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Borneo Wildlife Tour: A Multi-Day Trip on the Kinabatangan River
A Borneo wildlife tour along the Kinabatangan River is one of the most unforgettable nature experiences you can have in Malaysian Borneo. I stayed in a jungle lodge along the Kinabatangan River for 3-days, spotting wildlife during the day and night. Known as one of the best places in Borneo to spot wildlife, the Kinabatangan River is famous because it is home to wild orangutans, proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, crocodiles, and various species of birds. The Multi-day trip offered early morning and afternoon boat cruises, guided jungle walks, and an immersive stay. It was the perfect adventure for wildlife spotting and I want to share everything in this post from booking the tour, explaining the wildlife I encountered, and everything else! ** 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! ** As a Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Booking a Jungle Lodge Tour along the Kinabatangan River The best way to spot wildlife in Borneo along the Kinabatangan River is by booking a tour. There are day trips from Kota Kinabalu or Sandakan, but I highly recommend a multi-day tour. That gives you the best chances to see wildlife. There are so many tours out there and I recommend finding a tour that best fits your Borneo itinerary. Sure you can spend as little or as much money as you want on a wildlife tour in Borneo. I’ve seen resorts along the Kinabatangan River that offer a more luxurious experience. I was looking for something a little more rustic that I felt would guarantee me sightings of Orangutans and other animals. By doing research, I found this Borneo Wildlife Tour at the Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp. This tour had everything on my wish list, the company picked me up from the airport, took care of transportation, and I stayed deep in the jungle right along the Kinabatangan River. The Borneo Wildlife Tour that I took can be booked directly here. Before I go further into the tour and the itinerary, the next sections cover more about Borneo and the wildlife that call this island home. About Borneo and the Kinabatangan River Borneo is the world’s third largest island behind Greenland and New Guinea. Borneo is not a country but an island shared between three countries: Brunei, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Borneo is known for its ancient rainforests, rich indigenous cultures, and wildlife. Sabah, where I stayed is on the Malaysian side of Borneo. There are two states, Sabah and Sarawak. Sabah is home to both Kota Kinabalu and Sandakan and is one of the best places to see wildlife in Borneo. The Kinabatangan River is Borneo’s second longest river after the Kapuas River. The Kinabatangan River is famous for its biodiversity. River cruises along the Kinabatangan River are a popular tourist attraction and one of the best ways to spot wild orangutans. Borneo’s Big 5 Have you ever heard of Africa’s “Big Five?” It’s a term that was originally used by hunters. To hunters, the Big Five were challenging and dangerous animals. Now it’s more wildly used by tourists and tour operators. Those animals include the Cape Buffalo, Elephant, Leopard, lion, and Rhino. Well Borneo also has a “Big Five.” No, these are not game-animals but more iconic animals that call this island home. Borneo’s Big Five include the Bornean Pygmy Elephant, the Orangutan, Proboscis Monkey, Rhinoceros Hornbill, and the Crocodile. After spending 3 days along the Kinabatangan River, I only saw 3 of Borneo’s Big 5. I saw the Orangutan, Proboscis Monkey, and Crocodile, although I saw many other beautiful species. Below you can find a little more information on each of Borneo’s Big 5. In case you visit, see if you can spot them! Bornean Pygmy Elephant There are often sightings of the Bornean Pygmy Elephant in Sabah along the Kinabatangan River. Unfortunately, I did not see them on my tour, but I met other travelers that did spot them. To spot the Bornean Pygmy Elephant, it’s all about being at the right place at the right time. Obviously, the season and time of day has a big determination as well. The Bornean Pygmy Elephant is much smaller then the African and Indian Elephants. Their physical characteristics include a height of 8-10ft with a relatively long tail, large ears, and round bellies. They are considered to be gentle and peaceful, but please do not approach or harass them if you encounter them in the wild. There are an estimated 1,500 Bornean Elephants left in the wild. They are endangered because of habitat loss. Orangutan I saw wild orangutans daily while on the Kinabatangan River. There were a couple that hung around our camp eating the fig fruits high in the trees. Orang-Hutan comes from the Malay words “Orang” meaning person and “Hutan,” meaning “Of the forest.” So, orangutan translates to person or people of the forest. I have more information on the Bornean Orangutan and Borneo’s conservation efforts in my post on Visiting the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in Sandakan. Wild orangutans are found on the islands of Borneo and Sumatra. There are differences between the Bornean and Sumatran Orangutans. The Bornean orangutan lives on the Malaysia and Indonesian side of Borneo and are larger then the Sumatran species. The Bornean orangutan also has darker fur and broader faces. The orangutans spend the majority of their life high in the trees and rarely come to the ground. They use their long and muscular arms to climb and move from tree to tree. Did you know orangutans build nests? I didn’t either prior to my visit. Orangutans build nests for many purposes, including safety and comfort. They make new nests daily and can assemble them quickly within a few minutes. Proboscis Monkey Perhaps one of the most unusual primates in the world is the Proboscis Monkey. This species of monkey is endemic to Borneo, meaning it lives here and nowhere else in the world. The proboscis monkey is instantly recognizable by its long nose and round belly. They live near mangroves and the forest edges near rivers, like the Kinabatangan River, which is one of the best places in Borneo to see the Proboscis Monkey. I learned this from our guide, since the proboscis monkeys live near the edge of rivers, threats by crocodiles is always a concern. The proboscis monkeys are excellent swimmers and divers. To escape predators they can dive up to 20 meters or 66 ft deep. There is a certain depth where crocodiles can’t open their mouths, so they are not a threat to the proboscis monkey. Rhinoceros Hornbill There are eight species of hornbills in Borneo, which include the Rhinoceros, Helmeted, Wreathed, Oriental Pied, White-crowned, Wrinkled, Asian Black, and Bushy-crested Hornbills. Unfortunately while on my tour on the Kinabatangan River, I did not encounter the Rhinoceros Hornbill, but I did spot the Oriental Pied Hornbill, Black Hornbill, and the Bushy-crested Hornbill. The Rhinoceros Hornbill is Borneo’s most iconic. It’s recognizable by its black and white plumage and large orange/red casque or helmet. Although I did not see one, try spotting them in the forest canopy or flying above you over the Kinabatangan River. The photo above is of a Black Hornbill sitting on the branches of a tree along the Kinabatangan River. Saltwater Crocodile The saltwater crocodile is one of Borneo’s most powerful and fascinating predators. They are commonly found along the rivers and wetlands of Borneo. Spotting a crocodile resting on the riverbank or silently swimming through the water is a thrilling experience. We spotted our first crocodile in Borneo while on a night river cruise along the Kinabatangan River. The next day, we spotted them on the river banks or resting in the water close to shore. What to Expect on a 2-3 Day Kinabatangan Wildlife Tour If you’ve signed up for a Borneo wildlife tour or are looking for one, I recommend the tour that I did, you can find it here. The expectations and Borneo wildlife itinerary are based on the 3 Days and 2 Nights at Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp that I booked. You can do a two day or three day tour, I highly recommend the 3-day tour because two of the days are basically transportation, so you really only get one full day. The tour company picked us up from Sandakan Airport and drove us to a location where we disembarked on our journey to the jungle lodge. The Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp is a remote no-frills camp where the main purpose is to learn about and spot wildlife. Which is exactly what I signed up for! I went in October which is a great time to visit. Although hot and humid, it was not unbearable. Below you can find more information on the camp itself and best time of year to go on a Borneo wildlife tour. Expect to see a lot of wildlife. I saw orangutans daily, proboscis monkeys, civets, kingfishers, macaques, gibbon, langur monkeys, and so many other species. Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp To get to the Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp we flew into Sandakan, rode in a van for 2 hours, took a boat ride across one section of the Kinabatangan River, hiked, and then took another boat trip on a tributary to the camp. I say camp, but it’s more of a jungle lodge. It’s definitely not a 5-star resort. It’s simple, there is no electricity besides the generators that get turned on a few hours at night. But expect to relax and just enjoy being in the middle of the Bornean rainforest. Accommodations The accommodations were no-frills but included everything you need for a few nights stay in the jungle. Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp had about 6 rooms all equipped with clean beds. Honestly, even with the heat and humidity I slept amazing in the rooms each night. The bed was surprisingly comfortable. Toilet and Showers Rest assured, the camp does have a western toilet which is amazing being in the middle of the rainforest. The showers were a bit different then what I was used to. The camp relies on rainwater which is abundant in the rainforest. You fill a large bucket with the rainwater and use a smaller bucket to pour the water over yourself. Trust me it’s cold but refreshing after being in the hot and humid climate all day. Food and Drinks For the first day, dinner was included. The second day, we got breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and the third day included breakfast. The food was brought to the camp fresh daily. It was prepared off-site and brought to the camp by boat. Each meal I had was buffet style with about three or four varieties. For breakfast it included beans, sausages, toast, and eggs. Lunch and dinner included vegetables, chicken, and rice. Honestly everything I had did not disappoint. It was exactly what I expected from a jungle lodge deep in the jungle. Coffee and tea were provided throughout the day. Day-by-Day Itinerary Day 1 Pickup from Sandakan Airport → Stop in Kinabatangan for Lunch → Arrive at Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp → Afternoon River Cruise → Night River Cruise We arrived in Sandakan from Kota Kinabalu and were picked up from Sandakan Airport by the tour company. We drove a few hours to the town of Kinabatangan for a quick lunch and fill up on supplies. From Kinabatangan we drove to the first dock where we hopped on a boat, crossed the Kinabatangan River, hiked through the rainforest for about 10 minutes before getting on another boat that took us to the Tanjung Bulat Jungle Camp. After going through a quick briefing with the staff and see our accommodations, we jumped on a tour boat and spent 1.5
Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre: Wildlife Tourism in Borneo
The Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre (BSBCC) in Sandakan, Borneo is one of the most rewarding wildlife tourism experiences in Borneo. You get to learn about the Bornean Sun Bear along with the rescue and rehabilitation efforts. Located right next to the famous Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, the Bornean Sun Bear Centre is conservation focused and allows visitors to observe rescued bears in their natural habitat. I wrote this post to shed light on the Bornean Sun Bears, provide education, and share how the BSBCC is doing what they can to protect the world’s smallest bear. ** 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! Visiting the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre The Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre is across the street from Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, so it makes sense to visit both and I highly recommend doing so. Most day tours or private tours from Sandakan will include both conservation centres. Below you can find the admission and hours for the Sun Bear Conservation Centre. Admission and Hours Admission Malaysian Citizens Adults: RM10Children (2-17 years old): RM5 Non-Malaysian Citizens Adults: RM50Children (2-17 years old): RM25 Hours Open Daily: 9:00 – 15:30 About the Bornean Sun Bear Sun bears are found throughout Southeast Asia. There are two subspecies of the sun bear, the Malayan Sun Bear and the Bornean Sun Bear. The Malayan Sun Bear is found throughout Southeast Asia to include Sumatra. The Bornean Sun Bear is found only on the island of Borneo and are roughly half the size of the Malayan Sun Bear. According to the conservation centre, the sun bears spend a lot of time in trees and are considered the most arboreal (living in trees) of all bear species. When you think of bears, you think of honey! Sun bears have incredibly long tongues which are used to eat insects and honey. They also eat fruits and small animals. The sun bear is the world’s smallest bear. The average height ranges between 120-150 cm with males weighing between 30-60kn and females weigh around 20-40kg. What is the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre? According to the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre website, their goal is to rescue and rehabilitate Bornean sun bears. The center opened in 2014 to the public and has 41 rescued sun bears. The BSBCC focuses on animal welfare, rehabilitation, research, education, and ecotourism. All the information provided is from my visit to the BSBCC and the BSBCC website. Sun Bear Rescue and Rehabilitation The staff at BSBCC works around the clock to rescue and rehabilitate the Bornean sun bears. When bears first arrive, they receive a health check and remain quarantined for a month to protect themselves and other bears. After the bear goes through quarantine they arrive at an indoor enclosure near other bears so it can become used to the scents, sights, and sounds of other bears at the rescue. The sun bears are then transferred to their forest enclosures where they learn typical bear behaviors like foraging and building nests. The goal is for the bears to develop all the skills they need to live in the wild again. Our guide told us sometimes the bears can be at the rehab facility for 15 years. Conservation and Education At the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre, conservation and education go hand in hand. The goal is to give travelers a deeper understanding of why responsible wildlife tourism in Borneo matters. Before visiting the BSBCC I had no clue about the Bornean sun bears and now I am writing a post about them, because I think their conservation efforts are equally important as those of the orangutans next door. The conservation centre here does an amazing job at informing its visitors on the conservation and effort that is made to rescue the Bornean sun bear. Why Sun Bears are Endangered in Borneo Unfortunately, the sun bears are endangered for many reasons: habitat loss, poaching, and being sold as pets. The sun bears are a protected species and have been since 1997. But this obviously does not stop poachers. Poachers illegally sell certain body parts of the bears as exotic meats and to be used as medicine (bile from gall bladder). Because the Bornean sun bear is the smallest bear species on the planet, people think they are cute and would make great pets. For obvious reasons, keeping a bear as a pet is a bad idea. Even though they are small, they are still bears. When people realize this, the bears always suffer and usually end up being tied down or placed in tiny cages. According to the BSBCC, all the bears here were pets at one point and are currently being rehabilitated to regain their skills to survive in the wild. What to Expect when Visiting The Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre is small but you can easily spend an hour or two here. First, I recommend reading all the information signs posted prior to the entrance and along the platforms. Next, you get a chance to see the Bornean sun bears from viewing platforms set above the enclosures. If timed correctly, you can also watch the staff feed the bears. Walking Trails and Viewing Platforms The BSBCC features elevated walkways with several viewing platforms. There are benches on the platforms and places to take breaks. Along the platforms there are information signs posted along the way which I recommend reading. Seeing the Sun Bears in a Natural Forest Habitat and Feeding From the platforms above you can see the Bornean sun bears. Of course, like all wildlife, there is no guarantee but your chances are quite high. The habitats are large giving the bears plenty of space to forage and explore. I really liked that the enclosures are built within a natural setting. Informational Exhibits Besides seeing the Bornean sun bears, I really loved the amount of information posted around the BSBCC. From the path leading to the entrance, the platforms, and exit, there were information signs everywhere. I knew nothing about the Bornean sun bear and now have a lot of respect for the world’s smallest bears. Learn about the bears habitat, what they eat, how they differ from the Malayan sun bear, and so much more! Booking a Tour to the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre Like the Sepilok Orangutan Rehab Centre, you can visit the BSBCC on your own. But I recommend booking a tour online through either Get Your Guide, Viator, or Klook. When booking a tour, usually includes both the Sepilok Orangutan Rehab Centre and the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre. The guide handles tickets, transportation, and is there to answer any questions. Here are some of the tours that I recommend. Sandakan Sepilok Orangutan & Sun Bear Half-Day Guided Tour Private Full Day Sepilok Orangutan, Bornean Sun Bear, and Rainforest Discovery Center Tour Full Day at Sepilok Orangutan, Sun Bear, and Sandakan City Tour Conclusion Visiting the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre really impacted me, so much so that I felt the need to write about it to inform my readers on ethical wildlife tourism and how awesome the BSBCC is. If you are planning on visiting the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, do yourself a favor, cross the street and pay a visit to the Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre. 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.
Visiting the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in Sandakan
