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Touring the World: Here's How to Travel Light

Kavan Choksi says that whether you're a photographer out for a 10-day shoot or a businessman on a week-long conference or even a fresh graduate going backpacking for an entire year, traveling light is one of the best things you can do.

Traveling light makes moving from one place to another more manageable and prevents you from bringing unnecessary clothing or items. In today's blog post, Kavan Choksi shares some valuable tips on how to travel light.

To pack light, you have to start with a smaller bag. The problem with using a bigger bag is that you might tend to fill it up with extra clothes, other items, gear, or equipment you think you might need for your trip. When you limit the space for packing, it stands to reason that you automatically stop yourself from overpacking.

According to Kavan Choksi, you should only pack necessary things and eliminate any just-in-case items. Some people have this compulsion to prepare for everything, while others like having more options when it comes to clothing, perfume, footwear, and other things.

Another tip from Kavan Choksi is that instead of bringing much clothing, get extra cash to buy clothes or anything you'll need for any special occasions on the itinerary if there are any. The extra luggage space you don't use may also come in handy when bringing home souvenirs.

Kavan Choksi also says that when packing clothes, apply the Pareto Principle. The Pareto Principle states that 80 percent of what you pack must be your clothing, and the remaining 20 percent can be your emergency kit, shower kit, other equipment, etc. It's also important to keep in mind, Kavan Choksi says, that when packing clothes focus on layers and not bulk.

Do you have any tips on traveling light? Please share them with Kavan Choksi in the comments section below.

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The Most Legendary Japanese Swords in History

According to photography enthusiast and avid traveler Kavan Choksi, Japan is a country that holds so much mystique and wonder, which is why it's his favorite country. In this blog post, he takes a different approach to the Asian country and looks at other items on which legends and fantasies of Japan are based. This blog focuses on actual historical objects that are both mysterious and fascinating – Japanese swords of legend.

Before anything else, Kavan Choksi explains that Japanese blades have a certain mystique, even when compared to Western swords. Japanese weapons have a spirituality in and about them that transcends this world. In addition, the belief of many Japanese that these weapons were either made by or wielded by gods and demons adds to the enchanting, inspiring, or terrifying aura.

Take, for instance, the Kusanagi. This blade, which is widely believed to be hidden in the Atsuta shrine in Nagano, has quite a jaw-dropping tale behind it.

According to legend, the Kusanagi comes from the body of a gigantic eight-headed snake after the Japanese god of storms slew it. It is an iconic piece of the Imperial Regalia of Japan, gifted by the sun goddess as proof of royalty and divine-handed leadership.

Then there are the rival blades – the infamous Muramasa cursed swords and the benevolent Masamune – both named after two of the most revered swordsmiths in Japan.

The Muramasa swords were believed to have the ability to cut anything they touched. The Masamune had the same power, but only to objects that deserved to be cut. The Masamune would be repelled by people and objects undeserving of being cleaved.

What are your favorite swords of all time? What are the lores and legends behind it? Why do you love them so much? Feel free to share it with Kavan Choksi in the comments section below.

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The Top Restaurants to Visit in Shinjuku

When going to Tokyo for personal or business reasons, chances are you will be staying at or at least paying a visit to Shinjuku. The area is known for being the center of nightlife culture in Japan and home to a lot of dining establishments that are definitely worth your time, says freelance photographer Kavan Choksi. Here are some of them. Tsukemen Gonokami Seisakusho If you are looking for ramen, there are tons of good choices in Shinjuku, including Ichiran Ramen and Fu-unji. For a different ramen experience, head to Tsukemen Gonokami Seisakusho, situated just at the back of the Takashiyama department store. It is widely popular for its tsukemen, also called dipping ramen. The dish differs from regular ramen in that you dip thick, chewy noodles into a dense soup. The store has customers lining up even before it opens.

