g3org3y's JAPAN Trip - Pics/Write up +++
Discussion
As promised, my Japan write up from our trip last summer. Apologies in the delay, but as ever work gets in the way of things. I advise making a cup of tea or perhaps a cold beer while you sit down and read this. I do hope you enjoy! 
So why Japan?
As an 80s kid who grew up with Super Mario, Manga and Street Fighter I had to visit where it all began: the land of the rising sun, home of cutting edge technology and the famous bullet trains. I’ve travelled extensively around Europe and experienced many cultures/peoples but Japan seemed so ‘out there’ it had to be done. This would be my second foray to the East, my first being Thailand a number of years ago as a medical student. Suffice to say, I was excited! Plus, let’s be honest – Japan is cool as f
k!
- Amount of Japanese spoken: Minimal/non existent.
- Preparation done: Bought Rough Guide to Japan
- Other travellers: girlfriend
Our plan
Start off in Tokyo and soak up the sights and sounds for a few days. From there take the bullet train to Kyoto. Explore Kyoto for a couple of days and then use it as a base for exploring nearby Hiroshima and Miyajima Island and latterly Nara before returning to Tokyo for a final day and back home.
Photography
As with all my write ups, there are plenty of photos and hopefully they’ll give a good idea of the things we saw/experienced and a flavour of Japan. Shot on a Canon EOS 400D, details captured using a 70-200L (f/4), walk-around lens: Tamron 17-50, and a Sigma 10-20 ultrawide. Occasional use of a 100mm f/2. No tripod. PP conducted in Lightroom.
Arrival
After one of the worst long haul flights in my life (thanks Alitalia!) we arrived in Japan. Knackered but excited. Japan seems so far away because it genuinely is – it takes a little time before it really sinks in that you’ve arrived.
Never before have I seen an instance where they scan your body temp in arrivals – any fever evident and you’re taken to the side (I presume for temporary quarantine and further investigation). Luckily, apart from exhaustion, we were well and passed through border control with no issues.
It was time to tackle Japan’s public transport system. Later in the trip we’d be using the Shinkansen (bullet trains) and for that we’d need our JR pass but more about that later. We booked a couple of tickets for the train (Narita Express) to take us from the airport to the city centre. Included in the price of this was also the Suica Card, (a touch card comparable to London’s Oyster card). Good value and simple to use. As with almost every country visit, I am dismayed to see how their public transport is cheaper and better than London. Never mind.
Welcome to Tokyo!
Ever since watching Lost in Translation I’ve wanted to hear that phrase for real! After finding our hotel we spent a couple of hours simply wondering around and trying to take it all in. I’ve been to some busy cities in my time such as New York or Bangkok and I’ve lived in London for quite a number of years however nothing prepares you for the hyperactive metropolis that is Tokyo.
We started off in the nearby area of Ginza, a classy shopping district equivalent to London’s Bond Street. All the big brands were there with flagship stores as impressive and fancy as the goods they were selling. The road was closed to traffic to allow the shoppers to mill about at will. A perfect opportunity to sit or wander around and people watch (and take a few snaps).
Some other shots away from Ginza
On the underground:
It should be noted that Smoking is prohibited on the street in Tokyo (and in other Japanese cities). You are only allowed to smoke at specific designated areas. I was genuinely staggered how clean the city was – very impressive.
If you thought Tokyo was a visual spectacle during the day, as the darkness of night spreads and the neon lights illuminate, a light show of such epic proportions assaults your eyes in a display that makes Times Square appear meagre by comparison.
Couple this with the pouring rain (which was a recurrent theme during the holiday!) and this gives rise to some lovely colour reflections in the road. The only problem? Lack of tripod. Unfortunately, these shots can’t do ‘Tokyo by night’ justice but hopefully can give you an idea of what it looked like.
Lining up to cross the road
Let the crossing commence (long exposure)
Some makeshift long exposures
At night is the best time to experience Shinjuku, an area of love hotels, girls girls girls, karaoke and neon madness!
