Approximately 11km east from Nara Park, lies an ancient trail called Yagyu Kaido. This track once served as pilgrimage for mountain Buddhists, a form of mountain asceticism during the Nara and Heian period, therefore many historical sites, monuments, and ruins of the time remain here barely touched.

Japanese people are known to have followed Sangakushinko; a type of animism during ancient times which mountains are worshiped as gods, and Mt. Katsuragi was most certainly one of which people of Nara considered it as their sacred icon.

If you are looking to experience something a little different without the expense of a world trip, check out these fantastic tourist destinations that offer you the chance to travel the world without breaking the bank.

It is rapidly becoming a popular destination for both Japanese and international travelers alike. Fun fact: this pond used to not have a name, but it received its name once it became a popular tourist destination.

I have lived in Okinawa for years and I can say that the beaches are really beautiful during summer. A great spot for a weekend getaway at the beach would be Miyako Island, a small island located in the south of Okinawa. You can reach there from Naha by plane in about 1 hour.

Fifteen minutes from the Okinawa mainland by ferry, the 8km long island of Kudakajima is pure paradise, where island nature embraces ancient folklore and restful living.

Miyazaki prefecture has no shortage of sweeping forest and mountain views and one of the best ways to see it is from up above. Sure, you could try and charter a helicopter but a much easier and cheaper way to get the same feeling is via the Aya Teruha suspension bridge.

Japan has many earthquakes every year, making people extremely cautious. Foreign expats are often not prepared for these natural wonders. Here's how I always coped with them.

Okinawa always brings people the lovely imagine of a blue clear ocean. Many tourists both from within and outside the country visit Okinawa every year to enjoy the time in the water. What if you want to see more ocean life? Or you are visiting during a season not suitable to swim? Or, if you are someone like me, what if you cannot swim?

Have you thought about trying camping in Japan? It can be a fun way to bond with friends or family, and even meet new friends. A great spot for camping is Togakushi, which is located in Nagano, Japan.

Aichi Prefecture's Tennogawa Park will dazzle you with its exceptional wisteria displays during the Owari Tsushima Wisteria Festival, held between late-April and early-May. There's festival food and games, and at night the flowers are beautifully lit from below.

Every year from mid May to early June, the people of the greater Kesennuma area in Miyagi Prefecture bask in the beauty of spring with the blooming of wild mountain azalea flowers (yama tsutsuji) on Mt. Tokusenjo. The Kesennuma Azalea Festival is also held to celebrate, with local musical artists and activities.