Konnichiwa First name / friend!

 

If you follow Sam and I on social media you know where we have been most of November.  And no, Sam is NOT getting a capybara. If you need to hear about the capybaras drop me an note or call and I will fill you in. 

 

We spent  two weeks traveling in Japan.  The first week was a deep dive into Tokyo, the second was hiking the Nakesendo Trail in between Kyoto and Tokyo.  The colorful mountains and ancient post towns along the route were quiet and beautiful. 

 

Luckily we did not see any bears even though bear attacks are a real problem right now in Japan.   

You are not allowed to bring bear spray into Japan, you have to buy it in country, which is in a pump spray bottle.  

 

Like that is going to work on a charging bear?  A delicate mist of fragrance? 

I want a bear spray that blasts a fire hose of repellant at least 15 feet.  Anyway, large bells line the route so we all rang them as we hiked.    

 

Japan is not a destination that can be conquered easily, this was a complicated trip that required a good bit of planning.  Once we arrived, and had a couple of really great guides show us the ropes ( talking about you Tokyo transit system). We found Tokyo manageable for those of us that don't speak the language.   

 

 My travel idol  Anthony Bourdain:

 

 

I feel the same way, and I can't wait to return. 

 

...after eating your weight in sushi paired with sake, and no agenda other than exploring this magical country.  (And shopping, which is world class.) 

 

In spring the entire country is awash in pink cherry blossoms.  Stroll through the Ueno Park in Tokyo or Maruyama Park in Kyoto, and join in the local tradition of hanami (flower viewing) picnics under the pink trees.   

 

History buffs can dive into Kyoto, the ancient capital of Japan. Explore  temples like Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) and Fushimi Inari Shrine with its vermilion torii gates. 

 

Or Yakushima, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This subtropical island is home to some of Japan's oldest trees, including the ancient Jomon Sugi. Hike through the rainforests, full of lush greenery.

 

And, of course, foodies will be in paradise, Japan's culinary scene is an adventure.  Street food markets of Osaka to Michelin-starred restaurants in Tokyo.  Their are entire streets in Toyo selling all manner of cooking gear.  Food is a vey serious business in Japan. 

 

 

Spring (March to May) offers good weather and the beauty of cherry blossoms, making it a perfect time for outdoor activities and hanami festivals. However, this is also peak tourist season.   

 

I used to say that for a more budget-friendly experience with smaller crowds,  consider visiting in autumn (September to November).  However September and October are still very busy, and prices will not have materially dropped. The first two weeks of November were lovely, but pack a jacket and a rain coat.  You will enjoy the cooler weather and stunning autumn foliage.  Fall still gets my vote, but it will not be off season.  

 

Summer (June to August) will be VERY hot and humid. Really hot.  Travelers with school age children will be flocking to Japan during school breaks.  

 

Winter (December to February) brings cold weather and snow in certain regions, great for  winter sports or the  illumination displays and hot springs.

️ Learn Basic Japanese Phrases: Knowing a few phrases like "Arigatou" (Thank you), "Sumimasen" (Excuse me/Sorry), and "Konnichiwa!" (Hello) can enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture. A  translation app is VERY handy.  Outside of Tokyo and larger tourist destinations English is not commonly spoken.  Make sure you grab the business card of your hotel so you can show it to taxi drivers who usually do not speak English.  

 

Respect Local Etiquette: Pack nice socks! Remove shoes before entering homes or traditional accommodations, keep noise levels very low on public transport, and use chopsticks properly. Familiarizing yourself with these customs shows respect for Japanese traditions.

 

Staying At a Ryokan:  A Stay at a traditional Japanese in with an onsen requires an entire short course on etiquette and manners.  And getting naked.  You can also pack less since you will be going to dinner in Japanese pajamas that are laid out on your bed each night.     

 

Consider a Cruise: There are many cruise lines that stop at wonderful ports, and it can be a cost effective way to visit the entire country.  if you want more western style food choices a cruise  can be a great option.  

 

P.S. Planning a trip to Japan is challenging.   Don't let me scare you off, Japan is a fabulous country to visit, and the transit system is nothing short of amazing. Luggage forwarding, (what a great idea),  hotels ship your luggage to the next hotel for a small fee and it works like a charm.  

 

Using  experienced partners for planning  Japan is crucial because they navigate the language barriers, cultural nuances, and logistical complexities.  

 

If you are going to travel all the way to Japan, don't you want to have a seamless, unforgettable travel experience? 

 

I want you to! 

I just did!