In the event you’re searching for a journey vacation spot that harmoniously blends historic customs with cutting-edge know-how, then Japan is for you. Right here’s how one traveller explored Japan’s futuristic cities and serene countrysides.
The place to remain in Japan
In Japan’s capital metropolis, Tokyo, I stayed at Hotel Wing International Tokyo Akabane. I picked this place as a result of I wished to be near the principle areas of Tokyo at an reasonably priced worth.
In Hakone, I stayed at K’s House. This hostel was an ideal base to go to the native points of interest in Hakone. I wished to cook dinner meals so the massive kitchen was helpful. A bonus was that this had an indoor and outside onsen (a pure scorching spring).
In Kiso Valley, I stayed at Komao because it was a great base to go to Kiso Valley and see the buildings from the Edo interval.
In Kyoto, I stayed at Hostel Niniroom. I selected this hostel because it was reasonably priced, had a big social area to fulfill individuals and a kitchen to cook dinner meals.
In Japan’s second metropolis, Osaka, I stayed at J-Hoppers Osaka Universal because it was very near Common Studios Japan (USJ) – solely 15 minutes stroll away.
What to do in Japan
In Tokyo:
Akihabara neighbourhood. This can be a vibrant and bustling space, famend because the centre of Japanese otaku tradition, which incorporates anime, manga, video video games, and electronics. It was enjoyable to stroll round and enter the assorted buildings to take in the environment. I like to recommend attempting a ‘rhythm recreation’ in a Gigo constructing – might be troublesome however tremendous enjoyable!
Shibuya Crossing. An iconic landmark, the Shibuya crossing is a must-do expertise. In addition to the crossing, the encircling space is a bustling hub of exercise day and evening. With tall buildings, neon indicators and big screens, that is the epitome of Tokyo.
In Hakone:
Tenzan Onsen – a pure scorching spring for day and evening use. This was top-of-the-line experiences I’ve ever had. This onsen has a number of scorching water swimming pools at varied temperatures and there’s a excellent temperature milky water pool that will provide you with gentle pores and skin. Women and men are separated as it’s worthwhile to be absolutely unclothed to enter the water. For many who are physique acutely aware, don’t fear – no-one will care the way you look. You’ll see our bodies of all sizes and styles and can get used to being bare fairly rapidly!
Owakudani – a volcanic valley with visibility of Mt Fuji. Right here you’ll be able to see steam vents, effervescent swimming pools of scorching water, and sulphurous fumes rising from the Earth’s floor. On the cable ropeway to get to Okwaudani, you’ll be able to see the fumes proper under you. In the event you’re fortunate, you’ll get to see Mt Fuji in your proper if it’s a transparent, sunny day. Additionally attempt the black eggs boiled within the scorching springs of the volcanic valley. It’s rumoured that consuming one egg will prolong your life by 7 years!
Hike the Outdated Hakone Freeway / Outdated Tokaido Highway – one of many oldest highways in Japan. Created through the Edo interval, this cobblestone path winds its approach via lush forests, previous tranquil rivers, and alongside conventional villages. I took the route from Motohakone-ko pier to Amakaze Teahouse which took about 45 minutes. Enjoyable truth: the teahouse hasn’t modified its inside in over 200 years! An exquisite hike within the quiet countryside actually makes you marvel what life was like again then.
In Kiso Valley:
Hike round and discover the pure magnificence. I hiked from Magome to Tsumago which took about half a day. On the path you get to discover conventional Japanese homes and streets which have been maintained for 200 years. A lot of the panorama hasn’t modified and you may actually take in the wealthy historical past by strolling via the villages, forests and rivers.
In Kyoto:
Stroll round carrying a kimono. Within the geisha district of Gion, you’ll see many vacationers dressing in conventional Japanese kimonos. There are various retailers on this space so that you can lease a kimono for the day and stroll across the space. The kimono is barely uncomfortable at first however you get used to carrying it in a short time and it makes for nice photos when standing subsequent to conventional buildings!
In Osaka:
Common Studio Japan (USJ). Probably the greatest days I’ve had was at USJ. It’s an extremely immersive expertise filled with thrilling rides and selection. No two rides are the identical and every space has fascinating set designs. USJ usually opens sooner than its scheduled time so get there an hour or two sooner than opening time. If you wish to go into Nintendo World (my favorite place of the park), it’s worthwhile to get to the world earlier than 9:30am, in any other case you’ll want a timed entry ticket. The Flying Dinosaur journey within the Jurassic Park space is VERY intense however I extremely advocate happening it.
What I liked (and didn’t love) about Japan
I really like how hospitable and clear Japan is. The customer support is unparalleled because the employees at all times be sure you have what you want and no request is a burden! There isn’t any litter on the streets and in every single place you go, it’s very clear. Japan can also be extraordinarily protected, I didn’t really feel uncomfortable in any respect – day or evening. I left my telephone in a restaurant and the proprietor didn’t clear the desk as he was ready for me to return again and get my telephone. The prepare system is one thing I really like. The prepare stations are virtually purchasing centres and the prepare seats might be moved forwards and backwards.
I didn’t love that vegetarian meals was laborious to return by. Until you pay a premium by going to a selected vegetarian/vegan restaurant, it’s laborious to seek out low-cost veggie meals. It’s troublesome to ask the waiters to take out meat as effectively.
Prime suggestions for visiting
Convey money. Japan continues to be conventional within the sense that it nonetheless makes use of money in loads of locations so be certain that to deliver sufficient Japanese Yen with you. Some locations supply card funds however you’ll discover a majority of locations will ask for money. To not fear although, ATMs in Japan haven’t any withdrawal charges.
Study some Japanese (or obtain Google Translate). Talking a bit little bit of Japanese can go a great distance for you; English is just not broadly spoken there. Phrases comparable to ‘excuse me’, ‘good day’ and ‘thanks’ could make a world of a distinction!
Respect onsen guidelines. Be sure to make use of the showers supplied earlier than coming into the onsens. You’ll be able to’t take your towel into the onsen space both however you’ll be given a tiny towel to take with you. You’ll simply need to embrace being bare in entrance of different individuals!
E-book issues prematurely. Not like many different components of East Asia, issues will get booked up rapidly, so ebook prematurely. Arrive early to widespread eating places as you’ll doubtless be ready in lengthy queues.
Would you go to Japan once more?
Completely! I fell in love with Japan and its contrasting nature – the bustling, hectic cities and the serene, picturesque landscapes. There aren’t many locations the place I might redo my itinerary however I might positively do my journey to Japan over again if I might. I might additionally love to go to Japan’s north all the way in which to the south.
Journey Author Bio
Simran Kabotra is a author, avid reader & crocheter who loves journey. She is at present travelling throughout Southeast Asia, looking out high and low for brand spanking new adventures, lovely landscapes and wealthy historical past.
Get longstay journey insurance coverage for you worldwide journey!
For a fast and straightforward to grasp quote to fulfill your distinctive wants head on over to our devoted travel insurance web page or name our workforce on 01892833338!