietnam Mopeds and Moped Safety For a city with a rough population estimate of 8 million people, there are about 5-6 million mopeds in Hanoi. One of my favorite things to do in Hanoi was to just stand there on the sidewalk and watch the mopeds drive by. The locals in Hanoi were very innovative when it came to packing items and materials on their mopeds. I’ve never seen anything quite like it! I was also surprised by the amount of people and animals that the Vietnamese can fit on a single moped. I saw one moped with 5 people riding on it. To us, it appeared that there were not many traffic rules when it came to driving in Hanoi. Mopeds were driving in every direction. Amongst the chaos of mopeds were pedestrians, cyclists, and cars driving on the same roads. ✅ As a pedestrian, at first crossing the roads in Hanoi looks almost impossible. I promise you it gets easier after the first day. By the end of the week, Jill and I were confident and felt very comfortable crossing the streets. ✅ Tips for first time visitors when crossing the street, include to be confident, relax, and be vigilant. Walk slow and just keep moving forward. Drivers are aware you are there and will go around you. ✅ If you want to rent a moped, I recommend trying to rent one outside the city and drive in rural areas before venturing into Hanoi. I feel like it takes skill and a brave soul to attempt to ride a moped in Hanoi. ✅ I had a few moped drivers come up to me while I was standing there and try and sell drugs. I simply declined and they drove off without any issues. Things to do in Hanoi If visiting Hanoi, you won’t run out of things to do. From historical landmarks to leisure strolls around Hanoi’s Old Quarter. This Hanoi travel guide provides some of the must do attractions and places to see in Hanoi, especially for first time visitors. For additional recommendations, I have a post on 18 Amazing Things to do in Hanoi 📸 Enjoying my photos and want to see more? Check out my Picfair Store. 📸 Hanoi’s Old Quarter Every Hanoi Travel Guide will recommend visiting Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Personally, not only do I recommend visiting the Old Quarter, but also booking a hotel here. Hanoi’s Old Quarter is centrally located and close to many attractions and restaurants. We found the Old Quarter to be very pedestrian friendly and perfect for families. Hanoi’s Old Quarter has many French style buildings that are unique and beautiful to include the St. Joseph’s cathedral. Hanoi Train Street This narrow alleyway in Hanoi is famous and well known because of the close proximity of the railroad tracks to houses, restaurants, and shops. Passing trains come literally within feet of buildings and people. Although a popular destination and exciting for tourists to see, Hanoi’s train street is an active railway and does pose potential dangers. If interested in visiting the Hanoi Train Street and curious when the trains arrive, here is an updated Hanoi Train Street Schedule. Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum When visiting Hanoi, one of the most popular attractions is the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. This mausoleum was erected as a memorial to Ho Chi Minh. Ho Chi Minh’s preserved body is located within the mausoleum and is open to visitors. The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is free to visit and open from 8:00 am until 11:00 am. Keep in mind, there are strict rules when visiting, such as covering up and chewing gum is not allowed. Hoa Lo Prison Hanoi’s Hoa Lo Prison otherwise known as the “Hanoi Hilton,” is a popular attraction to visit in Hanoi. Hoa Lo Prison was built in the late 1800’s by the occupying French. The purpose of the prison was for political prisoners. During the Vietnam War, this prison was used to keep US Prisoners of War. “Hanoi Hilton,” was a name given to the prison by US Prisoners of War. Temple of Literature The Temple of Literature is a temple near the Citadel and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. This temple dates back to the year 1070 and is a Confucian Temple. Plan on spending at least an hour at the Temple of Literature as there are many buildings within the complex that are worth
18 Amazing Things to do in Hanoi, Vietnam
Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam is a huge city full of cultural landmarks, historical sites, amazing food and drink options, and a plethora of things to do. Whether you are traveling with kids or a solo traveler, there is something in Hanoi that will peak anyone’s interest. If you are a foodie or prefer to visit local cafés and relax, then Hanoi has some of the best restaurants and cafés around. Hanoi is influenced by many cultures, the architecture of buildings in the Old Quarter alone is worth visiting. There are temples, UNESCO sites, city parks all sprinkled within the city. Whether you are spending a few days or a few weeks in Hanoi, this post explores some of our most recommended things to do in Hanoi. **This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of the links or banners throughout the page, whether it be TripAdvisor, Booking.com. Agoda.com, or any other affiliate, I might receive commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, you can visit my affiliate link page here. Thanks for the support! 18 Things to do in Hanoi Hanoi, Vietnam is an incredible city with so many attractions, sites, cafés and restaurants. It can sometimes seem overwhelming on where to start when first exploring this city. We spent a week in Hanoi and did everything from Hanoi day trips and puppet shows to checking out local breweries and touring popular attractions. Plain and simple, there is something to do for everybody in Hanoi. Hanoi has a great nightlife, unique cafés, and is located within driving distance from UNESCO sites like Ha Long Bay and Ninh Binh. Whether you are looking for must see attractions in Hanoi, fun things to do, or things to see at night, here is a list of our recommended things to do in Hanoi. 1. Admire the Innovative and Fascinating Mopeds One of my favorite things to do in Hanoi was to just wait outside a shop while Jill was shopping and watch the mopeds zip by. I’d watch as hundred of mopeds would drive by me and admire the innovative ways they would load items on their mopeds. You’d think you’d seen it all after watching a moped carrying over 20 water cases on it, then 5 minutes later you would see a moped driving with a huge tree on the left side and a ladder on the right side. I even saw a moped carrying 5 people at the same time. 2. Attend the Thang Long Water Puppet Show If you are looking for things to do at night in Hanoi, I highly recommend attending the Thang Long Water Puppet Show. The Thang Long Water Puppet Show blew my expectations out of the water. I typically don’t do these types of shows or theater performances but I heard great things about Hanoi’s famous water puppet show, prices were cheap, and it was near my hotel. The Thang Long Water Puppet Show has multiple performances a day. I’d recommend getting tickets in advance or having your hotel purchase the tickets. This particular water puppet show dates back to the 11th century. The puppets perform in a pool of water with a temple as the backdrop. The themes are based off of traditional folklore and stories. 3. Check out the Thang Long Imperial Citadel Hanoi is home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Central Sector of the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long. Thang Long Imperial Citadel is a complex of buildings from the 11th century. This was constructed during the Ly Dynasty as the seat of power and still plays an incredible role in the history of Hanoi. Today, visitors can walk the grounds, see the famous Doan Mon or Main Gate. There are a few small museums on the grounds. When visiting Thang Long Imperial Citadel, I recommend walking across the street to see the archaeological site. This covered area displays the foundation of structures from the Ly and Tran dynasties. 4. Day Trip – Take One or Many One of the best things about Hanoi is its location and access to amazing sites in Northern Vietnam. Just a few hours of driving from Hanoi, you can be in world famous places like Ha Long Bay or Ninh Binh, both UNESCO sites. From Hanoi you can also venture into the outdoors and do a hiking tour of Sapa or go see the Perfume Pagoda which we didn’t do but I heard a visit to the Perfume Pagoda is worth visiting! If staying in Hanoi for multiple days, I recommend at least two days to fully explore the city and at least one day for day trips. We were lucky to spend an entire week in Hanoi and did a day trip to Ha Long Bay and Ninh Binh. We also did a half day motorbike tour. 5. Do Some Local Shopping, Support Local What better way to support the local economy then to shop at small locally owned shops? Trust me, there are a ton of unique shops around Hanoi, especially in and around the Old Quarter. I am not much of a shopper but I found many interesting shops to purchase local souvenirs and stuff to bring back home. Of course, you can find every shop imaginable from pottery shops to places selling fresh coffee beans. You can also find a lot of shops that custom tailor clothes, dresses, and even suits. There was a shop called Collective Memory that was recommended to us by a friend and we loved it. We bought honey, pho seasoning, hot sauce, and Jill bought earrings here. 6. Don’t Forget the Temple of Literature If visiting the Thang Long Imperial Citadel or Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, it is highly recommended to visit the Temple of Literature as they are in the same area. The Temple of Literature in Hanoi dates back to the year 1070 and is a Confucian Temple. As an added bonus, the Temple of Literature is located on the back of the 100,000 Vietnamese Dong bill. 7. Explore Hanoi’s Old Quarter One of the top things to do in Hanoi is to visit and spend time in the Old Quarter. The Old Quarter is a historical area located in the heart of Hanoi. The Old Quarter is lined with French architecture, amazing restaurants, world class attractions, and luxurious hotels. If you are wondering where to stay in Hanoi and start your journey, I recommend the Old Quarter. Hanoi’s Old Quarter is walkable, tourist friendly, and often included in popular North Vietnam Tours itineraries. 