Golden Week is the one stretch of spring when half of Japan seems to book the same beach at once, and Okinawa sits right at the top of the wish list. We love the islands in early May, but the crowds are real and the planning matters more than usual. This guide is our practical, … Read more
March is when Okinawa wakes up. The winter winds fade, the water turns that impossible shade of turquoise again, and beaches across the main island hold their umi-biraki — the official “sea opening” ceremonies that mark the start of swimming season. We’ve done this shoulder season with kids more than once, and it’s honestly one … Read more
Spring in Kyushu with kids is one of the easiest travel windows of the year. The weather warms quickly, and the cherry blossoms peak about a week earlier than Tokyo. The prefecture-wide hanami spots include castle parks, riverside walks, and beachfront paths — all far easier with a stroller than the famous (but crowded) Tokyo … Read more