Katsukura If you happen to pass by Takashimaya Times Square, go to the 14th floor and visit Katsukura to get your tonkatsu fix (breaded, deep-fried pork cutlet.) You can choose between the more flavorful rosu (pork loin) or leaner hire (pork fillet.) Kavan Choksi loves that most of its menu selections come with free refills of rice, miso soup, shredded cabbage, and pickled vegetables. Plus, he notes the restaurant's quick service. Kyubey Have you ever been to a kaiten-zushi restaurant that serves sushi on a conveyor belt? There are plenty of such dining establishments in Shinjuku. If you are looking for a traditional sushi experience with fresh fish and high-quality rolls, try Kyubey, which has a branch at the Keio Plaza Hotel. The sushi dishes are quite diverse and served at their optimal temperature, so it is better to immediately eat what you have taken from the conveyor belt. You may have to splurge a bit, as Kavan Choksi warns, because the price at the restaurant may be a bit expensive.

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Six Destinations in Japan Every Serious Foodie Must Visit

Japan is beaming with incredible destinations for all sorts of experiences. When it comes to culinary adventures, the country offers several incredible locations that foodies must never miss.

Something for Everyone As Japan's second-largest city, Osaka is known for its delicious food and bustling atmosphere. From street food to Michelin-starred restaurants, there's something for everyone in this city, mentions freelance photographer Kavan Choksi. Be sure to give in to some local specialties like okonomiyaki and takoyaki. Nagoya is ideal for those who love hearty and filling meals. The city is famous for its miso katsu, a deep-fried pork cutlet covered in a thick miso sauce.

Meanwhile, Kyoto is a more traditional destination where foodies can find some of the best kaiseki cuisines in the country. According to Kavan Choksi, the city's multi-course meal showcases the freshest seasonal ingredients and flavors. Hakodate, situated on the southern tip of Hokkaido, is another great destination for seafood lovers. The city's famous morning market offers a wide variety of fresh seafood perfect for sushi and sashimi.

An Amazing Food Scene Shizuoka is known for its incredible green tea and wasabi production in central Japan. Shizuoka-grown green tea leaves are used in almost 80% of all the green tea produced in Japan. Visitors can tour some local tea farms and plantations to learn more about the process. The region also has several fantastic seafood options, such as lobster and tuna. Further north in Hokkaido, Sapporo is a must-visit destination for any beer lover. The city is home to several breweries where visitors can learn about the brewing process and taste some of the best beer in Japan.

Travelers and locals adore Japan's food scene for obvious reasons such as excellence, freshness, and culture. Foodies can expect to experience food from Japanese chefs to be excellent and memorable.

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When In Japan: The Top Reasons To Stay At A Ryokan

Are you looking for a traditional Japanese lodging experience? Kavan Choksi suggests staying at a ryokan, or traditional Japanese inn, which offers travelers a luxurious and relaxing experience unlike any other.

A ryokan is more than just a place for weary travelers to rest. A typical ryokan structure consists of many traditional elements, such as tatami mats, sliding paper screens, low wooden tables, oriental decorations, and in most cases, a futon. These accommodations provide a fun and relaxing way for locals and tourists to experience a piece of Japanese history first-hand.

A ryokan's staff is trained to prioritize guests' comfort and enjoyment by paying attention to details and ensuring the cleanliness of every nook and cranny. This hospitality is a sure way to take your pampering to the next level.

Another reason to check in at a ryokan is to indulge in Japanese breakfast in bed. It is a delight for the taste buds and eyes, a good combination for photographers like Kavan Choksi. Most ryokans serve washoku, traditional Japanese cuisine composed of rice, seasonal local specialties, and miso soup. The food will be served right at the doorstep of your bedroom, so there is no need to wash up or fix your hair before taking your breakfast.

The highlight of a ryokan stay is a private onsen (hot spring) bath. Many ryokans have been constructed near hot springs and take great pride in their bathing facilities and spas. Some are gender-segregated communal facilities, while other ryokans have private baths for couples and families who want to bathe together.

Finally, guests can also enjoy taking a stroll around a ryokan's garden and neighborhood, especially if the destination is situated in the scenic countryside. Kavan Choksi reminds visitors to pack their cameras, as you will not want to miss out on the unique photographic opportunities found at most ryokans.