After a long day we crashed exhausted at the Hotel. If anyone is staying in Japan, I can heartily recommend the Mitsui Garden Hotel. Lovely rooms, impeccable service and the view out the window is worth it alone:
Don’t expect big rooms in Tokyo, but do expect confusing toilets. Here’s the instruction panel for our WC!
Japanese Food
I’ll be honest, I’m not the most adventurous when it comes to food, however in Japan there is little option except to crack on and put things in your mouth and see how you get on!
Here are some examples:
Aburasoba (noodles)
Tempura
This (I can’t remember the name) is essentially meat cooked in front of you by the hostess which you then eat after dipping it into raw egg. Tastier than it sounds!
(Sorry no sushi photos!)
Things that I also love to look at when abroad are to do with the phrase “same same but different”. This is something that I came across in Thailand and have enjoyed it ever since – it’s the same, but it’s not.
Retro Sprite!
Largest can of coke evAr!!!11
Asakusa & the Senso-ji Temple
Asakusa is most well known in Tokyo for being the site of the Senso-ji Buddhist temple. It attracts visitors from all around Japan and even further afield.
One approaches the temple from the south via the Kaminari-Mon (Thunder Gate).
Once through the gate, one proceeds through the Nakamise-Dori, a street lined on both sides with stalls catering to the crowds – souvenirs (some tacky!), trinkets, crafts, food. There’s a great atmosphere and as expected, it’s a great place to get some photos.
(did not try!)
With an overcast sky, it was difficult to get a decent capture of the temple itself, but despite this it was a stunning sight. Plenty of tourists milling about, both Japanese and western. While my girlfriend went off to explore, it gave me some time to get some further shots.
Details from around the temple
Fortunes are purchased for 100Yen and then are tied to this rack in the hope they come true.
Incense is purchased, lit and placed into large barrels of sand. Devoted Buddhists of all ages allow the smoke to wash over them as they pray.
Holy water flows – this is collected with little ladles and people use this to drink and wash their hands, cleansing themselves before they pray.
A great opportunity for further people shots.
Odaiba Island & Tokyo Bay
The next day we planned to visit Odaiba, an island of reclaimed land in Tokyo Bay. This is linked to the mainland by the famous Rainbow Bridge. The best way to get to the island was via ferry and in typical Japanese fashion it looked awesome! A brilliant way to spend 45 mins.
The Fuji Building is equally futuristic looking.
Odaiba has quite a few interesting things to see and is certainly worth a visit (especially if you are a car enthusiast).
Firstly there is the MegaWeb Toyota World which is a show case of Toyota’s history and technology similar to that of BMW Welt in Munich (but not as comprehensive).
The Wonder Wheel in the background
Some great Toyotas on show:
More interesting is the older motor museum which covers multiple manufacturers displayed in backgrounds related to their origin. Some great cars there (unfortunately light not very conducive for photos).
For me, the old motor museum was a genuine highlight of this part of the trip and if you are an automotive enthusiast it’s a must see on visiting Tokyo.
There’s also a large shopping mall which incorporates a huge Hello Kitty shop! You can get Hello Kitty anything/everything there!
Part of the mall is designed as an Italian town, complete with fountains and blue sky.
The late afternoon was spent on sandy Odaiba beach. We were exceptionally lucky with the weather, the cloud clearing for a lovely clear blue sky. The rest of the evening was very pleasant, watching the sun going down over Rainbow Bridge – perfect. (Note the boat tours in the foreground, hired for watching the sunset over the bridge).
Further night shots
The Wonder Wheel
Meiji-jingu Shrine
Unfortunately, the weather would be nemesis on this day. The plan was to visit the Meiju-jingu shrine in the morning and the Shinjuku Gyoen gardens in the afternoon. However, there was rain, and more rain and even more rain!
Little wooden squares can be purchased on which the devoted can write their wishes and the priests then pray for. Some wishes are less serious than others!
Some sheltered from the rain
Others braved it with their umbrellas
We did indeed visit the gardens but were comprehensively rained off! They are lovely (large) gardens and themed with regards to their plants. Very very nice and shame the weather got the better of us. Only managed a few poor shots.
