Japan’s Hidden Gems and About Me!
My name is Leanna and I have been traveling all over Japan almost once a year since I was born! I was born and raised in the US, so my mom always found it important to keep me connected to my heritage so she always made an effort to bring me back during Spring or Summer breaks. Although I’m no travel expert, I wanted to share some of my favorite hidden gems so you can save them in case you ever find yourself in Japan!
The crazy thing about Japan is that it’s practically the same size as California! According to this source, Japan is 377,915 sq km and California is 403,882 sq km so California is actually 7% larger than Japan. However, Japan is home to a population of 124.2 million, while California has a population of 37 million. Every time I think about this size and population difference, I get blown away and it goes to show how populous and busy it can be, but there are also so many quiet and beautiful countryside parts that the country offers!
For my first share, I want to introduce one of the peaceful sides of the country. Located in Tokoname, Aichi Prefecture, やきもの散歩道 (Tokoname Pottery Path) is the perfect day spent for those like me, who love pottery and cats! Tokoname is one of the six ancient kilns in Japan, that date back to the Heian Period (794-1185) according to this website. There is a path that you can take through this small, but complex neighborhood that takes you through different shops owned by artists that each make unique pieces for a living. Aside from shops, the neighborhood offers cafe’s, bakeries, and workshops that let you make your very own special pottery piece to take home! One unique thing about this place and the reason why I mentioned cats, is because all around the area, you’ll find clay cats made by different artists, there to protect you throughout your stay! Although it may be a bit difficult to navigate if you cannot read Japanese, here is the official website of the pathway which showcases more images that I was not able to take myself. I cannot express in words how much I enjoyed my day here when I visited and I will certainly be going back the next time I’m in Japan!
Hi Leanna! Japan is for sure one of my top 3 places I want to travel to eventually, and your blog is super dope and helpful for some neat locations to keep in mind when that time comes. It was also a nice touch connecting your interest in Japan with your personal experiences with your family as it gives a sense of personality and comfort when reading. I actually just started trying to practice reading/writing in Japanese as well, so I was absolutely befuddled when I clicked that Tokoname Pottery Pathway link, but it is definitely still appreciated to have that included. Good job!
ReplyDeleteHey Leanna,
ReplyDeleteThis is a super cool blog, Japan has always been one of my bucket list travel destinations. The illuminated streets of Tokyo, the beautiful architecture in Kyoto, and the magnificent Mt. Fuji are enough for me to buy a plane ticket this summer. I wanted to ask how common English is in Japan? I don't speak Japanese at all and am worried If I go I might have trouble communicating. Nonetheless I don't think it would deter me from visiting, Japan looks beautiful.
Hey Leanna,
ReplyDeleteAs someone with aspirations to travel the world, I really want to go to Japan so I know I will find myself coming back to your blog week in and week out! I think its awesome that you are staying connected to your heritage and I am so excited to learn more about Honoshu!
Hey Leanna! Thank you for sharing a little about your life and family history with Japan. My brother was in Okinawa with his dad when he was little and I’ve always wanted to take him back and do some sight seeing together. I love the information you gave on the pottery trail! While it might not be suitable for my brother, I have been wanting to get into pottery making so the Tokoname Pottery Path is definitely in my notes. The best part might be stopping at the cafe for some Japanese baked goods!
ReplyDeleteHey Leanna!
ReplyDeleteJapan is one of my dream destinations to visit, and I truly admire what Japan has to offer: the culture, amazing food, clothing style, and more! I really enjoyed reading your blog as I thought it was very informative and I like that you incorporated your own experiences and that your family as well as yourself want to still be connected with your heritage since living in the U.S. I'm half Vietnamese and half Chinese, and it was also really important to my family that I grew up with the knowledge of my heritage and culture.