Izumoshi Taisha [Izumo City Grand Shrine] was another spot on my list of places to visit in Japan but again the distance from Tokyo had put me off. I was reminded of it after watching Zatsu Tabi and it also happened to be near Sakaiminato so I decided to add it to my itinerary. Chain hotel Tokoyo Inn's breakfast buffet was a very simple and...

Originally I was going to visit the Peace Park first and leave Miyajima last because there was a lot to see there. I could then take the non-JR ferry from there straight to Miyajima too but then I realised I wouldn’t be able to see the “floating gate” by then because it would be low tide. Also, only the JR ferry heading towards the island did a...

Don't know if it's a trend but so many families out in the hotel dining area this morning and it's a Saturday. Usually it's very quiet at this hour. Ended up locking myself out because I forgot my key card so had to go to reception and it was peak checkout time too... Originally I was going to take the earliest local train to avoid the...