Owing to the rain, we took refuge in a bookshop. In a way, given Japan’s propensity to be at the cutting edge of technology I expected the paper written word to be all but dead however it was massive. The ground floor was devoted to magazines and I’d estimate it 2-3 times the size of an average WHSmith and it was absolutely packed. Other floors were devoted to regular books, but none made more an impression than the Manga comic floor.
Manga is a massive phenomenon in Japan appealing to all ages – children and adults. A multitude of subject matter is covered, every niche, every interest. I even noted a Manga title (called Barista!) specifically related to love stories taking place in coffee shops. There is of course the naughty more adult orientated Manga too.
Tsukiji Fish Market
One of the most popular tourist sights in Tokyo is the Tsukiji Fish Market. This market has been in action for hundreds of years and is a Tokyo institution. Everyone recommends getting down there for 5-6am to witness the famous tuna auction. It has become so popular that they now limit the numbers. I’m not a big fan of fish, especially first thing in the morning so we didn’t bother with that. We did however saunter into the market to soak up the atmosphere about 8ish.
Apparently however, this wasn’t allowed! We were halted by the politest policeman I have ever met who apologetically explained that tourists were not allowed in the market until 10am and even that was limited. By that point in time, we had already spent a good 45 mins and frankly that was about my limit.
Amazing variety of seafood, things I’d only seen on Attenborough documentaries. Plus I was really surprised just how big the tuna were!
The afternoon was spent at the frankly staggering Akihabara, Japans ‘electric town’. A manga-computergame-techno-ubergeek fest on an unbelievable scale. Wow. Just wow.
Plus you never know who you’ll meet!
Again, as with the Manga, I was staggered how seriously the Japanese take their computer games. Arcades were full, late into the night with plenty of older/middle aged individuals chain smoking and chain playing.
We became a little addicted to Mario GP 2 (it takes a photo of your face and puts it on the character) – obviously I won!
We also played a lot of Taiko Drum Master (<cough>girlfriend beat me<cough>)
In a dark corner I even found my beloved Street Fighter!
Travelling to Kyoto
In order to reach it from Tokyo we used the Shinkansen (bullet trains). Before leaving the UK, we ordered our Japan Rail Passes. These provide unlimited travel on JR services for 7/14/21 days at a highly discounted rate. As well as the Shinkansen, they are also applicable for local services run by JR. You can only order them aborad and they are sent to your address. Once in Japan, you visit a JR kiosk and get them activated.
More info on the JR Pass here: http://www.japantravel.co.uk/japan-rail-pass.html
Despite neither myself or the gf speaking any Japanese we were able to navigate Japan’s public transport system (both in Tokyo and Kyoto) as well as activate our JR passes with no issues. Genuinely impressed.
So, how good are the Shinkansen? Awesome. Absolutely on time, smooth, super quick. Worth the money, no doubt about it. The train pulls up at the same point on the platform every time, the numbers on the floor correspond to the carriages and people queue up in single file. Amazing discipline, amazing service. Reputation well and truly deserved.
Mount Fuji out the window of the Shinkansen en route to Kyoto
Kyoto
The former imperial capital of Japan, Kyoto is home to some stunning temples, palaces, gardens and shrines. I’m not going to go through them all that might be a bit repetitive after Tokyo (will concentrate more on Hiroshima etc) but here are some details from in and around Kyoto and its temples. It should be noted that Kyoto is a fabulous city, you can go from the hustle and hustle of inner city life to silent zen peace in the woods with half an hour walk. Lovely and certainly one of the highlights of the trip.
Nijo-jo
Ginkaku-ji (The Silver Pavilion)
Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavillion)
Car parking Japan style!
Day Trip to Hiroshima & Miyajima
Various tour operators offer day trips to Hiroshima/Miyajima (and beyond) for a fee however we felt this wasn’t required. We had our JR passes and Rough Guide and felt we’d be able to manage both (at a stretch) in a day.
