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Seasons6 min readKyoto in November: leaves, lights and late crowdsNovember is a strong month for Kyoto's leaves and evening lights. Learn how to plan the busy days, the cold evenings and the crowds at the best spots.Guides5 min readKyoto Station: a base for first-timers and day tripsKyoto Station suits late arrivals, heavy bags and day trips by train. Here is how to use it well, and what to check before you book a room.Festivals5 min readKyushu Grand Sumo in Fukuoka: a November visitThe Kyushu sumo tournament is held in Fukuoka in November. Learn how the day works, how tickets are sold and what to check first.Practical5 min readSend your bags ahead to the hotelSending luggage ahead lets you travel light between cities. Learn the options, the labels to use and the items to keep with you.Seasons5 min readMarch: early blossom in Tokyo and KyotoMarch can bring the first cherry blossom in Tokyo and Kyoto. Learn when to expect it, how to avoid the crowds and what to pack for cool evenings.Seasons5 min readMay: mild weather and the spring festival seasonMay brings mild weather, green parks and spring festivals to Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka. Learn what to expect and how to pick the right days for a relaxed trip.Festivals5 min readNagasaki Lantern Festival: a late winter explainerThe Nagasaki Lantern Festival lights the city's streets in late winter. Learn how it works, what to check and how to plan a visit.Guides4 min readNakanoshima museums and the river: a rainy-day planRain in Osaka does not have to spoil the day. Here is a Nakanoshima plan with indoor museums, a cafe stop in Nakazakicho and a river cruise if it runs.Guides5 min readNakanoshima and Nakazakicho: river walks, art and cafesNakanoshima is a river island with art museums and a red brick public hall. Nakazakicho is next door, with old houses turned into cafes. Here is how to plan both.Guides5 min readNakasu and Watanabe-dori: a Fukuoka evening by the riverNakasu is a river island of food stalls and bars in Fukuoka. Here is how to enjoy an evening by the river, eat well and stay safe and respectful after dark.Guides5 min readNakazakicho: small shops and cafes in old housesNakazakicho is a small Osaka district where old wooden houses hold cafes, small shops and studios. Here is how to walk its lanes politely and plan a slow afternoon.Guides5 min readNamba and Dotonbori: an Osaka base for first-timersNamba and Dotonbori are Osaka's busiest food and nightlife streets. Here is how to use them as a base, eat well and avoid the worst crowds.

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