Joanna James
Ranked among Asia's most dynamic travel destinations, Japan is truly a world unto itself. As a country that's on everyone's bucket list, enjoying a successful getaway in Japan requires planning and familiarizing oneself with the culture and customs of the Japanese. From deciding the time of the trip to choosing which cities to visit, here are some practical guidelines to help you organize an unforgettable vacation in the vibrant island nation.
As a country where every element of everyday life is quite different from what's prevalent globally, it is essential to understand the do's and don'ts in Japan well before making any plans. Reading travelogues and blogs by recent visitors is a great way to understand conditions on the ground while being curious about behavioural norms that are acceptable to the Japanese is equally important. As one of the world's most respectful and well-behaved cultures, the Japanese are courteous and polite at all times. Jumping queues and other disrespectful behaviour are virtually unheard of in this part of the world, so travellers should be mindful of how they act in public settings. There is a particular set of rules for riding the subway, indulging in a hot spring "onsen" bath and staying at a Ryokan and it is prudent to read up on such aspects beforehand to avoid the inevitable culture shock that most foreigners will experience.
The timing of your trip to Japan should depend on the areas of the country you wish to explore and the types of activities that grace your ideal travel itinerary. First-time visitors, however, should ideally visit during the spring or autumn seasons as spring is when the famed cherry blossoms are in bloom and autumn is the mildest in terms of weather. The summer period in Japan is best avoided due to the humid and warm conditions that can make outdoor excursions challenging while the winters are also quite cold and frigid.
As it is impossible to cover all major cities in Japan during your first trip, it is necessary to hone in on the areas of the country that are of particular interest to you. Every first-timer must include a few days in Tokyo in their itinerary as the capital city is a bustling and futuristic metropolis that must be seen to be believed. The rest of the destinations are really a matter of preference although some of the most popular Japanese cities among tourists include Kyoto, Okinawa, Nagoya and Sapporo. It is feasible to hit at least two or three cities during a week-long visit although those who have more time at their disposal can explore a wider radius. It is also possible to spend an entire getaway enjoying winter sports on the Japanese hillside or a beach holiday on Japan's scenic islands.
Regardless of how efficient and accessible public transport networks including subway trains and bullet trains are in Japan, one cannot overstate the convenience offered by a strategically located rest. Whether it's the Travelodge Kyoto Shijo Kawaramachi or any other hotels in Downtown Kyoto, for example, those with access to metro stations should be preferred over properties that are cut off from the main transportation lines. Japanese guestrooms are smaller in size than those on offer in most tourist hubs although they are neatly arranged and provide every comfort.
Tourists should also sign up for guided tours during the planning process as navigating the temples and iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the country can be daunting for those who do not speak the language. From uncovering the Samurai heritage of Aizu to discovering the theme parks in Chiba, those who enlist the help of a local tour operator are likely to get more out of the experience.
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.