Hiroshima is a city that needs little introduction; the events of August 6th 1945 have forever left it infamous in the annals of modern day history. After the devastation, major restructuring work has been conducted and Hiroshima is now a modern, busy and bustling city.
However, at its centre remains the crumbling shell of the Industrial Promotion Hall (now better known as the A-Bomb Dome). It was one of the few structures that wasn’t demolished during that fateful day and has been maintained in its dilapidated state ever since as a poignant reminder of the events of 1945.
Memorial Cenotaph (A-Bomb Done in the distance)
There are many memorial sites and all are covered with hundreds upon hundreds of origami paper cranes.
The Peace Memorial Museum is a fitting and excellent recollection of events. An absolute must if anyone is planning to visit. Unfortunately, photos cannot do justice to the emotion surrounding the area. If you are visiting Japan, Hiroshima should be on your ‘to do list’.
From Hiroshima we travelled to Miyajima (tram to the port and then ferry), home of one of Japan’s most iconic structures, the shrine of Itsukushima-jinja, a grand red gate which emerges from the sea. A lovely location and a delightful way to spend a day. Unfortunately, we only had half and we were desperate to scale Misen-san, Miyajima’s sacred mountain (by scale, I mean take the cable car of course).
First thing you notice about Miyajima are the deer. They are everywhere and they are fearless. Plus they are hungry and will eat just about anything!
The cable car (don’t look down!).
The view at the top was worth it!
We visited the shrine at low tide which meant we could walk right up to it. The beginnings of a sunset made for some nice photos however we had to rush back so we didn’t miss the last fast train to Kyoto.
Other details
Even Samurai need to check their Facebook!
Sunset
Nara
Our final destination before returning to Tokyo was Nara the old old capital of Japan and home to one of the largest wooden structures in the world, the temple of Todai-ji. Again, very easy to get to using the local trains. When there, we hired a couple of bikes and began exploring. The bikes were great and allowed us to visit a lot of the sights quickly and with ease. Plus there’s little risk of them being stolen.
The temple of Todai-ji is (as expected) rather large and is home to one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in the world.Again, this is on the hit list for Japanese tourists – they love a bit of photo action.
The Buddha
Remember I mentioned about the deer in Miyajima being hungry, in Nara they’re even worse. We left the map hanging out the side of one of the bags only to have a deer take a massive chunk out of it!
Some other details
And then unfortunately it was time for us to return to Tokyo for one further night where we stayed in a rather nice Ryokan (traditional Japanese home) before getting the long flight home.
Conclusions regarding Japan?
Absolutely worthwhile trip and we didn’t even scratch the surface. The people are charming, polite and helpful, the culture is varied and interesting. There’s so much to see and do, we have to go back. The only problem is, it’s not exactly close and it’s not exactly cheap. Either way, it’s a trip I heartily recommend anyone interested in Eastern culture and civilisation.
Domo arigato for taking the time out to read this write up. Hope you enjoyed the prose and the photos.
Until the next trip, for relaxing times…[/Lost in Translation]
So why Japan?
As an 80s kid who grew up with Super Mario, Manga and Street Fighter I had to visit where it all began: the land of the rising sun, home of cutting edge technology and the famous bullet trains. I’ve travelled extensively around Europe and experienced many cultures/peoples but Japan seemed so ‘out there’ it had to be done. This would be my second foray to the East, my first being Thailand a number of years ago as a medical student. Suffice to say, I was excited! Plus, let’s be honest – Japan is cool as f
k!- Amount of Japanese spoken: Minimal/non existent.
- Preparation done: Bought Rough Guide to Japan
- Other travellers: girlfriend
Our plan
Start off in Tokyo and soak up the sights and sounds for a few days. From there take the bullet train to Kyoto. Explore Kyoto for a couple of days and then use it as a base for exploring nearby Hiroshima and Miyajima Island and latterly Nara before returning to Tokyo for a final day and back home.
Photography
As with all my write ups, there are plenty of photos and hopefully they’ll give a good idea of the things we saw/experienced and a flavour of Japan. Shot on a Canon EOS 400D, details captured using a 70-200L (f/4), walk-around lens: Tamron 17-50, and a Sigma 10-20 ultrawide. Occasional use of a 100mm f/2. No tripod. PP conducted in Lightroom.
