Day Trip at Todaiji and Wakakusayama Hill and what to eat at Nara

• STAY: Nara: Piazza Hotel Nara

I stayed at Piazza Hotel Nara, conveniently located right next to Nara Station. The location couldn't be better for easy access to transportation and exploring the area.

The rooms are modern and well-designed. One of the standout features for me was the swivel mirror with magnifying capabilities, which was incredibly useful. Additionally, the rain shower was a delightful experience, with the option to toggle the water pressure to your liking.

I stayed in a twin room, which was a little squeezy but still provided a comfortable stay. Despite the compact size, the thoughtful amenities and overall comfort made it a pleasant experience.

Overall, Piazza Hotel Nara offers a great combination of convenience, modern amenities, and thoughtful details that enhance the stay. I highly recommend it for anyone visiting Nara.

• DO: Hike up Wakakusayama Hill, 

Climbing up Wakakusayama Hill was an unforgettable experience, though it was quite the challenge! The steep ascent left my legs shaking for the rest of the day. The weather was really sunny, and I regretted not bringing an umbrella or cap, as I ended up sweating buckets.

One of the highlights of the climb was seeing the deers that roam the area, adding a unique touch to the hike. However, I later discovered that there's a bus that goes to the top of the hill, making the journey effortless. If you're planning a visit, I highly recommend taking the bus to save your energy and enjoy the view without the strenuous climb.

Overall, Wakakusayama Hill offers beautiful scenery and a chance to see deers up close, but be prepared for a tough climb if you decide to go on foot. Don't forget to bring sun protection!

• DO: Shrine visit at Todaiji

Todaiji Temple is truly magnificent, and I was in awe of its grandeur. The age of the temple is evident, and the massive pillars make you feel like you've been transported back in time.

Todaiji, also known as the "Great Eastern Temple," is one of Japan's most famous and historically significant temples. Founded in 738 CE and officially opened in 752 CE, it was originally constructed as the head temple of all provincial Buddhist temples in Japan. The temple complex is home to the Great Buddha Hall (Daibutsuden), which houses the world's largest bronze statue of Buddha Vairocana, known in Japanese as Daibutsu. This statue alone is an awe-inspiring sight, standing at 15 meters tall and weighing around 500 tons.

Todaiji is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized as one of the "Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara". The temple's historical and cultural significance, along with its architectural marvels, make it a must-visit destination.

When visiting Todaiji, be sure to:

• Admire the Great Buddha Statue: The sheer size and craftsmanship of the statue are breathtaking.

• Explore the Daibutsuden Hall: This hall is one of the world's largest wooden structures and houses several smaller Buddhist statues and models of the former and current buildings.

• Walk through the Nandaimon Gate: This large wooden gate is guarded by two fierce-looking statues of the Nio Guardian Kings, which are designated national treasures.

• Visit the Nigatsudo Hall: Located on a hill east of the Daibutsuden Hall, it offers fantastic views of the city and is the site of the spectacular Omizutori ceremonies held every March. Spending the end of the day watching the sunset here is a serene and beautiful experience.
  
  
  
  
  
  

Overall, Todaiji Temple offers a rich historical experience with its magnificent architecture, cultural treasures, and serene surroundings. It's a place that leaves a lasting impression and is highly recommended for anyone visiting Nara.

• EAT: Dinner at Washoku Japanese Tonkatsu

Ddining at Washoku Japanese Tonkatsu,was a delightful experience. The restaurant offers a variety of options, and my husband and I decided to try different dishes. I opted for the chicken karaage, while my husband chose the Japanese pork tonkatsu.

The chicken karaage was crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, perfectly seasoned and absolutely delicious. My husband thoroughly enjoyed his pork tonkatsu, which was juicy and flavorful, with a crispy coating that added a wonderful texture. Both dishes were served quickly, making it a great option for a fast and satisfying meal.

What stood out to us was the affordability of the meal. Despite the high quality of the food, the prices were very reasonable, making it an excellent choice for a budget-friendly dinner. 

The service was also commendable, with friendly staff who ensured we had everything we needed. Overall, Washoku Japanese Tonkatsu offers a fantastic dining experience with delicious food, quick service, and great value for money. We highly recommend it to anyone looking for a satisfying and affordable Japanese meal.

• EAT: Lunch at Kotoya

During my visit to Kotoya, I tried their chagayu, which is a unique green tea porridge. 

This dish is quite special to Nara, known for its historical and cultural significance. Chagayu, or tea rice porridge, dates back over 1,200 years and was originally prepared by monks at Todaiji Temple.

The porridge is made by simmering rice in green tea, which gives it a subtle, earthy flavour and a soft creamy texture.

While the concept of green tea porridge is intriguing, I personally found it less enjoyable as it felt like drinking tea and porridge combined. I generally prefer my porridge to be savory. 