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Preparing for a Trip to Japan? Consider These Tips

There are a few things to think about and prepare for when traveling to Japan. Itinerary, transportation, lodging, and food are just some aspects of the trip you should prepare for. Freelance photographer Kavan Choksi shares his thoughts on the most effective way to plan for a trip to the Land of the Rising Sun.

 Get the documents ready The primary consideration should be obtaining a Japanese travel visa. Unless a traveler is exempt from needing one, be sure to apply for the visa well before the departure date. The next decision to make concerns the duration of your stay in Japan. Itineraries can range from as short as one week to a month or even longer. The longer the visit, the more ground you can cover, but it will also require more planning. Flight tickets and transportation within Japan can get expensive if you try to visit every city, popular destination, and secret haven.

Check your budget

Factor in costs for travel, food, accommodation, and souvenirs when creating a budget, shares Kavan Choksi. Japan is not a cheap country, but there are ways to save money if needed. For example, eating out at restaurants can be pricey, so opting for a convenience store bento or cooking food in the hotel room can be more affordable. Consider connectivity. In Japan, renting a pocket Wi-Fi device is a popular communication and connectivity option for travelers. A quick online search will reveal various rental companies with different price points and plans.

 Explore alternatives

 When it comes to accommodations, there are various options as well, from Western-style hotels to traditional Japanese inns (known as ryokan). It's crucial to do some research beforehand to know the best choices for your budget. Learn about food choices. It would be helpful to have an idea of the type of food you should expect to eat throughout your stay, notes Kavan Choksi.

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Three Must-See Historical Sites in Japan

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Freelance photographer Kavan Choksi considers Japan one of his favorite places to explore. Aside from the capital Tokyo, he is also interested in exploring other places, especially the historical and heritage sites in the country. He shares his list of three must-see historic locations in the Land of the Rising Sun.

National Treasures

First on the list is Himeji Castle. The castle is considered one of the best-preserved in Japan and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The castle was first built in 1333 but has undergone several renovations over the centuries. What makes this castle unique are its white walls which give it an exquisite look. It is considered by the Japanese as their national treasure.

 The second on the list is Matsumoto Castle. This Japanese castle is one that you cannot miss when traveling to Japan. It is located in the city of Matsumoto, in the Nagano Prefecture. The castle is also known as the "Crow Castle" because of its black exterior. It is one of Japan's oldest castles. It was built in 1595 and is also considered a national treasure and one of the 12 tenshu of Japan.

Last on the list is Kumamoto Castle, one of the most famous castles in Japan. The castle is also considered a national treasure. In addition to this, it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The castle was first built in 1467 but was destroyed by an earthquake in 1877 and rebuilt in 1960. Another earthquake damaged the Nagabei Wall in 2016, but restoration efforts were completed in 2021. The castle is now open to the public and is definitely worth a visit.

 These are some of the numerous historical sites that you can find in Japan. So if you're ever in the country, Kavan Choksi recommends that you check these heritage sites that will show you the country's unique charms and rich history.

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A Foodie's Guide to the Best Street Food in Tokyo

Kavan Choksi insists that Japan is also a top destination when it comes to food. As he explains, there's always something good to enjoy from their traditional to modern cuisine. Though Japan certainly has many top-rated restaurants, they also have plenty of can't-miss street food. He shares his list of the street food you must try when visiting Tokyo.

Taiyaki, or Japanese fish-shaped cake, is popular street food in Japan. The batter of this sweet pancake is usually filled with red bean paste and cooked until crispy and golden brown. It's most common in the summer when fresh, high-quality red beans are abundant. Other common fillings are custard cream, chocolate, vanilla, cheese, or matcha. This treat is also popular during winter with its hot and fresh filling, especially when one has been on the streets for too long.

Menchi katsu is a popular Japanese food consisting of a deep-fried ground meat patty. It's made from finely ground beef or pork mixed with shredded onions, eggs, and panko breadcrumbs before being molded into the desired shape and then deep-fried. Kavan Choksi says that walking around in Japan, snacks like this are a treat for tired tourists.

