Japan 

    Last updated: 8/6/24

If you’ve ever wanted to visit Asia, but felt intimidated by not knowing the language, there’s probably no better country in which to start than Japan. Known as the “land of the rising sun”, Japan offers visitors vibrant cities, a rich cultural heritage, delicious food, and breathtaking scenery. What’s more, the combination of its national rail system, efficient public transport system, and abundant English signage make moving around the country relatively easy for the foreigner.

The country re-opened to tourism in October 2022 after being closed for two and a half years. So if you're looking for an exotic, safe and affordable adventure, Japan may be just the place for you. 

Interesting Facts about Japan: 

Japanese       -->        English                   

sumimasen --> means excuse me, I'm sorry (learn this one first, 'cause you will need it!)

arigato gozaimas --> thank you (unfortunately, there is no easy word for "please".) 

jinja --> shrine (Shinto) 

    dera or ji --> denotes Buddhist temple

    Shima, jima --> island

    hai --> yes

    chikatetsu, densha, Shinkansen --> subway/metro, regional, & high speed trains 

    ryokan --> a traditional Japanese inn

    onsen --> a hot spring or resort developed around a natural hot spring. 

What's the difference between a temple and a shrine?

The sanmon gate of Senso-ji Temple

Temples are associated with Buddhism and are recognizable for their sanmon (main) gate at the entrance. 

Shrines are part of the Shinto religion and are noted for their torii gates at the entrances. 

A torii gate at Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine

I’ve put together two itineraries for 15-day trips to Japan and suggest doing the Highlights itinerary before the Treks and Temples one. This allows you to visit more tourist sites on the first and get a feel for using the public transportation. The Treks and Temples itinerary involves stepping off the beaten path and will use some of the skills and knowledge you acquired during the Highlights trip. 

With that, click on the buttons below to go on two very different virtual blog tours of Japan.