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4 award-winning hotels in Kyoto to book a stay in before hotel taxes increase in 2026

Caught sight of the news that Kyoto will be raising hotel taxes in 2026?

To be exact, for room rates between 20,000 to 50,000 JPY (approx. 174 SGD to 435 SGD) per night, visitors will have to pay 1,000 JPY (approx. 8 SGD) per person per night.

As for accommodations over 100,000 JPY (approx. 871 SGD) per night, the tax will be at 10,000 JPY (approx. 87 SGD).

If approval is granted by the city assembly, the rise in taxes will be a nightmare come true for Japan lovers.

So perhaps 2025 is the year you should visit Kyoto before traveling gets a little too expensive in 2026…

Here’s a list of award-winning hotels in Kyoto to book a stay in.

Book early to secure your spots!

Hotel Forza Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi

Rating: 9.1 (9.2K+ reviews)

First up, we have this hotel tucked in the heart of Kyoto.

Hotel Forza Shijo Kawaramachi plants you just 300 m from Nishiki Market.

This centrally located 9-floor hotel is the perfect spot for exploring the city’s sights on foot.

It’s also an easy 38.4 km from Osaka International Airport.

Twin rooms and family rooms for 3 are available for booking and the hotel features a 24-hour front desk (great for assistance at any time).

Kickstart your day with an energizing breakfast for an additional fee of 2800 JPY (approx. 25 SGD) if you’d like.

Sakura Terrace The Gallery

Rating: 9 (17.6K+ reviews)

For those seeking an adults-only getaway, Sakura Terrace The Gallery offers just the respite you need.

This hotel places you within a short stroll of Kujo subway station and Kyoto Station.

Selected rooms feature private balconies.

After a day of discovery, relax at the hotel’s rejuvenating sauna or burn some “sushi calories” at the fitness center.

It’s an approx. 45-minute ride to Osaka airport and proximity to nearby gems like Sanjusangendo Temple.

Hotel The M’s Kyoto is less than a 10-minute stroll from Kujo Subway Station, which puts you a quick ride from all of Kyoto’s must-sees, including the Kyoto Station Building and Sanjusangendo Temple—both under 1.5 km away.

They have rooms for duos to quartets.

Having opened its doors in 2021, this fairly new hotel is here so you can ditch the cramped hostels.

Sotetsu Fresa Inn Kyoto-Hachijoguchi

Rating: 9 (9.5K reviews)

Solo Kyoto-trotting or hanging with your travel crew?

However you explore Kyoto, Sotetsu Fresa Inn Kyoto-Hachijoguchi has your back with attractions right at your fingertips—stroll 3 km to browse stalls at Nishiki Market or marvel at the Kiyomizu-dera Temple.

Osaka International Airport is just a 45-minute drive away.

Comes with a range of single and connecting rooms that cater to all types of travelers.

Fuel up at the hotel’s breakfast buffet for just 1400 JPY (approx. 13 SGD).

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5 quality face mask packs/sheets under $15 so you can start prepping your skin for CNY 2025

Heard of “one pack a day” but never tried it before?

Now’s the time to give it a go with CNY around the corner.

We’ve picked some quality face mask packs/sheets from $6 so you can start prepping your skin to 过新年 🧧

Saturday Skin Intense Hydration Mask

Promo Price: $6

First up, we have this intensely moisturizing sheet mask with a soft biocellulose sheet that hugs every curve and contour like a second skin.

Hyaluronic acid and juicy watermelon extract combine to quench parched complexions, while aloe vera soothes and refreshes.

As the mask works its hydrating magic, don’t be surprised if a crisp citrusy scent from lemon and orange peel oils starts bringing a smile to your face.

After a relaxing 20 minutes, peel it off and flaunt your post-mask glow.

Sephora Collection Fiber Face Mask(s)

Price: $6

Pamper yourself with pure botanical bliss in just 10 minutes using Sephora Collection’s Fiber Face Mask(s), a multitasking, skin-quenching dream, fusing hyaluronic acid with plant extracts.

The nourishing coconut variety soothes and restores with its formula.

Clogged pores? Reach for the mattifying matcha to detox and clarify; lemon works to purify too!

Lychee brings a burst of juicy moisture for an envious glow while thirsty complexions should drink up the watermelon’s plumping serum.

And blueberry works overtime to perfect radiance.

These vegan sheet masks are your shortcut to a spa-worthy ritual right from home.

Sephora Collection Booster Face Mask(s)

Price: $10

Can’t decide if you want to brighten or hydrate?

Now you can do both.

Sephora Collection’s Booster Face Masks provide 360° action with their two-piece design.

The Glow Booster Mask drenches your skin with a vitamin C and orange extract blend for a radiance boost.

Or go for the Soothe Booster Mask which soothes and nourishes with a mix of prebiotics and almond milk.

In just 5 minutes, these masks can conquer your skincare needs at once.

Glow Recipe Watermelon Glow Jelly Sheet Mask

Price: $13

Glow Recipe’s Watermelon Glow Jelly Sheet Mask drenches your complexion in hydrating extracts inspired by the principles of Korean skincare.

The star’s the watermelon extract, bursting with skin-replenishing vitamins and amino acids.

The mask is also soaked in soothing Centella Asiatica and hyaluronic acid to drench your pores with a surge of moisture.

Crafted with two seamlessly fitted pieces, this mask treat hugs every area to seal in the goodness.

Simply unfold, apply, and revel in the cooling sensation as the serum penetrates deep within your skin.

After 10 minutes, you will be left with a dewy glow that rivals a freshly cut watermelon off the vine.

Dr.Jart+ Ceramidin™ Cream-Infused Mask

Price: $14

Last but not least, we have Dr.Jart+’s Ceramidin™ Cream Mask.

