A quick look at the history of cherry blossom season in Japan

Japan’s tradition of going out to view the beauty of the blooming cherry flowers is known as hanami (which translates to “flower viewing”). It started many centuries ago, back in the 8^th century, during the Nara Period, and was even referenced in the Heian period literature piece titled “The Tale of Genji.”

The custom was originally observed as a way to celebrate harvest, and welcome the beginning of the rice-planting season. During the Heian Period, Emperor Saga organized sakura viewing parties for his Imperial Court to enjoy food and sake underneath the blossoming cherry trees. Eventually, the practice was adopted by the rest of the society.

Best sakura viewing or hanami spots in Japan

Because cherry trees are everywhere in Japan, the country has no shortage of sakura viewing spots. But, there are some that stand out among the rest, and are highly rated by locals and foreigners alike.

Shinjuku Gyoen (Tokyo)

A large, spacious park in the heart of Tokyo, Shinjuku Gyoen is home to lots of different varieties of cherry trees. Around late March, they start to bloom and turn the park into a stunning visual spectacle. It is open every day throughout the cherry blossom season, and charges 200 yen to enter.

To get there, you can take a 10-minute walk from JR Shinjuku Station, or a 5-minute walk from either JR Sendagaya Station or Shinjukugyoenmae Station.

Philosopher’s Path (Kyoto)

Approximately two kilometers long, the Philosopher’s Path in Kyoto is a pleasant stone pathway along a canal in a quiet neighborhood in Higashiyama district. It is lined by cherry trees on both sides that create a tunnel-like walkway of incredible pink flowers. It starts near Ginkakuji (the Silver Pavilion) and ends around Nanzenji, and takes less than an hour to traverse.

From Kyoto Station, bus numbers 5, 17, and 100 offers direct connections to Ginkakuji, where the beginning of the path is only a few minutes’ walk away.

If you decide to start the trek at the Nanzenji end of the path, take either the Tozai Subway Line to Keage Station, or Kyoto City Bus number 5 to Nanzenji-Eikando-michi bus stop, and then walk 5 to 10 minutes to the path.

Himeji Castle (Himeji)

Himeji Castle is one of the most important and iconic castles of Japan. Referred to as the White Heron Castle (or Shirasahijo in Japanese) for its sophisticated, white exterior, this 400-year-old landmark is one of the only 12 surviving original castle in the country. Its castle grounds consist of numerous gates, buildings, and winding paths, and its gardens have an abundance of cherry trees that people flock to during cherry blossom seasons every year.

From Tokyo, Himeji Castle is a little over three hours away via the Shinkansen. If coming from Kyoto or Osaka, the Shinkansen ride takes less than an hour. And, from Himeji Station, the castle is about a 15 to 20 minute walk.

Kakunodate (Akita Prefecture)

An old castle town and samurai district, Kakunodate is one of the best hanami spots in the northern Tohoku region. It is most famous for its well-preserved samurai houses and hundreds of weeping sakura trees. The Hinokinai riverbank serves as the biggest viewing spot in the city, and hosts crowds of people who want to enjoy picnics under the beautiful pink blossoms.

JR Kakunodate Station is about a three-hour Shinkansen ride from Tokyo Station. To get to Hinokinai riverbank and samurai house district, you can either walk 20 minutes or take a cab from the train station.

Fort Goryokaku (Hakodate)

A Western-style fortress constructed during the Tokugawa Era in the city of Hakodate, Fort Goryokaku is large, star-shaped citadel that has a massive public park that is home to more than a thousand cherry trees. It is visited by many people around early May, when cherry blossom season is at its peak.

The closest major railway station to Fort Goryokaku is Hakodate Station, and from there, you can get on the tram going to Goryokaku Koen Mae, which is about a 10-minute walk away from the fortress’ main entrance.

Kumamoto Castle (Kumamoto)

A 17^th century castle known for its black-and-white exterior, large stone walls, and impressive castle tower, Kumamoto Castle is one of Japan’s top three most famous castles. Its grounds are abundant with different varieties of cherry trees that reach peak bloom around late March to early April.

From Kumamoto Station, the castle is a 15-minute tram ride away, or a 30 to 45 minute walk.

Takayama Matsuri (Takayama)

Takayama Matsuri is a two-day annual festival held every spring, from April 14 to 15, in the city of Takayama in Gifu Prefecture. It features several elaborately adorned festival floats displayed around the city, a karakuri performance where karakuri dolls are controlled mechanically to perform dances, a mikoshi (a portable shrine) parade, and an evening festival where the festival floats on display are paraded around town.

To get to Takayama from Tokyo, take a two-hour Shinkansen ride to Nagoya, where you need to transfer to a limited express train for another two-hour-and-twenty-minute train ride.

Cherry blossom products, souvenirs, and other merchandise

During sakura season, you can find many stores and shops around the hanami spots and festival sites that sell a wide variety of products that are sakura-related.

There are sakura ice cream, sakura dumplings, sakura beer, sakura coffee, sakura tea, sakura soda, sakura cake, sakura-flavoured Kit Kats, and even sakura-themed Starbucks drinks.

There are also non-food sakura-themed items, such as mugs and tumblers, jewelry, clothing, shoes, and accessories, which are sometimes available for a limited time only.

The post Best Sakura Viewing or Hanami Spots in Japan appeared first on Japaniverse Travel Guide.

Spending one week in Japan — 3 days in Tokyo, 3 in Kyoto, and 1 in Osaka — is common for first-time visitors who want to cover the highlights.

How much is a trip to Japan for 2 weeks?

On average, a foreign tourist spends about 15,000 yen a day, so a 2-week trip should cost about 210,000 yen.

When should I visit Japan?

In general, the best times to visit Japan are late spring and late autumn, when the scenery is gorgeous and the weather is mild and dry.

Which airport in Japan is the cheapest to fly to?

Haneda Airport in Tokyo operates several international flights to and from North America, Europe, and others, and the average cost of a return flight is just around 1,000 US dollars.

Is Japan expensive to visit?

The average budget of a foreign tourist in Japan is 15,000 yen a day, but it can be lowered or increased, depending on your budget and travel style.