Unfortunately, my appetite was quite poor after a strenuous hike up Wakakusayama Hill, and I was dealing with a severe headache, so I didn't eat much.

• EAT: Dinner at Maguro Koya

My visit to Maguro Koya was a mixed experience. Unfortunately for us, the fatty tuna was sold out, so we opted for the medium fatty tuna instead. While the double medium fatty tuna bowl was good, it wasn't exceptional. The price for this dish was 2,200 yen.

We also tried the sea urchin, green onion, and tuna mix bowl, priced at 6,100 yen. While the serving size was generous, the sea urchin had a fishy taste that I didn't particularly enjoy.

One positive aspect of our visit was the staff. They are noted for their friendliness and excellent English-speaking skills, which enhances the dining experience and makes it more enjoyable for non-Japanese speakers.

Maguro Koya offers a variety of seafood options, but my experience was somewhat disappointing due to the limited availability of fatty tuna and the taste of the sea urchin. If you're a fan of medium fatty tuna, you might find the dishes satisfactory, but I would recommend checking the availability of your preferred items before visiting.

• EAT: takeaway at Kakinohasushi Hompo Tanaka
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The thought of sushi wrapped in persimmon leaf didn't initially appeal to me, but curiosity got the better of me, so we decided to try it. We bought a three-piece set of seasonal fish sushi, and when we had it for breakfast, I was quite amazed by it

The sushi was light and delicious, with the fish slice being really sweet. It's important to note that the persimmon leaf is not meant to be eaten; it's only used for wrapping the sushi. I was pleasantly surprised by the taste, especially since I didn't expect it to be so tasty given that it was made to be taken away in advance.

Overall, persimmon leaf sushi turned out to be a delightful and unique experience, and I would recommend giving it a try if you're looking for something different and delicious.

• EAT: Snack at Nakatanidow (mochi)

Nakatanidow is well-loved for its traditional mochi, and one of the unique attractions is the mochi pounding show. Visitors enjoy watching the craftsmen make mochi using traditional techniques, which adds to the charm of the experience. Unfortunately, I missed the show during my visit, but it's definitely something to look forward.

I tried the mochi from Nakatanidow, and it was a delightful experience. 

They use mugwort to make the mochi, which gives the dough a very light taste of mugwort. Despite the subtle flavor, I found the texture to be fluffy and chewy, and the harmony with the light bean paste was delicious.

Overall, Nakatanidow is definitely worth a try if you're looking for a unique and tasty treat.

Himeiji castle tour - A fortress that has never been through a war

Our journey began with a long ride from Osaka, armed with the Kansai 1 Day Pass recommended by the tourist center. This pass was perfect for our plans, as we were heading to Nara later in the evening.

Himeji Castle, also known as the "White Heron Castle" due to its brilliant white exterior, is a stunning example of Japanese castle architecture. Built between 1581 and 1609, the castle complex includes a maze-like arrangement of fortified buildings, walls, and gates, with a six-storey tower keep at its center. The castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is renowned for its beauty and historical significance.

Interestingly, Himeji Castle has never been under siege or destroyed by war, earthquakes, or fire, making it one of Japan's twelve remaining original castles. This remarkable preservation is a testament to its strategic design and the peaceful periods it has witnessed.

The name "Himeji" derives from "Himeji-oka" (Himeji Hill) in the historical records of the Harima region. The term "Hime" means "princess" or "noblewoman," and "ji" refers to "road" or "path," symbolizing the castle's noble and strategic significance.

Upon arrival at Himeji Castle, we opted for the English tour at 1 PM, which was an additional charge on top of the ticket price. The tour was well worth it, providing deeper insights and fascinating information about the castle's history and architecture.

The castle boasts 4 levels and 5 floors, with steep stairs leading up to each level. Thankfully, handrails were available to assist with the climb. 

Despite the castle being relatively empty, its beauty and grandeur were truly captivating. The base of the castle is constructed from sturdy stone, while the floors are elegantly decked out in wood, showcasing traditional Japanese craftsmanship.

On the top floor of the main keep, you'll find a small shrine dedicated to Osakabe Myojin, a deity believed to protect the castle and its inhabitants

This floor offers panaramic views of the surrounding city and landscape, providing a breathtaking perspective of Himeji.

Kyushu Round Island in 14 days Itinerary

 Planned itinerary for Fukuoka in 12 Nov 2023 to 26 Nov 2023.

The pace for the trip is deliberately more relaxed compared to my other trips in view of my niece joining as well as my mother.  

Most areas covered is Fukuoka but we did ventured out to Hiroshima for Day 1 and 2.

Here's a day by day for reference. Click on link for more details on the place of interest or the food. 

