An overlooked commercial and transportation hub, the Gongdeok/Mapo area is one of the most convenient areas to stay in Seoul.

Euljiro’s neighborhoods feature pojangmacha street food stalls, hip drinking spots, local markets and a stream for scenic strolls.

A historic neighborhood with a culinary past, Sindang balances its traditional markets with art and hip cafes.

As one of Seoul’s most desirable neighborhoods, Hannam is at Korea’s forefront of fashion and trends.

An up-and-coming area that combines factories and metalwork with art, ateliers and cafes.

A local area that’s all about Ultraman. With Ultraman statues, street lamps, decorations and more, this retro Tokyo neighborhood is unlike any other.

One of Seoul’s most trendy neighborhoods, nicknamed the “Brooklyn of Seoul”.

Tofuya Resort & Spa Izu is a Japanese style ryokan with a history of 400 years. Spanning 29 acres, it’s an immersive, high end getaway that guests can escape to.

A few tips about traveling to Tokyo that I’ve learned during my time living there for 8 years.

Visiting the Furano area of Hokkaido in the summer, a popular tourist destination for Japanese

Deep in the mountains of Yamaguchi Prefecture, Hoshino Resorts KAI Nagato is a luxury onsen resort based on accommodations for 17th century feudal lords.

A unique experience boating through canals in Fukuoka that date back hundreds of years.

A luxury ryokan resort focused on Japanese tea. The Hoshino Resorts KAI Enshu, an amazing getaway that dives into the local specialty.

A look at Japan’s port city of Yokohama, the country’s second largest city that’s both historically significant and futuristic.

Ehime’s main city, and home to the famous Dogo Onsen and Matsuyama Castle.

Some of Japan’s most gorgeous seaside views, Imabari is a quaint destination to get away to.

After several visits to Kyoto and seeking out authentic Kyoto foods, here’s where I recommend.

Just outside of central Kyoto, Uji is great for Japanese sights and matcha.

Koenji is thought of as one of Tokyo’s coolest neighborhoods by locals, and is known for its alternative subcultures, used clothing shops and cheap bars.

One of Tokyo’s popular “shitamachi”, or retro downtown areas, Yanaka Ginza’s vibe is mid-1900s and a good place to take an afternoon to explore.