How many days in Kyoto is enough?

Allocating at least 3 full days in Kyoto should give you enough time to see the city’s top tourist sites and attractions.

Is food expensive in Japan?

Eating a full meal at Japanese restaurants can cost between 500 yen and 3,000 yen. At convenience stores, sandwiches, coffee, pastries, and others average around 300 yen to 500 yen.

What is the cheapest time of year to fly to Japan?

The Winter season, from mid-January to mid-March, is the best time to fly to Japan if you want to avail of low airfare.

What is the best airline to fly to Japan?

Japan Airlines and All Nippon Airways are highly-rated Japanese airline companies that offer direct flights between Japan and the United States, the United Kingdom, and other countries.

Where should we go in Japan?

If you are visiting Japan for the first time, doing to Golden Route Tour, i.e. Tokyo-Osaka-Kyoto, is highly recommended, especially for a week-long trip. If you are staying longer, you can also add day trips to Mt. Fuji, Nara, Himeji, and other nearby cities.

Why is Japan so expensive?

Because Japan is a developed country with one of the highest qualities of life in the world, its hotels, transportation, food, and other goods and services cost more than the other Asian countries and the less developed nations.

How much money should I bring to Japan?

The amount of money that you should bring to Japan depends on what type of traveler you are. If you have a mid-size budget, it is safe to allocate 15,000 yen to spend per day. You can always go lower or higher, depending on your preferences.

How can I eat cheap in Japan?

Japan has an abundance of convenience stores that offer 300-yen sandwiches, 500-yen bento meals, and other cheap snacks and food. It also has plenty of restaurants and diners where you can get ramen, sushi, soba, and others for less than 1,000 yen.

Can you see Kyoto in a day?

If you only have 1 day for Kyoto, you should choose two or three areas of the city to check out (for example Arashiyama district in the morning and Higashiyama in the afternoon), and make sure to start early in the morning to see as much as possible.

What should I pack for Japan?

What to pack for your trip to Japan depends on what time of the year and which part of the country you are visiting. For example, winter temperature in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka is usually around 5 to 10 degrees Celsius, but Hokkaido can go below zero degrees.

How much is ramen in Japan?

A bowl of ramen at regular ramen shops in Japan costs about 700 yen to 1,000 yen, but there are cheap ramen shops where you can get ramen for as low as 300 yen.

Which is the best city to visit in Japan?

Choosing the best city to visit in Japan is dependent on what you want to do and see. If you are into Japanese history, Kyoto is home to plenty of important historic and cultural sites. If you are into food, Osaka is the country’s food capital. If you like large and busy cities, Tokyo should be at the top of your list. 

Where should I go in Japan for the first time?

Visiting Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto is popular among first-time visitors to Japan who want to see the famous tourist spots in the country.

What is Japan best known for?

People know Japan as a country home to several ancient world heritage shrines, temples, and castles; samurai and ninja; sushi, ramen, sake, and other dishes; geisha and sumo; and high-speed bullet trains and hi-tech toilets.

What is the best currency to take to Japan?

It is best to take Japanese yen to Japan. Before your trip, buy some from your bank to avail of good exchange rates.

What is Kyoto known for?

Kyoto is best known for the 10,000 torii gates of the Fushimi Inari Shrine, the geisha district of Gion, the UNESCO World Heritage Kiyomizu-dera, Kinkaku-ji, and Ginkaku-ji temples, and the Edo-Period sites of Nijo Castle and Imperial Palace.

(Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto)

Do they speak English in Japan?

English is spoken in Japan, albeit not as widely and proficiently as in the other top destinations in the world.

Can you survive in Japan with English?

It is totally possible to get around Japan with zero Japanese, as there are English signages at the popular tourist sites and attractions, English menus at many restaurants in the big cities, and others.

Is Japan English friendly?

Airports, major tourist spots, train and bus stations, restaurants, and shops in the touristy areas generally have English signages. However, as you venture to the countryside, English translations become less available.

Is Japan safe to travel alone?

Because of its low crime and violence rates, Japan is a very safe country to travel to, even if you are a solo traveler.

Does Japan have a lot of tourists?

Japan has been visited by more than 20 million international tourists a year over the last few years, with cherry blossoms season and autumn foliage season recording the most number of tourists each year.

Is Japan expensive to live in?

The cost of living in Japan is on par with other developed countries in the world. The average rental cost of a small single apartment in central Tokyo is 100,000 yen per month, utilities per person cost around 10,000 yen per month, and food budget runs about 5,000 yen per day.

Is Japan safe for solo female Travellers?

Japan is perfect for solo female travelers, especially those that are doing it for the first time. It has low crime and violence rates, and offers efficient public transportation and other facilities.

Is Tokyo dangerous for tourists?

Tokyo is one of the safest cities in the world, but tourists should be wary of the touts in Kabukicho and Roppongi that try to lure the naïve ones into their shady nightclubs and hostess bars.

Do you need injections to visit Japan?

The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend getting vaccinations for hepatitis A, hepatitis B, rabies, polio, influenza, measles, meningitis, Japanese encephalitis, mumps and rubella (MMR), shingles, chickenpox, pneumonia, tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis.

How much is Mcdonalds in Japan?

A hamburger or a regular-size softdrink at a Mcdonalds in Japan costs about 100 yen.

What is needed to enter Japan?

You need a valid passport to enter Japan. If you are from a country without a Visa Waiver arrangement with Japan, you also have to apply for a Japanese tourist visa.

Can I live in Japan?

To live in Japan as a foreigner, you have a number of options available — apply for a student visa, a work visa, or a spouse visa (if you are married to a Japanese national).

How can I teach English in Japan?

To teach English in Japan, you need to have a Bachelor’s degree, no criminal record, and some teaching certification.

What is the main food in Japan?

A traditional Japanese meal typically consists of rice, meat or fish, miso soup, and side dishes made of pickled vegetables.

Why is tipping rude in Japan?

Tipping is considered rude in Japan because paying extra makes it seem like you think the workers are not paid enough for doing their jobs. If you want to show appreciation for high quality service, just say thank you.

