Japan — Blog — Blonde Voyage Nashville

Bidding Adieu To Japan

Spending almost two weeks vacationing can be exhausting. (I know, #firstworldproblems) A few of you may be shaking your head with dismay, but allow me to finish. Regardless of my travel destination, I have this insatiable urge to soak up as much of the city as humanly possible. Inevitably, that leads to endless early wake up calls, miles and miles of walking, blisters in places you didn't know it was possible to even get blisters and late nights filled with full bellies, happy hearts and memories that will last a lifetime.

JapanCatherine CourtneyJuly 9, 2018Four Seasons KyotoFour Seasons Hotel, Kyoto, JapanComment

Exploring Asakusa: Senso-Ji Temple

It's no secret, I visited my fair share of temples while I was in Japan. Some days, I felt like that was the only thing we did, but there was simply so much to see! As we approached Senso-Ji, I was absolutely awestruck. From the vibrant colors, the blossoming sakura and the clamoring of the crowds, these picturesque scenes were like no other.

JapanCatherine CourtneyJuly 3, 2018Senso-ji TempleJapan, Tokyo, Asakusa, Temple, Senso-ji Comments

Blonde Voyage Nashville Dreams Of Sushi

Jiro Dreams of Sushi, the critically acclaimed documentary that had food enthusiasts marveling over 85-year-old Jiro Ono, the greatest sushi chef in the world. Chef Jiro Ono is the mastermind and owner of Sukiyabashi Jiro which is located in a Tokyo subway station. Not only was he the first sushi chef to have three Michelin stars bestowed upon him, but who would have believed the Michelin inspectors were seeking out fine fining in underground rail stations?

A Contemporary Twist on Traditional Japanese Kaiseki : Nihonryori Ryugin

Did you know that Tokyo has more Michelin starred restaurants than anywhere else in the world? With 234 stars, Tokyo is the top culinary destination outside of Paris covered by Michelin.

Making reservations in one of the top food capitals in the world proved to be quite the arduous adventure.

Snacking My Way Through Nishiki Market

Seeing as I am quite the food enthusiast, no trip to Kyoto would be complete without a visit to the Nishiki Market. Nishiki Market, located in downtown Kyoto, spans over five city block and houses over 100 different merchants and restaurants.

Even though this isn't the largest or flashiest food market in Japan, it has some history, 400+ years to be exact. If only those walls could talk!

JapanCatherine CourtneyMay 21, 2018Nishiki MarketNishiki Market, Food Market, KyotoComment

Exploring Kyoto: The Ultimate Itinerary

While I was in Japan, I had the pleasure of visiting Tokyo and Kyoto and they couldn't be more different. Tokyo epitomizes the modern urban experience as residents enjoy an assortment of Michelin starred restaurants, vibrant nightlife and the most state-of-the-art technology. Kyoto, on the other hand, exemplifies tradition, tranquility, and relaxation.

Roaming For Ramen

Some of you might be saying "yawn...ramen? Isn't that foodie trend over?"

No, I'm not talking about the Maruchan noodles you may have considered dinner in college to fund your "extracurricular activities." I'm referring to the delicious broth that's cooked for hours on end that oozes with flavor and filled with delectable noodles. Inevitably leaving a smile on your face, a full tummy and guiding you straight to a food coma.

JapanCatherine CourtneyMay 14, 2018RokurinshaRamen, Ramen Street, Tokyo, Japan, Vending Machine, Asahi Beer, TsukemeComment

Cream Puffs And Cotton Candy...What More Does A Girl Need?

When I started planning my trip to Japan, my excitement was at an all-time high. My Instagram collection labeled Japanese Bites was packed with some of the craziest and most beautiful food I'd ever seen. From 3D latte art, gold leaf soft serve and a unicorn parfait that will make your mouth drop, Japan has it all.

JapanCatherine CourtneyMay 2, 2018Totti Candy Factory, Totoro Cream Puffs, Cotton Candy, Boba Tea, Tokyo, Kyoto, Sweets, Fluffy, Sweet TreatsComment

Blossoming Brunch At Aoyama Flower Market Tea House

I have quite the fondness for fresh flowers. Splurging on these little blossoms not only puts a smile on my face but it serves as a reminder to be present and enjoy each moment because no two are the same. It's amazing how these fragile little blossoms can be so powerful.

JapanCatherine CourtneyApril 14, 2018Japan, Tea House, Tokyo, French Toast, Shibuya, Tea, Cherry Blossoms, BrunchComment

Adventures In The Land Of The Rising Sun

Konnichiwa everyone! I know it's been a while since my last post, but I promise I have a perfectly good excuse. In case you haven't been following along on my Instagram, I just returned from spending two weeks in Japan. What an adventure that was. Planes, trains, and automobiles, oh my.

JapanCatherine CourtneyApril 6, 2018Travel, Wanderlust, Japan, Tokyo, Kyoto, Eat Pray MoveComment