Travel

We visited Fukuoka and other fascinating Kyushu prefectures in the last edition of The Japan Agenda: The Premium Travel Blueprint. The route highlighted Kyushu’s culinary kingdoms and their distinctive, exquisite flavours at every stop, from Fukuoka to Nagasaki to Saga. Instead of listing daily activities for you and your family, we’re introducing two lesser-known regions of Japan in this edition, both of which are accessible by train from Osaka.

With hidden treasures for those who are prepared to venture outside the boundaries, Japan’s splendour extends well beyond the bustling streets of Osaka. Make the most of your trip to Japan by visiting Wakayama and East Nara Nabari if you’re going to be at the World Expo Osaka in 2025! These neighbouring areas, which provide tranquil temples and picturesque scenery, offer a welcome diversion and open up new facets as you take in Japan’s uniqueness.

WAKAYAMA

Located in the south of Osaka, Wakayama’s beauty stretches corner to corner through their peaceful coastlines and towering mountains. The region serves as a gateway to the world of age-old traditions, where majestic shrines, temples, and sacred sites illustrate the ideology of Buddhism and Shintoism. You can get to Wakayama through the JR Kuroshio Limited Express from Shin-Osaka Station.

Koyasan/Mount Koya

Photo from Japan National Tourism Organization

Explore the spiritual heart of Wakayama and take a trip to the towering Mount Koya. With over 100 temples across the sacred grounds, fans of history will be treated to 1,200 years of Buddhism in Japan. The site offers accommodation, where you can enjoy Monk-style bed and breakfast in their traditional shukubo temple lodging.

Kongobuji Temple, established in 1593, is the head temple of the Koyasan Shingon sect, known for its stunning architecture and serene rock gardens. Inside, visitors can partake in a traditional tea ceremony in the beautiful tea room. Guided tours provide deeper insights into the temple’s spiritual significance and the rich traditions of Koyasan, offering a peaceful setting for reflection on centuries of Buddhist heritage.For a tinge of mysticism in your travels, venture through Okuno-in. The cemetery, with over 200,000 tombstones set among towering cedar trees, creates an ethereal atmosphere. Strolling through its ancient pathways, you’ll encounter iconic torii gates and lanterns–an unforgettable, profound experience. A guided night tour unveils the legends surrounding Okuno-in, offering a deeper connection to Japan’s Buddhist legacy.

Ultra Stationmaster Tama

DESIGNED BY EIJI MITOOKA + DON DESIGN ASSOCIATES

Pay a visit to the esteemed, celebrated, and undoubtedly adorable Stationmaster, Tama the calico cat! Tama was officially appointed executive officer of Wakayama Electric Station in 2009, rising through the ranks over the years. Visitors may pay respects to the original Tama with the station’s shrine, where she continues to watch over the passengers and trains.

Kannonyama Fruit Parlor

While in Wakayama, indulge in their staple fruit parfait at the Kannonyama Fruit Parlor. Using only fresh seasonal fruits, take this opportunity to enjoy local tastes, with orange parfait and plum wine being served in the winter to compliment the cold with mouth-watering, tangy sweetness.

Nachi Waterfall

Photo from Japan National Tourism Organization
 

Gaze at Japan’s true majesty at Nachi Waterfall, the tallest single-drop waterfall in the country. The brilliant falls release one ton of water per second, forming a harsh yet elegantly diffused mist. For the best view, ascend the steps and torii gates to visit the Hiro Jinja Shrine. Getting both the falls and the shrine in one long-exposure shot is worth the entire trip.

Katsuura Onsen

Photo from Japan National Tourism Organization

Unwind at the intersection between Japan’s natural beauty and some relaxing hot spring downtime at the Katsuura Onsen. Housed inside a natural, eroded cave by the ocean, the open-air Katsuura Onsen offers an incomparable experience, with a full view of the Pacific Ocean, especially unforgettable should you time your visit with the sunset.

EAST NARA NABARI

Get drawn into the allure of East Nara Nabari, where nature and tradition blend harmoniously. This region, just east of Osaka, features lush landscapes and serene valleys, inviting you to experience Japan’s rich cultural heritage. With traditional wooden architecture and peaceful gardens, East Nara  Nabari provides a perfect escape for those seeking adventure and tranquility in a historically rich setting. You can get to East Nara Nabari via private car, a 1 to 2 hour drive, or Kintetsu Limited Express from Osaka if you have a Limited Express ticket.

