The most unique adventure and travel deals by KKday SIngapore
Author: KKday Singapore
Launched in 2014 and headquartered in Taiwan, KKday is Asia’s leading travel experience e-commerce platform that connects users to local tours from all over the world. KKday has more than 6000 travel activities worldwide from our professional providers and unique local experts in more than 53 countries. We believe that a unique and memorable travel experience tailored to your needs and wants is simply a click away.
For more information, please visit: www.kkday.com
This October, hop on a train to Busan and take part in some of Korea’s most anticipated festivals! We’ve got fireworks, films, and a lot of K-Pop stars, so read on as KKday tells you what’s up with Busan this month.
Busan International Fireworks Festival
Date: October 28, 2017 Place: Gwangalli Beach, Gwangan Bridge 219, Hwanganhaebyeon-ro, Suyeong-gu, Busan
It all started in 2005, with an international audience of 21 countries. The extravagant fireworks show at the 2005 APEC Busan Summit left such a deep impression among the onlookers and the delegates, the city decided to make the fireworks an annual affair.
Busan, Korea: 2010 Busan International Fireworks Festival (Flickr/Mohd Khamil)
This year, get ready for a jaw-dropping pyrotechnic show. See the grand display of light and sound put other fireworks show to shame. You can watch the show up close and personal at the Gwangalli Beach, and in between the show you can grab some of Busan’s drool-inducing street food. Or if you want a more quiet, romantic experience with your special someone, trek up to Mt. Hwangnyengsan, where the air is cool and the sights are incredible.
Busan International Film Festival
Date: October 12 – 21, 2017 Place: Centum City, U-dong, Haeun Daegu, Busan-si
Since it started in 1996, the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) has become one of the most prestigious festivals in the world. The festival is particularly known for showcasing fresh talent, especially first-time directors across Asia.
Busan, Korea: 2009 BIFF Panel Talk between Kim Ji-Woon and Bryan Singer
This year, the festival will screen a total of 298 films from 75 countries. All attendees get to enjoy the film in swanky Busan Cinema Center, an impressive 30,000 square meter complex with a 4,000 seat outdoor theater.
Another festival attraction? The A-grade guestlist! Each year, Korea’s hottest celebrities grace the festival’s red carpet. Actors such as Sung Ji Hyo (Running Man), Lee Min Ho (Train to Busan) and Song Joong-Ki (Descendants of the Sun) make regular appearances, as well as K-Pop groups like Big Bang and EXO.
You can find out more about the films and directors from the BIFF’s official website, here.
Busan One Asia Festival
Date: October 22 to October 31, 2017 Place: Various events will take place across Busan.
If you’re a fan of Korean dramas, K-Pop music, Korean skincare…basically all things Korean, then don’t miss out on the Busan One Asia Festival! This incredible event is a grand gathering of some of Korea’s hottest celebrities and idols for a week of performances, interactive talks and booths, and stalls of your favorite Korean dishes and merchandise!
Busan, Korea: K-Pop Girl Group ‘Red Velvet’ will perform during the festival’s closing ceremony (image via Wikimedia)
Don’t miss out on the festival’s Closing Ceremony which will feature performances from Red Velvet, Ailee, g.o.d’s Kim Tae Woo, and Baek Ji Young. For more information, check out the festival’s official website.
There are lots to do at the Kichijoji Station: you can play football at the Tokyo Musashino City FC, visit the Studio Ghibli Museum, or explore the shopping area. But whatever you do, you’ll work up a big appetite. Don’t miss out on these bites next time you’ve hop off the station!
1. Satou Beef Balls さとう
Smell the sweet onion the moment you take a bite! (image via Wei-Te Wong)
You haven’t been to Kichijoji if you haven’t tried the fried beef balls! Satou is a meat poultry store that sells Matsusaka steak, beef steak, fried snacks and now beef balls. The beef balls are fried to a golden brown, and with just one bite, you’ll taste the delicious juicy stuffing and sweet onion. One beef ball cost about 200 yen, and if you buy more than 5 beef ball, it will only cost 160 yen each.
2. Kichijoji Large Bowl どんぶり
With all sorts of beef, pork and chicken available, this is a must-try for all the meat lovers. The owner likes to challenge customers to finish an entire bowl for themselves. A large bowl usually costs 600-850 yen.