8. I guess, Take your Photo in Front of the Cathedral I found St. Joseph’s Cathedral in Hanoi to be a beautiful European Neo-Gothic style Cathedral. It didn’t feel out of place since it’s located in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. We must have walked by this cathedral a dozen times and each and every time there were crowds of people taking selfies and photos of themselves in front of the church. I guess, it’s all about that Instagram shot? 9. Learn Some History at the Vietnam Military Museum If you are interested in Military History and historic battles, then a visit to the Vietnam Military Museum is well worth a visit. This museum is home to military equipment, vehicles, and weapons that were used by the French, Vietnamese, and United States during historical wars. There are both indoor and outdoor sections to this museum. Unfortunately, the day I went the inside was closed to visitors. But the outside was still open and they charged half price. Apart from looking at the collection of military vehicles, weapons, and other artifacts, visitors can pay a visit to the Flag Tower of Hanoi. 10. Let the Kids Ride Around on Electric Vehicles If looking for things to do in Hanoi for kids, then there seemed to be plenty of kid friendly activities. From city parks to street performers but one particular activity seemed to be a big hit with the children and that was driving electric cars around the Old Quarter. During the weekends and potentially holidays, the streets around Hoan Kiem Lake are closed off to motor vehicles and become pedestrian only, with the exception of electric vehicles for kids. There were lines in front of shops of electric vehicles that are available to rent. I saw everything imaginable from tanks to sports cars. The kids all seemed to love it! 11. Make Time for Tran Quoc Pagoda Tran Quoc Pagoda is a beautiful Buddhist temple located on a small island on West Lake. History of this temple dates back to 1,500 years ago. We walked here from the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and walked back to the Old Quarter from here. Out of all the temples we saw in Hanoi, Tran Quoc Pagoda was my favorite. Between the palm trees, vibrant colors, and unique architecture Tran Quoc Pagoda was a highlight of our trip and highly recommended. 12. Order the Obama Combo at Bun Cha Huong Lien I am a huge fan of Anthony Bourdain and on his Parts Unknown episode while in Hanoi he shared a meal with former President, Barack Obama. What I liked so much about this meal between the two was that they didn’t go to a fine dining restaurant like you’d expect. Instead, Anthony Bourdain stayed true to himself and picked a typical Vietnamese restaurant. You know the type, cheap beer, plastic seats, and standards that probably would not be up to par in the Western world. The two sat on their plastic chairs at a restaurant just south of the old Quarter called Bun cha Huong Lien, and they ordered Bun Cha. Bun Cha is a meal that consists of grilled pork in a broth with noodles and greens. I tend to watch Anthony Bourdain’s television shows before I go on a trip, so I marked it on my maps and ventured to Bun cha Huong Lien one evening for dinner. The restaurant wasn’t packed at the time as we were seated ight away. You can order the Combo Obama, which is what the former President and Anthony Bourdain ordered. It comes with 1 Bun Cha, 1 Fried Seafood Roll, and a beer. All for 120.000 Vietnamese Dong which comes out to just under $5. Any other place in the world they would uptick the price because someone famous visited. Food in Vietnam is so cheap, I am still amazed. Today, the table and chairs where Barack Obama and Anthony Bourdain sat are encased in a plastic covering. You can walk up to the 3rd floor to see and take pictures. 13. Sample Food and Lots of it Let’s be honest, the main reason I came to Hanoi was to eat Vietnamese food. I’ve had Vietnamese food in the United States and Japan but other then Banh Mi and Pho, I was clueless about the food culture and other types of food in Vietnam. Jill and I took a food tour in Hanoi on our first day, we stopped at seven different restaurants and sampled various dishes. Each dish was so much different then the last. After the food tour, we gained confidence and ate out by ourselves. We tried pizza at Pizza 4P’s, had Banh Mi sandwiches multiple times from local vendors making them fresh on the streets, and tried so many other dishes. Everything we ate was so refreshing and satisfying. They add fresh vegetables to most their dishes, so I felt I was eating somewhat healthy. Food in Vietnam is dirt cheap as well. I’m talking $1-3 for some meals including a beer. One of our favorite dishes in Hanoi was Nen Nuong Nha Trang at Nem Nuong Nha Trang Que Hoa. This was a platter with meat and piles of vegetables. You get rice paper and wrap the ingredients up like a burrito and dunk it in sauce. 14. See the Giant Turtles at Ngoc Son Temple In the middle of Hanoi’s Old Quarter is Ngoc Son Temple. This Temple
Off the Beaten Path: Exploring Hanoi’s Countryside on a Motorbike
Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam is known as a chaotic yet beautiful city. The sound of horns honking, millions of mopeds, and crowds of people everywhere, why not escape the city to the countryside and experience a different side of Hanoi. One of the best ways to explore Hanoi’s countryside is on a motorbike. Experience what being on a motorbike is really like through the chaotic streets of Hanoi before venturing into the countryside where small villages dot the landscape as you cruise through banana tree fields, pottery villages, and unique landscapes. Whether you are seeking to escape the hustle and bustle of Hanoi or just want to see what life is like just outside of the city, exploring Hanoi’s countryside on a motorbike is the way to go! **This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of the links or banners throughout the page, whether it be TripAdvisor, Booking.com. Agoda.com, or any other affiliate, I might receive commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, you can visit my affiliate link page here. Thanks for the support! Booking a Hanoi Motorbike Tour The Hanoi motorbike tour we found was through a company called Hanoi Backstreet Tours. Actually our hotel took care of the booking for us, but if interested you can book directly through their website. On the Hanoi Backstreet Tours website, you can view a listed of all the tours offered and book directly through the website. You can also find and book their tours through either Get Your Guide or TripAdvisor. Hanoi Backstreet Tours offers a wide variety of tours, the three main ones are Hanoi Motorbike Tours, Hanoi Jeep Tours, and Hanoi Street Food Tours. Once you find a Hanoi tour you are interested in and book it, the day of the tour the company will pick you up and drop you off at your hotel. Lunch was included on our Hanoi motorcycle tour. After picking us up from the hotel, we had lunch at Hidden Gem Coffee, which was delicious. After enjoying a satisfying lunch we began our half day motorbike tour. Touring Hanoi’s Countryside on a Motorbike Our tour was through Hanoi Backstreet Tours. Our hotel booked the tour for us, but it can be booked through their website, or on travel booking sites like Get Your Guide or TripAdvisor. Hanoi Backstreet Tours offers several adventurous tours to include both old rustic jeep tours and soviet era motorcycle tours. We were amazed by the mopeds and motorcycles in Hanoi and wanted to be part of the action so we booked the Hanoi Countryside on a motorbike tour. According to their website, the motorcycles provided are ex soviet motorcycles known as the M1A or M1NSK. Don’t worry, you yourself will not be driving the chaotic streets of Hanoi by motorbike. Leave that to the professionals. Us tourists, just sit on the back of the motorbike hanging on to dear life! The tour started with a pickup from our hotel and the rider drove us to lunch at Hidden Gem Coffee. After lunch, we departed toward a small pottery village on the outskirts of Hanoi called Bat Trang, about an hours drive one-way. We got to experience driving through Hanoi by motorbike. This was an eye opener as we were part of the 6 million mopeds and motorbikes that ride around Hanoi. Thankfully, this was not new to our drivers and we felt safe the whole entire time. The tour was nice because they made several stops along the way to Bat Trang and gave us a brief description of the stop. First, we made our way over Long Bien Bridge crossing the Red River. After crossing the bridge, life started to get more rural as the landscape quickly turned from city to agriculture and small villages. We made a brief stop at a banana tree farm. Afterwards, we made our way to Bat Trang. Bat Trang is a ceramic village that has a rich history in making ceramics, according to our guide, dating back thousands of years. We toured a facility where the pottery is made by hand, painted, and sold. We then made our way to a local shop where we had the chance to make our own pottery using a pottery wheel. Let’s just say, I didn’t do a great job and ended up scrapping my bowl. Our final stop in Bat Trang was a lively pottery market. Here you can browse the shops and support the local economy. We finished the tour with a refreshing sugarcane juice before ending the trip at our hotel in Hanoi. Conclusion A Motorbike tour in Vietnam is highly recommended. I mean, riding a moped or motorcycle in Vietnam is a way of life, so why not experience it either on your own or with a tour. Exploring Hanoi’s countryside on a motorbike was a thrilling experience that allowed us to see a different side of Hanoi and see some of the rural communities just outside the city. This tour was a highlight from our Vietnam trip and we highly recommend a motorbike tour in Hanoi. Enjoying my photos and want to see more? Check out my Picfair Store. 📸 Plan Your Trip: 🗺️✈️ 🇻🇳 Booking Accommodations ⛺️🛖 For booking recommendations on the best deals and locations, check out Agoda or Booking.com Activities and Tours 🏖️🚁 Find fun activities and things to do through Tripadvisor. If you are looking for tours and day trips, Viator and Get Your Guide have a lot of great options. In need of a car rental? 🚗🚘 I recommend checking with Rental Cars.
