Exploring Kansai - Kobe

When most people hear the name Kobe, the thought of Kobe beef immediately comes to mind, but there's so much more to experience than just the amazing beef!

If you're looking for a fun, quick trip to do on a weekend, Kobe can be reached by train in as little as an hour from the Makino station for around ¥830 - ¥1000 one way.


Kobe Beef

If you're really only after slab of the world renown beef, well, you've come to the right place. One very popular Kobe beef restaurant frequented both by the locals and tourists is called Steakland Kobe. (See on google maps). Literally, just a short walk from the stations North exit. Sometimes there can be a short line up but since they have two locations side by side, it usually doesn't take long to get a table.

Upon ordering, there's a few different general set menus for Kobe beef. Be prepared, this steak is not cheap but well worth it. I mean, where else better then Kobe to experience true, genuine Kobe beef? In North America, it's nearly impossible to find true Kobe beef. Many restaurants simply rip off the name and market their Kobe/Wagyu "Style" beef as the real thing. Only until recently, the beef was rarely exported, and even now in very minimal quantities, which is why I had no problem paying for the real thing, just to try it once.

Port of Kobe

Kobe's other iconic half, welcome to the famous Port of Kobe. Not only a hub for major world wide shipping but the Port of Kobe contains a bustling shopping and entertainment district popular among the locals and tourists alike.

One of the first things you'll see as you enter Kobe Port is the Kobe Port Tower. A 108 meter, lattice tower. One of the famous icons of Kobe, you've likely seen pictures of it around Japan. There's also an observatory deck just over 90 meters up the tower with astonishing views of the coastal city.

Aside from the scenery, the port offers plenty of other exciting activities to make for a great day trip! There's of course a Ferris wheel on the port side, a huge mall with tons of stores and some great restaurants in the area as well. I particularly loved visiting this city around Christmas time as the many of the streets were decorated with lots of lights, it had a really charming feel. Comforting perhaps even. Kobe has a very western feel to it as you'll notice when you see all the western style "churches" which are in fact mainly wedding chapels. In Japan today, it's becoming increasingly popular to have a western style wedding and Kobe is one of the more popular places for this.

Also, just a short walk from the port we found an awesome mini China town!


Tea Houses / Japanese Gardens

In Kobe, you can find many traditional Japanese Tea Houses. This one in particular was located inside a beautifully landscaped Japanese Garden with large Koi pond! We found Sōraku-en (相楽園) by a bit of an accident, just wandering around at random.

The Japanese Garden itself only cost ¥300 to enter, and I believe ¥500 do take part in a traditional tea ceremony that included a traditional Japanese dessert.

The garden is open between 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. (17:00). Plan carefully though as it is closed Thursdays between January 4 - December 28, or the following day when there is a national holiday.

Often there are a variety of exhibitions taking place here. When we went, there was a Bonsai exhibition taking place which was quite amazing to see. This was all included in the general entrance fee to the garden.

You can find a link to the Gardens English pamphlet HERE

Exploring Kansai - Nara

A short distance from Hirakata, Nara makes for an excellent day trip on a weekend offering plenty to see and do. Home to a beautiful Buddhist temple, a popular deer park where you can literally feed and pet wild deer, myriad of fantastic little Japanese shops, Nara is definitely one city you will want to visit when you find yourself passing through Osaka either as a traveler, or a student of KGU.

Tōdai-ji (東大寺)

Perhaps one of the main reasons tourists and world travelers alike flock to Nara. This grand
Buddhist temple was found in the early 8th century (around 751 AD), and is home to the largest statue of Buddha Vairocana. Measuring in at nearly 15 meters or almost 50 feet, believe me when I say, this statue is HUGE. Pictures really just don't do its size any justice, which is why this temple is an absolute must-see to truly appreciate its magnificence.

As you enter and all throughout the temple, there are several other amazing statues including two of my favourites known as Niō. I like to just call them Gate Guardians as they're typically found protecting the entrances of Buddhist temples. They're often very difficult to photograph as they're hidden behind a mesh screen.

If you're interested in reading more about Todai-ji, click here.

Nara Deer Park

Something you'll come across on your way to Tōdai-ji is the Nara Deer Park. Coming from Canada, we have PLENTY of deer here, but none as docile and friendly as the deer you'll find here. They can actually become quite pesky when they realize you have food, so be careful! In the park, there are some small street vendors who sell I guess what you would call deer crackers/cookies (Shika Senbei)? Basically they're just a hand full of crackers for ¥200 that you can feed to the deer. I have to admit I had a bit of fun with it. After running out, they would sometimes nip at your clothes but don't worry, they're harmless.