3. Kebab Houseいせや
Savor the juicy meat kebabs after a long day of work (Photo credit: nakashi via VisualHunt / CC BY-SA)
Let the aroma of the barbecue lure you in, and just follow the smoke and long lines. This place is a long-time favourite of many Japanese commuters who come here after work, and is often full of people. Choose from sticks of pork tongue, pork cheek meat, small tender muscles, to chicken skewers. The best part? Each stick costs just about 80 yen!
4. HARBS Melaleuca Fruit Cake
The dessert choices can vary, depending on the fruits available (Photo credit: alexxis via Visual hunt / CC BY-ND)
Many visitors describe HARBS Melaleuca cake is the only Japanese food they will eat. There are many branches in Japan and the one in Kichijoji is located in the station アトレ (atre) mall B1. A lot of fresh fruits goes into making Melaleuca cake, and is as pretty as it is delicious. They use sour cream instead of sweet cream, giving the cake a unsually delightful flavour.
5. Woodberry’s Yogurt Ice Cream
Experience a unique sweet-sour dessert! (image via Erika 恵梨香 K.)
This mini-shop may not catch your eye the first time you glance around, but Woodberry’s Yogurt Ice Cream has become a household name in Tokyo desserts. The company is known not only for its distinctly light, sweet-sour taste, but also for cooperating with local farm-based production for the fruits. The flavours may be different each day, depending on the ingredients they choose to use, so keep coming back to try them all!
Tokyo is full of food, with bountiful budget options, street food on the corners, to the famous sit-down restaurants (READ: 10 Must-try Restaurants in Japan). And for things to do, be sure to check out KKday for all sorts of things to do in Japan this holiday!
Who doesn’t want to travel the world with their best friends? It’s the dream, but we at KKday have realized that traveling can either make or break a friendship. Every one will have a different ideal itinerary and trying to communicate and agree on the accommodations, attractions, and budget can be a major headache.
From experience, we at KKday know which phrases will most definitely come up in the planning process that can quickly turn into an argument. No worries. We’re here to help you out to not only make the trip smooth sailing, but one of the best memories you and your friends will ever have.
1. “But I don’t know how to start planning for a trip.”
The internet is full of information about what you can do and where you can visit. Everyone wants to visit fun attractions and you can also opt to follow a tour!
Evernote
You can use their travel scrapbook to plan your own unique journey by adding photos, clipping articles, and jotting down important details. You can also easily update your plans as they change, and share your Evernote notebook with your friends.
2. “The hotel is too expensive!” or “The hotel is too far away!”
How much are you willing to pay for accommodation? You might have a different number in mind from your friends. Or maybe you can agree on a price, but the hotel is too far away from the sights you want to see.
Another thing to keep in mind is convenient transportation. You can come up with a shortlist of may 5 to 7 budget hotels or hostels with easy access to transportation, then make the decision together as a group.
Airbnb
You will be able to find your “home” with them. Many opt for an Airbnb-booked room or apartment as it gives them the whole local experience, at a cheaper price.
Agoda
Agoda is a site that gives you the best deals for hotels!
Hostelworld
If you are interest in living in a youth hostel, this website would be the best for you to source your hostel.
3. “But, I can’t read a map!” or “I don’t know how to take the subway!”
Moving between attractions will require you to walk, take the bus, or the train. This means you need to have an updated and accurate map on hand to keep from getting lost
Maps.me Make sure everyone has downloaded this app on their smartphone for easy, offline navigation.
Even the most well-planned trip can go down the drain when someone decides to free-spirit. Traveling alone is not recommended, especially if you’re new to the place. Ask everyone what they’d like to see and do during the planning process and research ways to accommodate everyone. Just remember to be both flexible and realistic.
KKday
With over 7000 tour activities all over the world, KKday has something for everyone! You can check out our website while planning your itinerary and book experiences with us!
5. “I am tired. Let’s go home.”
Nobody wants to cut their fun short, but everyone has different energy levels, and nothing sparks an argument faster than physical exhaustion. Review your itinerary and make sure the activities aren’t too tiring. Or if you do have jam-packed days, make sure to balance it out with lighter activities the day after—activities that will let you sleep in until noon, or on the train.