Your best chances of seeing a wild orangutan while in Borneo is by visiting the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in Sandakan. This world-famous sanctuary offers visitors a rare chance to see the Bornean orangutans in a natural rainforest setting while learning about conservation and rehabilitation efforts. While visiting the Sepilok Orangutan Rehab Centre you’ll be able to watch the primates at feeding times and even catch a glimpse of one in swinging in the canopy. This guide not only goes over what to expect at the rehab center but I want to inform my readers on conservation and protecting endangered species and share what I learned on what Malaysia is doing to protect its wildlife. ** 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! Visiting Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is one of Borneo’s main wildlife attractions. It’s a rewarding experience for travelers that are looking to see orangutans in Borneo while supporting conservation efforts. I’ve outlined important information in this post to help you plan your trip to the Orangutan rehab centre based on my visit. Admission and Hours Admission Malaysian Citizens Adults: RM5Children (18 and Under): RM2 Non-Malaysian Citizens Adults: Rm30Children (18 and Under): RM15 *There is a camera fee. Camera Phones: FreeProfessional Cameras (DSLR, Video Camera, GoPro, etc..): RM10 Hours 7 Days a Week9:00-11:00 / 14:00-15:30 Feeding Platform10:00 and 15:00 Outdoor Nursery9:00-12:00 and 14:00-16:00 Where is Sepilok & How to Get There Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is in the town of Sandakan located in the state of Sabah in northern Borneo, Malaysia. These directions are taken from the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre website. From Sandakan: There are four public buses that arrive at Sepilok and four that return back to Sandakan. It’s about a 45 minute journey and costs RM4 a person. You can take a taxi or use Grab as well, it’s about a 20 minute drive from Sandakan Airport. Personally, I recommend and this is what we did, but I booked a Private Full Day Tour. The guide picked us up from the hotel, drove us to each destination and provided a wealth of knowledge along the way, not to mention entrances were included on this Private Full Day Tour. The Orangutans Orang-Hutan comes from the Malay words “Orang” which means person and “Hutan,” which translates to “Of the Forest.” So Orang-Hutan means People of the Forest! Orangutans are only found in the wild on the islands of Borneo and Sumatra. There is a Sumatran Orangutan and the Bornean Orangutan. Prior to visiting Borneo, I was clueless about Orangutans. I knew they are primates and of course know what their appearance looks like, but that is it. After spending time in the Bornean rainforest seeing them in the wild and paying a visit to Sepilok, I’ve learned so much more about orangutans and want to share some of what I learned with my readers. About the Bornean Orangutan There are two types of orangutans, the Sumatran Orangutan and the Bornean Orangutan, both critically endangered. Within the island of Borneo, there are three subspecies of Bornean Orangutans. It is estimated that there are around 104,000 Bornean orangutans left in the wild. The Bornean orangutan lives on the Malaysia and Indonesian side of Borneo. Compared to the Sumatran orangutan they are considered larger, have darker red fur, and broader faces. The Bornean orangutans are known to be more solitary and less social then the Sumatra orangutan. Based on my experience in Borneo. I encountered wild orangutans almost everyday while staying along the Kinabatangan River. The orangutans spend most their lives in the trees and rarely come down to the ground. It amazed me to see how they use their long arms to glide through the canopy going from tree to tree with ease looking for fresh fruits. Orangutans at Sepilok According to the Orangutan Appeal UK Sepilok website, there are around 60-80 orangutans that live in the rainforest reserve at Sepilok. There is one orangutan that my guide told me about and I want to share his story. Malim, he’s a giant male orangutan that calls Sepilok home. I think now, he’s around 24-25 years old and was brought to Sepilok as an orphan. When he was fully rehabilitated, he was driven by car and buckled up hours away from Sepilok to a forested area. Over the course of a few months, Malim randomly showed back up at Sepilok. Apparently, while in the car, he was paying attention to landmarks and used his intelligence to backtrack back to Sepilok. I think he’s done this twice now. Because of this he is a permanent resident at Sepilok. He can be seen at the feeding platforms and is quite the celebrity. Just goes to show you how smart orangutans really are. What Happens to them Once they are Rehabilitated? Each orangutan at Sepilok Rehab Centre has a different back story. But the goal is for them to be fully rehabilitated which can take several years before being released back to the wild. While at Sepilok, the orangutans are learning vital survival skills they need to live an independent life. The orangutans are taught to forage for food, climb, and nest. New rescues will stay at a nursery for medical checks. Afterwards they are released to the outdoor nursery where they learn natural behaviors. After they develop natural habits they are released within Sepilok to secluded areas where they are looked after by specialized staff. This stage is as wild as it gets but they are still monitored. After several years of rehab, the orangutans are then driven and flown to secluded forested areas in Borneo. What to Expect Now that you know more about the Bornean orangutan and about the rehabilitation efforts and process, what does a day at Sepilok look like for visitors? Feeding Platforms and Viewing Areas The main highlight for visitors at the Sepilok Rehabilitation Centre are the feeding platforms. Feeding times are at 10:00 and 15:00 daily. Just remember, these are wild animals so it’s not guaranteed that you will see the orangutans. But you have a high chance of seeing them at Sepilok. The main feeding platform takes visitors inside where you can see the orangutans eat on platforms. The first feeding platform can get crowded so it is recommended to come about 30 minutes before feeding times. Our guide recommended that we crouched down on the floor in front of the glass for best viewing opportunities. The second feeding platform is in the rainforest and meant for the more mature orangutans who are in the process of being introduced in the wild. These orangutans are more secluded and more difficult to spot. But we saw one here. The diet that the orangutans are fed by the staff include a variety of fruit and vegetables. Orangutans are not the only primates that call Sepilok home. There are Long-tailed and Pig-tailed Macaques that live here and share the food. It’s hilarious to watch the staff keep the macaques away from the food at first, then once the staff leaves, hoarders of macaques scramble around to eat the leftovers. Jungle Boardwalks There are boardwalks that traverse through the rainforest for visitors to walk from the visitor centre to the feeding platforms. The rainforest is beautiful and authentic. Pay attention to your surroundings and look around, you’ll never know what you might find. The boardwalks are well maintained and keep visitors away from stepping on and touching the delicate vegetation. But keep in mind to watch your belongings because monkeys tend to be curious. Visitor Centre There is a visitor centre at Sepilok. Here you can find souvenirs, books, and more information about the orangutans that call Sepilok home. You can also speak to staff at the visitor centre in case you have any questions after your visit. Ethical Wildlife Tourism at Sepilok I do my research prior to visiting any attraction that handles wildlife. You’ll never see me taking a photo in front of a drugged up Tiger or supporting tourism around Elephants. But there are a lot of ethical wildlife tourism locations and conservation efforts that I do support and one of them is Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. Written at the rehab centre is a sign that says: The aim of the centre has always been to receive, nurture, and returned orphaned, injured, or displaced orangutans back into the wild through the process of rehabilitation. Why Sepilok is Ethical The Bornean Orangutan is an endangered species. The orangutans at the rescue centre all have different backgrounds on how they ended up at Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. Some orangutans were rescued from logging areas, being held in captivity, habitat loss, or from human interactions. The orangutans at the rehab centre are carefully rehabilitated and taught essential survival skills before being released back into the rainforest. The Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre’s mission is conservation, rehabilitation, and education. This centre rescues orphaned, injured, and/or displaced orangutans and focuses on rehabilitating them to be released back into the wild. The orangutans live freely here in a protected rainforest environment. There is little to no human contact, and feeding is carefully managed. How You Can Support Conservation Just visiting Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre is a great way to support orangutan conservation. The money goes toward conservation efforts and the care for these magnificent primates. You can also adopt an orangutan. When visiting Sepilok, there is more information on this and employees that can assist. For RM250 you can adopt an orangutan. You’ll get:✅ Certificate of Appreciation✅ The story behind the orangutan✅ Photographs✅ Exclusive Videos✅ A Soft Toy✅ Newsletter✅ An update after 6 months of the progress✅ Most importantly, knowing that you’ve achieved something to help save the Bornean Orangutans Booking a Tour to Sepilok Orangutan Rehab Centre You can visit the Sepilok Orangutan Rehab Centre on your own. But I highly recommend booking a private tour through either Get Your Guide, Viator, or Klook. When booking a tour, you don’t have to worry about transport, getting tickets, or showing up at the right time, it’s all taken care for you. Here are some of the tours that I recommend: Private Full Day Sepilok Orangutan, Bornean Sun Bear, and Rainforest Discovery Center Tour Full Day At Sepilok Orangutan, Sun Bear & Sandakan City Tour Sepilok Orangutan Centre Half Day Tour Conclusion Visiting the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre in Sandakan is truly one of the best ways to see wild orangutans and assist with conservation efforts to protect this endangered species. Visitors come from all over the world to see the orangutans at Sepilok Rehab Centre. You can view orangutans up close, learn about their behaviors, and potentially save them just by visiting. Sepilok is a must-do activity when visiting Borneo. I hope you learned a little more about the Bornean orangutan and how important it is to protect this species. If you’ve visited or have plans to let me know! 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.