What should you drink with sushi?

The Japanese people like to pair their sushi with beer, tea, or fruit wine.

Is the water safe to drink in Tokyo?

Tap water in Tokyo and everywhere else in Japan is clean and safe to drink.

Are there Ubers in Japan?

There are Ubers in Japan, but they are only available in Tokyo and quite pricey. A regular taxi costs 730 yen for the first two kilometers, with an additional 80 to 90 yen per 270 to 300 kilometers, while Uber charges a minimum fare of 823 yen, with an additional 67 yen per minute and 308 yen per kilometer.

What should I avoid in Japan?

Ignoring the queues, tipping, sticking your chopsticks upright into a bowl of rice, talking loudly in public, and not carrying cash or your passport at all times are just examples of things tourists should avoid doing in Japan.

The post Here are 40 of YOUR Japan Travel Questions Answered appeared first on Japaniverse Travel Guide.

Either way let us not get side tracked and involved in such complicated topics as, per say, the differences between religion and mythology. In this article we are merely going to tackle some of the basics of the Shinto religion. So without any further ado, let’s get started!

Shintoism is the indigenous national religion of Japan. It is said to have been practiced since the beginning of times in the Land of the Rising Sun, and up to this day serves as a gateway which connects modern Japan with the ways and traditions of the past. Nevertheless, it is important to note, that Shinto in the form we know it today is not as old as you might think it is. In reality most of the beloved Shinto traditions practiced by Japanese people nowadays, such as hatsumode, matsuri, omaeri, etc., have been created during and after the Meiji Restoration in 1868.

When the 15-year-old boy was made into the Emperor of Japan, his court members needed more than just his bloodline to secure the throne. Since Buddhism was closely associated with the Tokugawa family, the family of shoguns (lit. general) who ruled over Japan for more than 200 years at this point, the new court decided to take the opposite direction and make Shinto the symbol of their new Emperor. Shinto, however, needed to get more refined before it could be represented to the public, hence the introduction of new festivities, novel traditions and so on.

Despite this, Shinto has old roots, which might be as old as Japanese people. It has interesting theologies and legends. Shinto literally means ‘the way of the gods’. Shinto belief is that gods are present everywhere, they live in every rock, tree or flower. This is why there are thousands over thousands of gods in Shinto. Shinto philosophies talk about life and existence, Shinto beliefs are beautiful and very encouraging. Let us go through several interesting facts about Shintoism.

1. Shintoism is old. The first records about it have been made in the 8th century AD. However, at this point Shintoism wasn’t presented as a unified religion, but rather as a set of beliefs and myths. After Buddhism was introduced to Japan, Shinto didn’t fade away. Just the opposite: in modern Japan Shinto and Buddhism are closely related and in a way complete each other.
2. The essence of the Shinto beliefs is the deification of nature. As I have already mentioned above, there is a spirit in literally everything. These spirits are called kami (lit. god).
3. Shintoism also includes elements of magic and totemism. One of the most beloved Shinto traditions is carrying a talisman, omamori. Originally these might have been used to protect one from hostile deities, but nowadays you can get one as a good luck charm for your studies, love life, marriage, work, exams and so on.
4. The primary goddess in Shinto is Amaterasu. She is the one who created the universe, and the Imperial Family bears her lineage. Amaterasu is the goddess of the sun.
5. The most important shrine in Shinto is Ise Jingu. As you might have guessed, it is dedicated to Amaterasu. It is actually a shrine complex and is visited by hundreds if not thousands of people on daily basis.
6. The essence of Shinto is purity. As a matter of fact, it is the purity of literally everything: spirit, body and even mind. This can be noticed in the way Japanese people live their lives even nowadays. The sick don’t visit the shrines, since sickness and malady are considered to be an impurity of body.
7. There are many Shinto holidays, but the most notable ones are the festivals – matsuri. Shinto holidays are accompanied by religious dances. Another custom of modern Japanese people is giving sacrifices to the shrine, more often than not in the form of cash.
8. The most important Shinto holiday is the arrival of a New Year, since it symbolises the beginning a new life as well as it announces the arrival of spring. Japanese people tend to visit shrines, pray, get good luck charms and pray for their success in the new year.
9. Shinto is a very national religion and is closely tied up with the identity of a Japanese person. This might be the reason for why Shinto hasn’t really spread outside the borders of Japan, when there are so many people who adore and love Japan and Japanese culture.
10. As a matter of fact, it is quite easy to grasp the concept of Shintoism. You just need to keep in mind that the dead member of a family will turn into a kami and protect his/her descendants from upcoming perils and hardships.
11. As I have already mentioned above, it is considered that the Emperor is a direct descendant to Amaterasu, thus he himself is said to be gods. Nevertheless, chances are a regular person will also turn into a kami after they pass away.

Shinto is an extremely interesting religion. The myths and legends surrounding each and every of the major deities are quite entertaining, They might even open your eyes up to new aspects of modern Japanese culture. If you are a fan of mythologies and plan on reading these Japanese tales, you should start reading the ones involving Amaterasu and Susanoo first.

Keep in mind, that these myths have not just survived centuries of neglect, but have managed to emerge in the right place at the right time.

I hope you enjoyed the article and will see you soon!

The post Japanese Shinto Mythology appeared first on Japaniverse Travel Guide.

Anyway, in this article I want to talk about different types of festivals. Those that actually take place in a jinja, the Shinto shrines. Here is a list of my favourite Japanese traditional festivals which are being celebrated all over the country.

Hatsumode – This is the first visit to the shrine at the beginning of every year. You don’t really have a set date, but people tend to make their hatsumode during the first week of January. A lot of people tend to go to the nearby shrine after midnight strikes on the night of the 31st of December. You will see a lot of yatai on your way to the shrine, and even inside the shrine (yatai are small booths where you can buy traditional Japanese food and drinks). You might want to try amazake, which is a sweet drink made of rice. Chances are you won’t like it, but it will heat you up during the cold winter night, plus it is traditionally being drunk during your first visit to the shrine.