Arrival
After one of the worst long haul flights in my life (thanks Alitalia!) we arrived in Japan. Knackered but excited. Japan seems so far away because it genuinely is – it takes a little time before it really sinks in that you’ve arrived.
Never before have I seen an instance where they scan your body temp in arrivals – any fever evident and you’re taken to the side (I presume for temporary quarantine and further investigation). Luckily, apart from exhaustion, we were well and passed through border control with no issues.
It was time to tackle Japan’s public transport system. Later in the trip we’d be using the Shinkansen (bullet trains) and for that we’d need our JR pass but more about that later. We booked a couple of tickets for the train (Narita Express) to take us from the airport to the city centre. Included in the price of this was also the Suica Card, (a touch card comparable to London’s Oyster card). Good value and simple to use. As with almost every country visit, I am dismayed to see how their public transport is cheaper and better than London. Never mind.
Welcome to Tokyo!
Ever since watching Lost in Translation I’ve wanted to hear that phrase for real! After finding our hotel we spent a couple of hours simply wondering around and trying to take it all in. I’ve been to some busy cities in my time such as New York or Bangkok and I’ve lived in London for quite a number of years however nothing prepares you for the hyperactive metropolis that is Tokyo.
We started off in the nearby area of Ginza, a classy shopping district equivalent to London’s Bond Street. All the big brands were there with flagship stores as impressive and fancy as the goods they were selling. The road was closed to traffic to allow the shoppers to mill about at will. A perfect opportunity to sit or wander around and people watch (and take a few snaps).
Some other shots away from Ginza
On the underground:
It should be noted that Smoking is prohibited on the street in Tokyo (and in other Japanese cities). You are only allowed to smoke at specific designated areas. I was genuinely staggered how clean the city was – very impressive.
If you thought Tokyo was a visual spectacle during the day, as the darkness of night spreads and the neon lights illuminate, a light show of such epic proportions assaults your eyes in a display that makes Times Square appear meagre by comparison.
Couple this with the pouring rain (which was a recurrent theme during the holiday!) and this gives rise to some lovely colour reflections in the road. The only problem? Lack of tripod. Unfortunately, these shots can’t do ‘Tokyo by night’ justice but hopefully can give you an idea of what it looked like.
Lining up to cross the road
Let the crossing commence (long exposure)
Some makeshift long exposures
At night is the best time to experience Shinjuku, an area of love hotels, girls girls girls, karaoke and neon madness!
After a long day we crashed exhausted at the Hotel. If anyone is staying in Japan, I can heartily recommend the Mitsui Garden Hotel. Lovely rooms, impeccable service and the view out the window is worth it alone:
Don’t expect big rooms in Tokyo, but do expect confusing toilets. Here’s the instruction panel for our WC!
Japanese Food
I’ll be honest, I’m not the most adventurous when it comes to food, however in Japan there is little option except to crack on and put things in your mouth and see how you get on!
Here are some examples:
Aburasoba (noodles)
Tempura
This (I can’t remember the name) is essentially meat cooked in front of you by the hostess which you then eat after dipping it into raw egg. Tastier than it sounds!
(Sorry no sushi photos!)
Things that I also love to look at when abroad are to do with the phrase “same same but different”. This is something that I came across in Thailand and have enjoyed it ever since – it’s the same, but it’s not.
Retro Sprite!
Largest can of coke evAr!!!11
Asakusa & the Senso-ji Temple
Asakusa is most well known in Tokyo for being the site of the Senso-ji Buddhist temple. It attracts visitors from all around Japan and even further afield.
One approaches the temple from the south via the Kaminari-Mon (Thunder Gate).
Once through the gate, one proceeds through the Nakamise-Dori, a street lined on both sides with stalls catering to the crowds – souvenirs (some tacky!), trinkets, crafts, food. There’s a great atmosphere and as expected, it’s a great place to get some photos.