Seoul’s 5 Royal Palaces: Top Cultural Sites You Can’t Miss
Visiting Seoul’s Royal Palaces is a must when traveling to South Korea’s largest city. There are a total of five royal palaces in Seoul scattered throughout the city. Gyeongbokgung Palace is the grandest and most visited, but they are all unique and worth visiting. Perfect for first-time visitors to Seoul and anyone who loves culture and history, exploring Seoul’s royal palaces is my top recommendation and one of the best things to do in Seoul. ** 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! Seoul’s 5 Royal Palaces Seoul’s five Royal Palaces include: Changdeokgung, Changgyeonggung, Deoksugung, Gyeongbokgung, and Gyeonghuigung. These royal palaces are from the Joseon Dynasty. The Joseon Dynasty started in 1392 until 1897. Scattered across the city, the royal palaces offer a mix of grand throne halls, peaceful gardens, and traditional Korean architecture. Some palaces are more grand then others, but I do recommend adding all five to your Seoul travel itinerary. In case you don’t have time to fit them all in, I recommend starting with Gyeongbokgung Palace, it is the grandest of them all. It took me three visits to Seoul to finally see all five of the palaces. I made this post to provide you with information on each palace to assist with planning and just to provide basic information on each site. Changdeokgung Palace Changdeokgung Palace is one of the mots beautiful and historically significant of the royal palaces in Seoul. It was first constructed in 1405, the fifth year of the 3rd King Taejong’s reign. Unfortunately, the palace was completely destroyed by fire in the late 1500’s during the Japanese invasion. It was restored in 1610. Changdeokgung Palace was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997. This palace is known for its harmonious design that blends naturally with the landscape. Besides Gyeongbokgung, Changdeokgung Palace is my favorite palace in Seoul and it’s easily within walking distance from Gyeongbokgung. Admission Adults: ￦ 3,000 Children (18 and under): Free *Admission and Hours are from the Royal Palaces and Tombs Center Website. Hours ❌ Closed Mondays February-May/September-October: 9:00 – 18:00 (Last Admission is 17:00) June-August: 9:00 – 18:30 (Last Admission 17:30) November-January: 9:00-17:30 (Last Admission 16:30) Changgyeonggung Palace Changgyeonggung is the neighboring palace from Changdeokgung Palace and is often times overlooked. But I recommend visiting Changgyeonggung Palace especially if you are already at Changdeokgung Palace. Built by King Seongjong in 1483, Changgyeonggung Palace was originally built as a residence for the queens and other royal members during the Joseon Dynasty. Like its neighboring palace, Changgyeonggung was destroyed during the Japanese invasion and was rebuilt in 1616. The palace you see today features elegant halls, beautiful walking paths, and gardens. Admission Adults: ￦ 1,000 Children (18 and under): Free *Admission and Hours are from the Royal Palaces and Tombs Center Website. Hours ❌ Closed Mondays January through December: 9:00 – 21:00 (Last Admission 20:00) Deoksugung Palace Deoksugung Palace stands out as one of the more unique palaces because of its lend of traditional Korean architecture and Western-style buildings within the palace grounds. Deoksugung Palace was a temporary palace and like all the other palaces, it was destroyed during the Japanese invasion. Deoksugung Palace was also under Japanese rule for a 35 year period between 1910 and 1945. Deoksugung Palace is a picturesque palace known for its romantic walking paths, elegant Junghwajeon Hall, and the historic Seokjojeon. Admission Adult: ￦ 3,000 Children (18 and under): Free *Admission and Hours are from the Royal Palaces and Tombs Center Website. Hours ❌ Closed Mondays 9:00 am – 21:00 (Last Admission 20:00) Gyeongbokgung Palace Gyeongbokgung Palace is the largest and most iconic of Seoul’s royal palaces. Built in 1395 during the Joseon Dynasty, Gyeongbokgung Palace showcases massive gates, expansive courtyards, and a maze of structures against the backdrop of Bugaksan Mountain. During the Japanese invasion, Gyeongbokgung Palace was entirely destroyed and rebuilt in 1867. When Gyeongbokgung Palace was rebuilt, around 500 buildings were constructed here making it a small city. When visiting Gyeongbokgung Palace today, you can witness the changing of the guards which I find a tad cheesy but fun. Other highlights include the Geunjeongjeon, Gyeonghoeru Pavilion, and the National Folk Museum. Admission Adult: ￦ 3,000 Children (18 and under): FreeFree if wearing a Hanbok Hours ❌ Closed Tuesdays January-February: 9:00 – 17:00 (Last Admission is 16:00) March-May: 9:00 – 18:00 (Last Admission 17:00) June-August: 9:00-18:30 (Last Admission 17:30) September-October: 9:00-18:00 (Last Admission 17:00) November-December: 9:00-17:00 (Last Admission 16:00) Gyeonghuigung Palace Gyeonghuigung Palace is the smallest and by far least crowded of the five royal palaces in Seoul. Gyeonghuigung Palace was used as a secondary palace during the Joseon Dynasty. At one point, Gyeonghuigung Palace had over 100 halls. Some of the halls and buildings were rebuilt in 1985. I found Gyeonghuigung Palace to be one of the more peaceful palaces and definitely a hidden gem in Seoul. Admission Free Hours ❌ Closed Mondays 9:00-18:00 (Last Admission 17:30) Conclusion When visiting Seoul, one of my main recommendations is paying a visit to the royal palaces. From the grand scale of Gyeongbokgung Palace to the peaceful gardens of Changdeokgung, each palace is unique and special. Consistently ranked as the top attractions in Seoul, these royal palaces are easy to visit, beautifully preserved, and perfect for first-time visitors. I’d say, no trip to Seoul is complete without visiting these iconic palaces. 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.
14 Best Things to do in Shinjuku, Tokyo: Attractions & Experiences
Planning a trip to Tokyo and looking for the best things to do in Shinjuku? Shinjuku is an energetic district and one of Tokyo’s most popular areas known for its neon-lit streets, Godzilla head, shopping beautiful gardens, and so much more. Shinjuku offers things to do for everyone like walking around Gyoen National Garde to experiencing the nightlife at Kabukicho. In this Shinjuku post, you’ll discover top attractions, some hidden gems, and must-visit spots. ** 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 Shinjuku: If you like nightlife, beautiful city parks, food, and bar hopping, then Shinjuku is the perfect district in Tokyo for you. Top Things to do Shinjuku: Take photos of the Godzilla Head. Eat and Drink at a local Izakaya at Golden Gai or Memory Lane. Head up to the observation deck of the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. Where to Stay in Shinjuku: I am a fan of APA hotels in Japan, and this APA hotel is a great option. When visiting Shinjuku, consider a walking food tour or Izakaya food crawl tour. Why Visit Shinjuku In total, I’ve probably spent about a week in Shinjuku. I’ve walked the alley ways, dined at local izakaya’s, and shopped for vintage video games in Shinjuku. Every time I visit Tokyo, I get drawn to Shinjuku. So why should you visit Shinjuku, Tokyo? Shinjuku is that quintessential image of Tokyo that comes to mind. Modern, neon-lights, crowds of people, and plenty of drinking establishments. Shinjuku truly does offer something for everyone. You can find incredible shopping, beautiful nature, free observation decks overlooking the city, and amazing Japanese food. Shinjuku offers that perfect blend of entertainment, culture, nature, and unforgettable travel experiences. Best Things to do in Shinjuku Whether you are spending 24-hours in Shinjuku or multiple days, I’ve come up with this list of my recommendations and the best things to do in Shinjuku. Please, if you have other recommendations and must-see or do things in Shinjuku leave a comment to share with myself and the rest of us. Shinjuku Station Shinjuku Station is considered to be the busiest train station in the world! Of course, if you are going to spend any time in Shinjuku, you’ll probably arrive via the train station. Shinjuku Station is huge! You can easily get lost here. Trust me, I have on more then one occasion. Shinjuku is an attraction in itself. You can literally spend an entire day here, especially if the weather is not ideal. You can shop, dine, and just wander around Shinjuku Station. The Giant 3D Cat Upon exiting Shinjuku Station, you’ll probably notice a ton of people looking up pointing their phones at a building. Most likely, the Giant 3D Cat in Shinjuku is on the giant LED Screen. If it is your first time in Shinjuku, make an effort to watch the 3D calico cat. Throughout the day, the cat does what cats do – Sleeps and wakes up, meows, and plays. It’s pretty realistic and just a joy to watch. Kabukicho Main Gate You have to start your Shinjuku trip at the famous Kabukicho Main Gate. It’s an iconic landmark welcoming everyone into Shinjuku’s vibrant nightlife. Start here for your Shinjuku itinerary. Sure, take a photo of the gate then head through the streets behind it and start exploring Shinjuku. Godzilla Head Shinjuku’s Godzilla Head is perched atop the Toho Cinema Building looking down on visitors below. The Godzilla Head in Tokyo peers over the skyline, roars, and lights up during scheduled times, don’t miss out! Visitors love to take photos here, so the area is always crowded. You can visit the terrace for close-up photos. You can stay at the Hotel Gracery for Godzilla themed rooms and views of the Godzilla head. Don Quijote No visit to Japan is complete without stopping into a Don Quijote, there just so happens to be one in the heart of Shinjuku. Don Quijote or just “Donki” is a discount store chain that sells basically everything. You can buy groceries, electronics, car stuff, houseware, clothing, and basically anything else you can think of. In case you traveled to Japan and forgot something like an umbrella or just want to load up on snacks, don’t worry! Don Quijote has you covered. Four Seasons Pathway The Four Seasons Pathway in Shinjuku is a peaceful walking route that is meant to showcase Japan’s changing seasons. This short yet scenic pathway has cherry blossoms during the spring season, lush greenery during the summer, fall foliage during autumn, and beautiful winter landscapes. I always enjoy walking the Four Seasons Pathway, it’s a nice escape from the crowds. It’s both safe and clean. Golden Gai Shinjuku Golden Gai in is one of the most conic nightlife districts. Golden Gai is known for its narrow alleys that are lined with small bars and Izakaya’s. Apparently there are about 200 tiny bars and eateries packed into six alleyways. It can become crowded during busy times of day. I recommend trying a few of the local bars in the area. Omoide Yokocho Memory Lane Omoide Yokocho also known as Memory Lane is another spot like Golden Gai filled with narrow alleyways packed with tiny yakitori stalls, izakaya’s, and eateries. Memory Lane is right by Shinjuku Station and is one of Shinjuku’s best areas to experience nightlife. Like Golden Gai, because of its location and popularity, Memory Lane can become quite crammed, it’s still a great time no matter what. Shin-Okubo, Korea Town Shin-Okubo, also known as Tokyo’s Korea Town is a vibrant hotspot and must visit place in Shinjuku for food lovers. This neighborhood is packed with authentic Korean restaurants like Korea BBQ, fried chicken, and places that sell street food like Tteokbokki and hotteok. Not only can you find amazing Korean food in Shinjuku but there are also trendy shops selling fun stuff you can find in Korea. Food, Food, Food The main reason I travel to Shinjuku is because of the food and fun places to eat. In Tokyo’s Shinjuku, you can find Michelin-star restaurants, local Izakaya’s, late night ramen shops, and everything else imaginable. For local experiences, try an Izakaya at the famous Omoide Yokocho or Golden Gai. But you can find amazing dining options anywhere in Shinjuku really. ** Book a Shinjuku Food Tour to experience local dishes in hidden eateries via Get Your Guide. Cafes & Desserts Some of the best cafes and dessert shops in Tokyo, I’ve found in Shinjuku. If you are looking for coffee shops, ice cream parlors, bakeries, or just a small vendor selling treats, chances are you’ll find it in Shinjuku. Two of my favorite and highly recommend places for dessert and fun drinks/cakes are Macapresso Tokyo and Oyoppi Coffee. If you like Macaroons, Macapresso Tokyo has some of the best I’ve ever had! They are gigantic and sell a wide variety of traditional and experimental flavors. For a unique cafe experience, try Oyoppi Coffee. I highly recommend trying their cakes, coffee, and apple tea. The apple tea is very unique, you have to see it for yourself. ** Try a unique Japan experience and participate in this Matcha Kimono Tea Ceremony, tickets can be purchased online via Get Your Guide. Shopping Besides food and nightlife, most visitors come to Shinjuku to go shopping. You can find everything here from massive department stores to specialty shops. I stumbled inside a huge department store and on the top floor there was a huge store selling vintage video games, some were not cheap! In general, Shinjuku is a convenient location for shopping with a diverse range of stores. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is one of my favorite places in Shinjuku. I find Tokyo to be a very green city with many large parks scattered throughout the city. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is one of my favorites. The garden is huge with many beautiful themes, it’s both a nature and photographers paradise, in the heart of Tokyo. The Old Goryo-tei (Taiwan Pavilion) is one of my favorite attractions at Gyoen National Garden. Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observation Deck If you are looking for free things to do in Shinjuku or free attractions in Tokyo, I highly recommend paying a visit to the observation decks at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building. It seems that the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building gets overlooked since Tokyo Tower and Skytree are so famous and on everyone’s Tokyo bucket list. Honestly, this free observation deck is just as good, if not better. It’s free to enter the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building and you get stunning panoramic views of Tokyo, you can even see Mt. Fuji on a clear day. I visited and there was only a short line at the entrance, no crowds plus the observation deck was near empty. Conclusion When visiting Tokyo, especially for the first time, you have to visit Shinjuku. I’d even recommend staying in Shinjuku to experience the nightlife and culture. For being one of Tokyo’s districts, Shinjuku has so much to offer. Find peace at Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, get some of the best views of Tokyo at the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, and sample local Japanese delights. Have other recommendations and things to do in Shinjuku? Leave a comment so I can check it out next time. Safe travels! 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.