Day 1: 

• DO: Flight from Singapore to Fukuoka. Arrival at 8 am, Atomic atomic bomb dome
• EAT: Lunch at Ippudo, Dinner at Anagomeshi Ueno
• STAY: Miyajimaguchi: Miyajima Coral Hotel 

Day 2: 

• DO: Boat ride to itksukushima
• EAT: Breakfast at Miyajima Coral hotel, Late lunch at Yakigaki No Hayashi
  , Snack at Momijido Nibanya.
• STAY: Beppu: 亀の井ホテル 別府 Beppu Kamenoi Hotel 

Day 3: 

• DO: Umi-Jigoku (海地獄 Sea Hell)
• EAT: Breakfast at Little Mermaid , Dinner at Beppu Kamenoi Hotel Japanese food
• STAY: Beppu: 亀の井ホテル 別府 Beppu Kamenoi Hotel 

Day 4: 

• DO: Drive to Yukemuri observatory 湯けむり展望台 and to Yufuin Floral Village, Kinrin lake, Owl forest
• EAT: Breakfast at Little Mermaid, Lunch at Food street along to Yufuin,   BBQ Dinner at Grand Verde hotel  
• STAY: Yufuin: Glamping at Grand Verde hotel

Day 5: 

• DO: Visit to Usuki Stone Buddhas
• EAT: Breakfast at Grand Verde Hotel, Lunch atあまべの郷 関あじ関さば館 Sekiajisekisabakan,  Dinner at Macdonald's 
• STAY: Miyakonojo: Vessel Hotel Miyakonojo.

Day 6: 

• DO: Instagram at Tonari no Totoro Bus Stop 高原町のトトロ, Sogi Falls
• EAT: Breakfast at Vessel Hotel Miyakonojo, Lunch at 花むしろ,                       Dinner at みやざき晴マチ
• STAY: Miyazaki: Hotel Areaone Miyazaki ホテルエリアワン宮崎

  
  

Day 7: 

• DO: Visit Aoshima, Drive on Nichinan Coast Road Park Trail to Sun Messe Nichinan, Udo Jingu and Cape Toi.
• EAT: Breakfast at Hotel, Lunch at Taikai, Dinner at 中央焼き肉店
• STAY: Miyazaki: Hotel Areaone Miyazaki ホテルエリアワン宮崎

  
  

Day 8: 

• DO: Drive to Takachio Gorge, Take the Amaterasu Railway
• EAT: Breakfast in-room with Mister Donut, Lunch at Nagashi Somen Chiho-no-ie, Dinner at Aso Ryokan 肥後街道 南阿蘇温泉 癒しの里
• STAY: Aso: Iyasinosato 肥後街道 南阿蘇温泉 癒しの里

Day 9: 

• DO: Aso Nakadake Crater 1 and Kusasenrigahama 
• EAT: Breakfast at Aso Ryokan 肥後街道 南阿蘇温泉 癒しの里, Lunch at New Kusasenri, Coffee at Kusasenri Coffee Roastery, Dinner at Hananomai 
• STAY: Yanagawa: ホテルルートイン柳川駅前 Hotel Route Inn Yanagawa Ekimae

Day 10: 

• DO: Ride the yanagawa canel and night illumination at Hui Ten Bosch
• EAT: Breakfast at Hotel Route Inn Yanagawa Ekimae, Lunch at Saraya Fukuryu (as Wakamatsuya is closed) , Dinner at Sasebo Burger Big Man Kamikyomachi Main Store
• STAY: Nagasaki: Hotel okura ホテルオークラＪＲハウステンボス

Day 11: 

• DO: Hui Ten Bosch
• EAT: Breakfast at in room with mini cup noodle, Lunch at Hui Ten Bosch, Dinner at Yumotoso Toyokan Ryokan 湯元荘　東洋館 
• STAY: Takeo: Yumotoso Toyokan Ryokan 湯元荘　東洋館 

Day 12: 

• DO: Tosu Premium outlet
• SHOP: Tosu Premium outlet. Lots of shopping here for me and i went cray cray. Blue label, Polo Ralph, Dr Ci:Labo and Levis
• EAT: Breakfast at at Yumotoso Toyokan Ryokan 湯元荘　東洋館 , Lunch at Tosu outlet food court, Dinner at 天一
  
• STAY: Hakata: リッチモンドホテル天神西通 Richmond Hotel Tenjin Nishidori

Day 13: 

• DO: Visit Fukuoka tower for the city view
• SHOP: Hunt out the shops i shortlisted Cocodeal and Snidel. I bought a fish tail skirt and a top. Japanese clothes are so expensive.
• EAT: Breakfast at Richmond Hotel Tenjin Nishidori, Tea at Refuge Sky Dining and Cafe, Lunch at ichiran ramen, Dinner at Tenjin underground tunnel
  