(did not try!)
With an overcast sky, it was difficult to get a decent capture of the temple itself, but despite this it was a stunning sight. Plenty of tourists milling about, both Japanese and western. While my girlfriend went off to explore, it gave me some time to get some further shots.
Details from around the temple
Fortunes are purchased for 100Yen and then are tied to this rack in the hope they come true.
Incense is purchased, lit and placed into large barrels of sand. Devoted Buddhists of all ages allow the smoke to wash over them as they pray.
Holy water flows – this is collected with little ladles and people use this to drink and wash their hands, cleansing themselves before they pray.
A great opportunity for further people shots.
Odaiba Island & Tokyo Bay
The next day we planned to visit Odaiba, an island of reclaimed land in Tokyo Bay. This is linked to the mainland by the famous Rainbow Bridge. The best way to get to the island was via ferry and in typical Japanese fashion it looked awesome! A brilliant way to spend 45 mins.
The Fuji Building is equally futuristic looking.
Odaiba has quite a few interesting things to see and is certainly worth a visit (especially if you are a car enthusiast).
Firstly there is the MegaWeb Toyota World which is a show case of Toyota’s history and technology similar to that of BMW Welt in Munich (but not as comprehensive).
The Wonder Wheel in the background
Some great Toyotas on show:
More interesting is the older motor museum which covers multiple manufacturers displayed in backgrounds related to their origin. Some great cars there (unfortunately light not very conducive for photos).
For me, the old motor museum was a genuine highlight of this part of the trip and if you are an automotive enthusiast it’s a must see on visiting Tokyo.
There’s also a large shopping mall which incorporates a huge Hello Kitty shop! You can get Hello Kitty anything/everything there!
Part of the mall is designed as an Italian town, complete with fountains and blue sky.
The late afternoon was spent on sandy Odaiba beach. We were exceptionally lucky with the weather, the cloud clearing for a lovely clear blue sky. The rest of the evening was very pleasant, watching the sun going down over Rainbow Bridge – perfect. (Note the boat tours in the foreground, hired for watching the sunset over the bridge).
Further night shots
The Wonder Wheel
Meiji-jingu Shrine
Unfortunately, the weather would be nemesis on this day. The plan was to visit the Meiju-jingu shrine in the morning and the Shinjuku Gyoen gardens in the afternoon. However, there was rain, and more rain and even more rain!
Little wooden squares can be purchased on which the devoted can write their wishes and the priests then pray for. Some wishes are less serious than others!
Some sheltered from the rain
Others braved it with their umbrellas
We did indeed visit the gardens but were comprehensively rained off! They are lovely (large) gardens and themed with regards to their plants. Very very nice and shame the weather got the better of us. Only managed a few poor shots.
Owing to the rain, we took refuge in a bookshop. In a way, given Japan’s propensity to be at the cutting edge of technology I expected the paper written word to be all but dead however it was massive. The ground floor was devoted to magazines and I’d estimate it 2-3 times the size of an average WHSmith and it was absolutely packed. Other floors were devoted to regular books, but none made more an impression than the Manga comic floor.
Manga is a massive phenomenon in Japan appealing to all ages – children and adults. A multitude of subject matter is covered, every niche, every interest. I even noted a Manga title (called Barista!) specifically related to love stories taking place in coffee shops. There is of course the naughty more adult orientated Manga too.
Tsukiji Fish Market
One of the most popular tourist sights in Tokyo is the Tsukiji Fish Market. This market has been in action for hundreds of years and is a Tokyo institution. Everyone recommends getting down there for 5-6am to witness the famous tuna auction. It has become so popular that they now limit the numbers. I’m not a big fan of fish, especially first thing in the morning so we didn’t bother with that. We did however saunter into the market to soak up the atmosphere about 8ish.
Apparently however, this wasn’t allowed! We were halted by the politest policeman I have ever met who apologetically explained that tourists were not allowed in the market until 10am and even that was limited. By that point in time, we had already spent a good 45 mins and frankly that was about my limit.