Okonomiyaki is a savory pancake containing various ingredients. Its main ingredients are flour, water, and shredded cabbage, including sliced pork belly, octopus, or other seafood. As he traveled around Japan, Kavan Choksi noticed no standard recipe for okonomiyaki. Restaurants and street stalls experiment with different combinations of meats and vegetables to create unique tastes and toppings. Okonomi roughly translates to "what you like" and yaki means “grill".

Kakigori is a Japanese shaved ice dessert that consists of thinly shaved ice crystals and condensed milk, often flavored with fruit, syrup, or sweet beans. Kakigori is perfect for enjoying during the hot summer months.

Did this article make you hungry? What Japanese street food are you most looking forward to trying?

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Odaiba, a Romantic Japanese Location

According to Kavan Choksi, Odaiba is an artificial island in Japan's Tokyo Bay that houses the Rainbow Bridge, Palette Town, and many other attractions. It's renowned for its beauty and has long been a popular destination for couples to go on dates. In this article, we'll look at why Odaiba is such a popular dating spot for the Japanese and reveal some lesser-known attractions of the island.

With a circumference of 6km, Odaiba is located in Tokyo Bay and measures roughly 9km2. With an area comparable to that of Manhattan in New York City, it takes about 30 minutes to traverse it from end to end. The skyscrapers on Odaiba house various attractions for people of all ages to enjoy.

Around 30 years ago, there were more factories than residences in Odaiba due to its convenient location next to the sea. It was difficult for people living in Tokyo to see Mt. Fuji because of air pollution. However, the construction of Odaiba completely changed Tokyo's landscape. Undeniably, it is now one of Japan's most beautiful cities, with the sea as its backdrop and views of Mt. Fuji when visibility is high.

The Rainbow Bridge provides a great view of Odaiba and the bay area connecting the two islands. The sight of the Rainbow Bridge and Tokyo Tower at sunset is a truly romantic scene, Kavan Choksi adds.

The Aqua-City shopping center on the artificial island hosts an aquarium, theaters, and other shops. Various events happen throughout the year, including fashion shows, sumo matches, flower arrangement exhibitions, etc. It's also home to many restaurants and cafes.

Palette town is a shopping, dining, and amusement complex with a Ferris wheel attraction. It's a popular place for couples to go on daytime or nighttime dates because of its romantic ambiance. The roof of Palette Town provides a great view of Tokyo Bay. If you visit at night, Kavan Choksi says you can see the beautiful lights dotting the bay reflecting on the waters.

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Must-visit: The most unforgettable temples in Japan

For today, freelance photographer Kavan Choksi talks about some of the most unforgettable temples in Japan that visitors should see. And it should also come as no surprise that most of these temples are located in Kyoto.

The Kinkakuji Temple is a Buddhist temple in the Arashiyama district of Kyoto. It is one of the most iconic temples in Japan, and it looks beautiful when lit up at night.

Construction began in 1397 and was funded by shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu as a retirement villa. After Yoshimitsu died, the building was converted into a Zen temple. This is why the Golden Pavilion looks somewhat unusual to Japanese eyes, but it still belongs among the country's most iconic temples.

The other famous temple in Kyoto is Kiyomizu-dera or 'Kiyomizudera.' It was first constructed in 778, but this building burned down seven times over the next centuries. The present version was last refurbished in 1633.

The Kiyomizudera Temple is notable for its wooden balcony that juts out from the second story of the main hall, which offers visitors views of Kyoto through an elegant, forested gorge below.

For many people outside of Japan, the first thing that comes to mind when they think about temples in Japan is the temple complex: The Golden Pavillion and Kiyomizudera.

The Ginkakuji Temple is another of the most iconic temples in Japan, and it's the only temple on the list that isn't located in Kyoto. Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimasa built this Zen Buddhist temple to hold a precious metal (in order place of gold), but it turned out to be too soft for this structure, Kavan Choksi adds.