5 Must Visit Cafés in Hanoi for Coffee Lovers
If you are a coffee lover like me and find yourself in Hanoi, Vietnam, then you will be pleasantly surprised by the amazing coffee and cafés scattered throughout the city. Hanoi is not only known for its history, culture, and food but also for their coffee and cozy cafés. Although you can find amazing Vietnamese coffee all over Hanoi, some of the must visit cafés specialize in two variations of coffee made famous in Vietnam, egg coffee and coconut coffee. From cafés serving up thick and strong egg coffee to the cold and refreshing coconut coffee, here are 5 of the must visit cafés in Hanoi that we visited and loved. **This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of the links or banners throughout the page, whether it be TripAdvisor, Booking.com. Agoda.com, or any other affiliate, I might receive commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, you can visit my affiliate link page here. Thanks for the support! What is Egg Coffee and Coconut Coffee? If you are familiar with coffee in Hanoi or coffee in Vietnam in general, you’ve probably heard or seen of Egg Coffee and Coconut Coffee. How does egg coffee and coconut coffee differ from regular coffee and what exactly is it? Both these variations of coffee are famous in Hanoi and almost every café has their own unique twist. Egg Coffee Egg coffee, otherwise known as ca phe tung in Vietnamese, is a style of coffee made famous in Hanoi. Egg coffee is just that, it’s coffee with egg yolks in it. There is a shot of espresso at the bottom, at the top layer is a mix of egg yolks, condensed milk, and sugar. Why would I drink egg coffee? is egg coffee safe to drink? Egg coffee was delicious! More of a dessert then actual coffee. Some egg coffee that I tried in Hanoi tasted a bit like tiramisu. I have yet to meet a person who doesn’t like tiramisu! Egg coffee is perfectly safe to drink! Generally the eggs used are pasteurized eggs and cooked in one way or another. When we were at Ma Xo Café, the barista told us they boil the coffee with the egg and it even goes in the oven, so it does get cooked. How is Egg Coffee prepared and how do you drink it? The egg yolk, condensed milk, sugar, and other ingredients are mixed together and boiled. you can then add the espresso or coffee to the bottom or pour it over the froth egg mixture. Ether way the coffee settles to the bottom. The egg mixture rests on top. The egg mixture on top is thick, frothy, and sweet. The café should provide a spoon. You can either eat the egg on top like a dessert, mix it well with the coffee, or do a little bit of both! I felt the coffee at the bottom was strong, so I preferred to mix it with the egg. After that, simply relax and enjoy! 5 Must Visit Cafés in Hanoi If you are looking for some of the best cafés and coffee shops in Hanoi that specialize in egg and coconut coffee, I have 5 for you that are worth visiting. These cafés were either recommended to us by friends that live in Hanoi or food guides that really know the city. Based on all of that cafés and coffee shops we visited while in Hanoi, here is a list of what I think are must visit cafés in Hanoi. I’ve tried traditional Vietnamese coffee before and thoroughly enjoy it. I’ve heard awesome things about egg and coconut coffee prior to visiting, so I set out to try these styles of coffee. These 5 must visit cafés in Hanoi are based on my experience with ordering both egg and coconut coffee. Café Dinh Located in the Old Quarter of Hanoi, Café Dinh is one of the more popular cafés in the area. Although difficult to find at first, Café Dinh is a must visit café in Hanoi. When visiting Café Dinh, look for the sign outside, walk through a narrow path and walk up the stairs until you reach the café. Café Dinh is known for their egg coffee, so that is what I tried here. For 30,000 Vietnamese Dong, or just around $1.25, you can enjoy a warm cup of freshly made egg coffee. The egg coffee here is really good! The coffee is strong and the egg mixture on top was thick and flavorful. Here, I recommend mixing the coffee and egg together to help with a little of the bitterness. Overall, Café Dinh was probably my go to place for egg coffee. It’s probably one of the better places to visit while in Hanoi’s Old Quarter and the atmosphere was very pleasant and relaxed. Address: 13 P. Đinh Tiên Hoàng, Hàng Trống, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam Opening Hours: 7 days a week from 7:00 – 22:30 Price: Egg Coffee – 25K Hidden Gem Coffee – Quan Ch Phe Tai Che We went to Hidden Gem Coffee because it was a stop along our Hanoi Countryside Motorbike Tour. Otherwise, we would have never found or even hear of this fun café. We visited this coffee house for lunch but had an egg coffee after eating. It was a traditional egg coffee prepared in the traditional way. Jill doesn’t drink coffee, so she had a tiramisu drink with egg on top similar to egg coffee and it was equally as good. This place had a fantastic lunch menu as well. I’d recommend the Rainbow Salad and Banh My. I forgot to take a photo of my coffee, but the food here was so photogenic. At least I have photos of the amazing lunch we had here. The best thig about Hidden Gem Coffee was the atmosphere of the restaurant. All the decorations here from the chairs, light fixtures, even the fish tank, are made using recycled material. Address: 1 Hàng Mắm, Phố cổ Hà Nội, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam Opening Hours: 7 days a week from 7:00 – 22:00 Price: Egg Coffee – 45K Coconut Coffee – 50K Ma Xo Café Ma Xo Café is a cute coffee house located on an island in ho Truc Bach. Ma Xo Café had one of the more relaxed atmospheres and nice views of the lake. This café also had one of my favorite egg coffees. It is here that the barista told me it would take about 10 minutes to prepare the coffee and they heat it up in the oven. The egg coffee was strong, bitter, and sweet all in one tasting, it was delicious! Since the coffee is strong, I recommend mixing it with the egg to help with the bitterness. If coffee is not your thing, Ma Xo Café offered other beverages like teas, kombucha, and many other drinks. Address: 152 P. Trấn Vũ, Trúc Bạch, Ba Đình, Hà Nội 11117, Vietnam Opening Hours: 7 days a week from 8:00 – 23:00 Price: Egg Coffee – 60K Coconut Coffee – 60K Melbie Café and Bakery If you are looking for a café in Hanoi to try good coffee, cake, and just take a breather, then Melbie Café and Bakery is the perfect place. Melbie Café and Bakery was recommended to us by our food tour guide. It is located just north of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum just before accessing the bridge to the lakes. Melbie Café and Bakery is a cute café wit multiple floors. Upon entering I ordered a coconut coffee here with a Red Velvet Cake. Jill had an iced fruit tea, so it is not just coffee here being served. We comfortably sat upstairs under the cool air conditioner. Honestly, we’ve been walking all day and needed a long rest, this was the perfect spot for it as they had delicious drinks and Wi-fi. The coconut coffee here was much different then my first coconut coffee at Xofa Café and Bistro. The coconut coffee here was a traditional one with coconut milk and coffee. Address: No. 9A Đ. Thanh Niên, St, Ba Đình, Hà Nội, Vietnam Opening Hours: 7 days a week. Fri, Sat, and Sun from 8:00 – 23:00, Mon, Tues, Wed, Thurs from 8:00 – 22:30 Xofa Café and Bistro Another Café that was recommended by our food tour guide was Xofa Café and Bistro. Located just a few steps from Hanoi Train Street, Xofa Café and Bistro seemed to be a popular coffee place in Hanoi by both locals and tourists. This café had a relaxed atmosphere with both indoor and outdoor seating. I was told that they were famous for their coconut coffee so I had my first experience with coconut coffee here. I ordered the Single Espresso Coffee with coconut milk and condensed milk. At first I was shocked by how the coffee looked. It looked like coffee with frozen foam on top. As I took my first sip, it was fabulous and refreshing. The coconut shavings on top added a nice touch. I knew this would be a hard coffee to beat and it was as it is still my favorite coconut coffee in Hanoi. Besides coffee, Xofa Café and Bistro also serves delicious teas. Address: 14 P. Tống Duy Tân, Hàng Bông, Hoàn Kiếm, Hà Nội, Vietnam Opening Hours: 7 days a week, Open 24 Hours Price: Coconut Coffee – 68K Conclusion Hanoi is a surprising destination for coffee lovers and is home to many cozy and unique cafés and coffee shops. For the coffee connoisseur, it is recommended to try Hanoi’s famous and well known egg coffee and coconut coffee. Whether you are looking for a unique twist on local coffee like egg coffee or a refreshing beverage to sip on during the heat of the afternoon in Hanoi, you can’t go wrong with trying these Vietnamese coffees in Hanoi. Enjoying my photos and want to see more? Check out my Picfair Store. 📸 Plan Your Trip: 🗺️✈️ 🇻🇳 Booking Accommodations ⛺️🛖 For booking recommendations on the best deals and locations, check out Agoda or Booking.com Activities and Tours 🏖️🚁 Find fun activities and things to do through Tripadvisor. If you are looking for tours and day trips, Viator and Get Your Guide have a lot of great options. In need of a car rental? 🚗🚘 I recommend checking with Rental Cars.