During your visit make sure to pray to the god of the shrine and ask them for whatever it is you wish for happening during the year. The next thing you will need to do is draw an omikuji – a fortune-telling paper strip. You can get anything from a terrible curse to big luck. Nonetheless, it is an interesting experience, so make sure to give it a try if you’re in Japan during the New Year season.

Dontosai: Hadaka Matsuri – This particular festival is usually celebrated in Tohoku Region, but it is worth seeing. The largest ones are held in Sendai and Morioka. As the name suggests this festival includes bonfires and half-naked men. The bonfire has a special meaning. You get to burn the omamori (lit. good luck charm) that have already fulfilled their purpose in it. But the most interesting part is seeing the rite. Many boys, young men and even elderly gentlemen take part in the festival. However, they have to wash their bodies with ice-cold water before they can participate. Afterwards they put on special white boxers, straw belts and straw sandals. Recently women have also started taking part in the hadaka-mairi and they get to wear a white jacket. The final touch is a thin paper between the lips to prevent talking or teeth chattering.

Hadaka-mairi is a purification rite which has over 300 years of history. You can find similar hadaka matsuri in many other corners of Japan, however the one you will get to see in Sendai is unique and one of its kind.

Setsubun – This is an event held in celebration of spring. It is quite an interesting one too. Not only you get to eat special dishes, but the male head of the household performs the so called mamemaki. The father of the family will throw some beans outside the house or at a family member who is wearing the costume of an oni (demon). Then the words Oni wa soto, fuku wa uchi! are being chanted. They literally mean “Demons out, luck in”. The event is especially beloved by children. This is another purification rite, which is supposed to drive away bad luck such as misfortune and bad health.

Seijin no Hi – This is something I wish other countries also celebrated. In Japan one comes to age when they turn 20. Many Westerners hold huge parties on their 20th birthday, and so did I. Unlike us though, Japanese people don’t really celebrate their birthdays with such a big flare. On Seijin no Hi all of those kids who are turning 20 during that year gather in their cities, have a ceremony, and afterwards hold massive celebrations. It is a fun day, and young men and women get to dress in traditional Japanese clothing called hakama.

Shichi Go San – This is another coming of age ceremony. It is held for boys who turn three and five years old and for girls who turn three and seven years old. The kids are also dressed into special type of kimono and hakama. They are taken to the shrines and afterwards photos are taken. The kids are also being given a red candy. Sometimes you might even see some children who are wearing Western attire. It is said that Shichi Go San finds its roots in Heian Period. Either way it is a sweet sight for one’s eyes.

Hina Matsuri – The event might be known to you as Doll’s Day or Girls’ Day. During this festival you will see many ornamental dolls in Japanese households which have daughters. The dolls are supposed to represent the Emperor and the Empress, but some might even represent attendants and court musicians. All of these dolls are wearing traditional Japanese court dresses. Since these dolls are quite expensive, they are usually passed down in the family. The whole point of the festival is to symbolically show the families good wishes and intentions for their daughters, such as health, luck and successful marriage.

Tanabata Matsuri – This is a festival of the stars. It is a nationwide festival. It symbolises the reunion of two lover stars who are only allowed to meet each other once in the year on this day. It is celebrated on the 7th of July in the whole country, except for Sendai.

Sendai Tanabata is actually quite famous. It is the most famous and the most lavishly celebrated tanabata event in the whole country. Believe me, Sendai Tanabata is definitely worth your visit. It is held every year from August 6-8. The city gets decorated in thousands of colourful streamers. In addition to the beautiful sights in downtown Sendai, usually a hanabi taikai, fireworks event, is held in the city as well.

This was a list of some of the most famous and worthwhile traditional festivals of Japan. Some of them might be harder to get an access to, but the trouble is worth it and I promise you will not regret it!

The post Matsuri – Japanese Festivals appeared first on Japaniverse Travel Guide.

We are going to divide Japanese history into several historical periods. Interestingly, most of the Japanese historical periods are named after the capital cities of the time. However, since the end of the 19th century the periods been named after the ruling emperor. For starters here is a list of the periods:

Classical Japan

Asuka/Early Japan (538–710)

Nara (710–794)

Heian (794–1185)

Medieval/Feudal Japan

Kamakura (1192-1333)

Muromachi-Ashikaga (1338-1573)

Azuchi-Momoyama (1573-1600)

Edo (1600-1868)

Modern Japan

Meiji (1868-1912)

Taisho (1912-1926)

Showa (1926-1989)

Heisei (1989-present)

In this article I am going to cover Japanese history until the Taisho period, which is the beginning of the 20th century. So without further ado, let us dive in!

One could argue that the first most important event in Japanese history is the ascension of the first god-emperor, Jimmu. According to the legends the current Japanese Imperial family originates from Jimmu himself. The first Emperor was no more no less but a descendant of Amaterasu, the goddess of sun. The legends and stories surrounding Jimmu and his ascension are extremely fascinating. Unfortunately, he is rarely remembered in modern Japan because of the associations that people started drawing with fascism. As you might have guessed this was a result of the Japanese using Shinto and Jimmu as a symbol for their nationalism during the WWII.

The following 100 years would conclude what the historians call the Early Japan or Asuka Period. The next era is known as Nara. During the Nara period Japan started prospering. Japan was bearing Chinese influences and it could be seen in literature, language, architecture and even religion. However, one of the most important things that happened during the Nara Period was the recognition of the Emperor as the central figure in the government. The Emperor also started to be interpreted as the leader of the indigenous Japanese religion, Shinto.

The third and final period of Classical Japan is known as Heian, named after the then capital Kyoto. During this period Japanese culture flourished. Arts became more refined and less dependent on their Chinese counterparts. The Emperor and most of the aristocracy spent their time writing uta (Japanese short poems commonly known as haiku or tanka), enjoying the beauties of nature and neglecting the politics. As a result, some of the best, and I cannot stress this enough, pieces of Japanese literature both in poetry and prose have been written during this period of Japanese history. However, the Emperor’s lack of interest towards politics and leadership led to a change in Japanese government, with the Emperor becoming merely a symbolic figure and the shogun holding the real power.

