Travel

Holiday Adventures in Japan: What You Must See and Do

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Back when a world tour was an accepted graduation gift and expected honeymoon, the country of Japan was always on that list. The ancient cultural ideals, beautiful artwork and settings in the country are profoundly appealing.

You’re getting ready to travel to the Orient, a legendary country with unsurpassed beauty and beautiful people. But while it may seem like you can just find about anything in an Internet search, know that you need to be sure you’re choosing an itinerary that will not only get you the trip you’ve dreamed of, but as yet have been able to travel and make the trip. Japan, unlike other Asian countries such as India and the Philippines, doesn’t always provide education in English. This can cause problems, because making the decision of just how much territory you’ll cover, where you’ll stay, sleep and dine – is reliant on the Internet. Are you someone who goes by good reviews only or your “gut feeling?” Don’t rely on the intangible. Be sure you consult with experts in Japan holidays before you book your tour.

The language barrier is not something of which to make light. You cannot just speak slowly. You cannot faux “sign” your way through. Unlike the aforementioned English-speaking Asian countries, the Japanese are not schooled in English. You can’t step off of a plane, into a hotel and stumble onto the street hoping someone will direct you to the tourist destinations. And in choosing your trip, you can’t be trembly and hope you’re making the right decision. It’s always best to consult with experts about it.

If you are traveling alone or with family or friends, have an idea of what you want to see, where you want to go and what you want to eat. Don’t guess. Make informed decisions and then check out tailor made tours in Japan.

So where should you consider going? First of all, if you are traveling during the upcoming holidays, you will be visiting during winter season. Here are some places you might want to put on your list:

Tokyo

If you’ve never been to Japan, Tokyo is a must-see. The food is amazing and you might want to attend the Setsubun Festival (which hopes to send winter away as you throw beans at devils).

Takayama

Also dubbed as Little Kyoto, you’ll find ancient buildings – and some Edo period built ones. Unique food will include Hida beef (locals say it rivals Wagyu), sake breweries, local soba noodles, sansai (mountain veg) and river fish, i.e. wasakana.

Gero

Thermal waters. Beautiful views. Enough said.

Shirakawa-go

Bucolic and picturesque, this tiny town, with gingerbread-style homes is high in the mountains and great for skiers and photographers.

Hakuba, Nagano

You heard about it during the Olympics, but it’s also a great place for first-time skiers. Hotels are geared for those who want the Asian experience or a Western one. Ski, snowboard and have a bevy of food choices.

You’ll find many guidebooks and websites offering suggestions of where to go and what to do. Certainly, there are iconic landmarks and many “must-sees,” but when visiting a foreign country, it’s essential to look beyond the ordinary and see the “real” Japan. There are online resources that offer an out-of-the-box examination of travel opportunities. Not only did they tackle Japan, these blogs and sites are also full of interesting tidbits of information.

More out-of-the-ordinary Japanese expeditions can be found with research. Please notice this doesn’t read “a little research,” because a cursory look into what to see and do will take you, as aforementioned, to traditional sights. Check out travel bloggers as their sites can provide you with some appealing suggestions.

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