From City to Countryside: Ninh Binh One Day Tour from Hanoi
Known as the “Ha Long Bay on land,” Ninh Binh is a picturesque province located about 2 hours from the capital city, Hanoi. Ninh Binh is the perfect escape to the countryside from the hustle and bustle of the large and chaotic city. Ninh Binh offers visitors an adventurous experience full of stunning landscapes, challenging hikes, peaceful bike rides, and historical attractions. If you are looking for a fun day trip from Hanoi, Ninh Binh is the perfect destination. Ninh Binh one day tours are offered from Hanoi, so whether you are a nature lover or a history buff, this tour is perfect! **This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of the links or banners throughout the page, whether it be TripAdvisor, Booking.com. Agoda.com, or any other affiliate, I might receive commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, you can visit my affiliate link page here. Thanks for the support! Booking a Ninh Binh One Day Tour Like the Ha Long Bay Day Trip from Hanoi we booked the Full-Day Ninh Binh Highlights Tour from Hanoi through Viator. Scattered throughout Hanoi, there are travel companies offering Ninh Binh one day tours but we figured it was easy and cheap just to book online through Viator. The Viator website is easy to book through, has a lot of great tours that vary in activities, and gives an in depth description on what is included in the tour to include times. Also note, many hotels in Hanoi have contacts with travel companies. In case, you cannot book a tour online, ask the hotel if they can book your Ninh Binh day trip or know of a reliable tour company in Hanoi. Here are some recommended Ninh Binh Day Trips. Ninh Binh Day Trips- from Hanoi Ninh Binh Day Trip Full-Day Ninh Binh Highlights Tour from Hanoi About Ninh Binh Province Ninh Binh is a province in Vietnam. It is located in northern Vietnam in the Red River Delta, about a 2-3 hour car ride from Vietnam’s capital city, Hanoi. Ninh Binh is appropriately nicknamed “Ha Long Bay on Land” because of the same limestone karst formations that rise from the ground. Ninh Binh is blanketed with the famous limestone karst formations, rivers, and rice fields. Not only in Ninh Binh full of natural beauty there are also many cultural and historical attractions. The Trang An Landscape Complex which is located in Ninh Binh is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Attractions and Sites Included on a Ninh Binh Day Trip There are many different tours around Hanoi that specialize in day trips to Ninh Binh. We booked this Ninh Binh Day Trip from Hanoi and it was one of our most memorable highlights on our vacation in Vietnam. The tour was very adventurous and professional. I learned a lot about Vietnam and the Ninh Binh Province while on this Ninh Binh Day Trip. The best thing was the group size of the tour. There were three of us in total. Our Full-Day Ninh Binh Highlights Tour from Hanoi included a brief stop at the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital. After a brief stop at Ha Lu Ancient Capital, we climbed 500 steps to Lying Dragon Mountain for spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. After an exhausting climb, we enjoyed an 8-course lunch. After lunch we rented bicycles and cycled through small villages and rice fields to Bich Dong Pagoda. From here we took a sampan boat trip in Tam Coc along the picturesque river. Hoa Lu Ancient Capital The first site on our Ninh Binh one day tour was a brief stop at Hoa Lu Ancient Capital. Hoa Lu is considered Vietnam’s first capital from the years 968 until 1009. Although much of this ancient capital no longer exists, there are still a few temples and sites on the grounds that are accessible to visitors. The main attractions at the ancient capital include Dinh Tien Hoang Temple and Le Hoan Temple. There is not a whole lot more to see here other then the temples and beautiful countryside. In total, we spent about 30-45 minutes at Hoa Lu Ancient Capital. Hike Dragon Mountain for the Best Views in Ninh Binh For the best views in Ninh Binh, our tour guide led us up 500 stairs to reach the summit of Dragon Mountain. This is that iconic photo you see of Ninh Binh with the limestone peaks off in the distance and beautiful river in the foreground. Don’t worry, this tour includes a boat ride down the river below. The hike up can take anywhere from 10 to 30 minutes. Our guide told us a marathon runner made it to the top of Dragon Mountain in a record time of 4 minutes. Lunch at Tam Coc River View After enjoying views of Ninh Binh from Dragon Mountain, we drove a few minutes to Tam Coc River View, where we had a huge yet satisfying lunch. Tam Coc River View is a hotel and restaurant right along the waters edge where the sampan boats begin there journey down the Ngo Dong River. Our guide gave us like 45 minutes to an hour to rest and enjoy lunch. Goat is a delicacy in the area and can be very expensive. Of course, our meal did include a goat stir fry which I really enjoyed. Lunch also included tofu, seasoned chicken, spring rolls, and of course fresh fruits and vegetables. Of course, I had to quench my thirst from our hike with a Bia Saigon, a popular lager beer brewed in Ho Chi Minh City. Cycling Through Rice Fields to Bich Dong Pagoda Other then the amazing views of Ninh Binh from Dragon Mountain, cycling to Bich Dong Pagoda was probably my favorite highlight from the Ninh Binh one day tour. I felt like cycling through the Vietnamese country side through villages and rice fields really gave me a sense of the “Real Vietnam.” We started the cycle portion of the tour in Tam Coc and rode for about 45 minutes one way to Bich Dong Pagoda. Everything about this pagoda and temple complex was spectacular. From the main gate entrance to the pagoda itself. We begin with entering the main gate to Bich Dong Pagoda. The gate is stunning, with the ponds on either side and mountainous terrain in the background. We then found ourselves in a temple complex. In Vietnam, temples are referred to as Pagodas. Bich Dong Pagoda had three different pagodas referred to as Ha Pagoda, Trung Pagoda, and Thuong Pagoda. Trung Pagoda was unique as the face of the pagoda stuck out of a cliff face. Come to find out that the rest of the pagoda is tucked back into a large cave. Visitors can walk to all three pagodas here. I’d say that Trung Pagoda was the most impressive. After about 45 minutes at Bich Dong Pagoda, we leisurely cycle back to Tam Coc for our sampan boat ride down the Ngo Dong River. Sampan Boat Tour Down the Ngo Dong River After a day full of hiking and cycling, it was nice to end the day on a stress free boat ride. In Tam Coc, we got on a Sampan which is a boat in Southeast Asian countries that are known to be built from local materials. The boat we were on consisted of metal and wood materials. We had a 1 – 1.5 hour boat ride down the Ngo Dong River ahead of us. The river snakes around the limestone formations of Ninh Binh. Each bend of the river offering beautiful views of the landscape. The boat ride passes through three caves and ended at a lake before turning around and taking the same path back to the Tam Coc River View hotel and restaurant. One of the unique aspects about the Sampan boat tours was that the paddlers used their feet to direct the oars. Almost every paddler used their feet and made it look so easy! Tips and Recommendations when Visiting Ninh Binh Hiking up 500 stairs up to Dragon Mountain was no easy task. Although it is a short hike, the heat and humidity was intense. The hike was harder then it seemed, so plan for that. Bring water and the appropriate clothing. The Sampan Boat Tour down the No Dong River was spectacular. I mean, the views were amazing and the landscape was so unique. But it is touristy and with that there are scams. Toward the beginning of the boat ride, there are other boats that followed us with cameras and took pictures of us on the boat. Obviously, they wanted to sell their photos. We ignored them. At the turn around point of the