culture - KSK Culture

Taipei Summers: 5 Ways to Escape the Scorching Heat

If you’ve ever taken a trip to Taiwan in the summer, it is no secret that the temperatures can be brutal. The humid sub-tropical climate can be unbearable, and if you are there for a good time, some days may feel like a struggle as you balance fitting in a busy itinerary and keeping your […]

Toilet Humor and Tasty Treats at Modern Toilet

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Japanese Internment: America’s Dark History

In Honor of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, I thought I would cover a topic a little closer to home.

Shingo, Aomori: The Sacred Land You Never Knew Existed

Shingo is a small village in Aomori Prefecture, Japan, which would not be on the map for most tourists had it not been for the bold claims boasted by residents.

Taiwan Needs to be On Your Bucket List

I grew up on Japanese pop culture and as I got older I developed a love for the culture and history surrounding the country. I have studied both Chinese and Japanese languages in school, but until I met my husband, Taiwan was not a place I thought about much. It was always a place I […]

Penghu: Shining Pearl of the Taiwan Strait

My husband’s grandfather was a Marine in the Taiwanese military, which means my mother-in-law spent her childhood in Penghu (澎湖縣). This archipelago falls within the Taiwanese territory and serves as a unique island getaway for locals and tourists alike. Summers offer a relaxing summer getaway, but in winter months it has some of the highest […]

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11 Day Back roads of Japan Tour with Project Expedition

***Note: meals are largely excluded on this tour and are the responsibility of tour members***

Days 1-2: Tokyo

There is no itinerary upon arrival until the welcome meeting which will take place in the evening. The first day will consist of learning more about your tour and meeting your guides. Day two is a walking tour of the fashion district of Harajuku. This eclectic district is popular for its eccentric fashion and youth culture. In the afternoon you will get a chance to visit Sensoji Temple, Meiji Shrine, and the surrounding attractions.

Day 3: Nagano

You will take Japan’s famed bullet train to Nagano before checking into your accommodations. The highlight of this trip is the Jigokudani Monkey Park, where you will get to observe Japan’s bathing snow monkeys enjoying a bath in the natural hot springs.

Day 4: Matsumoto/Nagano

Enjoy a day trip to visit one of Japan’s most beloved castles: Matsumoto Castle. Afterwards, return to Nagano to venture off to Zenkoji Temple, one of Japan’s last standing pilgrimage sties.

Day 5: Ōtsu

Travel in the morning to Ōtsu for some stunning views of Japan’s largest lake: Lake Biwa. Top off the night with a delicious ramen dinner.

Day 6-7: Hagi

Enjoy a quick breakfast before an extended drive to Hagi. You will then check into your local homestay. Pack for two nights as your remaining luggage will be sent to the next destination by your tour company. Make sure you pack comfortably for outdoor activities. This is a chance to experience life like a local as you meet your host family and take part in a welcome ceremony and dinner.

Day two is an active day as you take a guided cycle tour around Hagi Castle. Afterward, you will have time to participate in seasonal activities with the locals. You will enjoy a homecooked dinner with your host family.

Day 8-9: Tottori

After breakfast with your host family, take a scenic trip by train on your way to Mihomisumi. There, enjoy learning the art of Washi paper making before hopping on another train to Tottori.

In the morning, explore the unusual Tottori Sand Dunes along the Sea of Japan’s coastline. After that, make your way to the local fish market for some fantastic seafood lunch options. End the day with a trip to Kyoto to check in to your accommodations.

Days 10-11: Kyoto

Take a morning trip to the well-known Fushimi Inari-Taisha, one of Kyoto’s many beautiful local shrines. This is where you will find the mystical trail of torii gates along its trails. After this, you will have free time to explore what Kyoto has to offer. Recommended sites include a walk through the geisha district of Gion, exploration of Kinkaku-ji Golden Pavilion, and a visit to Kiyomizu Temple.

The next day marks the end of the tour. Public transit is available to the airport, or you can speak to your guide to help find accommodations if you wish to extend your stay.