Within the deer park there's several paths you can follow leading you around the park along some incredibly beautiful ponds, waterfalls, and even a few pagodas.

Sanjo Dori

After spending a long day exploring Todai-ji and hanging out with the deer, I highly suggest heading over to Sanjo Dori (Street). Here, you'll find plenty of restaurants to refuel at and a ton cool small Japanese stores for souvenirs. The street itself is really interesting, it's brick layered shopping district, with a lot discover. In fact, one of the most famous mochi shops in Japan is located on the corner of Sanjo Dori Street and Mochiido-No-Center-Gai (Map below). If you're lucky and your timings right, you might come across the store Nakatanidou when the Master is preparing a fresh batch of mochi. It's such a cool experience!

A traditional Japanese activity for many families during New Years, the term for this ritual is known as Mochitsuki (餅つき) or "Mochi Pounding" in English. These guys are national champions in Japan and rightly deserve it.

Resources:

• Sight-seeing map of Nara

Exploring Kansai - Kyoto

One of the oldest and most beautiful cities in Japan, Kyoto is a culturally rich city filled with countless Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines, and myriad of traditional Japanese style homes, shops and parks. Many of these place below have become national and international world heritage sites, and are often seen frequently in media.

Much of Kyoto's history is a result of city being the first imperial capital of Japan stretching over a 1000 years before the capital city was eventually moved to Edo, what is now modern day Tokyo.

Kyoto is home to some of the most beautiful temples, rightly earning its place as one of the most noteworthy and must-see cities in Japan. Contrary to its size, like much of Japan, Kyoto is actually relatively easy to navigate around and is even accessible by bike from Hirakata!

Temples & Shrines

Kinkaku-ji - 金閣寺

Formerly known as Rokuon-ji, or by its English name, The Golden Pavilion, Kinkaku-ji is one of the most visited and easily recognizable Zen Buddhist temples in all of Japan. It was originally founded in 1397, rebuilt 1955 following an arson attack in 1950, and has been officially designated a National Special Historic Site, including a UNESCO World Heritage Site designation in 1994.

Kiyomizu-Dera -　清水寺

One of my favourite temples in all of Japan, this temple is definitely one you don't want to miss. With the changing seasons of Japan, there is always something new to discover here. A huge temple built onto a mountainside, interlaced with trees, ponds and a pagoda, it can become quite busy. However, I find the crowds significantly die down in the evening hours. If you only plan on visiting once, the I would highly suggest visiting Kiyomizu-dera during the Fall. This is definitely a Fall temple, that's when the colours really pop!

Fushimi Inari - 伏見稲荷

Probably one of the most iconic images of Japan, widely used in many movies including Memoirs of a Geisha. Fushimi Inari is the head shrine of Inari, the God of foxes, rice, tea, and sake. The actual shrine sits at the base of Inari mountain with trails spanning 4 km's to the top providing access to several other smaller shrines. The trail takes approximately 1-1/2 to 2 hours walking depending on your pace. Each torii gate was donated either privately or by a business. Access to Fushimi Inari from Hirakata is very simple. It has its own station merely a few stops away from the Makino station and has signs guiding you the rest of the way once you arrive. Be sure to wear some comfortable shoes as you will be walking a lot. One recommendation I have, plan your trip so you're there during sunset. Watch the sun as it sets over Kyoto, then as you make your way down the mountain in the dusk, stop by the little mountain cabin to enjoy a tea as the remaining light sifts through the trees and fades into darkness.

Places To Go

Gion

When arriving at Gion-Shijo station, your essentially in what I would call the heart of Kyoto. This area is where you will find many unique Japanese stores both, souvenirs/gift shops and small one-of-a-kind mom and pop stores. From this area you can access many different shrines and temples as well either by bus or short walking distance. If you hang out long enough here, you may catch a glimpse of a Geisha or Maiko Geisha (apprentice Geisha)! Few will actually allow pictures, but it never hurts to ask! 

Maruyama Park (Koen)

Situated at the end of Gion-dori, to access this park you will pass through Yasaka Jinja. This area becomes a major hot spot during New Years while locals and visitors celebrate with a traditional Japanese New Years celebration. Though it is particularly popular in April during Hanami, or cherry blossom viewing festivals. This is one experience you do not want to miss out on if you're studying during the second semester. Whether you go with your Japanese friends or other students, stop by a Konbini, grab a few beers and snacks and head over to the park to find a spot to sit. Though you will see many cherry blossoms (and plum blossoms) in Hirakata, Maruyama Park provides a spectacular view and even features a famous weeping Cherry Tree as the main attraction. Spring in Japan is really just as beautiful as it appears in pictures.