One Day in Kawagoe: The Perfect Day Trip Itinerary from Tokyo
Spending one day in Kawagoe, is the perfect day trip from Tokyo for travelers who are looking to escape the city and experience a historic Japanese town. Known as “Little Edo,” Kawagoe is a charming town with preserved streets and iconic landmarks. Visiting Kawagoe from Tokyo is an easy train ride away. You can easily spend the day here sampling local treats, visiting attractions, shopping, and trying various sake and beers from the region. I created this guide to Kawagoe to share some of the best things to do, how to get to Kawagoe, and so much more that will help make the most of your one-day in Kawagoe trip from Tokyo. ** 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! Why Visit Kawagoe? So many tourists come to Japan and solely focus on visiting Tokyo and/or Kyoto. There are so many other beautiful places around Japan that are worth visiting. One town I recently visited as a day trip from Tokyo, deserves visitors. Kawagoe is seriously one of the best places to visit near Tokyo especially if you are looking for a nice blend of history, culture, and a charming Japanese small-town atmosphere. Kawagoe is a beautifully preserved Edo-period town with streets and buildings from the same period. This gives travelers a chance to experience and Edo-period town without venturing far from Tokyo. You can easily spend an entire day in Kawagoe. Visit the famous Toki no Kane Clock Tower, walk up and down Ichibangai Shotengai (street lined with Edo-period warehouse buildings), and try some local sweet potato treats. How to Get to Kawagoe from Tokyo Getting to Kawagoe from Tokyo is surprisingly easy and fast. If you are in the Shinjuku area hop on the Express Red Arrow Line. This is a direct train from Seibu-Shinjuku Station to Kawagoe’s Honkawagoe Station. From the Seibu-Shinjuku Station to Honkawagoe Station, it’s a 44 minute direct train ride. I recommend purchasing the Seibu Kawagoe Pass. This is a discounted roundtrip ticket and can be purchased at the ticket counter on the second floor of the Seibu-Shinjuku Station. Perfect Kawagoe Itinerary Here is my recommended itinerary for a one day trip to Kawagoe from Tokyo. I don’t think more then a day is entirely necessary, but Kawagoe is a must-visit place just outside Tokyo. Here is our itinerary and we spent the day in Kawagoe. Morning Train to Honkawagoe Station → Ichibangai Shotengai → Penny Candy Lane → Sample Food Seibu-Shinjuku Station to Honkawagoe Station I recommend starting your day early when visiting Kawagoe. There is so much to do and see so plan enough time to follow my recommended Kawagoe itinerary. Remember, the train from Seibu-Shinjuku takes roughly 44 minutes and I recommend purchasing the Seibu Kawagoe Pass for a roundtrip fare. Ichibangai Shotenagai (Historical Street) Ichibangai Shotenagai is a historic street in Kawagoe. This street is lined with historically preserved Kurazukuri Warehouses, traditional shops, cafes, and fun souvenir stores. Along this road in Kawagoe, you can find local sweets, handcrafted souvenirs, vendors selling COEDO Beer, and so much more. Kashiya Yokocho (Penny Candy Lane) Kashiya Yokocho or Penny Candy Lane is a short section of road that near Ichibangai Shotenagai. According to information I learned in Kawagoe, this road got its name from a local vendor who made candy during the Edo-period. Quickly gaining popularity, there were over 70 stores selling candy. Today, you can still find stores selling Taffy, Senbei, and other candies. Although, a short street, it’s worth walking it to grab a quick snack on the go. Sample Daigaku Imo-Dan-go or Imokoi (Dumplings) You can’t visit Kawagoe without trying some of the famous sweets and treats. I highly recommend trying Daigaku Imo Dan-go and Imokoi, both can be found around town being sold by local vendors. Daigaku Imo Dan-go is a treat made with sweet potatoes, it is deep fried and coated with a sugar glaze. Imokoi is a type of dumpling filled with fresh red bean paste and sweet potato. This treat is served fresh and hot, it’s best to eat right away, perfect for colder weather. Afternoon Toki-no-Kane → Chopsticks → Beer → Kawage Hikawa Shrine Toki-no Kane (Bell Tower) Probably Kawagoe’s most famous attraction is Toki-no Kane known as the Bell of Time Tower. During the Edo-period it was used to let people know the time. Today, it is still being used, ringing four times a day. Make Your Own Chopsticks I am not a crafty or artistic person at all, but I highly recommend going to Karakimokkou (Wood Works Kawagoe) to make your own chopsticks. Right across the street from Toki-no Kane you’ll find this small wood working shop. You don’t make reservations, but it is a first come first serve basis. You sign up electronically outside and you’ll ben notified when it is your turn. We waited about 30-minutes. Perfect time to grab a snack, a beer, and do a little sightseeing around Kawagoe. When you are called up and enter the store, first you choose wood. There is a display of all the wood and they vary in price. Next you cut the wood with tools and instructions provided. Smooth the edges using sand paper, and finally dip the chopsticks in an oil coating. The whole process takes about 20-mintutes to make your chopsticks. The staff will then give you a sleeve to place your chopsticks in. It’s the perfect souvenior for your travels in Japan. Try a local COEDO Beer While you are waiting to make your own chopsticks, you can easily go to one of the many liquor stores or local vendors selling Kawagoe’s own COEDO Beer. COEDO is an award winning craft brewery and well worth trying a few of their beers. In my opinion, their Kyara (India Pale Lager) and Shirogamau (IPA) are their best beers. Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine When visiting Kawagoe, you can’t miss the Kawagoe Hikawa Shrine. I walked to the Hikawa Shrine from the Toki-no Kane. It was about a 15-minute walk. Hikawa Shrine dates back over 1,500 years and is known for its serene atmosphere, towering torii gate, Ema Tunnel, and fortune fishing. That’s right, you can use a rod and retrieve your fortune from a fish-shaped charm. Evening Kita-in → Sake Tastings → Omiyage → Train Back to Tokyo Kita-in Kita-in Temple was my favorite temple in Kawagoe and I recommend visiting it while on your way back to the train station. I also recommend paying the ¥400 to gain access to the gardens, Senba Tosyogu Shrine, interior of the temple, and the 500 Statues of Rakan. The 500 Statues of Rakan are disciples of Buddha and each one is different. Sample Sake Sense you are taking the train back to Tokyo, you don’t have to drive right? Why not sample local sake and choose your favorite from the dozens to try from. At the liquor store, Kikizake Shop Showagura you can sample dozens of Japanese sake. Simply insert money into the machine and it spits out tokens that can be used at the Sake machines. You get a small cup and can hold it under any of the Sake you want to try. Not only is it fun but you can see what styles of sake you prefer. Each Sake has a corresponding one in the store you can purchase. So if you liked one you sampled, feel free to purchase a bottle. Perfect for gifts or just drinking in your hotel room. Pick up an Omiyage While you are it, go next door from Kikizake Shop Showagura to Koedo Kurari and pick up some Omiyage, souvenirs, and other local goods. Omiyage is a traditional Japanese souvenir. You’ve seen them, they are local snacks, treats, and specialty foods, that are nicely packaged. They are found in souvenir shops, train stations, and Michi-no-Eki (Roadside Station). Omiyage is an important part of Japanese travel culture and they are regional which is fun. I always bring an omiyage to work to share with coworkers to thank them for picking up my slack! Train back to Seibu-Shinjuku Station Now that you have your sake and omiyage it’s time to head back to Tokyo by boarding the train at Honkawagoe Station. Use the same Seibu Kawagoe Pass and enjoy the train ride back to Seibu-Shinjuku Station. Conclusion Spending one day in Kawagoe is simply the best way to experience Japan’s small historic town charm without traveling to far from Tokyo. Kawagoe has beautifully preserved warehouse buildings and streets that date back to the Edo-period. For a town of its size, there is so much o do and it makes for the perfect day trip from Tokyo. I hope this Kawagoe itinerary helps with making the most out of your day in Kawagoe and gives you an option to think about if you are planning day trips from Tokyo. If you end up visiting Kawagoe, let me know how your trip went! Safe Travels! 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.
