Japan: Updates & Travel

Travel in Japan

• Japan is a special mix between hypermodern and traditional. The old codes of conduct still apply and the kimono is still a worn garment, while most of Tokyo is hypermodern with high-rise buildings and life goes on 24/7.
• The Tsukiji fish market was the largest fish market in the world, where all kinds of Japanese fish are sold. The "famous" market has moved and is now called Toyosu market. Around the place where the Tsukiji fish market was, the activities around it are still going on and there are (fish) restaurants.
• Attend a sumo match during one of the six major tournaments that are held each year. Looking for something more refined? Then visit a puppet show (Bunraku).
• Himeji-jo, the most beautiful remaining castle in Japan, from where you have a view over the Kansai plain. This castle plays a role in a James Bond film and in The Last Samurai. Visit a Geisha dance (Odori), which is held in April, May and October.
• Relax in an "Onsen". Swimming pools and saunas have been built on the spot where a natural spring emerges from the ground.
• Go to Kyoto, the former imperial city full of temples and stone gardens (to become Zen in). If you are a fan of Japanese manga comics, you should definitely visit the Kyoto International Manga Museum.
• Mount Fuji is the highest mountain in Japan west of Tokyo. Climb Mount Fuji in the summer. You will (unfortunately) not be the only one doing this, but the view is worth it.
• Tokyo has a 24 hours economy. Visit one of the palaces, dive into a karaoke bar, enjoy yourself in an arcade with (computer) games for young and old, view art in the art triangle, eat sushi and visit a tea ceremony. Almost 9 million people in the historic city, constant hustle and bustle and always something to do: Tokyo is either your dream city or your worst nightmare.
• Hiroshima. The city that was almost completely bombed by the first atomic bomb during the Second World War. This is the place to learn more about Japan and the Second World War in the Peace Memorial Museum.
• Enjoy the bounty beaches on the Okinawa islands. Also a great place to dive.
• Be prepared to face crowds and overtourism, especially in Tokyo and Kyoto.
• Be prepared to experience an earthquake. Yearly around 5.000 small earthquakes are registered in Japan.

Updates Japan

• In Japan you will get a fine, when you are tipsy driving a bicycle. When you have a per mille of more than 0,15 in your blood. That is (depending on your weight, and length) less than one glass of beer or wine on an empty stomach. The idea behind it is that you would probably be a high risk when you would be driving a car. The fines are very high (think of 2,750 euro). You will get a fine too when cycling with a phone or an umbrella in your hands. More about Japan, updates and contributions, see the link below.