6. “You decide. I game for anything.”
It’s possible your friends who are genuinely cool with anything. But it’s much more likely that they’re hesitant to voice out their opinions and concerns. Avoid complaints and fights when you’re already on your trip by having good and open communication all throughout the trip planning.
Arguments among friends are unavoidable, and are sure to come up when planning a trip. But careful planning, open communication, and flexibility are the key to making this holiday trip a dream come true. So don’t be afraid of the logistics; take that trip with your best friends and make wonderful memories together!
Have you been hoarding washi tape and colourful pens from Muji? Many people love Japan-made stationeries because both the premium quality and designs that range from elegant to wacky. We’ve rounded up 5 stationery stores that will make you wish you could be a student again!
1. For Trendy Basics: Loft Trendy Store
Like its name suggested, Loft is indeed trendy with all sorts latest merchandises. Step in and marvel at the 7 floors of all sorts of colourful stationery supplies.
Photo credit: martinhoward via VisualHunt / CC BY
They have cosmetic products, school supplies, even snacks. Lose yourself in the aisles of paper bags, pens, stamps, and fan-themed merchandise.
The name says it all: Travel Factory is made for travelers and sells things such as maps, pocket journals, and travel-themed buttons for your luggage.
Photo credit: Richard, enjoy my life! via Visual hunt / CC BY-SA
Apart from the cute items they sell, Traveler’s Factory also draws in crowds with its quaint cafe and crafting table. Perfect for a lazy afternoon after days of exploring Tokyo!
Website: Traveler’s Factory Facebook
Tel: 03-6412-7830
Opening hours: 12:00 – 20:00
Address: Tokyo Meguro Meguro District 3-13-10
3. For Elegant Souvenirs: Tokyo Kyukyodo
Photo credit: Keng Susumpow via Visual hunt / CC BY
Kyukyodo was founded all the way back in 1663 and has made a name for selling traditional and elegant stationery. This is the best place to go for classy souvenir reminiscent of Imperial Japan.
Traditional Postcards (Photo credit: othree via VisualHunt.com / CC BY)
Website:KyuKyodo website Tel: 03-3571-4429
Opening hours: 10:00 – 19:00
Address: Chuo Tokyo Ginza 5-7-4
4. More than Just School Supplies: Tokyu Hands Dept. Store
Tokyu Hands Department Store is one of those Japan stores that literally has everything. From household items, handicrafts, hardware, electrical appliances, stationery, cycling materials—you even have camping supplies!
Photo credit: chinnian via VisualHunt / CC BY-SA
Every kind of item come in a wide array of fun and cute designs to choose from. If you’re looking for a one-stop store for all your stationery needs (and more), this is it!
The store sells camping supplies, sports equipment, and of course—stationery. (Photo credit: ksuyin via Visual hunt / CC BY-SA)
Website: Tokyu Hands Facebook
Tel: 03-5361-3111
Opening hours: 10:00 – 20:30
Address: Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Sendagaya 5-24-2, Times Square Building 2 ~ 8F (Shinjuku Takashimaya Branch)
5. For Your #Studyblr Aesthetic: Ito-ya House
Photo credit: yto via Visual hunt / CC BY
Last but definitely not the least on our list is ITO-YA Bookstore. With over 100 years of history, this 13-storey building is a stand-out along the posh fashion boutiques of the Ginza commercial district.
Ito-ya has an entire floor devoted to colourful wrapping paper! (Photo credit: tonnoro via Visualhunt / CC BY)
Each floor has a different theme and houses different kinds of school supplies from gift packaging, office stationery, to art supplies. They even have a huge collection of paint chips!
Website: ITO-YA Website
Tel: 03-3561-8311
Opening hours: 10:00 – 20:00
Address: 2-7-15 Ginza Chuo Tokyo (Ginza Shop)
Bali is nicknamed the Island of Gods for a reason. Ridiculously beautiful with its volcanic mountains and lush rainforests, the Indonesian island is like a piece of untouched paradise. If work/school has been getting up your nerves recently, cut yourself some slack and head over to Bali for a quick getaway from the city! The island is teeming with some of the world’s most exciting travel activities and landmarks to spice up your typical dull weekends.