Japan’s Manhole Covers: Manhole Tourism, it’s a Thing!
When most travelers think of Japan, images of cherry blossoms, bullet trains, and probably food come to mind. But there is another side of Japan’s creativity and one of my favorite works of art, right beneath your feet, the beautiful manhole covers. Across Japan, in almost every town and city, ordinary sewer lids are transformed into intricate works of art. The manholes showcase local landmarks, mascots, nature, and icons from that specific town or city. I didn’t know about Japan’s manhole covers until moving here, and yes, manhole tourism is a thing! Visitors, including myself hunt for and photograph Japan’s most beautiful manhole covers. This post is all about Japan’s manhole covers and the tourism around it. ** 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! What is Manhole Tourism? It sounds weird, but manhole tourism is a thing and even I am guilty of it, not that it’s a bad thing! Manhole tourism is popular in Japan. When visiting Japan, instead of looking up at the exciting neon lights, enthusiasts look down in search of Japan’s most creative and colorful manhole covers. For me, it’s a souvenir, another way of tracking my travels around Japan. Each manhole design reflects the character of its city or town featuring landmarks, flowers, nature, events, etc.. For example, while walking around the Japanese city of Himeji, you might stumble upon a manhole with the famous Himeji Castle, or in Hiroshima, you can spot manholes with their favorite baseball team on it, the Hiroshima Carp. Manhole tourism in Japan has gotten more popular in recent years. I’ve heard of some travelers planning their entire trip just based on the manholes. Not a bad idea, it gets you to some remote places and outside the typical Tokyo and Kyoto itinerary. History Behind Japan’s Artistic Manhole Covers In Japan, everything seems to be cutesy and colorful even the manhole covers. But this wasn’t always the case. In fact, the detailed and interesting manhole covers in Japan is fairly new, dating back to the 1980s. The local governments were trying to find ways to make the public infrastructure more appealing so that in a way locals could get behind it for funding reasons. The idea was proposed to decorate the manhole lids with regional designs. The crafty manhole designs were meant to spark interest in the rather expensive sewer projects. What stared off as a small project quickly spread throughout Japan. Soon after, towns and cities across Japan started to create their own unique manhole cover designs, each coming up with their own local identity. Today, there are more the 12,000 different manhole covers throughout Japan. Not only are they functional, but the have become a form of public art drawing the interest of tourists every year. Culture Behind the Designs The culture behind Japan’s artistic manhole covers is more then just pretty designs. The pictures and representations on the manholes reflect the culture, creativity, and community of the town or city in Japan. Each manhole cover is unique and tells a story whether it be a town mascot or a popular festival. The manhole covers are also part of Japan’s love of regional individuality. In Japanese, the word “Gotochi” means local. Every prefecture has a unique highlight and often times these are represented in the manholes. For instance, you might find a manhole cover with Mt. Fuji on it in the prefecture of Shizouka, or a manhole cover with beni imo (sweet potato from Okinawa) on it somewhere in Okinawa. For locals, the manhole covers can be a sense of pride. For visitors, they offer a meaningful and alternative way to appreciate Japanese culture. Pokémon Manhole Covers For manhole tourism in Japan, one of the most popular highlights is the collection on Pokémon manhole covers also known as Pokéfuta (Japanese) and PokéLids. The installation of Pokémon manhole covers began in 2018. As of now, there are around 300 PokéLids and more continue to be added around rural areas of Japan as well as popular tourist destinations. Each Pokémon manhole cover is created to reflect the local culture or scenery of the region where they are installed. The PokéLids are beautifully designed and show original and next generation Pokémon characters. The lids will also have the name (in Japanese) of the Pokémon and region/town you are in. Photos make great souvenirs! For example you can find Tauros in Uruma, Okinawa which is known for bullfighting. Or Geodude and Baltoy in Iwate Prefecture near the Jomon Prehistoric Sites. My favorite thing about the Pokémon manhole covers in Japan is that they install them in rural areas. This brings tourism to small towns, Michi-no-Eki (Roadside Stations), local parks, and historical sites. Many times, while doing road trips in Japan, we mark many of the PokéLids on the map and make an effort to drive to a few of them, you never know where you’ll end up and what cool things you’ll find. It’s kind of like a treasure hunt, you can map out the routes to each manhole and photograph each PokéLid. I use this PokéLids website to find the Pokémon manhole covers. You can search by region and the site has a map and coordinates. Simply mark it on your map and try and find the Pokémon manhole cover! Happy Hunting! Why I Love Japan’s Manhole Tourism Prior to living in Japan, I never paid any attention to a manhole. I mean, there really was never a point, they all look the same and serve the same purpose. That all changed when I moved to Japan, I instantly fell in love with the beautiful and interesting manhole covers. Then I discovered the Pokémon manhole covers and now I actively seek them out, I don’t even like Pokémon. To me, it’s become like a treasure hunt, I love looking at each towns manholes, I try and visit new places around Japan just to photograph their manhole covers. The manhole covers in Japan are so varied, I’ve seen ones with castles, animals, villages, fests, and so much more. Some towns and cities will have multiple different manhole covers too. Just by searching for manhole covers in Japan, it’s taken me to some incredible places I never thought about visiting like the Onigajo Rock Formations in Mie Prefecture or the foot of Mt. Daisen in Tottori Prefecture. Some of My Favorite Manhole Covers Around Japan Conclusion Japan’s manhole covers are so much more then just sewer manholes you see in other countries. Japan made the effort to make even their manholes beautiful and attractive and it’s led to manhole tourism. Where visitors seek out beautifully decorative manholes throughout Japan and photograph them. Japan’s manholes include everything from hand0painted designs in small towns to Pokémon themed covers known as PokéLids. Japan’s detailed manhole covers have turned ordinary street manholes into basically open-air galleries, each manhole telling a story about the region, culture, and traditions of Japan. Do you know of any must-visit manhole covers in Japan? Leave a photo or comment so that I and others can find it. Thanks! 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.