The above mentioned events lead us to Kamakura Period. The period is named after the military centre of the time. While the Emperor and his court were still situated in Kyoto, the real power was concentrating around the shogun, the military leader of the state. You could say that Kamakura period is responsible for the rise of the warrior class, the development of the samurai code of honour – Bushidō, and most importantly the infamous seppuku – a ritual act of suicide to protect one’s honour. The Kamakura Period also gave rise to Zen Buddhism since it could be applied perfectly to many samurai disciplines.

During Muromachi Period Japan’s political life fell into chaos and ordeal, which led to many gruesome wars and massacres. Nonetheless, despite the chaotic political situation, spiritual life and arts kept prospering under the influences of Zen. Tea ceremony – sadō, calligraphy – shodō, flower arrangements – kadō, and theatre peaked and reached their heights.

Azuchi-Momoyama Period was filled with fighting and endless wars, the most famous of them being the Ōnin War. The second half of Azuchi-Momoyama is widely known as the Era of the Warring States – Sengoku Jidai. You may recognize such names as Oda Nobunaga, Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Tokugawa Ieyasu. These three are the men who have coined the history of Japan. Talking about each of them would take an unnecessarily long amount of time, thus we shall move on. It is just important to keep in mind that at this point in time, Japan had been in a political chaos for decades.

The following Edo/Tokugawa Period is famous for bringing over 200 years of lasting peace to the land and its people. The Tokugawas who became the ruling family in Japan and were named shogun, managed to reunify the country which was basically crumbling away from all of the endless fighting. Even though the Tokugawas brought peace to the country, they established a bakufu – a military state. Many new rules were introduced and most interestingly, the country closed its gates to the rest of the world, becoming a sakoku (lit. a closed country). However after 200 years, the ideologies started changing, and the foreign countries such as the USA came banging on the walls that Japan had built all over itself. The Edo Period came to a more or less bloody end in 1868 when the Shogunate in Edo/Tokyo fell. This was the beginning of the Meiji Restoration.

With the Shogunate collapsing, Japanese intellectuals, aristocrats and politically powerful people decided to bring back the glory of the ancient days and put the young 15-years old Emperor Meiji on the Chrysanthemum Throne. Meiji Period was in a sense an era of enlightenment for Japan. Schools started opening up all over the countries, first universities were established, a constitution was written, and so on. All in all life started prospering and shifting to Western standards. Even though Japan faced the Russo-Japanese War during the end of the Meiji Period, in general Emperor Meiji himself is highly revered and always addressed to with respect even in contemporary Japan.

This concludes my crush course on Japanese history. I decided to stop at the beginning of the 20th century, since otherwise we won’t have enough space to write it all down! Taisho and Showa are also very important periods of Japanese history, however each of them is too massive and extensive to be covered in a short article.

The last thing that I want to add is that Japan has not seen a war since the end of WWII. The Japanese were on the losing side and gave up their rights of maintaining an army. Nonetheless, this might have been the push that the country needed to move in the direction of industrialisation. Ever since Japan has become one of the largest manufacturers and economy’s in the world!

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Wagashi

Wagashi is a kind of Japanese sweet usually made of mochi, fruits, and azuki bean paste (or anko). It originated from China, and became widely popular in Japan during the Edo Period.

Commonly served in Japanese tea ceremonies, it comes in several types, such as botamochi (rice ball wrapped with thick azuki bean paste), sakuramochi (rice cake stuffed with azuki bean paste and wrapped in pickled cherry leaves), gokabou (cake made of rice and sugar), and kusa mocha (made of Japanese mugwort stuffed with azuki bean paste).

It is available in a lot of shops at train stations, malls, department stores, and tourist areas.

Inkan/Hanko

In Japan, it is common for people to use seals and stamps when dealing with paperwork. Known as inkan or hanko, they use these to sign or accept contracts and other documents instead of signatures.

To get one for yourself, drop by a 100 yen shop and other souvenir stores. There should be a ton of standardized inkan and hanko to choose from that feature common hiragana/katakana/kanji characters and Japanese names. You can also acquire one from a hanko box, which is like a vending machine that lets you customize your own inkan/hanko, found at many Don Quijote locations.

Yukata

Also sometimes referred to as a summer kimono, a yukata is a traditional Japanese garment that is made of light and breathable fabric, usually cotton or synthetic. Used by both men and women, it comes in a wide range of designs and colours. It is typically worn during summer festivals and at ryokan or onsen resorts.

Many large department stores and even small boutiques around the country, most especially those adjacent to tourist attractions, have yukata available for sale. In Tokyo, check out the Asakusa district for second-hand shops that offer yukata for as low as 1,000 yen.

Kanzashi

Kanzashi are traditional Japanese hair ornaments.  Their use dates as far back as the Jomon period, when people wore thin sticks or rods in their hair to keep bad omen and evil spirits away. They became more popular during the Edo Period, as hairstyles became more varied and complex.

Today, kanzashi are frequently seen in weddings, worn by the brides, and in Japanese tea ceremonies. They are also often used by geisha and other kimono-wearing professionals. They come in different styles, designs, and sizes, and handcrafted using materials like tortoise shell, silk, gold or silver plated metal, and lacquered wood.

Noh masks

Noh is an ancient form of Japanese musical and drama theatre that has been around since the 1300s. A mixture of narration and dance performances, it is based on stories from classical literature, performed by highly skilled actors, dancers, and musicians. It heavily relies on gestures and bodily movements to convey emotions.

To represent the different characters in the story, the actors wear Noh masks that depict ghosts, demons, elderly, warriors, women, children, and more. These masks are made from Japanese cypress wood blocks that are carved and painted on.

If you are in Tokyo, check out Asakusa to find stalls selling different styles and designs of Noh masks.

Kairo

Kairo are disposable heat packs that can keep you warm for eight hours or more during the cold winter days of Japan. They are very useful for visitors who are from tropical countries or are not used to freezing temperatures.

They can be purchased at pharmacies, convenience stores, and discount shops, and typically come in packs of 10 or more individually wrapped pieces. To use one, simply take the plastic cover off, and place it inside your pockets or stick it to your clothes to heat up your body. Exposure to air immediately activates the heat pad. It is not recommended to directly attach it to the skin as it tends to get quite hot.