Here are a list of amazing things to do in Bali that we bet would have you packing at the end of this post.
Why swim when you can ride a scooter underwater? The Bali Underwater Scooter offers travellers a unique scuba-diving experience without the need for licenses or heavy gear equipment. Virtually anyone can hop onto the underwater scooter and dive up to 20 metres deep into Bali’s waters.
The underwater scooter works the same way as a motorcycle would — swerve the handlebars for direction and push the baton for speed. Is there a cooler way to admire Bali’s coral reefs and marine life?
Here’s one to jazz up your Instagram feed — the Beji Guwang Hidden Canyon, a.k.a Bali’s best kept secret. A beautiful ravine eroded by river waters, the Beji Guwang Hidden Canyon was once a place only the locals knew; it only started receiving tourists recently for its picturesque landscape. Wade through the waters and strike a pose amongst the canyon’s abstract rocks for the perfect shot!
Officially named as the Sacred Monkey Forest Sanctuary, the Ubud Monkey Forest are home to three Hindu temples, and as its name suggests — monkeys. A popular tourist attraction in Bali, the Ubud Monkey Forest is a must-visit for nature and animal lovers alike.
Explore to your heart’s content but stay aware of your surroundings — the monkeys, albeit adorable, are notorious for their pickpocketing skills, whilst the braver ones snatch it outrightly. Empty your pockets and avoid bringing expensive items, unless you’d like to see them hanging from the treetops.
If you’re an advocate for animal rights, how about releasing a baby turtle back into their ocean? The Bali Sea Turtle Society is a non-profit organization that aims to protect endangered sea turtles by scouting the beaches for eggs before the poachers can reach them. Even though most conservation centres charge a fee for participants to release the baby turtles, the Bali Sea Turtle Society does it absolutely for free. Have someone been cutting onions in here?
Lying on Nusa Penida island sits Mother Nature’s best infinity pool — the Angel’s Billabong. Wedged between two cliffs, the Angel’s Billabong holds crystalline waters that are bewitchingly beautiful to swim in. Though irresistibly stunning, the pool is unwise to swim in during high tides. The waves are stronger towards the edge and are inadvisable to venture out to. Instead, stay close to the rocks and enjoy the million-dollar view exclusive only to the Nusa Penida island.
Why pay a spa when you can have it free at Tegal Wangi beach? Lined with pristine white sand and azure waters, the gorgeous beach carries jacuzzi-shaped rocks where you can indulge in a rejuvenating soak against Bali’s horizon. Now, that’s what we call an awesome weekend retreat.
As spring drives away the winter cold in Korea, nature awakens and life carpets the Earth. Flowers bud, trees thaw and grass grow, but amidst all of that hullabaloo, the beauty of cherry blossoms shines through. Japan might be the first that springs (yes, pun intended) to mind as we speak of cherry blossoms or sakura, but Korea can rival anything Japan has to offer. Here are some of the most dazzling spots in Korea to catch the cherry blossoms in spring.
1. Jinhae Gunhangje Festival
Cherry Blossoms over Yeojwacheon Stream in Korea
Situated at the port town of Jinhae-gu lies the annual Jinhae Gunhangje Festival, Korea’s top cherry blossom celebration. The yearly affair features canopies of cherry blossoms all around — a stunning sight that capture the hearts of millions each year.
Pay a visit to the picturesque Yeojwacheon Stream and “Romance Bridge”, or simply take a stroll along Gyeonghwa station. The neighbouring Jangboksan Sculpture Park displays over ten thousands of cherry trees and an expansive view overlooking Jinhae.
Looking for directions to Jinhae Gunhangje Festival? Take a day trip with KKday straight from Seoul or Busan!
2. Yeouido Island
Yeouido Spring Flower Festival in Korea (Republic of Korea)
An island on the River Han, Yeouido is a popular getaway all year-round for city dwellers, and even more so during spring, where crowds flock over to the island for the yearly Yeouido Spring Flower Festival. The star of the show? The cherry blossoms, of course! Bask in the waft of spring flower scents during the day, but stick around till nightfall, and you’ll find yourself surrounded with enchanting festival lights.
