If you happen to’re in search of 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.
Picture © Simran Kabotra
The place to remain in Japan
In Japan’s capital metropolis, Tokyo, I stayed at Lodge Wing Worldwide Tokyo Akabane. I picked this place as a result of I needed to be near the principle areas of Tokyo at an reasonably priced worth.
In Hakone, I stayed at Okay’s Home. This hostel was an ideal base to go to the native points of interest in Hakone. I needed to prepare dinner meals so the big kitchen was helpful. A bonus was that this had an indoor and out of doors onsen (a pure sizzling spring).
In Kiso Valley, I stayed at Komao because it was a superb 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 folks and a kitchen to prepare dinner meals.
In Japan’s second metropolis, Osaka, I stayed at J-Hoppers Osaka Common because it was very near Common Studios Japan (USJ) – solely 15 minutes stroll away.
Picture © Simran Kabotra
What to do in Japan
In Tokyo:
Akihabara neighbourhood. It is 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 absorb the environment. I like to recommend attempting a ‘rhythm sport’ in a Gigo constructing – could 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 sizzling spring for day and evening use. This was probably the greatest experiences I’ve ever had. This onsen has a number of sizzling water swimming pools at varied temperatures and there’s a good temperature milky water pool that gives you comfortable pores and skin. Women and men are separated as you could be absolutely unclothed to enter the water. For individuals who are physique 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 possibly can see steam vents, effervescent swimming pools of sizzling water, and sulphurous fumes rising from the Earth’s floor. On the cable ropeway to get to Okwaudani, you possibly can see the fumes proper under you. If you happen to’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 sizzling springs of the volcanic valley. It’s rumoured that consuming one egg will prolong your life by 7 years!
Hike the Previous Hakone Freeway / Previous Tokaido Highway – one of many oldest highways in Japan. Created throughout the Edo interval, this cobblestone path winds its approach by way of 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! A beautiful 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 absorb the wealthy historical past by strolling by way of 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 lots of outlets on this space so that you can hire 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 footage when standing subsequent to conventional buildings!
In Osaka:
Common Studio Japan (USJ). The most effective 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 charming 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), you could get to the realm earlier than 9:30am, in any other case you’ll want a timed entry ticket. The Flying Dinosaur experience within the Jurassic Park space is VERY intense however I extremely suggest happening it.
Picture © Simran Kabotra
What I cherished (and didn’t love) about Japan
I really like how hospitable and clear Japan is. The customer support is unparalleled because the employees all the time be sure you have what you want and no request is a burden! There is no such thing as a litter on the streets and all over the place you go, it’s very clear. Japan can be extraordinarily protected, I didn’t really feel uncomfortable in any respect – day or evening. I left my cellphone in a restaurant and the proprietor didn’t clear the desk as he was ready for me to come back again and get my cellphone. The prepare system is one thing I really like. The prepare stations are virtually buying centres and the prepare seats could be moved forwards and backwards.
I didn’t love that vegetarian meals was laborious to come back by. Except 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 nicely.
High suggestions for visiting
Carry money. Japan continues to be conventional within the sense that it nonetheless makes use of money in loads of locations so be sure to carry 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.
Be taught some Japanese (or obtain Google Translate). Talking just a little little bit of Japanese can go a great distance for you; English shouldn’t be broadly spoken there. Phrases equivalent to ‘excuse me’, ‘good day’ and ‘thanks’ could make a world of a distinction!
Respect onsen guidelines. Be certain to make use of the showers offered 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 should embrace being bare in entrance of different folks!
E book issues prematurely. In contrast to many different components of East Asia, issues will get booked up rapidly, so e book prematurely. Arrive early to standard 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’d redo my itinerary however I’d positively do my journey to Japan another time if I may. I’d additionally love to go to Japan’s north all the way in which to the south.
Kiso Valley Japan Picture © Simran Kabotra
Journey Author Bio
Simran Kabotra is a author, avid reader & crocheter who loves journey. She is presently travelling throughout Southeast Asia, looking out high and low for brand new adventures, stunning landscapes and wealthy historical past.
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