Sensu

Sensu are Japanese foldable fans that have been used since the ancient times. Made of paper on a wooden or bamboo frame, they come in a wide variety of styles and designs, usually depicting nature and scenery.

In kabuki performances, sensu are commonly used as props for both male and female characters that belong to the noble class. They are also used by Buddhist monks and geisha.

For tourists, there are sensu in all sorts of styles and designs found at various sightseeing destinations across the country. They are a great item to have to help cool yourself down during the hot and humid Japanese summer, and they only cost around 1,000 yen.

Furin

Furin are Japanese wind chimes that are typically seen in houses and buildings all over the country during the summer season. They have been part of the local customs and tradition for many centuries now as an item that fends off negative energy and evil spirits.

Usually hung outside homes, they make a gentle, melodic sound every time a gush of wind blows. They are made with metal or wood, and come in different colours, designs, and styles.

Daruma dolls

Daruma dolls are traditional Japanese dolls that are modelled after the founder of Zen Buddhism, Bodhidharma. They are round-shaped and hollow, and come in a large variety of colours and designs. Among the most popular types are the red-coloured ones that depict a bearded man.

Made of papier-mache, daruma dolls are typically sold with blank white eyes to allow the buyers the opportunity to fill one eye when they come up with a goal to achieve, and the other eye when they finally accomplish it.

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Noto Peninsula

The Noto Peninsula in Ishikawa Prefecture offers some of Japan’s most stunning views of the coast. It juts out about 100 kilometres into the Sea of Japan, and offers a wide range of opportunities for nature and outdoor exploration.

Two of Noto Peninsula’s most famous scenic coasts are the Noto Kongo Coast and the Okunoto Coast, which are both excellent places to enjoy the unique and mesmerizing landscapes and waterscapes in the area.

Access: From Tokyo, take the JR Hokuriku Shinkansen to Kanazawa, and then transfer to a limited express train line to Wakura Onsen. If coming from Kyoto or Osaka, take the JR Thunderbird limited express to Kanazawa, and then transfer to a different limited express train line going to Wakura Onsen. At Wakura Onsen, various buses depart for the different areas in the peninsula.

Kurashiki

Situated in the western side of Okayama Prefecture, Kurashiki is an old city with a long and eventful history that dates to as far back as the Heian Period. A lot of the storehouses, houses, buildings, and structures that remain standing up to this day were constructed during the Edo Period and the Meiji Restoration, and some of them have been transformed into cafes, shops, museums, and other tourist attractions.

A notable site to check out in Kurashiki is the Bikan Historical Quarter, which is located in the heart of the city and is home to a canal with stone bridges and lined with willow trees and preserved storehouses.  Visitors can take part in a pleasant boat ride or take photos of the traditional atmosphere and scenery.

Access: Take the JR Tokaido/Sanyo Shinkansen to Okayama, and then transfer to a local train to Kurashiki.

Visit the Kurashiki City website for more information.

Takeda Castle Ruins

The Takeda Castle Ruins are found in Asago, a city in northern Hyogo Prefecture. The original castle was built in 1441 by Otagaki Mitsukage, and was later occupied by the forces of Hideyoshi Toyotomi. It was abandoned when its last lord, Akamatsu Hirohide, committed seppuku after being accused of arson.

Over the centuries, the castle just crumbled and fell apart, and was only restored around the 1970s. These days, only the castle’s foundations stand, and visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surroundings from there. It is best to visit around sunrise in October or November to get the chance to see the castle seemingly floating in the sky due to the early morning fog.

Access: From Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka, take the Tokaido/Sanyo Shinkansen to Himeji, and then transfer to the JR Bantan Line going to Takeda Station, which is found at the foot of the castle hill.

More information is available on Asago City’s website.

Shimoguri no Sato

Tucked deep in the mountains of Nagano Prefecture, Shimoguri no Sato is a gorgeous isolated valley that offers a quiet and relaxing atmosphere. Its residents live a simple and traditional lifestyle, amidst the vast and thriving greenery.

Every autumn season, the wide variety of trees that cover the mountainsides and slopes transform into a breathtaking sight of bright red, orange, and yellow. It is a highly recommended autumn viewing spot for those looking to take pleasure in the amazing natural beauty of Japan without all the crowds.

Access: From Tokyo, Osaka, or Kyoto, take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Toyohashi, and then transfer to a limited express train to Iida. At Iida, catch a bus to Kamimachi, and then ride a taxi to Shimoguri no Sato.

Nagano Prefecture’s Official Tourism Guide has more information available for visitors.

Tsujunkyo Bridge

Measuring 20.2 metres high, 75.6 metres long, and 6.3 metres wide, Tsujunkyo Bridge is the biggest stone-arch aqueduct bridge in Japan. Located in Kumamoto, it was built in 1854 to solve the Shiraito Plateau farmlands’ water shortage.

Today, visitors can check the bridge out to be treated to a magnificent display of an almost-200-year-old structure at work. Every day, for about 20 to 25 minutes, tons of water are released from the bridge’s sides to the river below to clean out the sand and silt build-ups in the pipes.

Not too far from the bridge are other must-see nature spots like the Gorogataki Waterfall, a bamboo forest, and the rice paddies.

Access: From Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka, take the Tokaido/Sanyo/Kyushu Shinkansen to Kumamoto, and then take the bus to the aqueduct bridge.

Visit the Kumamoto Tourism Site to learn more about the attraction.

Gokayama

One of Japan’s most scenic UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Gokayama is a region known for its preserved gassho-zukuri houses. It is located in a city called Nanto, which is in Toyama Prefecture. It is nestled in the secluded mountain ranges that extend between Gifu Prefecture and Toyama Prefecture, close to Shogawa River.

The ancient farmhouses feature thatched roofs that look like hands put together in prayer, and are said to be 200 to 300 years old. Compared to the more popular Shirakawa-go village, it is made up of fewer and smaller houses, so its ambiance is more tranquil and serene. Some of its farmhouses are open to visitors wanting to spend a night or two close to nature and to experience a simple and traditional way of life, far away from the busy and hectic urban lifestyle. Here is a listing of ryokan and other accommodation options in Gokayama.