3. Namsan Park
Namsan Park
Namsan Park is the largest park in Seoul, exhibiting an abundance of walking trails, lush greenery and wildlife. Home to Namsan Mountain and the iconic N Seoul Tower, Namsan Park also offers visitors awe-inspiring views of Seoul.
The Cherry Blossom Path in Namsan Park is the longest avenue of cherry trees in the city, flaunting incredible sights during full bloom in spring. As dusk falls, Namsan Park illuminates its trees, creating a lovely atmosphere for nighttime strolls in the park.
4. Seokchon Lake Park
Seokchon Lake Park
Just a stone’s throw away from Lotte World, Seokchon Lake Park is dubbed as one of Seoul’s best walking trails. Originally part of the Han River, a land reclamation project separated the river, forming a lake away from the water body. The new lake now has two parts — the west named as Seokchon Lake whilst the east is in Lotte World’s Magic Island.
Seokchon Lake is a great respite away from the bustle of the city, ideal for relaxing strolls or sports under a myriad of cherry trees during spring.
A prestigious private university, the Kyung Hee University in Seoul is already stunning on a day-to-day basis with its classic European-inspired architecture and green gardens. During spring, cherry blossoms veil the university in blush pink, adding to the popularity and beauty of the school as the season approaches.
6. Namcheon-dong
Namcheon-dong
Moving away from Seoul, our next stop is Namcheon-dong, Busan. As with Yeouido Island in Seoul, Namcheon-dong is one of the most popular cherry blossom spots in Busan. The Namcheon-dong cherry blossom road is situated at Namcheon-dong Samik Apartment and flanked with dense cherry trees that, when in full bloom, create a beautiful tunnel of pink flowers during spring.
Not sure what to do at night in Busan? Get on board a night tour bus to explore the city’s most popular attractions.
A quick getaway for city dwellers in Busan, Daejeo Ecological Park is yet another beautiful hotspot to marvel at cherry blossoms in Korea. Unique to the area, a sea of canola flowers begin to appear after the cherry blossoms take their exit, leading the park to host a festival in honour of the gold blooms.
8. Dalmaji Hill
Spring in Dalmaji Hill
Dubbed as one of the most beautiful roads in all of Korea, Dalmaji Hill sits on the slope of Wausan Mountain, offering breathtaking car rides down a path lined with alluring cherry blossoms and pine trees. Located near Haeundae Beach, enjoy scenic sights of mountainous landscapes at Dalmaji Hill before heading down to the beach for a refreshing sea breeze.
Spring is definitely the most wonderful time of year to visit Japan — the climate is delightfully cool, cherry blossoms are everywhere, and there’s an entire string of intriguing festivals and activities to join in. If you’re lucky enough to be in Japan during this beautiful time of year, look no further than KKday’sspring travel guide to Japan!
It is no secret that spring in Japan is stunningly beautiful, with full credits going to the exquisite sakura flower. The delicate flower showers the country in a blanket of pink, drawing people from far and wide to its parks, gardens and lakes for the hanami (flower viewing) season.
Albeit gorgeous, cherry blossoms are tragically short-lived. Full bloom only lasts an average of one week in Japan, and its fleeting lifespan is exactly what makes the sakura season so precious.
Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route may be enveloped in snow but think twice if you thought this route was only meant for winter. In fact, this famous mountain sightseeing route is never opened during the frosty season and is only available from April to November.
Nicknamed as the “Roof of Japan”, the Alpine Route is literally carved from an 18 meter high snow wall. Ecstasy-blue skies and snowcapped peaks can be seen from above, and the route is typically transversed by cable cars, ropeways, tunnel trolley buses, or by foot. If you’re looking for something a lil’ different from the usual spring, the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route might just be your calling.
3. Celebrate Buddha’s Birthday
Hana Matsuri Festival to celebrate Buddha’s birth (Pinterest)
Also known as Hana Matsuri or Kambutsu-e nativity, Japan commemorates the birth of Buddha on April 8th annually. Visitors may arrive at Buddhist temples to see the place adorned with vibrant flowers and a child statue of Buddha, standing in a bowl. Guests pay their respects by pouring scented water or sweet hydrangea tea over the statue using a small ladle.
Along with cherry blossoms, spring in Japan invites the arrival of wisteria flowers. While these lilac blooms can be found all over Japan, one of the best places to marvel at Wisterias is at Kawachi Fuji Garden in Northern Kyushu. The clusters of cascading Wisterias create an arresting flower tunnel that looks straight out from a fairytale.