• STAY: Hakata: リッチモンドホテル天神西通 Richmond Hotel Tenjin Nishidori

Day 14: 

• DO: Chillax day shopping for omiyagae
• EAT: Breakfast at Doutor, Lunch at Chikae Fukuoka , Dinner at Yatai stall  
• STAY: Hakata: リッチモンドホテル天神西通 Richmond Hotel Tenjin Nishidori

Hakata city view at Fukuoka tower and chillax at sky observatory

2 Chome-3-26 Momochihama, Sawara Ward, Fukuoka, 814-0001, Japan

Standing at 234 meters, Fukuoka Tower is the tallest seaside tower in Japan. Its distinctive triangular design and 8,000 half-mirrors give it the nickname "Mirror Sail".

Observation Decks

Fukuoka Tower features three observation decks at different heights: 116 meters, 120 meters, and the highest at 123 meters.

These decks provide panoramic views of Fukuoka city, Hakata Bay, and the surrounding areas. On clear days, the views are breathtaking.

 We spend over an hour at the cafe at 120 metres relaxing and enjoying the view. 

Food to try at Hakata: 天一, Doutor, Chikae Fukuoka; Yatai Mamichan 屋台まみちゃん

Dinner at 天一 

Arrived late to Nishidori and returned our car rental. We went to the restaurant with the entire family in tow. Food is served very fast. Great as we are hungry and thirsty.

The ladies and kids meal is the most value for money. Food is above average.

Dinner at Tenjin underground tunnel 

We have shopped too much today and it is 8 pm. Most of the restaurants are winding up and this is still open.

I'm most impressed by their service. I accidently pour miso soup on my white top and pants. They promptly give a new clean white tea towel to wipe myself. I'm so grateful to the waiter for his thoughtfulness.

Tonkatsu is well fried and have different size meals to cater for all. 

Breakfast at Doutor

The fare served here is simple. Coffee and toasts. 

But the pairing of scrambled eggs made to perfection with ham on toasted bread in a cold winter day is heavenly. 

Must try Live squid at Chikae Fukuoka

2 Chome-2-17 Daimyo, Chuo Ward, Fukuoka, 810-0041, Japan

My original plan was to try the renowned stall Kawataro Nakasu but they seemed to be disinterested in catering to tourists. Was told appointments is full for the next 2 days i.e friday and saturday. 

Well we reached Chikae Fukuoka late at 2 plus and i thought we probably wont get a chance to eat my live squid but we are promptly ushered in and given the menu. 

Of course, the must order menu is the live squid. Unfortunately, there is only large squids available so large squid it is. But really, its too huge for 3 persons. At least we get to eat the squid 4 ways. Live sashimi, grilled, tempura and karaage style. 

We also ordered a beef bun each and also a teishoku set meal. It is a satisfying meal.

Must try Yatai stalls: Yatai Mamichan 屋台まみちゃん

Japan, 〒810-0001 Fukuoka, Chuo Ward, Tenjin, 2 Chome−13−1 福岡銀行本店営業部 昭和通り側

In my opinion not really suited for young kids and elderly as sitting is quite tight and not exactly comfortable. 

Nonetheless, I'm truly amazed by the store owner who cooks, concoct the drinks, and settle bills. All done at lightning speed.

Food is pretty delicious and seeing the food being cooked up close give me new ideas for my own dinner recipes. e.g mentaiko in omelette or bonito flakes in omelette. 

We tried the omelette, onden, fried rice, gyoza (freshly made on spot) and chicken wings. i love the omelette and gyoza the most. 

Ichiran ramen at Hakata.

Hakata ramen originated in the Hakata district of Fukuoka, Japan, and is renowned for its rich, creamy tonkotsu (pork bone) broth. This broth is made by boiling pork bones for hours, resulting in a thick, milky consistency packed with umami flavor. The noodles are thin and straight, typically served firm

We initially planned to eat raw squid sashimi, but since we couldn’t get a seat, we decided to try Ichiran Ramen instead. 

Upon arrival, we were shocked by the long queue and had to wait for another 45 minutes before it was our turn.

The restaurant features individual dining booths, allowing for a private dining experience. The ordering process is streamlined with a vending machine at the entrance where you can customize your ramen to your liking, from the richness of the broth to the firmness of the noodles. 

We tailored our ramen to our taste preferences, choosing the level of spiciness, garlic, and even the type of onions, and added a ramen egg. The food was promptly served, and every drop of the ramen sauce was incredibly delicious.

I enjoyed the ramen so much that I finished the soup to the very last drop.

Despite the wait, the experience at Ichiran Ramen was worth it. The unique dining booths and the flavorful, customizable ramen made it a memorable meal. If you’re in Hakata and have some time to spare, Ichiran Ramen is definitely worth the visit.