Kyoto – Travels With Matt Blog

Preparing for the Nankai Trough Earthquake: A Guide for Tourists

Japan is renowned for its natural beauty, rich culture, and warm hospitality. However, the country is also one of the most seismically active regions in the world. If you’re planning a visit to Japan, especially to areas along the Pacific coast, it’s important to be aware of the Nankai Trough earthquake—one of the most significant seismic threats facing the country.

In this guide, we’ll explore what the Nankai Trough earthquake is, why it’s a concern, and how you, as a tourist, can prepare to stay safe during your visit.

Reaction: Kyoto tries to restrict tourists

If you keep up with travel updates, you’ve likely come across the ongoing issue of tourism in Kyoto and its detrimental effects on the locals. Japan is now actively combating the overwhelming crowds that inundate its ancient capital.

Japan trip booked!

The 2023 October trip to Japan has been officially booked! It took a while, a lot of money, and a lot of hard decisions, but the hotels and airfare are now officially booked.

Hotel Review: APA Kyoto Ekimae

Here is a hotel review from a 3-star hotel in Kyoto, the APA Hotel Kyoto-Ekimae, located right next to Kyoto Station. This is a nice, business hotel, but has some things about it you should know about before you book it.

Returning to Japan in 2023

It has been a long time coming (work, pandemic, and just life in general) but after several years I am excited to say I’m headed back to Japan in 2023 (and with company).

5 tourist spots to watch out for in Kyoto

Kyoto is home to some of the most incredible temples and shrines in all of Japan. While it is home to many amazing sites, some of them should come with a little bit of a warning for tourists before they venture out to explore them. Here are some to watch out for as you explore Kyoto and what to expect.

5 things to know about Japanese hotels

Japanese hotels are very unique when compared to Western style hotels. Here are a few things to know about them before you pack a giant suitcase and head to Japan. These little notes will help you pack and prepare for some unique features of Japanese hotels that may surprise you.