Amazing variety of seafood, things I’d only seen on Attenborough documentaries. Plus I was really surprised just how big the tuna were!
The afternoon was spent at the frankly staggering Akihabara, Japans ‘electric town’. A manga-computergame-techno-ubergeek fest on an unbelievable scale. Wow. Just wow.
Plus you never know who you’ll meet!
Again, as with the Manga, I was staggered how seriously the Japanese take their computer games. Arcades were full, late into the night with plenty of older/middle aged individuals chain smoking and chain playing.
We became a little addicted to Mario GP 2 (it takes a photo of your face and puts it on the character) – obviously I won!
We also played a lot of Taiko Drum Master (<cough>girlfriend beat me<cough>)
In a dark corner I even found my beloved Street Fighter!
Travelling to Kyoto
In order to reach it from Tokyo we used the Shinkansen (bullet trains). Before leaving the UK, we ordered our Japan Rail Passes. These provide unlimited travel on JR services for 7/14/21 days at a highly discounted rate. As well as the Shinkansen, they are also applicable for local services run by JR. You can only order them aborad and they are sent to your address. Once in Japan, you visit a JR kiosk and get them activated.
More info on the JR Pass here: http://www.japantravel.co.uk/japan-rail-pass.html
Despite neither myself or the gf speaking any Japanese we were able to navigate Japan’s public transport system (both in Tokyo and Kyoto) as well as activate our JR passes with no issues. Genuinely impressed.
So, how good are the Shinkansen? Awesome. Absolutely on time, smooth, super quick. Worth the money, no doubt about it. The train pulls up at the same point on the platform every time, the numbers on the floor correspond to the carriages and people queue up in single file. Amazing discipline, amazing service. Reputation well and truly deserved.
Mount Fuji out the window of the Shinkansen en route to Kyoto
Kyoto
The former imperial capital of Japan, Kyoto is home to some stunning temples, palaces, gardens and shrines. I’m not going to go through them all that might be a bit repetitive after Tokyo (will concentrate more on Hiroshima etc) but here are some details from in and around Kyoto and its temples. It should be noted that Kyoto is a fabulous city, you can go from the hustle and hustle of inner city life to silent zen peace in the woods with half an hour walk. Lovely and certainly one of the highlights of the trip.
Nijo-jo
Ginkaku-ji (The Silver Pavilion)
Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavillion)
Car parking Japan style!
Day Trip to Hiroshima & Miyajima
Various tour operators offer day trips to Hiroshima/Miyajima (and beyond) for a fee however we felt this wasn’t required. We had our JR passes and Rough Guide and felt we’d be able to manage both (at a stretch) in a day.
Hiroshima is a city that needs little introduction; the events of August 6th 1945 have forever left it infamous in the annals of modern day history. After the devastation, major restructuring work has been conducted and Hiroshima is now a modern, busy and bustling city.
However, at its centre remains the crumbling shell of the Industrial Promotion Hall (now better known as the A-Bomb Dome). It was one of the few structures that wasn’t demolished during that fateful day and has been maintained in its dilapidated state ever since as a poignant reminder of the events of 1945.
Memorial Cenotaph (A-Bomb Done in the distance)
There are many memorial sites and all are covered with hundreds upon hundreds of origami paper cranes.
The Peace Memorial Museum is a fitting and excellent recollection of events. An absolute must if anyone is planning to visit. Unfortunately, photos cannot do justice to the emotion surrounding the area. If you are visiting Japan, Hiroshima should be on your ‘to do list’.
From Hiroshima we travelled to Miyajima (tram to the port and then ferry), home of one of Japan’s most iconic structures, the shrine of Itsukushima-jinja, a grand red gate which emerges from the sea. A lovely location and a delightful way to spend a day. Unfortunately, we only had half and we were desperate to scale Misen-san, Miyajima’s sacred mountain (by scale, I mean take the cable car of course).
First thing you notice about Miyajima are the deer. They are everywhere and they are fearless. Plus they are hungry and will eat just about anything!
The cable car (don’t look down!).
The view at the top was worth it!
