So often, it is the unexpected travel experiences that leave the biggest impact on us; This was the case for me when visiting Japan. I never expected the tea ceremony I signed up for in Kyoto to have such a profound impact on the way I live my life today, but many years later, it still stands out as of the best things I did in the country.
Making a Japan itinerary can be extremely challenging, in large part because there is so much to see and explore! That being said, Japan's train system is so efficient and incredible, that a lot can be covered in a short time. This 12-day Itinerary will show you a diverse array of what Japan has to offer. You will visit some of Japan's major cities, learn about the country's culture and history, explore the country's beautiful rural areas, and embark on a peaceful and educational retreat.
It takes a matter of seconds to run into “Robot Restaurant” when googling "Things to do in Tokyo". Robot Restaurant is one of the most popular tourist experiences for visitors to Tokyo. What exactly is it though? Robot Restaurant is less of a restaurant and more of a restaurant that puts on one of the wildest and most techy spectacles you will ever see.
Throughout my trip across the country, I had my fair share of both excellent vegetarian food and frankly terrible food. Hopefully, this list of the top 10 places I ate on my trip, can help you in your search!
An onsen is a natural spring bath whose water is heated by the molten rock below the earth's surface. The water is naturally heated and brought back up to the surface, enriched with natural minerals. These famous baths have been around in Japan for centuries and have been known to cure many ailments and conditions. Healing abilities aside, the baths themselves are best known for their ability to relax the body and mind.
Kyoto has to be one of my favorite cities in the world. Tokyo gets all the recognition but the true beauty of Japan rests in Kyoto. You could easily spend an entire week in this city and not regret it. Unfortunately, most visitors are on a time constraint so this is not possible. Here is the perfect 3 day Kyoto Itinerary to see maximize your time and see all that this wonderful city has to offer.
Mountains, beaches, sunsets, and lots of deer, Miyajima is not your typical destination spot in Japan. However, if you love gorgeous scenery, and the outdoors find some space in your itinerary to make it over here. This small island of Hiroshima is the perfect place to enjoy picturesque views while taking a break from the busy and hectic life of a tourist.
Ichi-go Ichi-e, 11 letters that I resonated with in Japan. The phrase, in rough translation, means to treasure the moment, it may never come again. It is the perfect way to describe the way I’ve tried to live my life and the way I believe many people should. When I heard this phrase used by a tea master in Japan, I instantly formed a deeper connection with the country. It wasn’t just a nice sounding phrase, but one that actually seemed to represent the Japanese culture.