In winter, Gokayama is most especially magical, as large amounts of powdery snow cover the grounds and the farmhouses’ roofs.

Access: From Tokyo, Osaka, or Kyoto, take a combination of the Shinkansen and local/limited express train to get to Takaoka Station, where you need to transfer to a World Heritage Bus that goes to Gokayama.

More details on Gokayama, how to get there, and others are available on the Gokayama Official Travel Guide website.

The post Explore Japan’s Hidden Gems: 6 Enchanting Destinations You Need to Visit appeared first on Japaniverse Travel Guide.

Luckily for all of us though, there are plenty of things that you can enjoy in Tokyo and spend not even a penny on doing so! Here in this article we will try to explore all of the most interesting possibilities that Tokyo offers you, and nonetheless free of charge!

Here’s 17 things you can do in Tokyo for FREE!

1. The first thing that comes to mind is definitely Harajuku. To be more precise I’d say take a stroll through the famous Takeshita Street. This is very the modern youth fashion of Japan is concentrated. You will see many people who wear quite eccentric clothing, but that’s the beauty and charm of Harajuku.
2. If you end up in Harajuku, you definitely have to walk to Omotesando next. As the Japanese would say this is one of the oshare (fashionable) places in Tokyo. You will get to see many stores of high fashion, interesting cafes that are hidden in the narrow alleyways.
3. Go to the famous Shibuya crossing! This is the busiest crossing in the world and it is said that over a thousand people cross it during the peak hours. Besides you will get to see the statue of famous Hachiko. Just be prepared, this is probably the most crowded place you’ll ever be in your life!
4. Depending on the season of your visit you might get the chance to see a couple of festivals, from sakura viewing to fireworks and red leaves viewing. If your feet take you to any of these you will also be able to buy some traditional Japanese food from the yatai – booths which will be all over the place!
5. Visit shrines and temples. Most of these don’t have any entrance fees. Though keep in mind that in Buddhist temples you’re more likely to be asked to pay for entering the place, rather than not.
6. Talking about shrines, you should definitely visit Meiji Jingu. This place is dedicated to the late emperor Meiji and his empress. The place is also in a walking distance from  the above-mentioned Harajuku and Omotesando. The shrine is surrounded by a majestic garden which will make the whole experience quite mysterious.
7. You should also visit Asakusa, probably one of the most famous temples in Japan that has a gigantic entrance to it. On the way to the temple you will walk through narrow streets which bare resemblance to medieval Japanese streets.
8. A visit to Odaiba might be interesting. If you’re not scared of walking challenge yourself and walk over the Rainbow Bridge. You will get to see the beautiful sceneries of the Tokyo beaches.
9. If you are into otaku culture definitely visit Akihabara! Here you will meet many other otakus and will realise that in reality you aren’t one (that’s what happened to me haha). Here you will get to see huge screens that will show anime or idols singing. You might even run into actual idols singing somewhere on the streets. If you go into the stores you will see a lot of anime merchandise like figurines or cosplay.
10. You can take a stroll over Nihonbashi, a famous bridge which has been there since the 17th century. The district which grew around the bridge and bares the same name is the centre of business in Tokyo, in a way this is the Japanese Wall Street.
11. Take a walk down the Ameyoko Shopping Street which is very close to the Ueno station. This one is different from the above-mentioned Takeshita street, but you will still get to see many interesting shops.
12. You might also like to visit the Sunshine City, which is in Ikebukuro. It is a building complex consisting of 60 buildings, and even has an observatory! This place also often comes up in anime, so you might find the visit quite interesting!
13. Definitely visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building Observatories in Shinjuku! You will get to see an amazing scenery spread out in front of you: Tokyo and its parks, the Meiji Jingu, etc.
14. Visit Shimokitazawa. This is a small town in the Western parts of Tokyo, but it is very popular amongst the young people. Shimokitazawa is also famous for its many second hand shops, which sell very rare brand items.
15. Definitely visit Yokohama. It’s a bit far from the central districts of Tokyo, but believe me it’s worth your visit. Yokohama is one of Tokyo’s suburbs and is famous for a couple of things, like its access to the sea, as well as its Chinatown (Yokohama Chukagai). It’s the largest Chinatown in Japan. Here you can find many colourful streets, Chinese stores and restaurants.
16. While you’re visiting Yokohama, it might also be a great idea to visit Kamakura. Kamakura is famous for its large Buddha statue. Even though the entrance to the Buddhist temple will require you to pay a tiny amount of money, there is still a Shintoist shrine on the other side of the city, which is free of charge.
17. Visit parks! Tokyo is famous for being a green city. And indeed there are many parks worth your time! A couple of famous ones are Yoyogi park, Hibiya Park, Roppongi West Park, but there are so many more!

As I have already mentioned above, Tokyo is an expensive city. One would expect this from a megapolis. But then again the city also offers you many cheap or even free alternatives of having fun and enjoying the Japanese culture. If you follow the list I gave you in this article, I assure you that you will not only have a full schedule on your hands, but also will get to see some of the most visited places in Tokyo. Fun doesn’t always have to cost you a fortune, now does it?

The post Top Things to Do in Tokyo for FREE appeared first on Japaniverse Travel Guide.

Japan is long. Although smaller in area than the state of California it consists of several islands stretching over 3,000 kms north to south. If superimposed on a map of Europe it covers the tip of Norway to the bottom of Portugal. That’s not a train journey I would recommend! Yet almost every tourist to Japan arrives armed with the JR Rail Pass.

The JR Rail Pass works fine if you are planning to stay on the tourist trail between Tokyo & Kyoto and even beyond. But what happens you need to get from Hokkaido in the north to Kyushu in the south- and fast (as will be the case for many rugby fans in 2019)?

Meet the Japan AIR Pass!