We visited the shrine at low tide which meant we could walk right up to it. The beginnings of a sunset made for some nice photos however we had to rush back so we didn’t miss the last fast train to Kyoto.
Other details
Even Samurai need to check their Facebook!
Sunset
Nara
Our final destination before returning to Tokyo was Nara the old old capital of Japan and home to one of the largest wooden structures in the world, the temple of Todai-ji. Again, very easy to get to using the local trains. When there, we hired a couple of bikes and began exploring. The bikes were great and allowed us to visit a lot of the sights quickly and with ease. Plus there’s little risk of them being stolen.
The temple of Todai-ji is (as expected) rather large and is home to one of the largest bronze Buddha statues in the world.Again, this is on the hit list for Japanese tourists – they love a bit of photo action.
The Buddha
Remember I mentioned about the deer in Miyajima being hungry, in Nara they’re even worse. We left the map hanging out the side of one of the bags only to have a deer take a massive chunk out of it!
Some other details
And then unfortunately it was time for us to return to Tokyo for one further night where we stayed in a rather nice Ryokan (traditional Japanese home) before getting the long flight home.
Conclusions regarding Japan?
Absolutely worthwhile trip and we didn’t even scratch the surface. The people are charming, polite and helpful, the culture is varied and interesting. There’s so much to see and do, we have to go back. The only problem is, it’s not exactly close and it’s not exactly cheap. Either way, it’s a trip I heartily recommend anyone interested in Eastern culture and civilisation.
Domo arigato for taking the time out to read this write up. Hope you enjoyed the prose and the photos.
Until the next trip, for relaxing times…[/Lost in Translation]
Edited by g3org3y on Wednesday 6th March 19:12
Edited by g3org3y on Thursday 7th March 10:21
Thanks for the feedback. 
With regards to costs, they weren't too shocking. Certainly no more than central London or New York to be honest in terms of eating out. Beer is quite expensive, even for the local brands though.
Accommodation wise, expect small rooms but as mentioned the Mitsui Garden Hotel is very much recommended. The rooms are from the 16th (iirc) floor and up - very high quality, lovely view and very attentive staff. The only problem is the breakfast (not included in our deal) was expensive and not worth it - we only had it once. We normally nipped into the 7/11 (they have them on every street corner) and grabbed a couple of pastries and bottle of water to tide us over until lunchtime.
Transport on the Tokyo subway was very reasonable iirc (esp when compared to London prices). The Shinkansen were good value owing to the JR Pass (quite expensive otherwise). It should be noted that the JR pass doesn't let you go on the very fastest bullet trains that only stop at 2 or 3 stations on the route -for that you need to pay extra. Tbh, the amount of time you lose is minimal and certainly not worth the premium imo.
We're off to Rome next week so I'm sure there'll be another write up coming soon (after I finish the Germany Road Trip one too!).
With regards to costs, they weren't too shocking. Certainly no more than central London or New York to be honest in terms of eating out. Beer is quite expensive, even for the local brands though.
Accommodation wise, expect small rooms but as mentioned the Mitsui Garden Hotel is very much recommended. The rooms are from the 16th (iirc) floor and up - very high quality, lovely view and very attentive staff. The only problem is the breakfast (not included in our deal) was expensive and not worth it - we only had it once. We normally nipped into the 7/11 (they have them on every street corner) and grabbed a couple of pastries and bottle of water to tide us over until lunchtime.
Transport on the Tokyo subway was very reasonable iirc (esp when compared to London prices). The Shinkansen were good value owing to the JR Pass (quite expensive otherwise). It should be noted that the JR pass doesn't let you go on the very fastest bullet trains that only stop at 2 or 3 stations on the route -for that you need to pay extra. Tbh, the amount of time you lose is minimal and certainly not worth the premium imo.
We're off to Rome next week so I'm sure there'll be another write up coming soon (after I finish the Germany Road Trip one too!).
I am a fan of Japan and remember my time there fondly. I am glad you enjoyed it and thank you for bringing back some happy memories.Gassing Station | Holidays & Travel | Top of Page | What's New | My Stuff