Transfer Between Haneda and Narita by Airport Limousine Bus
Transferring between Tokyo’s two major airports can seem complicated, but the Airport Limousine Bus that transfers between Haneda (HND) and Narita (NRT) makes the transfer simple and stress-free. This Haneda to Narita Airport transfer service connects the two airports directly, offering an affordable, comfortable, and reliable schedule. I’ve used the Airport Limousine to transfer between Haneda Airport and Narita Airport and want to share my experience on using this service and provide information on how much it costs, how long it takes, and everything in between. ** 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! ** As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. What is the Airport Limousine Bus Between Haneda and Narita? The Airport Limousine Bus is an airport transportation service between Haneda Airport and Narita International Airport. It’s a relatively stress free form of transportation that picks up and drops off passengers between Tokyo’s two main airports. The Airport Limousine Bus between Haneda and Narita drives direct between the two airports. So there is no added time for additional stops or trying to figure out Tokyo’s confusing subway station. Simple board the bus and enjoy the ride! Schedule and Travel Time For an updated bus schedule depending on your arrival and departure airport, I highly recommend viewing the Airport Limousine Bus website. On the Airport Limousine Bus website, you can enter in the date, time, and flight information to view the latest schedule. The Haneda to Narita travel time and vice versa is roughly 60 to 90-minutes. This depends on a lot of factors such as which terminal you are departing from and arriving, traffic, and load and unload times. When I used the bus for the Haneda to Narita Airport transfer, it took me just about 60-minutes on the way to Narita. Coming back it was a Friday during rush hour and the bus time was closer to 90-minutes, so keep that in mind. Bus Ticket Prices and Booking Options Airport Limousine Prices for a one-way ticket from Haneda Airport to Narita International Airport. Adults: ¥3600Children: ¥1800 For more information on prices and the most up to date fares, please visit the Airport Limousine Bus website. Bus tickets can be purchased on the Airport Limousine Bus website, reservations can be made if you are confident with the times. Each time I used the Airport Limousine Bus, I’ve purchased tickets directly at the airport Bus Tickets Counter. From the Bus Tickets counter within Haneda or Narita, you can select the destination and pay at the machine. Paying for the bus ticket directly at the airport might be easier if you are unsure of times. Where to Board the Airport Limousine Bus On the Airport Limousine Bus website, you can view stops and maps where the bus stops are for each terminal at the airports. I outlined the locations of the terminal bus stops below to help you out. When you exit the airport and find the Shuttle Bus area, there are multiple stops to stand at, make sure you are at the correct number for the desired airport you are traveling to. The number will be shown on the purchased ticket as well. If all else fails, ask airport staff, I’ve had to do this a few times and they are always extremely helpful. Haneda Airport For Haneda Airport, there is a bus stop at Haneda Airport Terminal 1, Haneda Airport Terminal 2, Haneda Airport Terminal 3. Haneda Airport Terminal 1: Location: 〒144-0041 2-3, Haneda Airport, Ota-ku, TokyoCoordinates: 35°32’56.4″N 139°47’04.7″E Haneda Airport Terminal 2: Location: 〒144-0041 3-4-2, Haneda Airport, Ota-ku, TokyoCoordinates: 35°33’03.0″N 139°47’17.4″E Haneda Airport Terminal 3:Location: 〒144-0041 3-4-4 Haneda Airport, Ota-ku, TokyoCoordinates: 35°32’40.3″N 139°46’03.8″E Narita International Airport For Narita International Airport, there is a bus stop at Narita Airport Terminal 1, Narita Airport Terminal 2, and Narita Airport Terminal 3. Narita Airport Terminal 1:Location: 〒282-0004 1-1 Aza Furugome, Furugome, Narita CityCoordinates: 35°45’50.3″N 140°23’09.5″E Narita Airport Terminal 2:Location: 〒282-0004 1-1 Aza Furugome, Furugome, Narita CityCoordinates: 35°46’23.4″N 140°23’15.0″E Narita Airport Terminal 3:Location: 〒282-0004 1-1 Aza Furugome, Furugome, Narita CityCoordinates: 35°46’43.5″N 140°23’04.5″E What to Expect on Board The airport limousine buses do depart on time. The staff loads luggage for passengers and provide a claim tag as well. Make sure to keep the claim tag as you’ll need to show it to staff when claiming your luggage again at the destination. The total time it takes on the bus between Haneda Airport and Narita Airport is about 60-minutes, but it can take longer depending on traffic and other factors. Rest assured, there is a toilet on board the bus. I didn’t use the toilet, so I can’t review the space or cleanliness of them. If you have, let us know in the comments! There is Wi-Fi on board the buses btu it seemed to be spotty. Regarding the seats, they are paired so there are two seats on each side of the bus. Although skinny the seats were very comfortable and there was plenty of leg room. I really just enjoyed the ride. Looking out the big windows brought a sense of peace plus I was able to see a bit more of Tokyo during my transfer between Haneda and Narita. Conclusion Transferring between Haneda Airport and Narita International Airport does not have to be stressful. I highly recommend utilizing the Airport Limousine Bus which offers a reliable, comfortable, and stress-free journey between Tokyo’s two main airports. The Airport Limousine Bus links the two airports directly with no additional stops in between. It’s as easy as purchasing a ticket, standing in line, and relaxing on the bus until you reach your destination. I’ve taken trains connecting the two airports and even a cab ride but by far the easiest mode of transportation between Haneda and Narita is the Airport Limousine Bus. Reach out if you have any questions. Otherwise, let me know how your experience is transferring between the two airports. Safe Travels! 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.
Japan Airlines (JAL) Review: My Experience Flying Economy Class
Combining Japanese hospitality and world-class service, Japan Airlines (JAL) is the best airlines, in my opinion. I’ve flown JAL internationally and domestically and can honestly say Japan Airlines is amongst the best airlines in the world. From cleanliness and comfort to in-flight services and customer support, JAL continues to amaze me. I fly economy and want to write this honest Japan Airlines review. This review is solely based on my experiences with JAL both at the airport and while on board their flights. I wrote this post to help other travelers like me, that fly economy just in case you are debating buying that flight ticket with Japan Airlines. ** 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! ** As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Summary About Japan Airlines (JAL): Japan Airlines is a 5-Star rated airline based out of Tokyo, Japan. JAL is known for its customer service, modern fleet, and comfortable seating arrangements. This Japan Airlines review is based on my experiences flying with economy. Why Fly Japan Airlines: Modern and a fuel efficient fleet Comfort Great Customer Service In need of travel accessories for the long flight or layover? I shop on Amazon, from phone holders to travel bags, you can find everything here. Japan Airlines Hubs There are two main hubs in Japan for Japan Airlines, Tokyo’s Haneda Airport (HND) and Narita International Airport (NRT). Haneda is a short train ride from central Tokyo and while Narita is located farther out in Chiba Prefecture. Haneda Airport Haneda Airport (HND) serves as one of two hubs for Japan Airlines. Haneda Airport is one of the busiest in Asia and is conveniently located just 30-minutes from central Tokyo. Other then being close to central Tokyo, Haneda Airport is known for its clean facilities, modern terminals, and abundance of places to eat and shop. Both domestic and international JAL flights arrive and depart from Haneda Airport. There is also a JAL Premium Lounge at Haneda Airport. Narita International Airport Narita International Airport (NRT) is the other major hub that serves Japan Airlines. Many long-haul destinations across Europe, North America, and Asia connect through Narita International Airport. Like Haneda, Narita does have Japan Airlines lounges that include dining options. For those that don’t take advantage of the lounge, there are plenty of Japan-related shops, restaurants, and things to do within Narita International Airport. Narita International Airport is not as convenient as Haneda it terms of transport to central Tokyo but it is very doable using the local trains and buses. About Japan Airlines Japan Airlines (JAL) is one of Asia’s leading full-service carriers serving 64 airports within Japan and flying to 68 different countries around the world. Founded in 1951, Japan Airlines has grown to a fleet with 232 aircraft. Their fleet includes top of the line aircraft like the Airbus A350-900, Boeing 777, Boeing 787, and Airbus A321 ceo. Japan Airlines is a member of the Oneworld Alliance partnered with other major airlines like Alaska Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Finnair, Qantas, and Qatar Airways. Japan Airlines is a 5-Star Airline I pay a lot of attention to Skytrax airline ratings and a 5-Star rating is an incredible achievement. Airlines are ranked by Skytrax based on certain criteria like safety, customer satisfaction, and in-depth audit assessments. Japan Airlines ranks amongst the best airlines in the world and is well deserving of Skytrax certified 5-Star airline rating. Skytrax has Japan Airlines listed as a 5-Star airline based on the quality of the airport and onboarding procedures, and customer service. My Japan Airlines Review Like my China Airlines review, this Japan Airlines review is based solely on my personal experience flying with JAL. I’ve flown Japan Airlines domestically around Japan and Internationally. Based on budget, I only fly economy on Japan Airlines. For my Japan Airlines review, I’ll go over my experiences with topics like customer support, food and drinks on board, and the flight itself. For specific questions regarding the airline or to learn more about Japan Airlines, feel free to visit their website. Check-in Checking in to your Japan Airlines flight is pretty straightforward and honestly not much different then any other airline or flight to check in to. If flying domestically or internationally with JAL, prepare to receive emails for early check in. I always feel early check in is the way to go, it seems to speed up the check in process at the airport. Whether I am in Okinawa, mainland Japan, or the Untied States, checking in to my flight at the check in counter is always quick and easy with JAL. If flying domestically within Japan, you don’t even have to go to the counter, you can check in on a kiosk and even drop off your luggage yourself. Domestic Flights within Japan When flying domestically within Japan, it has to be one of the easiest travel experiences I’ve ever dealt with. There is no checking of passports, going to the check in counter, or staff handling your luggage, at least in Okinawa. If flying domestically, JAL offers flights to 64 different airports and 133 routes meaning you can basically fly Japan Airlines all throughout Japan from the beautiful island of Okinawa to the northern prefectures of Aomori and Hokkaido. I’ve flown several destinations with JAL domestically and some of the domestic aircraft include the: Boeing 767-300, Airbus A350-900, and Airbus A321neo. Flying economy domestically with JAL is kind of a no thrills experience. It’s your standard flight experience with short domestic travel. There generally