Sampan boat ride, there were sellers in boats trying to sell drinks and food. They were pushy and said we should buy a drink for the individual captaining our boat. Our tour guide did bring this up before getting on the boat, so we were aware of the scams. On the way back to our destination, the individual paddling our boat kept complaining he was tired and demanded a tip. For a second, he stopped the boat and said we needed to tip him. We kept telling him we will at the end of the boat ride. This kind of put a damper on the relaxing boat ride. The paddler started to get very pushy. So just note this and tell them you will tip at the end. Conclusion A Ninh Binh one day tour from Hanoi is an unforgettable experience for those looking to escape the chaotic city and experience life at a slower pace. Between the natural beauty and rich culture and history, Ninh Binh offers something for every type of traveler. It is recommended to book a day trip through an online reputable company like Viator or Get Your Guide. This way there is no stress and everything from food to transportation is taken care of. If you are visiting Hanoi and are looking to see more of Vietnam, don’t miss out on the opportunity to visit Ninh Binh Province. Enjoying my photos and want to see more? Check out my Picfair Store. 📸 Plan Your Trip: 🗺️✈️ 🇻🇳 Booking Accommodations ⛺️🛖 For booking recommendations on the best deals and locations, check out Agoda or Booking.com Activities and Tours 🏖️🚁 Find fun activities and things to do through Tripadvisor. If you are looking for tours and day trips, Viator and Get Your Guide have a lot of great options. In need of a car rental? 🚗🚘 I recommend checking with Rental Cars.
Ha Long Bay Day Trip from Hanoi: Vietnam’s Natural Wonder
Ha Long Bay, located about 2.5 – 3 hours from Hanoi in northeastern Vietnam is a breathtaking natural wonder that attracts millions of tourists every year. Ha Long Bay is well known for its stunning limestone karst rock formations protruding from the waters below. This stunning and unique landscape is one of Vietnam’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites and most popular tourist attractions. There are many tours that offer trips to Ha Long Bay. Visitors can embark on an overnight trip to Ha Long Bay and spend the night in the middle of the bay on a boat. Some travelers don’t have that kind of time and opt for a Ha Long Bay day trip which can easily be done from Hanoi. Join us as we explore some of the highlights, stops, and must see attractions our tour took us on while on a Ha Long Bay day trip from Hanoi. **This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of the links or banners throughout the page, whether it be TripAdvisor, Booking.com. Agoda.com, or any other affiliate, I might receive commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, you can visit my affiliate link page here. Thanks for the support! About Ha Long Bay Ha Long Bay, also written as Halong Bay is a bay in northern Vietnam known for its 1,600 – 2,000 islands. In the Vietnamese language Ha Long translates to “Descending Dragon” The famous islands that are seen protruding from the water are limestone and the majority of them are uninhabited. In 1994, Ha Long Bay was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Booking a Tour for Ha Long Bay Being one of if not the most popular tourist attraction in Vietnam, it is recommended to visit Ha Long Bay via a guided and organized tour. In Hanoi, there are tour shops on almost every block of the city offering tours to Ha Long Bay. I recommend just booking the tours online through well known companies like Viator or Get Your Guide. We actually booked the Ha Long Bay Cruise Day Tour – best selling: Kayaking, Swimming, Hiking & Lunch, through Viator. This was a Ha Long Bay day trip from Hanoi and included pickup from our hotel, transfer on a bus, a very good lunch, multiple activities, and of course amazing views of Ha Long Bay. Exploring Ha Long Bay After a 2.5 – 3 hour bus ride to Ha Long Bay from Hanoi, we arrived at Tuan Chau Port. Already, our “Junk” tour boat was waiting at port for us. These “Junk” boats are actually really nice and spacious with several places to lounge around and relax. The boats are even equipped with bathrooms. As we pulled out of port, it was about 1 – 1.5 hours before our first destination. While en route, we enjoyed a huge lunch, provided by the tour. The lunch was fantastic, we had a whole fish, shrimp, several salads, fresh fruit, and many other delicious dishes. After lunch we were free to walk around the boat, relax in the many chairs on the deck, and just take in the beautifully unique scenery at Ha Long Bay before making it to our first destination which was Ti Top Island. After a brief stop at Ti Top Island, we kayaked at a different destination called Hang Luon. We ended our Ha Long Bay tour with a walk through Ha Long Bay’s largest natural cave, Surprise Cave. Ti Top Island – Best Views of Ha Long Bay For the best views of Ha Long Bay and that iconic shot of the karst formations sticking out of the water we stopped at Ti Top Island. Ti Top Island is a popular spot for tourists. All the “junk” boats make a pit stop here. At Ti Top Island, there is a beach, bar, a few souvenir shops, and a hiking trail that leads to the top of Ti Top Island. We were limited on time and with some of the best beaches in the world right here in Okinawa where we lived, we decided to skip the beach and head straight to the top of Ti Top Mountain. I am glad we decided to hike to the top. I’m not going to lie, the hike to the top was not easy. Granted it was only 400 steps, the humidity was bad, temperatures were high, and we had to fight crowds going both uphill and downhill. Once we summited to the top, we were amazed by the beauty of Ha Long Bay. Here we saw that picturesque landscape of the limestone formations protruding from the water below. Kayaking at Hang Luon The tour we booked included several activities and attractions. One of the activities was to kayak at Hang Luon. This was somewhat touristy as there were a hundred other kayakers, but I can’t deny that I had a lot of fun and the scenery was absolutely stunning. There is a hidden cove surrounded by towering jungle peaks. The only way to access the cove was to kayak through a natural cave. On the other side we were greeted by a 360° view of mountains and beautiful water. We kayaked for about 30 minutes before heading back to the boat. Surprise Cave – It was Actually Surprising The last attraction on our Ha Long Bay tour was a visit to Sung Sot (Surprise) Cave. The cave really did live up to the name, it was quite surprising. Founded by the French in 1901, Surprise Cave is the largest and most fascinating cave at Ha Long Bay. Visitors walk through several caverns, each bigger then the previous. The final cavern was a shock, I’ve never seen a cavern as open or as large as the one at Surprise Cave. Upon exiting the cave, there are any scenic overlooks with great views of the karst formations and water. Conclusion A day trip to Ha Long Bay from Hanoi is an unforgettable experience that is a must for any traveler. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Vietnam’s top rated tourist attraction and receives millions of visitors a year. The unique limestone karst formations, reflective waters, and prime attractions make Ha Long Bay a natural wonder that is well worth a day trip from Hanoi. From kayaking in secret coves to walking through spectacular cave systems, a Ha Long Bay day trip is full of adventure and stunningly scenic landscapes. Enjoying my photos and want to see more? Check out my Picfair Store. 📸 Plan Your Trip: 🗺️✈️ 🇻🇳 Booking Accommodations ⛺️🛖 For booking recommendations on the best deals and locations, check out Agoda or Booking.com Activities and Tours 🏖️🚁 Find fun activities and things to do through Tripadvisor. If you are looking for tours and day trips, Viator and Get Your Guide have a lot of great options. In need of a car rental? 🚗🚘 I recommend checking with Rental Cars.