Akame 48 Waterfalls

Photo from Japan National Tourism Organization

As a historical former training ground for ninjas, the Akame 48 Waterfalls are equal parts mysterious and fascinating. Hike through the lush green trails to see the falls, or take the trip in the autumn to add more golds and reds to the palette. When you reach the falls, take the time to not only snap some photos, but to appreciate the natural wonder with your own eyes, and internalize nature’s superior craftsmanship.

While there, put yourself in the shoes of the ninjas of old and sign-up for Ninja Training. The different courses and activities for all ages makes for a fun afternoon for the whole family, creating memories to take home long after leaving.

Mount Takami

Photo courtesy of East Nara Nabari Tourism
 

Known as the “Matterhorn of Kansai,” Mount Takami stands at the edge of East Nara Nabari at a height of 1,249 meters. Its strikingly sharp pyramid shape makes it a coveted camping and hiking spot year-round, especially popular when snowing. Atop the summit sits the Takasumi Shrine, which, when embraced by the winter, paints a powdered portrait that perfectly captures Japan’s one-of-a-kind mystique.

Forest Park Konoyama

Forest Park Konoyama offers a delightful outdoor experience throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy activities like hiking and exploring natural landscapes, including unique rock formations at Nabekura Valley. The park harbors the charming Mee-Mee Farm, where friendly sheep greet passersby with their warmth. The summit of Mount Kono reveals the area’s vibrant views, especially beautiful with azaleas in bloom during spring. Guests can delight in the local cuisine with a view at the Eizanko café.

Maruyama Park

Photo courtesy of East Nara Nabari Tourism

Maruyama Park in Mitsue Village is famous for its wild mountain cherry trees, especially vibrant in mid to late April. In autumn, the park showcases stunning foliage, while the rainy season reveals the mesmerizing sight of enchanting fireflies. The Himeishi Myojin Shrine, dedicated to blessings of childbirth and marriage, adds to the magical aura of the park With its tranquil atmosphere, Maruyama Park is an ideal spot to marvel at the beauty of the changing seasons.

For those who are prepared to look for it, wonder may be found everywhere in Japan. Every area invites exploration and discovery with its own tapestry of culture, history, and scenic beauty. Every sight, from the historic temples to the breathtaking scenery, evokes awe and forges a lifelong bond with the natural world. Wakayama and East Nara Nabari are hidden gems of life-changing experiences just waiting to be discovered for those who are prepared to venture outside of Osaka and take the less-traveled routes.

2GO sea travelers can now enjoy seamless transportation from home to pier, thanks its partnership with Grab.

Grab, the top super app in Southeast Asia, has teamed up with 2GO, the Philippines’ largest integrated transportation and logistics solutions provider, to provide a smooth and practical transportation option from door to shore and shore to door in an effort to improve the travel experience for Filipino passengers. This strategic alliance combines the expertise of two industry heavyweights to improve the travel experience for contemporary tourists and spans five main ports throughout the nation: Manila, Cebu, Bacolod, Iloilo, and Cagayan de Oro.

A Grab discount code will be included in the booking confirmation email for all 2GO Travel ticket transactions done via the 2GO app as of right now. The entire trip will be more convenient and hassle-free if passengers use this code to reserve Grab rides to or from their houses to the designated port.

“At 2GO, we are dedicated to enriching every aspect of our customers’ travel experience, ensuring their journey is enjoyable and stress-free from start to finish. Our partnership with Grab perfectly aligns with our goal of providing seamless transportation solutions, both to and from the pier,” said Blessie Cruz, 2GO Retail Business Unit Head. “Grab is an ideal partner to help us deliver this promise, enhancing the overall travel convenience we offer to our passengers.”

As a trusted provider of safe, reliable, and convenient ride-hailing services, Grab Philippines is excited to be part of this initiative. “GJ Roño, Director for Commercial and Business Development of           Grab Philippines, shared, “Grab has always been keen on collaborating with companies that share our mission of improving the transport experience of Filipinos. Through our partnership with 2GO, we enable more Filipinos to plan and access a seamless integrated transport experience that is safe and convenient.”

Passengers only need to download the 2GO app, buy their tickets, and obtain a Grab promo code after completing their transaction in order to take advantage of this fantastic offer. A genuinely seamless door-to-pier and pier-to-door travel experience is made possible by the code, which is good for rides to the pier as well as back from the pier to their preferred location.

