Blog - Mochinotes

Traditional bridge and willow trees in the center of Kinosaki Onsen town

Is Kinosaki Onsen Worth It? A Former Tour Guide’s Honest Take

ByYuko May 26, 2025

Plan your trip to Kinosaki Onsen with this 2025 guide. Discover public baths, access tips from Kyoto & Osaka, hidden gems, and why it’s worth the visit.

Osaka city skyline at sunset with glowing buildings—an ideal visual for deciding where to stay in Osaka

Kansai Travel |Osaka

Where to Stay in Osaka: How to Choose the Perfect Base

ByYuko May 24, 2025May 24, 2025

Ultimate guide to where to stay in Osaka. This article answers all your questions— with sample itineraries and hotel tips to help you choose the perfect base.

Colorful flower fields at Awaji Hanasajiki in Hyogo with ocean views—one of the most scenic hidden gems in Kansai.

Local Experience & Hidden Gems

My Favourite 15 Hidden Gems in Kansai: You’ll Love

ByYuko May 22, 2025

Looking for hidden gems in Kansai? This guide highlights peaceful, authentic places across Osaka, Kyoto, Nara, and Hyogo—far from the usual tourist crowds.

Featured image for Hidden Gems Sakai article showing cityscape, shrine, and cherry blossoms with title overlay

Local Experience & Hidden Gems

Hidden Gems Sakai – Discover Osaka’s Off-the-Beaten-Path Secrets

ByYuko May 21, 2025May 26, 2025

Discover hidden gems Sakai? Just 10 mins from Namba. Sakai city is full of culture—12 quiet spots, 2 experiences, and a 1-day itinerary to copy.

Himeji Castle on a clear day, a UNESCO World Heritage site

Travel Passes & Deals

JR West Kansai Area Pass vs Other passes – How to Choose the Right Pass

ByYuko May 8, 2025May 26, 2025

Discover the differences between JR West Kansai Area Pass, Kansai Wide Area Pass, Kansai Railway Pass, and other lesser-known but valuable passes.

Fresh takoyaki in front of the Glico sign in Dotonbori, Osaka at night

Food & Dining

Takoyaki Osaka Guide: Local Favorites & How to Make It

ByYuko May 5, 2025May 12, 2025

Takoyaki Osaka guide by a local: Top 3 must-try spots, Tokyo vs Osaka styles, halal-friendly options, and an easy recipe to enjoy takoyaki at home.

Smiling waiter chatting with customers at a cafe in Osaka

Food & Dining

Ultimate Osaka Food Guide: Where to Eat, Do and Don’t

ByYuko May 1, 2025May 12, 2025

Discover the ultimate Osaka food guide with honest local tips on where to eat, what to try, and key do’s and don’ts. Skip the crowds and enjoy the real Osaka.

Osaka Castle on a bright summer day with greenery and a refreshing atmosphere.

Travel Tips

Survive Osaka in Summer: Cool Secrets and Smart Itinerary

ByYuko April 28, 2025May 12, 2025

Survive Osaka in summer with real local tips, hidden cool spots, and a full itinerary to help you stay comfortable and enjoy every moment.

Watercolor illustration of Osaka 1 day itinerary featuring Glico sign, Osaka Castle, airplane, luggage, ICOCA card, and Japanese breakfast.

Kansai Travel |Osaka

Osaka 1 Day Itinerary: The Best Day Plan for You

ByYuko April 23, 2025May 12, 2025

This Osaka 1 day itinerary article offers the best plan for your Osaka trip, with transportation tips from all major airports, luggage storage advice, and three practical itineraries based on your arrival time.