Your perfect holiday in Japan...
Dreaming of a holiday in Japan? From the bustling metropolis of Tokyo to the serene landscapes of Mount Fuji, Japan offers a unique blend of culture, cuisine, and adventure. To ensure you have a fabulous holiday in Japan, I would recommend taking the time to understand a little bit about the country's customs and flavours...
Understanding Shudan Shugi, Kaizen, and Omotenashi
Delving into the heart of Japan's societal ethos, Shudan Shugi, Kaizen, and Omotenashi embody principles that are pivotal to the Japanese way of life. Shudan Shugi emphasises group harmony, encouraging individuals to think and act in a manner that promotes collective well-being over personal desires. This concept invites travellers to observe and participate in Japan’s communal spirit, fostering connections and enriching interactions. Kaizen, on the other hand, is the philosophy of continuous improvement, a reminder to embrace each moment as an opportunity for personal growth and learning. It nudges visitors to engage deeply with Japan’s rich tapestry of culture and history, finding value in every experience. Lastly, Omotenashi, Japan's unique form of hospitality, ensures that guests are treated with the utmost care and respect, providing an environment where one can truly feel the warmth and generosity of the Japanese people. Together, these principles offer a framework for understanding Japan’s intricate social fabric, enhancing your holiday by inviting you to not just observe, but actively participate in the cultural rhythms of this fascinating country.
Navigating Japan's Culinary Landscape
Embarking on a culinary journey through Japan as a vegan or vegetarian might seem daunting at first glance. The omnipresence of dashi, a fish-based stock in many traditional dishes, and the hidden gluten in soy sauce can present unforeseen challenges. Yet, this vibrant country also offers a rich tapestry of plant-based delights that await those willing to delve deeper into its culinary ethos. Initiating conversations about your dietary needs can unlock an array of vegan or vegetarian-friendly options, many of which are rooted in Japan's Buddhist traditions and its emphasis on seasonal and fresh ingredients. Cities like Tokyo and Kyoto are burgeoning with eateries that cater specifically to plant-based diets, offering everything from tofu delicacies to exquisite vegetable tempura. Engaging with the local food culture through this lens not only opens up a new dimension of culinary experiences but also demonstrates respect for personal health and ethical choices, aligning harmoniously with the Japanese principles of harmony and respect. Remember, a little research and a dash of adventurous spirit are your best companions on this gastronomic voyage, ensuring that your plant-based dining experiences in Japan are as enriching and memorable as the country's majestic landscapes and rich cultural heritage.
Preparing for an Active Holiday in Japan
Japan's landscapes, from bustling city streets to tranquil mountain trails, encourage an inherently active holiday. With exploration by foot being a quintessential part of the journey, it's imperative to come prepared. Investing in a sturdy pair of walking shoes is essential, as you'll find yourself navigating everything from the neon-lit alleyways of Shinjuku to the historic pathways of Kyoto's Gion district. The need for hydration cannot be overstated, especially during Japan's humid summers or while hiking in the picturesque yet challenging terrains of places like the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route. Additionally, embracing outdoor activities not only aligns well with Japan's active ethos but also offers unique opportunities to connect with the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the country. Whether it's participating in a traditional tea ceremony in a peaceful garden, cycling through the rural landscapes of the Noto Peninsula, or simply enjoying the simplicity of a morning jog in one of Tokyo's lush parks, preparation and a willingness to engage physically will greatly enhance your Japanese holiday experience.
Choosing Your Ideal Japanese Accommodation
Selecting the perfect place to stay in Japan is much more than a practical decision; it’s an integral part of the travel experience that offers a window into the nation's soul. For those who prefer familiar comforts, Western-style hotels provide the modern conveniences you’re accustomed to. However, for a truly unique and enriching experience, delve into the traditional side of Japan with a stay in a machiya house or a ryokan. Machiya houses, often found in Kyoto, allow you to live as locals did in historical times, nestled within narrow streets and surrounded by the enchanting allure of old Japan. On the other hand, a ryokan offers an unparalleled level of Omotenashi - Japanese hospitality - where every detail is meticulously designed to ensure peace and relaxation. From tatami mats to futon beds, sliding paper doors to public onsens, staying in a ryokan immerses you in the tranquillity and aesthetic simplicity of Japanese tradition. Making the right choice in accommodation is about aligning with your interests and openness to experience Japan’s multifaceted culture, thereby crafting an indelible chapter in your travel story.
Mastering Train Travel in Japan
Navigating Japan's vast and punctual railway system is a hallmark of the travel experience within this fascinating country. The trains, ranging from the world-renowned shinkansen (bullet trains) to scenic local lines, encapsulate the essence of Japanese efficiency and reliability. Travellers should be aware that, unlike some services in other countries, porterage is seldom an option in Japanese stations, meaning one's luggage is one's own responsibility (though luggage forwarding services are available!). This underscores the importance of packing light and managing your belongings with ease. Familiarising oneself with the timetable and ticketing systems, available in both physical and digital formats, is crucial for seamless travel. It's also worth embracing the local etiquette onboard, such as speaking quietly and ensuring your mobile phone is on silent mode, to respect the shared space. Engaging with Japan’s railway system not only facilitates exploration across the country's diverse landscapes but also offers a glimpse into the daily lives of its people, making train travel a key element of the authentic Japanese holiday experience.