Through this collaboration, 2GO and Grab are revolutionizing Philippine travel by fusing dependable transportation services with cutting-edge digital technologies to make every trip an unforgettable experience.

For more information, please visit www.sminvestments.com

From left: Representatives from Best Magazine’s Tourism Circle Awards; Illo’s Group; WorldMaster International Travel; Mitzy Travel and Tours; Immico Consultancy; Ambik Travel & Tours; RDL and Red Hotel

The much awaited Mega Travel Expo 2024 successfully unveiled its most recent collaborations and developments during a press conference held recently. Co-presented by Mitzy Travel & Tours and put on in collaboration with ImmiCo Consultancy, the event demonstrated the dedication of prominent figures in the travel sector to providing attendees with an outstanding experience, since their efforts are integral to the Mega Travel Expo’s success.

At the August 28, 2024, press conference, strategic alliances with prestigious institutions were announced. As esteemed event partners, Worldmaster International Travel, Best Magazine’s Tourism Circle Awards, and Ambik Travel and Tours Corporation have all joined forces to improve the caliber and offerings of the expo.

Mega Travel & Tours is such an awesome choice for all the people who love to travel without hassle. Aside from giving convenience to their customers, they also offer cheap vacation rates and deals. That’s why, as a traveler myself, I got excited about their exciting partnerships and deals. They have also built their reputation as a trustworthy partner for our travel needs.

Adding to the excitement, Red Hotel has been named the Official Hotel Partner, ensuring top-notch accommodations for event visitors and attendees, while Illo’s Group will serve as the Official Catering Partner, promising an array of exquisite culinary options throughout the expo.

Mega Travel Expo is also proud to acknowledge the generous support of our event donors, RDL and Hotel Sogo. Additionally, Air Asia is lending its support as a key supporter of the event, reinforcing its commitment to the travel industry.

The Mega Travel Expo 2024 will be held from October 18 to 20, 2024, at Megatrade Hall 1, 5th level of SM Megamall, according to JC Baron, Managing Director and Organizer. Travel aficionados, business experts, and important stakeholders are expected to gather at the event for a vibrant display of the newest developments in travel and tourism.

“We anticipate an incredible event and value the support of all of our partners, sponsors, and attendees,” JC continued. Visit www.megatravelexpo.com or call 099162314449 for more information about the Mega Travel Expo 2024, including registration information and event updates.

We visited Hokkaido in the last edition, covering its attractions, cuisine, and fun activities. We have carefully selected an itinerary featuring the best vacation places peculiar to Japan, including views of beautiful lakes and special tours of historic whisky museums. This edition of the itinerary is no different. We’re taking you south of Hokkaido to the fascinating and enigmatic Tohoku Region in this article for the Japan Agenda: The Premium Travel Blueprint series. This place will enthrall you and may even inspire you to prolong your five-day visit.

In keeping with the topic of lesser-known destinations, the Tohoku Region is a great spot to start thinking about where to go on vacation. This area offers a variety of activities for all kinds of adventurers. This region needs to be on your list of locations to visit in Japan because it offers stunning scenery, temples, and monuments in addition to forests.

Day 1: Sendai (Arrival)

Sendai is the Gateway to the North of Japan. It’s only an hour and a half from Tokyo Station via Shinkansen.

Morning: Arrive at Sendai via Shinkansen from Tokyo Station.

Afternoon: Check in at the relaxing Hoshino Resorts KAI Akiu and rest your body at the hot spring within resort premises, where you can learn about hot springs and its qualities. You may also take this to visit the nearby picturesque sights like the Rairaikyo Gorge and Akiu Otaki Falls.

Evening: Enjoy a special kaiseki dinner in the resort with premium seasonal ingredients, served on a lacquer standing tray, similar to how daimyo’s received their meals.

Day 2: Matsushima Bay

Morning: If you’re looking to experience other premium accommodations, check out of Hoshino Resorts KAI Akiu and check-in at Mitsui Garden Hotel!

Take the train to Matsushima, and experience one of Japan’s many incredible seascapes. Matsushima Bay is one of the most beautiful in the world and it’s best appreciated by boat. Book one of the many tours from the city and see what makes this region special.