Maneki-neko: Japan’s Lucky Beckoning Cat
Japan’s Beckoning Cat, also known as the Maneki-neko, is considered a cultural symbol in Japan. Believed to bring fortune and good luck to its owners, the Beckoning Cat has long been celebrated in Japan and can be found in shops and households throughout the country. With its raised paw gesture and cat like appearance, no wonder why the Maneki-neko is adored throughout Japan. In this post, we’ll explore what the Beckoning Cat even means in Japan, the origins of the Beckoning Cat, and must see Maneki-neko attractions. **This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of the links or banners throughout the page, whether it be TripAdvisor, Booking.com. Agoda.com, or any other affiliate, I might receive commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, you can visit my affiliate link page here. Thanks for the support! **As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. What does the Beckoning Cat mean in Japan: Significance in Japanese Culture Japan’s Maneki-neko aka Beckoning Cat or Lucky Cat is a cat figurine said to bring both wealth and good luck. The origins of the Maneki-neko data back to the Edo period (1603-1867). Although there are many theories of the origin of the Maneki-neko, I believe the origin started at Gotoku-ji. Is the Beckoning Cat Chinese or Japanese? The Beckoning Cat has its origins in Japan, therefore it is Japanese. What does the symbolism of the Beckoning Cat actually mean? If you look at the Maneki-neko, you will notice it has a raised paw. Some figurines will have the right paw raised while others have the left paw raised. With the Beckoning Cats right paw raised the figurine is said to attract wealth and good luck. The left paw raised is an invitation to customers visiting a business. In most shops around Japan, you will see the Maneki-neko with its left paw in the air. Not only does the Beckoning Cat’s paws have a symbolic purpose but the color of the figurine is just as symbolic. A white Maneki-neko means purity and positivity, black Beckoning Cats are said to defend against evil spirits, while gold is tied to financial success. Popular Beckoning Cat Attractions in Japan We’ve Visited The Maneki-neko or Beckoning Cat is an iconic symbol of Japan. With its unique pose, one arm in the air, and fun variations, these figurines are an integral part in Japan and can be found in homes, shops, attractions, and even religious shrines and temples. Jill and I have explored quite a few Beckoning Cat attractions in Japan, from historical shrines and temples that house thousands of these feline figurines to museums that allow you to paint your own Maneki-neko. If you love Japan’s Beckoning Cat as much as we do, here are some of the recommended Maneki-neko attractions. Gotoku-ji Buddhist Temple Gotoku-ji, probably one of Japan’s most famous maneki-neko attractions lies in the Setagaya ward of Tokyo. This historic Buddhist temple is from the Edo period and is said to be the birthplace of the Maneki-neko or Beckoning Cat. According to the Gotokuji website, this place became famous for the Maneki-neko because a lord was greeted by a luck cat at the temple gate. When the lord entered the temple grounds and rain began to fall. The lord engaged in a conversation with the temple master at the complex and the cats luck made an impression on the visiting lord. On the grounds of Gotoku-ji, Shofuku-den was built to house the good luck cat, the name of the good luck cat was Maneki-neko. Today, there are hundreds if not thousands of white Maneki-neko’s at the Gotoku-ji. Style wise, the Beckoning Cats here are all the same, with their white bodies, red ears, and right paw in the air, but differ in sizes. Visitors can purchase their own Maneki-neko at Gotoku-ji and place the Beckoning Cat at the temple or take it home as a souvenir. Maneki-neko Museum of Art Are you interested in painting your own Maneki-neko? You can do just that at the Maneki-neko Museum of Art in Kanayamaji, Okayama. The Maneki-neko Museum of Art is a museum that is home to over 800 Maneki-neko’s in all colors, shapes, and sizes. This museum is located in a historical home and visitors can freely walk around to the different floors. The museum even has Beckoning Cats that date back to the Meiji Era. You can’t leave the museum without attempting to paint your own Maneki-neko. You get a unglazed Beckoning Cat figuring and can let your inner artist shine as you paint a truly fascinating and possibly silly Maneki-neko. Admission for the Manekineko Museum of Art is ¥600. Hours are 10:00 to 17:00 with last admission at 16:30. For more information, you can visit the Maneki-neko Art Museum’s website. Pottery Footpath and Maneki-neko Street in Tokoname Tokoname, a city located in Aichi Prefecture, not far from Nagoya City. Famous for its pottery footpath, giant Maneki-neko head, and Maneki-neko Street, Tokoname is a heaven for those that love goofy cat statues and maneki-neko sculptures in Japan. The Pottery Footpath in Tokoname is a pedestrian walkway in Tokoname that follows a well developed path that goes by several merchant shops, kilns, and other attractions, all related to pottery. Prior to visiting the path, there is a Maneki-neko Street that is a must visit! Maneki-neko Street is lined with 40 Beckoning Cats created by various artists. There are a few entertaning Beckoning Cats on pedestals. Continuing on Maneki-neko Street, there are several cat statues along the side of a wall. Each statue unique in their own ways brining luck to those that travel by. Don’t forget to get photos of Tokonyan. Tokonyan is a giant Beckoning Cat head that resting above the street. Tokonyan can be seen from the train station. This giant Maneki-neko head is an astonishing 3.8 meters tall and 6.3 meters wide. To learn more about the Pottery Footpath and Maneki-neko Street in Tokoname, I wrote a post on our trip here:Walking the Pottery Footpath in Tokoname Urinji Cat Temple A 30-minute drive from the town of Hagi, is the Unrinji Cat Temple. With over 600 cat statues at Unrinji, this temple is known as the “Cat Temple.” Here you can find Maneki-neko statues and wood carved statues that were made by a local artist. Besides some traditional Beckoning Cat statues, there is a Cat Buddha statue carved out of wood and some other statues on the silly side. To read more about Urinji Cat Temple and Hagi, feel free to read my post:Visiting Hagi, Japan Where to Buy a Maneki-neko? The Maneki-neko can be purchased in almost any souvenir store within Japan from the northern island of Hokkaido to the southern islands of Okinawa. Some antique shops will have older Maneki0-nekos. There are also specialized attractions like Gotoku-ji and the Maneki-neko Museum of Art that sells them. You can find a wide range of Beckoning Cats on Amazon. If looking to purchase on Amazon you can type in either Beckoning Cat or Maneki-neko in the search result. Conclusion Japan’s Beckoning Cat or Maneki-neko is a symbolic figurine in Japan that symbolizes good fortune and luck, invites customers to businesses, and can ward off bad spirits. The Maneki-neko has played an important role in Japanese history and continues to be a symbolic figurine in private homes, businesses, and even shrines and temples. Enjoying my photos and want to see more? Check out my Picfair Store. 📸 Plan Your Trip: 🗺️✈️🇯🇵 Booking Accommodations ⛺️🛖 For booking recommendations on the best deals and locations, check out Agoda or Booking.com Activities and Tours 🏖️🚁 Find fun activities and things to do through Tripadvisor. If you are looking for tours and day trips, Viator and Get Your Guide have a lot of great options. In need of a car rental? 🚗🚘 I recommend checking with Rental Cars. Train Travel 🚂🚊 For the JR Pass, tickets can be purchased on the JR Pass site.
