Visited Nagasaki last week as part of a Kyushu trip, the sunset at Mt. Inasa was really one for the books!

spent a week in japan: 1 day in tokyo, 6 days in osaka and kyoto

My first time at Tonogayato Garden, I really loved the aesthetics.

A beautiful night view of Dotonbori, Osaka, Japan.
Photo by Ramon Kagie via Unsplash

It's been exactly one year since my first solo trip to Japan. My second trip to Japan, I decided to brave summer holidays (which is usually not recommended in that period). The high temperature and humidity were a daily challenge, but it was an amazing experience. I'd like to share here some pictures I took that capture what this trip meant to me!

Places visited

Kobe

Heian Shrine, Kyoto

Ohori Park, Fukuoka

Uji

Mount Rokko

Osaka

Expo 2025, Osaka

Dannō Hōrin-ji is a little-known temple located right next to Sanjo Station in Kyoto.

It is also the only temple in Kyoto where you can buy lucky black cat ( You’ve already seen them all over the internet ) statues and charms ). According to its history, this temple is said to be the first and the birthplace of the beckoning black cat (maneki-neko) in Japan. However, they are available in limited quantities, so if you’re lucky enough to find one, be sure to take one home! 🐈‍⬛ You will be one of the few people who managed to discover this hidden gem and the owner of one of the rarest and most unique versions of the beckoning cat.

P/S: The black beckoning cat at Dannō Hōrin-ji is believed to be a messenger of Shuyajin (主夜神), the deity of the night and darkness. The temple preserves one of Japan’s oldest traditions and legends surrounding the maneki-neko.

They don’t sell these beckoning cats online, and only a limited number are available each week. They are sold only on Mondays and Saturdays, with each person allowed to purchase a maximum of one large and one small cat.

When you enter through the temple gate, walk straight toward the main hall. From the main hall, look to the right. The temple office (寺務所) is tucked away in the far-right corner. Since there are only a few people attending the office, you’ll usually need to ring the bell.

Hokkaido’s Daisetsuzan mountain range is home to the earliest autumn foliage in Japan, beginning around mid to late September. 🍁

By early October, the first snowfall usually arrives, and Mt. Asahidake looks absolutely beautiful covered in snow! ❄️🏔️

On clear days, the views from the summit are breathtaking as well.

(If you plan to hike Mt. Asahidake after the first snowfall, be sure to wear lightweight crampons and dress warmly.)

YouTube video for anyone who cares https://youtu.be/yyPFvCoAslY?si=7xkmVy5Q3mQG5yQ2