Not as widely known as its railway cousin the Japan Explorer Pass is another one of those amazing deals available only to visitors to Japan. Operated by Japan Airlines (JAL) this gives you the opportunity to fly to 30 x cities in Japan for a fixed fee starting from 5,400 dollars (50 dollars) to 10,800 yen (100 dollars approx) per flight for up to 5 one-way flights.

What’s the Catch?

Unusually for an offer like this there are no hurdles to climb to meet the criteria.You must simply be a tourist with a valid return flight ticket (from any airline) & you have the option to book your discounted flights online up to 72 hours before the scheduled departure time. Once you’ve booked there’s no looking back. No changes & no refunds possible.

However discounted flights are unavailable when the Japanese are moving so watch out for blackout dates including the New Year holidays, the Obon festival & the beginning of the academic year.

Blackout Dates for Discounted Flights in 2018
March 16, 2018 to March 31, 2018
August 03, 2018 to August 16, 2018
December 21, 2018 to January 06, 2019

So far for 2019- we know..
March 15, 2019 to March 31, 2019

Explain The Different Flight Ticket Prices

The 5,400 Yen Ticket

Covers flights within Hokkaido and flights to/from the northern region of Japan known as the Tohoku region. For rugby fans one of the more interesting venues for the 2019 World Cup is Kamaishi in Iwate Prefecture. Devastated by the events of March 2011 a purpose-built stadium is being completed this year and will host matches such as that of Fiji vs. Uruguay on the 25^th September 2019. From Tokyo you can fly to Akita (150 kms) or from Osaka to Hanamaki (70 kms) for approx. 50 dollars.

The 7,560 Yen Ticket

Covers flights between Tokyo & Osaka as well as between the islands of Okinawa- perfect for sun-seeking island hoppers!

The 10,800 Yen Ticket

This ticket is available for all other routes.

Notes: Economy Class only (though First-Class upgrades may be available on-board), No child rate although infants under 2 are free if they don’t require a seat.

How Do I Book My Discounted Flights Online?

Use the JAL Japan Explorer Pass Website- Click Here and check what’s available or Book Now!

Why fly JAL?

You get baggage allowance up to 2 x 23 kg bags, earn air miles, get a choice of hourly flights for major cities & advance seat reservation. In other words you fly in style- and it’s all included. The alternative is to work out a better deal with the Low-Cost Carriers such as JetStar and Peach Air, etc.

Safe Flight!

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However, despite having a lot to offer to the tourists, the tourism in Tohoku has died down in the past eight years. To be more precise this happened since early 2011, when an earthquake and tsunami hit the Eastern shores of Northern Japan. The earthquake and tsunami were devastating for coastal regions. However, it didn’t end with just an earthquake and a tsunami. These in their turn caused the Fukushima nuclear power plant to have a meltdown. All in all the situation was drastic and these events have made Tohoku into a place that most tourists simply don’t consider visiting, be it because of the fear of radiation or even earthquakes and tsunami.

Tohoku has become a home to me for the past two years, it has been kind to me, welcomed me and in this article I want to show that Tohoku is not a scary place at all, it is a region filled with so much history, kind and sincere people and of course, delicious food!

Miyagi prefecture

Sendai, one of the major cities in Japan is located in Miyagi prefecture. Here you can find remains of the Aoba castle, which belonged to Date clan. Date Masamune is famous for helping the Tokugawa come to rule. You can also visit an old Shinto shrine named Oosaki Hachiman-gu. It is probably the most important shrine in all of Tohoku. The city is also where Tohoku University is. The university has a long history as a former Imperial University, it is the second best in Japan right now and it houses over a 1500 foreign students.
In Miyagi you can find the world-famous kitsune mura (fox village). Here you can see the foxes run around and if you’re lucky, even get to hug the cubs.
Nearby the fox village is a place called Akiu. Akiu is famous for its onsen – hot springs.

Fukushima prefecture

While the idea of going to Fukushima might seem frightening because of the nuclear meltdown in 2011, let me reassure you: the affected areas are closed down to public, hence you will be safe unless you do something irrational. The Aizuwakamatsu city is definitely worth your visit if you are in Tohoku. Not only because the city has some pretty scenery, but also because a historically vital castle named Tsuruga is situated in the city.

Akita prefecture

Akita prefecture is famous in Japan for its Akita bijin, in other words, beautiful people. Akita is also famous for the Akita breed of dogs. The prefecture will also allow you an access to the Japanese sea. I personally prefer the Pacific shore of Japan, but this is also an interesting experience.
Nonetheless, this prefecture too has a historically important castle called Kakunodate. The region also has many well-preserved samurai houses. It is worth adding, that the surrounding areas of the castle are favoured spots for flower-viewing, hanami.

Yamagata prefecture

The prefecture is famous for its soba (a type of noodles). Yamagata city also hosts more than a hundred years old building called Bunshokan which was a political centre in early Meiji era.
What makes a visit to Yamagata unique, however, is an old temple called Yamadera. It is located on the top of a mountain and you will have to go up for about 1000 stairs to get to the temple. The view from the top is stunning, and it’s totally worth the hike!

Iwate prefecture

It must be noted that Iwate is the second largest prefecture in Japan, following Hokkaido, which by the way is a totally separate island. While there are many onsen, ski resorts and other interesting places worth visiting in Iwate, I would like to direct your attention to Chusonji, a temple in Hiraizumi. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It is also worth visiting the so called Geibi-kei, a two kilometer gorge where you can take a boat trip and bask in the beauty of waterfalls, caves and impressive rocks.

Aomori prefecture

This is the Northernmost prefecture on the Honshu island. And it is very cold in winter. But with all the cold, Aomori is famous for its apples. These sell at very high prices in all of the Japan, but their taste is incomparable to any other apple you’ve ever had.
Apples aside, though, the prefecture is famous for… surprise-surprise… another castle! Hirosaki castle might not be as old as the ones mentioned above, but it still is one of the most interesting and well-preserved castles in whole of Japan. It is also famous for its surrounding gardens.

These are simple some of the most famous touristic sites in the region of Tohoku, but believe me when I say that Tohoku is worth a visit. It has a lot to offer and you, my friend, will not be disappointed, I can assure you of that!

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