In case you’re on the lookout for a journey vacation spot that harmoniously blends historical customs with cutting-edge expertise, 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 wished to be near the primary areas of Tokyo at an reasonably priced worth.
In Hakone, I stayed at Ok’s Home. This hostel was an ideal base to go to the native points of interest in Hakone. I wished to prepare dinner meals so the massive kitchen was helpful. A bonus was that this had an indoor and outside onsen (a pure sizzling 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 house to fulfill individuals 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. 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 ambiance. I like to recommend making an attempt a ‘rhythm sport’ in a Gigo constructing – could be tough 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 night time. 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 night time use. This was the most effective experiences I’ve ever had. This onsen has a number of sizzling water swimming pools at numerous temperatures and there’s a excellent temperature milky water pool that offers you mushy pores and skin. Women and men are separated as it’s worthwhile to 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 styles and sizes 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 sizzling 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 beneath you. In case you’re fortunate, you’ll get to see Mt Fuji in your proper if it’s a transparent, sunny day. Additionally strive the black eggs boiled within the sizzling springs of the volcanic valley. It’s rumoured that consuming one egg will lengthen your life by 7 years!
Hike the Outdated Hakone Freeway / Outdated Tokaido Highway – one of many oldest highways in Japan. Created throughout the Edo interval, this cobblestone path winds its method 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 reality: 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 were maintained for 200 years. A lot of the panorama hasn’t modified and you may actually take in 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 numerous outlets 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 excellent photos when standing subsequent to conventional buildings!
In Osaka:
Common Studio Japan (USJ). Among the finest 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 typically 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 suggest happening it.
Picture © Simran Kabotra
What I beloved (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 ensure you have what you want and no request is a burden! There isn’t a litter on the streets and all over the place you go, it’s very clear. Japan can also be extraordinarily protected, I didn’t really feel uncomfortable in any respect – day or night time. I left my telephone in a restaurant and the proprietor didn’t clear the desk as he was ready for me to come back again and get my telephone. The practice system is one thing I really like. The practice stations are virtually purchasing centres and the practice seats could be moved forwards and backwards.
I didn’t love that vegetarian meals was arduous to come back by. Until you pay a premium by going to a selected vegetarian/vegan restaurant, it’s arduous to seek out low-cost veggie meals. It’s tough to ask the waiters to take out meat as effectively.
Prime suggestions for visiting
Deliver money. Japan remains to be conventional within the sense that it nonetheless makes use of money in a whole lot of locations so be certain that to convey sufficient Japanese Yen with you. Some locations provide 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 little bit little bit of Japanese can go a good distance for you; English shouldn’t be extensively spoken there. Phrases reminiscent of ‘excuse me’, ‘hey’ and ‘thanks’ could make a world of a distinction!
Respect onsen guidelines. Make certain to make use of the showers supplied earlier than getting 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 individuals!
E-book issues prematurely. In contrast to many different elements of East Asia, issues will get booked up rapidly, so ebook prematurely. Arrive early to well-liked eating places as you’ll seemingly 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 undoubtedly do my journey to Japan once more if I might. I might additionally love to go to Japan’s north all the best way 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 at present travelling throughout Southeast Asia, looking 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 journey insurance coverage web page or name our workforce on 01892833338!