is no entertainment so bring your own means of entertainment. Food and beverages is available for purchase, but they do offer a drink service with coffee, tea, and water. Japan Transocean Air My Japan Airlines review also covers my experience with flying Japan Transocean Air (JTA). This regional airline is a member of Japan Airlines Group and is based in Okinawa, Japan. JTA connects travelers to many destinations on Honshu, Kyushu, Shikoku, and throughout the Ryukyu Islands. Starting 2026, Japan Transocean Air will launch a direct route to Taipei, Taiwan. I flew their “Jimbee Jet” Whale Shark Jet from Naha, Okinawa to Ishigaki, Okinawa. The Jimbee Jet is a fun special painted aircraft, kind of like Skymark’s Pokémon Aircraft. The Jimbee Jet is a Boeing 737-800 and offers the same experience you get with any other Japan Airlines in terms of safety, reliability, comfort, and customer service. International Flights Japan Airlines flies internationally to 68 countries and regions to places like the United States and Canada, Europe, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Australia. When it comes to long haul flights, I’ve taken JAL across the Pacific Ocean a few times from Tokyo to the United States and it’s always a comfortable and pleasant journey. On long haul international flights, the JAL crew is always attentive, the seats are spacious, and the food is surprisingly delicious. Seating and Entertainment For international long haul flights, the seating and entertainment on Japan Airlines is of high standard, even in economy. I find their seats to be more comfortable and spacious then other airlines. Entertainment is about the same across other 5-star rated airlines. The seating in Economy Class provides generous legroom with adjustable headrests. I typically pick an aisle seat and have flown on their A350-1000 with three seats per row and have flown on the Boeing 787 with two seats per row on the outside. I prefer the 2-4-2 seating arraignments on airplanes, especially when flying with my significant other. For entertainment, Japan Airlines offers a decent selection of movies, tv shows, games, and music. I wouldn’t say it’s better then other airlines because it’s pretty similar across the board. To check the latest movies and shows on Japan Airlines, you can visit their inflight entertainment webpage. Food & Beverages I can’t write a Japan Airlines review without mentioning the food on board in the economy class. In my opinion, JAL has some of the best airplane food around! Like most long haul flights, you get a dinner and breakfast meal on board. Dinner is usually served an hour or two after takeoff while breakfast is served an hour or two prior to landing. Japan Airlines has some of the freshest food on any airplane I’ve had. The side dishes seem fresh withe a nice mix of salads and fruit. The main course can vary I’ve had everything from Chicken Curry to Hamburg and Rice. Make sure to try their Miso Soup! Japan Airlines does serve alcohol on board. You can find your typical big name Japanese brands like Asahi, Suntory, and Kirin. Bathrooms Onboard Normally, I wouldn’t write a section about bathrooms onboard an airplane but I feel that Japan Airlines bathrooms are worth bringing up. First, the bathrooms on board are kept clean and wiped down by the staff periodically throughout the flight. Each time I flew with Japan Airlines internationally, the toilets have been very spacious, not sure if it’s because I used the handicapped bathroom or not but you can spread your arms in the bathrooms, they are that spacious. The restrooms onboard JAL also include a few Japanese touches like toiletries and a bidet-style toilet. Customer Service I don’t want to keep repeating myself, but Japan Airlines is a 5-Star rated airline and part of that rating is because of their customer service, which includes high standards, amazing staff, and great support. Just to give you an idea of JAL’s customer service I want to include two stories in this Japan Airlines review that blew away my expectations. Flight from Honolulu, Hawaii to Tokyo, Japan I visited the Big Island of Hawaii and when departing Kona International Airport on Hawaiian Airlines to Honolulu. The individual at the check-in counter (working for Hawaiian Airlines) changed something around with our flights and assured us our luggage would make it on the plane. Due to the circumstances she told us, I had my doubts. We were to pick up our luggage in Honolulu as we were transferring from Hawaiian Airlines to JAL. Of course, our luggage never made it. I mentioned it to the staff at Japan Airlines which they had nothing to do with this. They were very apologetic. When arriving back in Tokyo, there was a JAL crew member with our names on a board at baggage claim. The crew member told us they were tracking our luggage and that they would send it to our home address as soon as possible. This made me realize, in the United States, you have to go out of your way to get stuff done. In Japan the employees go out of their way to assist customers. It was an amazing experience. Our luggage was delivered the very next day. Flight from San Diego, California to Tokyo, Japan On a trip from San Diego to Japan, the Japan Airlines flight was delayed in San Diego due to late arrival. I was worried because I landed in Narita but had to make a shuttle to Haneda to catch my flight to Okinawa. Originally, I had a 3-hour layover in Haneda and the shuttle is about an hour. Keep in mind, upon entering Japan, I had to go through customs, pick up my luggage, buy a bus ticket, and navigate through the airport. We were delayed in San Diego over an hour, so I quickly lost hope. I explained the situation to the flight attendants on board my JAL flight and they contacted their ground crew to meet me at the gate. Once we landed, I had less then two hours to make my flight to Haneda. There was a crew member at the gate with my name. They gave me express passes to cut through
Eating Balut in the Philippines: A Must-Try Street Food Experience
Eating balut in the Philippines is a unique food experience and I think a must-try when visiting the Philippines. Balut, a fertilized duck egg is a popular street food in the Philippines that is commonly sold at markets and stalls. With a touch of salt or vinegar, balut is a must-try snack for those that are seeking local Filipino street food. I’ve tried balut several times now, while it seems intimidating at first, I want to share my experiences and information on eating Balut in the Philippines. **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 Balut? We’ve all heard of balut, mainly from negative responses and reactions. But what actually is balut? Balut is a fertilized duck egg that has been incubated meaning it is developing an embryo under favorable conditions. So, what is the difference between your regular egg you get from a produce market or grocery store and balut? A regular egg you buy at the store is not fertilized, it’s only egg white and yolk while balut is fertilized and begins to develop. Balut is considered a delicacy in the Philippines. It’s a popular street food snack and can also be found in restaurants prepared in many different dishes. From what I learned, the eating experience can depend on the amount of days the embryo has developed. The common stages I’ve come across are 14, 16, and 18 days. 14-day Balut: the embryo is mostly underdeveloped. The yolk is thicker and the embryo is soft and not clearly formed. If you are trying balut for the first time, try the 14 day old one. 16-day Balut: The embryo develops more, you can start seeing features like tiny feathers, a beak, maybe even bones. It’s still easy to eat. This might be the most popular version. 18-day Balut: This is considered a more mature version. The embryo is almost fully developed. The bones are firmer and the feathers are visible, yet still easy to eat. At this stage, the taste is much stronger. How to Eat Balut My experience eating balut has only been via street vendors at markets in Cebu and Manila. Every case was pretty much the same, you crack the top, sip the broth, peel the shell, season it to your liking, and eat it. I’ll break it down a bit more for you. Crack the Top of the Egg: First things first, crack the egg if it hasn’t been cracked for you by the vendor. Open the top portion so you can see a little of the inside. Sip Down the Broth: Once the egg is cracked, you’ll see the broth or juices inside. Slurp it up, it can get messy! Taste wise it’s pretty good, it’s like warm chicken broth. Peel the Rest of the Shell: This part can get messy. Peel the shell halfway or entirely. Usually I do it halfway at first and eat as I peel. I’ve had instances of the embryo slipping out on to the ground when peeling to quickly. Season to your liking: Almost all vendors selling balut will have salt, vinegar, and maybe chili. Use the seasonings to your liking. I usually eat mine as is or with a touch of salt. Eat the Inside (Yolk and Embryo): Just think of the balut like a normal hard boiled egg. Everything inside is edible, so eat the embryo, yolk, and whites. Sometimes the white part is a little tough. Let me know what you think: If you have tried or eaten balut, please, let me know what you think of it. Was it good? Terrifying? Ok? Let me know! My Experiences Eating Balut in the Philippines The first time I tried balut in the Philippines was at the Carbon Market in Cebu City. I had the 14-day old one. Since then, I’ve also had balut in Tagaytay and Manila’s Chinatown. I’ve had the 14-day, 16-day, and 18-day balut. Honestly, I prefer the 14-day balut. I love hard boiled eggs and the 14-day old balut tasted just like a boiled egg, it was not as intimidating as the other stages. My first experience eating balut, I was both excited and intimidated to try it. But as a traveler, I always tell myself, I’ll try everything at least once. Worst case scenario, I won’t like it, I can say I tried it, and won’t have to eat balut ever again. As I cracked the egg, I looked inside and it did not look appetizing. I was on a Cebu City food tour and the guide just told me to sip the juices so I did and was surprised it tasted just like warm chicken broth. I then peeled the shell, picked the balut apart, mainly for photos and to see the anatomy of the duck embryo and ate small sections. Honestly, it was good, tasted just like a boiled egg, with a little more “texture.” My least favorite part was the thick white part, it was just tough and didn’t have to much flavor. Fast forward a year later. I visited Manila and had the opportunity to try balut not once but twice. On this trip, I tried the 16-day and 18-day old balut. The more developed duck fetus seemed like it was a little more to stomach. The first one I had while on a day trip from Manila the duck embryo slipped out of the shell and landed on the floor. The 18-day old balut I tried from a vendor in Manila’s Chinatown. I felt very confident, peeled the egg and put the majority of the balut in my mouth to kind of taste all the textures all at once. Would not recommend this your first time. Today, I wouldn’t say I absolutely love balut. But I can eat it no problems. If I find myself in the Philippines again, I’ll definitely eat it again if the opportunity arises. Conclusion Eating balut in the Philippines is more of an experience then anything else. When I first tried balut I was hesitant mainly because of the looks of it after first cracking the shell. But I was curious on how it tasted and honestly I was surprised by the taste. It tasted like a hard boiled egg with I like to say, “a little more texture.” After trying it a few different times now, I can confidently tell you that balut looks much worse then it tastes. So try it out next time you are paying a visit to the Philippines. And let me know what your experience is! 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.