Afternoon: For lunch, you must try the salt-water eels. These anago are a popular dish in the summertime and are particular to this region. After sampling the local cuisine, learn a little more about the history of the place. Ruler and warlord, Date Masamune, left behind historical sites such as Zuiganji Temple, Entsuin Temple, and the Kanrantei Tea House. Spend the afternoon exploring these fascinating treasures.

Evening: Head back to Sendai for some bar hopping. Some good options are among the back alleys and izakaya houses of Bunka-yokocho (back alley cafes) and Iroha-yokocho (a historic arcade). After drinking and eating like a local, spend a night recharging at the Mitsui Garden Hotel in Sendai.

Day 3: Hiraizumi, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Iwate Prefecture

Morning: Book a car and drive the hour to Hiraizumi. Explore the Chūson-ji Temple and visit the Konjikidō or Golden Hall. After that, check out Mōtsū-ji Temple, known for its beautiful garden.

Afternoon: After lunch of wanko soba, which is like a small plates tapas experience but with refills of your soba bowl, head over to the Geibikei Gorge and book a boat trip. You don’t want to miss the pristine natural landscapes in this area.

Evening: Spend the evening in the quaint mountain town of Ginzan Onsen. It’s one of the most picturesque onsens in Japan so you won’t want to miss it.

Day 4: Yamagata

Morning: Drive to Yamagata. Give yourself some time to take in the trip. Have a leisurely lunch of Yamagata beef at a place like Yamagata Sugi Beef.

Afternoon: Hike to the incredible Yamadera Temple and experience scenic views from a structure perched on the side of the mountain.

Evening: Check-in at another luxury hotel like the Hotel Metropolitan Yamagata with its spotless rooms and nice view of the surrounding area. If you manage to get up after all those steps from Yamadera Temple, walk around Yamagata’s many vibrant neighborhoods!

Day 5: Sendai (departure)

Morning: Head back to Sendai and get your bearings after such a whirlwind trip!

Afternoon: Go on a tour of the city to say goodbye! There are some wonderful temples and castles in Sendai as well. Be sure to try Zunda-mochi, a unique Sendai delicacy of a sweet soybean rice cake.

If you are more into shopping, there are some great options for retail therapy. There are the Sendai Izumi Premium Outlets. The shopping center is a half hour away from your hotel by car.  Another option is Mitsui Outlet Park Sendai Port which is thirty minutes by car from Sendai Station. It’s the largest outlet mall in Tohoku. If you are looking for something closer to home, there is also Sendai PARCO which is just in front of Sendai Station.

Evening: Head back to Tokyo Station on the Shinkansen.

This itinerary represents a small portion of what the Tohoku region has to offer. Although a five-day journey is a lot, you’ll find that Tohoku’s stunning natural surroundings and engrossing history will entice you to return time and time again.

Next time, extend your stay to discover the hidden locations that are only known to the locals. In case you forget that this region is also a winter wonderland, there are winter activities to engage in, trekking on Mt. Zao, and day trips to Fukushima! Summertime is a busy time of year, so it’s easy to forget. See the places and keep an eye out for the schedule for next month to assist you in organizing your subsequent trip to Japan.

The leading provider of sea travel solutions in the Philippines, 2GO, announces that tickets purchased through 2GO now include terminal fees from the Manila North Passenger Port. This modification is a result of the dedication of Manila North Harbour Port Inc. (MNHPI) and 2GO Travel to improve outbound passenger convenience and overall experience.

There will be no more separate terminal fees for customers buying tickets for any of 2GO Travel’s routes leaving from the North Port Passenger Terminal as of right now. Sea travel is made more efficient by this integration, which speeds up the boarding procedure and cuts down on time spent at the port.

“We are committed to making sea travel as smooth and enjoyable as possible for our passengers. By including terminal fees in our ticket prices, we’re taking a significant step toward simplifying the boarding process and ensuring a hassle-free and efficient journey for everyone,” said Sharon Ngo, Business Unit Head of 2GO Sea Solutions.

2GO Travel remains dedicated to offering reliable and affordable sea transportation services across the Philippines. This new policy is part of a series of enhancements designed to improve customer satisfaction and set new standards in the maritime travel industry.

In conjunction with the news, 2GO is launching a nationwide  PHP 99 SEA SALE,  that will take place from July 17–20. Travelers can take advantage of this promotion to book sailings from August to November 2024 at a great discount. The goal of this deal is to offer reasonably priced travel options around the Philippines within the time frame given.

