Miyajima

Miyajima-the-Great-Torii(3)

If Hiroshima is on your itinerary I’d really suggest allowing an extra half a day to visit the nearby Miyajima, a beautiful island just off the coast of the mainland. Not only is the atmosphere of peace and calm a lovely change from the hustle and bustle of the city but the island also offers one of the most iconic photo spots in all Japan…the torii gate of the Itsukushima shrine.  Continue reading

Nara

Nara-daibatsu(4)

The ancient city of Nara is often overlooked in favour of its bigger, and better known, sister Kyoto. But it really is worth making some time to visit Nara – the best of its sights (which have UNESCO World Heritage status) can be visited in a day and what’s more you aren’t as hampered by the crowds .

Continue reading

San Sebastian – fireworks, fantastic views and (more!) food

San-Sebastian-harbourAfter our amazing meal at Akelare (more here), we arrived into San Sebastian late in the afternoon conveniently in time for sunset and walked out to the Comb of the Winds sculpture by Eduardo Chillida which is embedded in the rocks at the end of the beach.

Continue reading