Joanna James
As one of Asia's most popular tourist hubs, Japan is a dream destination that's on everyone's bucket list. Fascinating as it is mysterious; Japan is one of the few developed countries in Asia that has retained its cultural identity in spite of its economic progress. From deciding when to travel to finding the right accommodation hubs around the country, here's how to plan a successful tour of captivating Japan.
While there is no such thing as a bad time of year to head to Japan, the season in which you travel will determine the types of activities and excursions available. Spring is considered the perfect time to vacation in this part of the world, mainly due to the cherry blossom season when most Sakura trees around the country bloom and attract large crowds. The downside to visiting the country at this time of year is that spring is also part of the Golden Week holiday season, which lasts from April to May when locals also hit the road. Summer, on the other hand, can be rainy and muggy although the famous Matsuri festivals take place during the summer months. Introverts should consider holidaying here in autumn as there are fewer visitors. The off-season in Japan lasts throughout the winter season when hotels are inexpensive but activities are limited to winter sports such as snowboarding and skiing.
Those who hail from certain countries, including the USA, Australia, Canada, Britain, Mexico and nations that are part of the EU, don't need a tourist visa for a short holiday in Japan. Others will need to apply for a Japanese tourist visa at their local Japanese embassy or receive a temporary visitor stamp on their passport upon arrival.
The next step in the planning process is finding convenient places to stay during your holiday. Although it is customary to stay in a Ryokan for at least a day or two, it is not necessary to spend your entire holiday in these traditional hospitality hubs. Japan is home to countless bed and breakfast establishments and luxury resorts; however, the most important feature of your chosen hotels and resorts should be their location. Whether it's the Travelodge Nagoya Sakae or any one of the other 3-star hotels in Nagoya, your base should afford easy access to the main highlights in the area as well as public transport hotspots such as train stations.
Familiarising yourself with Japanese culture and knowing what to expect on the ground can help first-timers overcome the culture shock and reticence that they may encounter on the trip. Highways and streets in Japan, for instance, do not have trash bins or any waste disposal systems in place. Locals carry whatever they use on the road (plastic cups, utensils, candy wrappers) and dispose of them at home. Tourists also cannot enter an Onsen or hot spring spa tub without covering their tattoos with bandages.
A JR Pass or a Japan Rail Pass is an absolute necessity for anyone hoping to spend more than a day or two in Japan. Allowing visitors to access not only trains but buses, ferries and even airport transfers, the JR Pass is an all-encompassing travel card that's also cost-effective. Those who intend to restrict their holiday to the confines of Tokyo, however, can get by with an IC Card, which is a rechargeable travel pass that's used to ride on buses, metros, trains, ferries and even cable cars inside the city limits.
Some of the best highlights and landmarks in Japan must be explored by way of an organised tour as most public places do not have placards or information in any other language except Japanese. Temple tours and culinary tours are highly popular among seasoned visitors.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