Check out the video below from a good friend of mine and former KGU student, shot primarily in Maruyama Koen and around Kansai Gaidai. 

Where To Stay

Gojo Guesthouse

If you happen to be travelling through Kyoto and are looking for a place to stay or, maybe have friends or family visiting looking for an economical option, then I highly recommend Gojo Guesthouse. It's located less than 15 minutes from Kyoto station and is near many temples and shrines. Bicycles are provided to guests as well! This is your standard hostel with a dormitory style room and also a private room as well for couples/families who want to opt for more privacy. Downstairs contains a full service bar serving drinks and food for guests and visitors. You can find out more about Gojo Guesthouse here.

For a full list of places to stay in Kyoto, I recommend checking out a full list of places here.

Watch for our next post highlighting Nara, the Capital city of the Nara prefecture and once, the national capital of Japan for brief moment in time. Also home to Arashiyama Koen, a park you're definitely going to want to visit!

Low Cost Travelling In Japan & Asia

With the number of national holidays in Japan and the time available before, during, and after your semesters, many of you will be itching to see more of Japan and Asia than just the Osaka region. Luckily, there are several options available to you to cost-effectively make your way around!

Aside from the local train which is great for short distances, train fares can add up quickly and can be a very time-consuming method to navigate Japan. Before considering this option, you will have to evaluate your budget and time to see if this is the most appropriate method of travel to your destination. I highly recommend familiarizing yourself with the website http://www.hyperdia.com/en/ . This will be your best resource to help plan your trips by local train and bullet train.

For those further distances when you're lacking time, and for all of you who have never had the chance to experience a Japanese bullet train (Shinkansen), I highly recommend this option. While fare can be a bit high, it may mean the difference between arriving the same day as opposed to +1 day or more. Sometimes it can acutally be even cheaper! And since you're already in Japan, this is the perfect chance to experience it! Everyone should ride it at least once. Professor Scott provides a great opportunity each year as he arranges a trip to Hiroshima for the students via bullet train at a discounted rate. This is definitely one trip you don't want to miss on.

There are however, other slower low cost options available such as the night bus, though not really recommended. Living up to it's name, it's literally a bus that you catch in the evening, and typically arrives at your destination the following morning. While the fare is great, (usually ¥2500-¥3500) however, you will arrive at your destination exhausted, as the bus makes many stops along the way making it really difficult to get some rest.

At last, for those of you who want to travel a little further away from central Japan, there are a few low cost air carriers, namely, JetStar, Skymark, and Peach Aviation. These three airlines are great for booking really cheap flights within and outside of Japan, and often times it's actually cheaper than the local train or bullet trains. The only variable you need to account for is your fare to and from the airports. However, some flights to Tokyo, Okinawa or Hokkaido can range from only ¥1500-¥2500, you literally can't be it! Be aware though, plan to travel with strictly a carry-on bag as you will be subject to additional baggage fees. (Hint: If you are checking a bag, it's way cheaper to pay for your checked bag online before your departure than paying at the airport). Try to pack light as they are strict with weight and size restriction, the fare may be really cheap but this is where they make up for it. Your carry-on of course is free if it falls within their guidelines. It's a good idea to sign up and follow Peach Aviation as they often post new flight sales almost monthly to different locations.

Finally, I wanted to bring up Airbnb for those of you unfamiliar with it. While staying in a hostel is great if it's only yourself or maybe with one other person, often times you can actually book a whole apartment in prime locations that sleep many more people. Booking an apartment together typically ends up actually costing less than hostel rates and provides a much comfier atmosphere. I've recently used it in Tokyo and Rome and have had nothing but great experiences. You can search for available places at www.airbnb.com

Best of luck with your travels, if you have any questions, comment below and I'll do my best to help you out!

The last leg - Getting to Hirakata from KIX

So you've successfully survived the flight to Japan, Congrats! For the lucky few of you, it was a quick flight but now you need to get to Hirakata. For some of you, catching the Kansai Gaidai shuttle bus from KIX during arrival week may not be an option. Some people choose to arrive early, some late, or couldn't get a flight in during the shuttle times. No worries, there's a few options available I'll point out to help get you where you need to be.