Beyond the Summit: 11 Things to do Around Mt. Fuji
The iconic Mt. Fuji is a symbol of Japan that has captivated travelers from all around the world. Mt. Fuji is known for its symmetrical cone shape, a mountain that truly stands out from the rest. Every year, between the summer months of July through September, hikers attempt to reach the summit of Mt. Fuji. Lets be honest, Mt. Fuji looks better from afar then it does close up and not everyone is up for the challenge to reach the summit. Or if you are like me, you’ve already hiked Mt. Fuji in the past and want to explore more of what is around Mt. Fuji. From haunted forests and crystal clear lakes to iconic temples and beautiful waterfalls, here is a list of recommended things to do around Mt. Fuji. **This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of the links or banners throughout the page, whether it be TripAdvisor, Booking.com. Agoda.com, or any other affiliate, I might receive commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, you can visit my affiliate link page here. Thanks for the support! 10 Things to do Around Mt. Fuji I’ve been to the Mt. Fuji area three times now, each time for different travel purposes. My first visit to Japan’s most iconic mountain was a dream come true. I hiked Mt. Fuji via the Yoshida Trail, stayed the night at one of the stations and attempted to see the sunrise. If you’ve read my post on Hiking Mt. Fuji, you know it wasn’t pleasant. I conquered Mt. Fuji but the weather conditions weren’t ideal. None the less, I summited Mt. Fuji and am privileged to do so, not to mention some of my rainy pictures from the summit turned out to be pretty awesome. My second visit to the Mt. Fuji area was planned in a way to explore attractions and sites around the Mt. Fuji area. I rented a car, stayed in Fujinomiya, and took daily day trips. I covered a lot of ground and tried to do a little bit of everything from visiting Aokigahara Forest to driving south to Shuzenji Onsen on the Izu Peninsula. Here is a list of my recommendations on things to do around Mt. Fuji that don’t include hiking the mountain itself. 1. Discover Aokigahara Forest, aka Japan’s “Suicide Forest” One of the most sought after destinations around Mt. Fuji is Japan’s Aokigahara Forest otherwise known as “Japan’s Suicide Forest.” It’s unfortunate that Aokigahara Forest has such a negative stigma since this forest is absolutely beautiful. People think it’s bad luck to enter the forest or have a weird connotation that bad things constantly happen here. In fact, the Aokigahara Forest has a few attractions and sites that are worth seeing and can be quite touristy. If visiting Japan’s suicide forest while on a trip around the iconic mountain, I recommend starting off at the Ice or Wind Caves. These caves are both unique in their own ways but both are worthwhile. I’d also recommend going on a hike n the forest. There are several trail networks throughout Aokigahara Forest. Curious to learn more about Aokigahara Forest? I wrote a post on my trip here:Aokigahara Forest: The Reality of Japan’s “Suicide Forest” 2. Drive to Tanuki Lake for some of the Best Views of Mt. Fuji Honestly, on a clear and non-hazy day, one of the best views of Mt. Fuji can be see right here at Tanuki Lake. Tanuki Lake is a mountain lake near Shiraito Falls. I love the Tanuki and saw this lake browsing Google Maps so I had to stop and am glad I did. Tanuki Lake is a beautiful little lake where people come to for a quick bike ride around the lake, camping, fishing, and to take photos of Mt. Fuji. Mt. Fuji can be tough to photograph, especially during the summer months when it’s humid outside. Most of the times it seems to be either cloud covered or the hazy air leaves just a trace of the mountain off in the distance. At Tanuki Lake, there is an observation deck that has a clear view of the mountain. If you are lucky enough to see the mountain, Tanuki Lake is a prime location for some of the best views of Mt. Fuji. 3. Explore the Izu Peninsula For a nice day trip from the Fuji area, I recommend a trip to the Izu Peninsula and visiting Shuzenji Onsen. The drive from the Mt. Fuji area can take anywhere from 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on routes, traffic, and additional stops. There is a lot to see on the Izu Peninsula. On our latest road trip, we decided to just spend a day here. We visited Shuzenji Onsen, went to Baird Brewery for a quick lunch break, and hiked down to Joren Falls. Shuzenji Onsen was a cute little town that is famous for its onsen resorts, historic temple, and beautiful bamboo forest. I think the bamboo forest here rivals the famous Arashiyama Bamboo Forest in Kyoto, mainly because there were no tourists. After a stop at Shuzenji Onsen, Baird Brewery is just down the street. They have a beautiful taproom with 20 beers on tap. To cap off our trip on the Izu Peninsula, we drove to Joren Falls. Joren Falls is listed as one of Japan’s “Top 100 Waterfalls” and it was one of the most beautiful I’ve seen in Japan. If interested in learning more about Shuzenji Onsen, I wrote a post about our time here:Shuzenji Onsen: Culture, History, and Natural Beauty 4. Get stunning Photos of Mt. Fuji from the Chureito Pagoda Another great location to view Mt. Fuji is at Chureito Pagoda in Fujiyoshida. You’ve seen it in Japan travel magazines and postcards. That iconic photograph of the beautiful pagoda with Mt. Fuji in the background. Getting to Chureito Pagoda is fairly straight forward. There is a road you can drive to get closer to the pagoda or take the 400 steps from the bottom to the pagoda. Each step makes the view that much better, you’ve earned it! Even on a cloudy day with Mt. Fuji hidden in the clouds, you can still get great photos from this area. The two photos above are different days. The first day, Mt. Fuji was hidden amongst the clouds. Two days later, I woke up, peaked out the window of my hotel, saw Mt. Fuji and ran to the Chureito Pagoda in hopes of getting a photo of it with the mountain in the background. I was successful! If staying in Fujiyoshida, I highly recommend visiting the Kitaguchi Hongu Fuji Sengen Shrine. If interested in hiking Mt. Fuji and exploring Fujiyoshida, feel free to read my post on our trip here:Hiking Mt. Fuji – Yoshida Trail 5. Plan a Trip to See Shiraito Falls Located to the South-West of Mt. Fuji is the beautiful Shiraito Falls. Like Joren Falls, Shiraito Falls are listed as one of the “Top 100 Waterfalls” in Japan. For good reason, these falls are very impressive and unique. There is a large parking lot, visitors must pay for parking ¥500, but the falls itself is free. After parking and before hiking to the falls, there are a few gift shops and information centers to browse. Before hiking down to Shiraito Falls, you can view Otodome Falls from afar. This falls is impressive but they’ve built structures around it giving it a not so authentic look. Hike down, I say hike but it is a quick walk about 5 minutes to Shiraito Falls. These falls are stunning. There is a main waterfall that is 20 meters tall and several other falls that appear to be coming out of the cliff above. In fact, this water is snow melt from Mt. Fuji and the water rushes underground from the mountain to the waterfall, it is a spectacular site to see. When finished at the falls and walking back to the car, don’t forget to make a brief stop at Obin-Mizu Pool. This is a scenic little natural spring that feeds some water into Shiraito Falls. 6. Sample Whiskey at Kirin Fuji Gotemba Distillery Looking for something to do around Mt. Fuji on a rainy day? What better way to avoid the rain and escape boredom then sample high quality Japanese whisky. For those that love whisky, Kirin Fuji Gotemba Distillery offers tours of the facility, has a store, and a tasting room. Tours are through reservations and can be booked through the Kirin Distillery website. Unfortunately, I made the choice to come here last minute and could not do a tour. Instead I went to the tasting room in order to sample some of Japan’s best whisky. It’s easy, at the register you select three whisky’s you want to try, hand the bar tender the receipt, and they will bring you 3 sample glasses. 7. Spend the Day in Hakone A day trip to the Hakone area from Mt. Fuji is a must! In a recent post on Hakone, I stated that I was disappointed in Hakone’s #1 attraction, the famous Hakone Shrine and the Torii Gate that sits in the water. So why do I still recommend Hakone as a day trip? Hakone is so much more then its famous Torii Gate at Lake Ashi. Lets start with Hakone Shrine and the Torii Gate. For me, personally, tourism has ruined this attraction. In reality the site itself with the lake in the background is stunning. Because of its beauty, it’s become a very popular tourist site and it shows. When I was here, there was a line of people waiting to get their picture taken here. The wait time was 30 minutes to an hour, which is absurd. As a photographer, who had no intentions on waiting in line for a selfie, I just wanted a photo of the shrine and could barely achieve that. Because of this, I was not impressed. But if visiting Hakone, there are many other things to do that are very much worth a trip. I recommend visiting the Choanji Buddhist Temple, Owakudani, Hakone Open-Air Museum, and the Amasake Tea House. Owakudani was my favorite attraction in the area. Owakudani is a volcanic area famous for their Kuro Tamago (Black Eggs) that are boiled in the sulfur springs. If interested in visiting Hakone, I wrote a post about my day trip to Hakone from the Fuji area:Is Hakone Worth Visiting? 