It’s a godsend for dehydrated complexions as it delivers a rich cream infusion packed with ceramides that boosts skin’s moisture barrier by an impressive 31% while providing 24 hours of hydration.

But despite the powerful moisturizing punch, the ‘airy-tex’ fabric lets skin breathe easily and move naturally.

This means you don’t have to deal with suffocating stickiness.

Instead of flaky dryness, you will peel away to a supple glow thanks to the blend of olive fruit oil and shea butter that softens and smooths.

Dermatologist-tested and safe to use on various skin types.

Why Now’s the Perfect Time to Visit Japan

Among all the countries my husband and I have explored in Asia, Japan reigns supreme as our top pick. If you’ve ever dreamed of indulging in sushi, soaking in hot springs, or wandering neon-lit streets, this is your sign to book that ticket.

Learn why Japan is calling louder than ever.

THE YEN MAKES JAPAN IRRESISTIBLE

Japan’s tourism scene is on fire, fueled by the yen’s historic depreciation. In March 2024, Japan welcomed an astounding 3.14 million foreign visitors, smashing the previous record of 3.08 million set in March 2023.

Why the boom? The yen’s slide to a 38-year low against the dollar has made Japan a bargain-lover’s paradise. For Singaporeans, S$100 now gets you over 11,465 yen, compared to just 8,000 yen before the pandemic. This increased purchasing power is a game-changer for foodies, shopaholics, and adventurers alike.

Despite slightly rising commodity prices in Japan, the weaker yen ensures visitors can still enjoy more bang for their buck. Whether it’s a luxurious wagyu dinner or trendy streetwear, the yen stretch is undeniable.

MORE FLIGHTS, MORE CONVENIENCE

Traveling to Japan has never been easier. Airlines are responding to surging demand by adding more routes. For instance, Air Japan, a subsidiary of ANA Holdings, launched its Tokyo Narita-Singapore route in April 2024, with one-way fares starting at 17,500 yen. Affordable flights? Yes, please!

Image Credits: unsplash.com

HOT SPOTS AND MORE

The usual suspects like Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Hokkaido continue to charm travelers, but there’s more to explore. Hokuriku, with its breathtaking coastal landscapes and tranquil temples, is quickly emerging as the next must-visit region.

For travelers craving a mix of iconic landmarks and off-the-beaten-path experiences, Japan offers an endless array of discoveries waiting to be made.

WHAT THE FUTURE HOLDS

Japan’s economy is gaining momentum, with wages rising and inflation cooling off. The government’s stimulus programs are aimed at promoting growth, with projections suggesting 1.2% economic growth for fiscal 2025. While there are challenges such as managing increased tourist traffic and infrastructure demands, Japan is rising to the occasion.

WHY GO NOW

The yen’s weakness isn’t just a travel perk; it’s an open invitation to experience Japan’s vibrant culture, stunning scenery, and world-class hospitality without breaking the bank.

Image Credits: unsplash.com

Whether you’re a seasoned Japan traveler or planning your first visit, there’s never been a better time to say “konnichiwa”.

Sources: 1,2,3, & 4

6 floral bouquets/arrangements from $49 that are not roses for Valentine’s Day 2025

Not every person on earth likes roses, right?

If your special someone is not a rose-type girl/guy, why not consider these floral bouquets/arrangements we’ve picked for Valentine’s Day 2025?

Just a month to go so it’s best to start shopping and placing orders ASAP!

Forever Love

Price: $49

Sunflowers have a way of chasing away the gloom.

With their bright yellow petals, these cheerful blooms are pure sunshine in flower form and that’s exactly what you will find in this floral box from The Bud Box.

More than just a sunflower though, it’s an eruption of sunburst yellows mingling alongside fillers and foliage.

Send some sunshine to someone you love this Valentine’s Day 2025.

Classic/Large/Luxe Gerberas

Price: from $49.90

Blushing with a pink hue, this bouquet of gerberas makes the perfect gift.

You can choose from three sizes: Classic (10 stems), Large (15 stems), or Luxe (20 stems) where each comes with premium white paper wrapping and a ribbon to allow the blooms to take center stage.

Customize your gift with affordable add-ons from $4 if you’d like.

It also comes with a FREE message card so you can pen down your thoughts.

Rainbow Love Box

Price: $56

Invite a breath of fresh whimsy into your SO’s world with this lovely Rainbow Love Box.

A twist on the classic bouquet, it swaps roses for an airy baby’s breath in a spectrum of pastel hues.

It’s a celebration of color for this V’day!

Luscious Valentine

Promo Price: $59.90

For the chocoholic in your life, this Valentine’s bouquet is sure to satisfy their sweet tooth.

Nine Ferrero Rocher chocolates are arranged with sprays of pink baby’s breath, measuring about 35cm high and 25cm wide.

Plus, a complimentary message card lets you pen a personal note.

Splurge on a few add-ons from $5.90 to make it pop.

Henderson Hydrangea Pink

Price: $82

At first glance, you and your loved one will be swept away by the beauty of these pink hydrangea blooms.

Their soft pastel hues evoke feelings of romance.

But look closer and you will see why this bouquet is THE choice for this V’day.

This arrangement is also available in a cool blue theme and you can get it here: singaporeflorist.com.sg/henderson-hydrangea-blue.

Patrina VD

Price: from $119.90

Last but not least, we have this bouquet, a combo of blue baby’s breath and soft white cotton blossoms wrapped in crisp white paper and finished with a satin ribbon.

While it charms with beauty, this bouquet offers customization options: upgrade to a larger size for maximum impact or add touches like fairy lights for a magical aura.

You can even pair it with a vase to extend the joy past V’day.

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Singtel Prepaid Makes Total Sense with **Singapore’s Fastest 5G network and unlimited* SG-MY 5G data**