Visit travel.2go.com.ph or download the 2GO App from the App Store or Google Play Store to buy tickets for 2GO Travel.

Japan is undoubtedly a nation with limitless possibilities, praised and enjoyed for its dynamic cities, rich culture that endures, and customs that are valued by successive generations. Beyond Tokyo and Kyoto, two highly regarded cities for both people and visitors, is a hidden gem and invaluable experience just waiting to be discovered. Where are they located? This is the Japan Agenda: The Premium Travel Blueprint, a specially crafted and exclusive travel schedule created for those looking for unmatched luxury and the side of Japan that provides unrivaled opportunities for adventure. A customized journey replete with encounters with placid mountain vistas, peaceful historic villages, and communities undisturbed by the hustle and bustle of contemporary life is in store.

This first edition of Japan Agenda: The Premium Travel Blueprint offers a cool, premium, hand-crafted tour around Japan’s northernmost area, Hokkaido, to escape the heat. Explore a region brimming with elegance and beauty in every corner, from breathtaking walks through the natural world to fine dining options.

Day 1: Arrival in Chitose

Morning: Arrive at New Chitose Airport. You can get there by taking a connecting flight to Narita Airport or Haneda Airport from NAIA, then flying from Tokyo to Chitose via Japan Airlines, All Nippon Airways,  Jetstar or other domestic flight options.

Afternoon: Take a breather from your long journey at the New Chitose Airport Onsen before checking into a premium hotel like Portom International Hokkaido. All of these locations are within the New Chitose Airport complex, making for an easy trip around.

Evening: Enjoy a delicately-crafted sushi dinner at Uogashi No, 52 Sushi.

Day 2: Lake Toya

Morning: Take a private car to Lake Toya from Chitose. If you’re looking for accommodation nearby, there are some luxury hotels like The Windsor Hotel Toya.

Afternoon:  Breathe in the beautiful view of Lake Toya and its clear waters. You can even take the ropeway to see the lake from the top of one of Japan’s most active volcanoes.

Evening: Witness the splendor in the sky with the fireworks show held every night from April to October, made more beautiful when viewed from a lakeside hotel or a boat.

Day 3: Sapporo

Morning: Arrive in Sapporo Station and visit the JR Tower Observation Deck T38 to get a birds-eye view of the city’s charm.

Afternoon: Learn about the famous Sapporo Beer at the Sapporo Beer Museum. Around the area, you can also find imaginative art at the Sapporo Art Park and experience Hokkaido-style ramen in places such as Sapporo’s Ramen Alley and Ramen Dojo.

Evening: End the day with a shopping trip in Sapporo Factory, with many restaurants to choose from for a hearty dinner.

Day 4: Furano & Biei

Morning: Via private car, take a day trip to the colorful Furano and Biei. From fields blanketed with a palette of flowers, to vibrant sky-blue ponds, it’s hard not to stop in awe of these painterly landscapes.

Afternoon: Stop by one of many restaurants and cafes at Biei while you enjoy more vivid views.

Evening: Furano wine is renowned all around Japan. Tour Furano for an exquisite wine tasting experience while learning about their craft as you observe their unique process.

Day 5: Chitose & Departure

Morning: Go on a last-minute shopping trip in AEON CHITOSE to get special pasalubong for the people at home. 

Afternoon: Have some soothing afternoon tea and filling breads and pastries at Doremo LeTAO before your flight home.

Evening: Return to New Chitose airport and relax on the travel back home.

Additional Recommendations:

Hakodate: If you’re willing to go the extra mile, or situate yourself elsewhere in Hokkaido, enjoy a one-of-a-kind seafood breakfast at Hakodate.

Unkai Terrace: Witness a sunrise like no other at the Unkai Terrace. Located in Shimukappu, Hokkaido, stay at Hoshino Resorts Tomamu atop the enchanting sea of clouds.

Yoichi: For whisky enthusiasts, visit the Japanese Premium Whisky Distillery for an exclusive look at how the famous Japanese Whisky is made.

Take this itinerary for a trip filled with amazing views, first-rate experiences, and life-changing interactions. Take a closer look at Hokkaido to uncover a destination with a unique charm.

Keep an eye out for the introduction of a brand-new, thrilling itinerary that is specifically designed for you next month. Come on fascinating excursions and artisanal adventures with Japan Agenda: The Premium Travel