Joanna James
As a destination that's on everyone's bucket list, Japan is a land full of touristic possibilities for the travelling masses. Famed for its cuisine, culture and innovative spirit, the iconic landmarks and cities that make Japan a fascinating country are no less impressive today than they were a few decades ago. From deciding where to go and what to do to finding the best accommodation deals, here are some practical tips for first-time visitors on planning a successful trip to Japan.
Japan is a country that has maintained a unique culture and lifestyle for centuries. While it may be a popular travel hub, very few tourists know a great deal about the land formerly known as Nippon. This is why it is crucial to read up and do your homework on Japan as a travel destination. Besides providing valuable insights to help travellers navigate and adjust to cultural differences on their journey, this research phase will also assist tourists in selecting destinations and discovering the top attractions and activities to experience in Japan.
Unless you wish to spend several months or at least 30 days in the country, it is impossible to cover Japan in a single trip. Vast and diverse, Japan is an amalgamation of different landscapes, cultures, geographical features and touristic attributes. Those with an interest in nature and beaches can enjoy a beach holiday in the country while those who are interested in Japanese manga culture and a city getaway can restrict themselves to Tokyo and some of the other big metropolises in the country. Those who wish to explore pastoral Japan or the charming Japanese islands will see one particular aspect of the country at the cost of all others. This is why it is crucial to narrow down the cities, towns and villages you wish to explore on your Japanese vacation.
The weather in Japan also differs from region to region, so the best time to visit Japan depends on the specific areas of the land you wish to discover. Tokyo is sunny and clear between March and April and once again from September to November while Kyoto, the "cultural capital" of the country, is excellent from March to May whereas Osaka is spectacular during the cooler months of October and November.
Those who intend to spend at least a week in Japan must buy a JR Pass valid for 7 days as these Japanese Rail passes allow tourists to save big on transportation costs. This is especially true if one is hoping to explore several regions of Japan. It is easier to purchase the pass online and have it shipped to you before departure.
While Japan is home to some of the finest hotels in Asia not all of these rests occupy convenient locations. Whether you book a venue belonging to Travelodge Hotels Asia or any other hotel chain, it is necessary to consider the location of the resort and its proximity to the nearest railway station or bus stop.
Japan can be difficult to navigate on your own, especially when one does not speak or read Japanese. This is why signing up for group tours are necessary. Japanese temple tours are some of the most popular excursions available as the large number of temples in Kyoto alone requires a multi-day tour. Other points of interest that should be on your tour itinerary include Arashiyama, Mount Fuji and the Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine.
A trip to Japan would not be complete without soaking in a traditional Onsen spa, staying at a Ryokan, catching a sumo match or enjoying a Japanese cooking demonstration.
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