Throughout spring, you may come across people scouring muddy beaches or coastlines across Japan. What they’re really searching for is their dinner! Shiohigari (clam digging) is a popular activity in Japan, great for families or friends looking for a bit of fun before bringing home a meal.
If you’re looking to get some clam digging action, head over to the more popular beaches as these places are more likely to provide equipment as well. Prepare rubber boots (for the rocky areas), a couple of towels and extra clothes as you’ll be in for lots of dirt and sweat while clam digging.
Jindaiji Temple welcomes spring with the annual Daruma Fair. Daruma dolls come in various colors (often red) and designs depending on region. The round dolls are a symbol of perseverance and good luck. When sold, the doll’s eyes are completely white — tradition dictates that you only draw in an eye upon deciding on a goal, and only after the goal has been achieved, may you fill in the second eye.
Approximately an hour’s journey from Tokyo, the ancient city of Kamakura in Kanagawa Prefecture is one of the political giants of medieval Japan. A city rich in history, Kamakura is home to a number of impressive temples and the famous Great Buddha (Daibutsu) statue.
To celebrate the rich culture and history of Kamakura, a festival is held every second and third Sunday of April, at the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. During the festival, the entire town parties with a plethora of music, performances and parades of mikoshi (portable shrines).
Geisha performances are mostly held at small, private gatherings where entry is only allowed via introductions from existing clientele. Access to the reclusive world of geishas are almost mission impossible but fortunately, the geisha community do put on annual public shows to perform and present their arts.
One of the most famous shows is the Miyako Odori, performed by the elegant Gion Kobu geisha. Miyako Odori translates as “capital city dances”, a way of raising the spirits of Kyoto’s residents after Tokyo was renamed as Japan’s capital city. This show has been ongoing for 145 seasons, which means that the pioneering performance first began all the way back in 1872.
>> Don on your very own kimono and frolic down Japan’s streets.
The Takayama Spring Festival in Japan is a huge celebration held in hopes for a fruitful harvest since the 17th century. The festival is famous for its large floats (yatai) that are hauled around the city. These ornate floats are amazingly detailed with decorative wooden carvings and metalworks, draped over with embroidered cloth. Some floats even have mechanical puppets on the top to perform for the passing crowds.
Trust the Japanese for the strangest festivals. Held yearly at the Kanayama Shrine in Kawasaki, the Penis Festival, or otherwise known as Kanamara Matsuri, is dedicated to honor a man’s most precious member — yep, you guessed it — The penis.
Giantic phallus sculptures are seen parading down the streets and despite its offensive nature, the festival holds no sexual intend to it. The festival first began as a way for prostitutes to pray for protection against sexually transmitted diseases, and till today, the money raised goes to funding for HIV awareness and research.
Stuck in perpetual wanderlust? Passionate about making a difference in the travel industry? Love working in a startup? If you find yourself violently nodding your head, you’re the person KKday is looking to hire! KKday, Asia’s largest travel experience provider, is expanding and we have full time and internship positions available for all travel lovers.
1. What is KKday?
KKday, Asia’s leading travel experience e-commerce platform, was launched in 2014 and headquartered in Taiwan. Learn more about KKday.
Working in a start up allows you to exercise your creativity and engage in groundbreaking work (which buffs up your portfolio, may we add)
First hand travel tales from your desk partner (surfing tripadvisor has gone obsolete in KKday‘s office with the amount of travel experts we have)
Work with colleagues who love exploring the world as much as you
Pantry buffet — do we need to say more? Order whatever junk you want every month!
KKday provides you a fun and dynamic working environment and we don’t need words to convince you — see it to believe.
3. Who is KKday looking for?
Do you know a globetrotter absolutely ready to be part of KKday’s Singapore marketing team? Are you a jet-setter yourself? Whether you’re looking for a change in working environment or a fresh graduate with a youthful mind, as long as you’re zealous about exploring a territory unfamiliar to the company, KKday wants you!
Bloggers interested in a chance to earn extra income can drop us an email at marketing-sg@kkday.com for potential sponsorship partnership / affiliate collaboration.
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