Just another world from Ploy's view
Planning a road trip through Japan is an absolute dream—until you hit the neon-lit, bustling streets of Tokyo. If you’ve ever tried to park in a high-profile district like Shinjuku, you know the struggle is real. During my recent trip, I quickly learned that while rural Japan is a breeze for drivers, Tokyo parking fees …
My first international trip of 2026 to Japan has just come to an end, and my heart is overflowing with fond experiences. While this journey centered around snowboarding in Nagano’s beloved Hakuba Village, one particular visit became the undisputed highlight: dining at ao LAKESIDE CAFE. If you are heading to Nagano, you’ll want to bookmark …
So, you’re heading to Sapporo in winter? Excellent choice. Forget everything you think you know about a typical snowy city—Sapporo wraps its cold in a blanket of steaming ramen broth, twinkling lights, and pure magic. As someone who’s wandered its snowy streets (and fallen in love with them), I’m here to guide you beyond the …
I’d spent years hearing about Ishiuchi Maruyama, a snowboarding crown jewel in Niigata. This past winter, I finally chased the hype. My visit came the first week of January—past the holiday rush, but not in time for a major powder dump. Yet, to my delight, the trip was a revelation. The groomed snow was fast and …
For snow enthusiasts, February in Japan has one mission: finding the perfect powder. Having traversed slopes across this winter-wonderland nation, I can confidently say that Zao Onsen Ski Resort in Yamagata Prefecture exists in a category of its own. It’s a place where world-class snowboarding blends with ethereal natural phenomena, creating not just a vacation, …
I went to Zao for the world-class snowboarding, but I left raving about my hotel. I visited in the heart of winter, from February 18th to 20th, 2025, and the landscape was a perfect, pristine winter wonderland. My stay at Oohira Hotel’s 善七乃湯 (Zenshichinoyu) in Zao Onsen was so much more than just a place …
Finding accommodation near ski slopes can be incredibly challenging, especially during the peak winter season. With this in mind, I made sure to start my search months in advance when planning a snowboarding trip to Ishiuchi Maruyama Ski Area in Minamiuonuma City, Niigata Prefecture, last winter. That’s how I discovered Chenda International Hotel, the place …
Sapporo, the largest city in the northernmost island of Japan, Hokkaido, is an area that is famous for its premium and fresh seafood. One of the most popular places to enjoy the local cuisine is the Nijo Seafood Market. Here, you’ll find a wide variety of seafood stalls and restaurants serving up some of the …
Sapporo, the largest city in Hokkaido, Japan, is known as a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. The city is home to several ski resorts, including Bankei, Sapporo Mt. Moiwa, Sapporo Teine, Sapporo Kokusai, and Takino Snow World, where visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities. For those who want to save money …
Nestled amidst the tranquil beauty of Hokkaido, Japan, Shirogane Blue Pond is a true wonder. This enchanting body of water, famous for its dreamy blue color, has become a favorite spot for those seeking a peaceful getaway. While the Blue Pond is open year-round, we decided to experience its magic in October. In this article, …