8. Touristy but Worth it: Oshino Hakkai In the village of Oshino lies the touristy Oshino Hakkai. This attraction was never on my radar until my third trip to the Mt. Fuji area. Oshino Hakkai is the location of eight springs that are fed by Mt. Fuji. The springs here are deep yet clear and are worth seeing. Oshino Hakkai has become pretty popular amongst tourists. Visitors can see a few traditional thatched roof houses like those at Shirakawa-go. Most visitors come here to see the clear springs, sample local Japanese food, and do some souvenir shopping. The area at Oshino Hakkai is quite small, I’d say an hour or two max is sufficient in visiting this site. 9. View Mt. Fuji from the Fuji Five Lakes Area One of the most popular destinations around Mt. Fuji is the Fuji Five Lakes Area. Although popular, I spent the least amount of time in the Fuji Five Lakes Area. Not because I didn’t enjoy it but I specifically drove around the lakes in hopes of catching a glimpse of Japan’s iconic mountain but the day I was here Mt. Fuji was nowhere to be found. Fortunately, for Jill and I, Mt. Fuji made an appearance on our final day of the trip. As we were leaving the area, Mt. Fuji was clear as day so we stopped once again at the Fuji Five Lakes Area for some quick photos. The Fuji Five Lakes Area is a popular destination for visitors to stay. There are tons of hotels and resorts here and as well as
Shuzenji Onsen: Culture, History, and Natural Beauty
Located in Japan’s Izu Peninsula in Shizuoka Prefecture is the charming onsen town of Shuzenji Onsen. Shuzenji Onsen is rich in culture and history dating back to more then 1,200 years. Shuzenji Onsen is full of natural beauty with mountain rivers cutting through town, bamboo forests, and beautiful mountains surrounding the town on all sides. For a small onsen resort town, there is plenty to do and see here at Shuzenji Onsen. Walk the designated path that leads to all major attractions in town, explore the historical streets, sample local cuisine, and relax at an onsen at one of the famous ryokans. Visitors can also venture from town and sample local craft beer at Baird Brewery and hike to a beautiful waterfall surrounded by wasabi fields. **This post contains affiliate links. If you click on one of the links or banners throughout the page, whether it be TripAdvisor, Booking.com. Agoda.com, or any other affiliate, I might receive commission at no extra cost to you. For more information, you can visit my affiliate link page here. Thanks for the support! Where is Shuzenji Onsen and the Izu Peninsula Shuzenji Onsen is nestled in the mountains on Japan’s Izu Peninsula. The Izu Peninsula is located on the Japanese Prefecture of Shizuoka and is a short journey from the Mt. Fuji area. This small town is popular among locals that live in Tokyo as it is easily accessible and a great nature escape from the world’s largest city. Visitors can take the shinkansen from Tokyo Station to Mishima Station in about an hour. From Mishima Station, it is about a 30 minute train ride to Shuzenji. Once at Shuzenji, hop on a 10 minute bus ride to the onsen resorts. We rented a car from Tokyo and drove to Shuzenji Onsen. The route was about 150 km and took anywhere from 2 hours to 2.5 hours. Exploring Shuzenji Onsen: Walking Course for Tourists Although small, Shuzenji Onsen has a lot of attractions that are worthwhile. Known as “Little Kyoto of Izu,” visitors can come here and not be overwhelmed by tourists like in Kyoto. It is recommended to stay at one of the resorts and enjoy a relaxing vacation at one of the many onsen areas. Personally, we just did a day trip from the Mt. Fuji area and had no time to go to the onsen, instead we did a walking course that went to Shuzenji Temple, the Bamboo Grove Path, Kaede-bashi Bridge, Tokko-no-Yu, and ended at he Grave of Minamoto no Noriyori. We started the walking tour at Shuzenji Temple. This temple was founded in the year 807 by a Buddhist Monk named Kobo Daishi Kukai. The path then led us Tokko-no-Yu and the Kaede-bashi Bridge. Tokko-no-Yu is considered to be a symbol of Shuzenji Onsen, as it is said to be the oldest hot spring in Izu with history dating back to Kobo Daishi Kukai. Visitors will also notice the beautiful red colored bridges around Shuzenji then cross the Katsura River. Kaede-bashi Bridge and Katsura Bridge are photogenic bridges that are stunning to look at especially during the autumn months when the maple leaves turn red. My favorite stop along the walking course was the Bamboo Grove Path and I have to admit, it rivals Kyoto’s Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. This one was much smaller but without tourists, we had the bamboo forest to ourselves. It wasn’t shoulder to shoulder traffic like in Kyoto and no one got into our photos. There was a lovely path through the Bamboo Grove with nice seats in the center for a well deserved break. The final stop along the walking course before going back into town, was a brief stop at the Grave of Minamoto no Noriyori. According to a sign at the site, Noriyori was a warlord during the Kamakura period between 1185-1333. To keep the story short, Noriyori won the battle of Ichinotani, putting his name out there. There was a lot of bad blood between him and his brothers. His older brother ordered him to murder his younger brother. Once Noriyori refused, his older brother no longer trusted him. There was betrayal against the local Shogunate, and Noriyori was imprisoned at Shuzenji Temple. Later on, Noriyori committed suicide and is buried at the current site. Venturing Beyond Shuzenji Onsen Shuzenji Onsen is a small town. Unless you plan on relaxing at the onsen resorts for an entire day, there is plenty of things to do and see around Shuzenji that are a short drive away. You could always drive the Izu Peninsula, stop at other towns like Ito and Nishizu, check out the beautiful coastline, or go on a hike. If you are like us and limited to a day to explore Shuzenji and the surrounding area, we stopped at Baird Brewing Company for an afternoon drink and then took some photos of Joren Falls and checked out the wasabi fields. Baird Brewery Gardens Shuzenji In my Beer Guide to Japan I mention that craft breweries are starting to pop up all over Japan. Baird Brewing is one of the bigger breweries in Japan and has been brewing delicious craft beer since 2000. Baird Brewery has several brewing facilities and taprooms, and one of the is just a quick 5-10 minute drive from Shuzenji Onsen. The taproom has been around since 2014 and has a relaxing atmosphere. Tucked into the forests on the Izu Peninsula, down a questionable road it was hard to believe that such a giant facility existed here. The taproom here has 20 different beers on tap to include their original lineup and seasonal beers, you can order various sizes and even a flight. The interior is very inviting, there is also a large outside deck. Besides beer, they make delicious non-alcoholic drinks and have a small bar menu. Out of the beers I had here, I enjoyed the Temple Garden Yuzu Ale, Ganko Oyaji Barley Wine, and Joie De Vivre. Joren Falls and Wasabi Less then a 20 minute drive from Baird Brewery is one of the most beautiful waterfalls I’ve seen in Japan, Joren Falls. There is so much more to Joren Falls then just taking beautiful photos of this waterfall. There is a large parking area here with several facilities to include restrooms, a restaurant, gift shop, and a café. Walk behind the restaurant and there is a set of stairs that lead down to Joren Falls. Along the way there are a few gift shops and one place sells fishing poles. Visitors can rent a pole and catch trout and have them cooked there. Joren Falls is considered one of Japan’s top 100 most beautiful waterfalls. The falls is 25 meters high and the width is about 7 meters. The falls are spectacular to look at and the river below is just as beautiful. I set up my camera and took long exposure shots using my Hoya Pro ND Filter. Not only is this area famous for Joren Falls, but they grow wasabi. Wasabi fields are found in the region and visitors can try everything from wasabi beer to wasabi soft served ice cream. Conclusion on Shuzenji Onsen Whether you are visiting Shuzenji Onsen to relax at one of the resorts or here as a day trip to immerse yourself in its culture and history, Shuzenji offers an unforgettable experience. Take in the natural beauty of this town and the surrounding village. Afterwards, go and enjoy a beer at Baird Brewery’s taproom or continue south to Joren Falls and sample a few treats that are infused with wasabi. No matter what your plan is when visiting the Izu Peninsula, it is a nice escape from the fast paced modern world. Enjoying my photos and want to see more? Check out my Picfair Store. 📸 Plan Your Trip: 🗺️✈️🇯🇵 Booking Accommodations ⛺️🛖 For booking recommendations on the best deals and locations, check out Agoda or Booking.com Activities and Tours 🏖️🚁 Find fun activities and things to do through Tripadvisor. If you are looking for tours and day trips, Viator and Get Your Guide have a lot of great options. In need of a car rental? 🚗🚘 I recommend checking with Rental Cars. Train Travel 🚂🚊 For the JR Pass, tickets can be purchased on the JR Pass site.