I Love Japan - Pure Life Podcast

Episode 31: Insiders Guide to Tokyo, Japan

Posted on January 26, 2020September 18, 2024 by admin

With this episode of Pure Life Podcast, we start a much anticipated series on Japan with a special focus on Tokyo and the area around Tokyo. Tokyo holds a special place in our hearts and has been a frequent destination for us – both for pleasure and business – that covering all must-see and must-do activities can’t be done in just one episode.

For first timers or seasoned travelers to Japan, this episode provides first-hand tips and guidance on what to expect getting in and out of Tokyo as well as some of our favorite foods, shops and destinations. With so much to offer, Tokyo is a must visit destination and there’s never been a better time to start exploring Tokyo. We break it all down for you so you can maximize your stay in Tokyo. Be sure to check out all things Japan in our Destinations page for even more activities in the Land of the Rising Sun. Enjoy!

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Episode 13: Fascinating Fukuoka and Saga, Japan

Posted on April 1, 2019September 17, 2024 by admin

In this episode, we wrap up our road trip through Kyushu with a couple of quick stops in the Fukuoka and Saga prefectures. Fukuoka provided a convenient port of entry and exit from Kyushu, so we stayed overnight and explored some of the Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, dedicated to scholar and politician Michizane Sugawara. We also spent time at the shopping and entertainment arcade Canal City Hakata where we found the truly enjoyable Ramen Stadium, a must experience for even the most discerning ramen lovers.

Next we visited Saga and spent the entire day exploring the Yoshinogari Historical Park. This incredible archaeological site takes you back to the Yayoi Period of Japan’s history to show what life was like as Japan transformed into more of an agricultural society and culture. What a way to cap off the experience! We will surely return for more outstanding adventures! Please check out our Destinations page for even more amazing views of Kyushu.

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Episode 12: Beautiful Kumamoto Prefecture, Japan

Posted on March 26, 2019September 17, 2024 by admin

In this episode, we head back for a quick stop over in the Kumamoto prefecture. Kumamoto is located in the center of Kyushu along the western coast. Among the attractions of Kumamoto are Mount Aso, one of the largest active volcanoes in the world, Kumamoto Castle in the capital city of Kumamoto, and Kurokawa Onsen (or hot spring baths).

Our adventures took us through Kumamoto twice; once to visit Mt. Aso and Kurokawa, and another trip to visit Kumamoto castle. Highly recommend Kurokawa – such an amazing town with charming ryokan inns in a delightfully natural setting. Definitely a must stop to experience traditional Japanese hospitality and rejuvenate your spirit. Next we stopped over in Kumamoto city for a quick visit to the castle. Unfortunately, the castle was damaged by two powerful earthquakes in 2016 so the inner grounds were closed to the public but we were still able walk around the outside of the castle to get an idea of the sheer size of the complex as well as view the restoration in progress. In addition, the shops at the entrance to the castle offer a great spot to get some refreshments or souvenirs. And don’t forget to check out our pics as well. Enjoy!

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Episode 11: Magical Miyazaki Prefecture, Japan

Posted on March 10, 2019September 17, 2024 by admin

In this episode, we continue our adventures in Kyushu with a stop over in the Miyazaki Prefecture (宮崎県). Miyazaki Prefecture is located on the southeastern coast of Kyushu and offers spectacular natural attractions and serene coastal views surely to appease any discerning tastes. One of the most impressive attractions is the Takachiho Gorge. The gorge itself was formed by volcanic lava from Mount Aso and overtime the lava eroded to create dramatic cliffs up to 100 meters tall, offering spectacular views of the gorge. Above the gorge is a beautiful vista point offering views of the valley and surrounding mountains. Takachiho is a must see for anyone visiting Kyushu!

Next, we’re off to the coastal areas of Miyazaki including Umagase (馬ヶ背) cliffs, the Sea Cross (願いが叶うクルスの海) and the Udo Shrine (鵜戸神宮). Throughout it all we were trying to stay ahead of an approaching typhoon which eventually caught up to us and provided even more excitement. All in all, what a wonderful way to explore some of the most amazing sites of Japan! Check out our pics as well on Miyazaki. Enjoy!

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Episode 10: Enchanting Oita Prefecture, Kyushu, Japan

Posted on March 3, 2019September 17, 2024 by admin

This weeks episode continues our adventures in Kyushu with a drive from Nagasaki to the Oita Prefecture. Oita prefecture is in the north-eastern part of Kyushu and is famous for it’s Jigoku (地獄) or hot spring “hells” of Beppu. Getting around in Kyushu is pretty easy and the scenery can’t be beat, but the highlights for us were the visits to cities of Hita, Yufuin and Beppu. We also dive into our experiences in some of the traditional Japanese inns, or “ryokans” (旅館) of Oita. If you are interested in exploring traditional Japanese hospitality, course meals, scenery and hot springs, do yourself a favor and plan a visit to Oita prefecture. And don’t forget a special treat for your feet at the Dr. Kiss Fish spa in Yufuin.

Pics of all this and more can be viewed on the Destinations page. Enjoy!

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Episode 9: Uncovering Nagasaki, Japan

Posted on February 24, 2019September 17, 2024 by admin

In this episode, we being our adventures exploring Kyushu, Japan with an overnight stay in Nagasaki. Nagasaki enjoys a rich history as being one of the initial inroads for European explorers, culture and goods into Japan. In fact, prior to the Portuguese establishing a port there in the 16th century, Nagasaki was a small fishing village pretty much secluded from the rest of Japan. From there, Nagasaki grew in importance as one of the few open ports of trade between Japan and the rest of the world during Japan’s period of isolation.

Nagasaki offers a variety of amenities and attractions to suit any discerning traveler, from the mysterious Gunkanjima to the serene Glover Gardens and numerous parks and shrines. A beautiful port city surrounded by lush rolling mountains, Nagasaki boasts one of the most spectacular cityscapes, especially in the evening atop Mt. Inasayama which is considered one of the top vantage points in all of Japan. Of course, a visit to Nagasaki would not be complete without a stop at the Nagasaki Peace Park and Museum – a somber memorial to the tragic past of the city but also a strong message of hope for a better future.

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Episode 8: Magical Kyushu, Japan

Posted on February 17, 2019September 17, 2024 by admin

In this episode, we start our exploration of one of our favorite countries, Japan. Japan is comprised of over 6,000 islands, but the four main islands where the bulk of the population of Japan live are Honshu, Hokkaido, Shikoku and Kyushu. Most travelers to Japan typically begin their adventures in Tokyo, Osaka or other large cities on the Honshu. We were fortunate to take a trek away from the typical and dive into Kyushu, the third largest and southern-most of the main Japanese islands.

Kyushu offers an amazing mix of old-world and modern Japanese culture nestled among dramatic seascapes, serene mountains, active volcanoes, and world-class “onsens” or hot springs to reinvigorate the soul. With this episode, we cover the basics on where to go, what to see, what to eat and even how to get around via rental car. Be sure to check out our Destinations page for pictures of some of the most interesting places we visited. If your travel plans include Japan, please consider a visit to Kyushu, enjoy!

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