I'll obviously recommend taking the shuttle limousine bus provided by KGU as your first option, you're tired, inexperienced with Japan's public transportation system, and probably have at least 2 pieces of luggage or more. For only ¥2000 ($20), KGU will arrange your pick up from KIX and drop you off directly at Seminar House 4 in Hirakata. However, as mentioned, for some this won't be a possibility.

The easiest way to Hirakata will be via a limousine bus from KIX to Hirakata. This service is offered by Kansai Airport Transportation Enterprise (KATE). As international arrivals are on Terminal 1, to get to the bus stop you will need to go to the main floor. There will be a ticket vending machine outside the doors where you can purchase a ticket for a bus bound for Neyagawa/Hirakata/Kuzuha, it will cost you ¥2050 (approx. $20). The pick up location for the bus should be listed on the ticket (Bus Depot 10). It's important to note that the latest departure from KIX is at 22:45 (10:45 p.m.), arriving in Hirakata at 24:09 (12 a.m.). Just a heads up, you will need to contact Kansai Gaidai to inform them if you will be arriving late as they have a cut off time. They may need to arrange for someone to receive you at the seminar house or else you might end up spending the night at the station which is where this bus will drop you off. From Hirakata station, depending on what time you arrive, you can either catch a local Keihan bus or take a taxi direct to your seminar house/residence.

Your second option is to take the train to Hirakata from KIX. This option can be a little difficult for first time transit riders, especially with all your luggage as well, however, it costs about $5-$6 less with about the same transit time. Upon your arrival, you will want to walk to the 2nd floor and catch the JR Line "Kansai Airport Rapid Service" to Kyobashi station. This ride will take about 78 minutes and with a fare of ¥1190 ($12). Once you've arrived at Kyobashi station, you will then need to transfer to the Keihan line and catch any train bound for Demachiyanagi and get off at Hirakata station. You should avoid taking the Rapid Limited Express as it does not always stop at Hirakata Station. You should take the Limited Express train if it is available. This ride will take you 15 minutes, you're fare should be ¥330 ($3), with your total trip from the airport costing about $15. However, you still need to get from Hirakata station to your dorm, either via bus or taxi.

Links:

• http://www.kansaigaidai.ac.jp/asp/access/
• http://www.kansaigaidai.com/#!gettingaround/c1b1p
• http://www.kate.co.jp/en/timetable/detail/HR#from
• http://www.kansai-airport.or.jp/en/access/bus/index.html

Wild Japanese Snow Monkeys

 Japan is home to one of few places where you can actually see and interact with wild monkeys! Though, while this may already sound exciting, how many of you have ever seen a monkey taking a bath in a hot spring (Onsen)? The place is called Jigokudani, a world famous national park visited by thousands of tourists every year in the heart of the Nagano prefecture.

The Japanese Macaques, or more commonly referred to as Snow Monkeys, live in the surrounding forests of Jigokudani Park. They descend during the day to lounge in the hot springs, literally appearing just as if humans were to be taking a bath. I can say personally, it's one of the weirdest though exhilarating feeling to witness this. Depending on the day, there can be as many as 100 or more seen gathered around the pools. Due to the growing popularity, the Snow Monkeys have become very use to their human visitors. This close relationship allows for plenty of interaction and awesome up-close photo shoots.

Getting to Jigokudani can be a bit of a challenge but is well worth the effort. There are several options to get there from Osaka area, so depending on how much you're willing to spend will determine your travelling time.


Here's my recommended route from Osaka:

• Book a day bus from Osaka (or Kyoto if available) to JR Nagano station. I suggest using Willer Express but ask an RA for help with this.
  Approximate Cost: ¥2500-¥3000 ($25-$30)
  Approximate Travel Time: 3 Hours
  Take the earliest bus possible if you're planning on returning the same day.

• From JR Nagano Station, catch the Limited Express Line to Yudanaka Station.
  Approximate Cost: ¥1160 ($12)
  Approximate Time: 47 Minutes

• From there, catch the NagaDen, (Nagano Dentetsu bus) to Kanbayashi. This is kind of like your base camp. This bus is bound for Shiga Kogen, exit at the Kanbayashi stop.
  Approximate Cost: ¥1300
  Approximate Time: 30 Minutes

Once you've reached Kanbayashi, there is only about a half hour scenic walk through the forest to reach the hot springs in Jigokudani Park. Entrance fee to the park is costs only ¥500. Arriving early gives you plenty of time to spend in the park and catch the return buses if you don't plan on spending the night in the area.

Useful Links:

• http://www.jigokudani-yaenkoen.co.jp/english/html/top_e.htm
• http://willerexpress.com/en/
• http://www.hyperdia.com