Seasonal Recommendations for a Year-Round Destination
Japan, a country that proudly wears its seasons like ever-changing robes, offers a unique palette of experiences throughout the year. Springtime is heralded with the soft pinks and whites of cherry blossoms, a serene spectacle that invites contemplation and renewal. As the country bursts into vibrant life, festivals such as Hanami celebrate this fleeting beauty in a manner that echoes the Japanese ethos of appreciating the moment. Moving into summer, Japan's energetic spirit is showcased through dynamic festivals and firework displays, an embodiment of joy and community. The warmth of summer also opens up Japan's lush landscapes to explorers. Autumn casts a spell with its kaleidoscope of foliage, turning parks and temples into canvases of crimson and gold. This season offers a visual feast that speaks to the soul, encouraging reflection as the year ages. Winter, far from being a dormant period, presents its own allure with snow-dusted landscapes and opportunities for skiing, alongside illuminations that dazzle and bring light to the shorter days. Each season in Japan presents a chapter in a year-long narrative of natural beauty and cultural depth, inviting travellers to experience the country's heart through its seasonal rhythms.
Crafting the Perfect Itinerary for First-Timers
Embarking on your first journey to Japan, Honshu island serves as an ideal foundation, weaving through the vibrancy of Tokyo to the emblematic serenity around Mount Fuji, before delving into the historical depth of Kyoto and the poignant narratives of Hiroshima. In Tokyo, immerse yourself in the pulsating heart of modernity, juxtaposed with tranquil pockets of tradition. Allow the majestic presence of Mount Fuji to inspire awe, an enduring symbol of natural beauty and resilience. Kyoto, with its tapestry of temples and timeless ceremonies, offers a gateway to understanding the soul of ancient Japan, whilst Hiroshima stands as a testament to peace and rebirth. This route not only showcases the contrasts of Japan’s landscapes and cities but also invites a deeper connection with its enduring cultural ethos and rich historical narratives, crafting a first visit that is as enlightening as it is memorable.
Exploring Japan by Cruise: An Alternative Perspective
Opting for a cruise to navigate Japan’s scenic coastlines introduces a distinctive vantage point on the nation's culture and natural beauty. This mode of travel stands out as a seamless blend of leisure and exploration, making it particularly appealing for those who value ease and breadth in their holiday experience. Aboard a cruise, you're presented with the luxury of accessing diverse locales – from bustling ports to tranquil inlets – all while enjoying a consistent level of comfort and service. Shore excursions, curated for their cultural and scenic significance, afford deeper dives into each destination's unique offerings without the necessity of constant repacking or the hassles of ground transportation logistics. The panoramic views of Japan’s coastline, from the deck of a cruise ship, provide a picturesque backdrop to an array of onboard amenities and dining options, ensuring your journey is as pleasurable as it is enlightening. Embarking on a cruise around Japan not only promises an array of spectacular vistas but also offers a refreshing perspective on travel, marrying convenience with adventure in a uniquely captivating way.
Get in touch to start planning your Japanese adventure.
Gilly's 2024 Grand Tour - TAKE TWO!
You may have read my recent article about my Grand Tour departing from Mahe in the Seychelles and concluding with 4 nights in Abu Dhabi, with a 16 night Silversea Cruise in the middle. However, with less than two weeks to go our cruise was cancelled, which has been a little bit stressful but I’m delighted to share with you that ‘Gilly’s 2024 Grand Tour – TAKE TWO’ is now booked, can you guess from the photo where we are going?
So what happens if your cruise is cancelled?
“Now if you’ve booked a package (with me) then whilst you will be disappointed your holiday is not going ahead you can sit back and relax with the knowledge that you will receive a full refund for the flights, pre/post hotels, transfers and of course the cruise.”
However, with most travel agent ‘educational’ trips booking a package is not possible which means all the elements are purchased individually. So, whilst our Silversea cruise will be refunded in full, I had flights booked to the Seychelles and returning from Dubai, with hotels booked in Mahe and Abu Dhabi. Unravelling this in a timely and cost-effective way has been challenging and is exactly the position you will find yourself in if you source all the elements of your holiday separately, rather that booking a package.
What happens when you book your holiday as separate elements?
There are two important factors to note from the outset:
- Silversea are not responsible for reimbursing us for our now useless flights and hotels, as our contract is ‘cruise only’. However, they have offered us up to £400 per person in compensation as a goodwill gesture, though our flight and hotel costs exceed £4000.
- It is also unlikely that your travel insurance will cover you in full, or at all. Though policies and cover vary, so it’s important to check.
Our flights were booked with Emirates and are non-refundable, though they can be changed by paying the amendment fees, plus the increased flight costs, which can be significant the closer you are to your travel date. I must say that Emirates were easy to get hold of and very helpful. We looked at lots of possible scenarios and decided to amend our flight to travel in September to Mauritius. This worked well for us as we already had the hotel booked but not the flights. The cost of this amendment was £750. It’s also important to note that if like us, you have paid for extra legroom, if the seats are available on the new flight, and it’s the same destination (in our case the Birmingham to Dubai return) then they will re-allocate these seats to you free of charge, however, for the new Dubai to Mauritius return leg we’ve had to buy these a second time.
Our hotel in the Seychelles was easy to cancel as it was payment on arrival, however, our Abu Dhabi hotel has been paid in full, and like our flights was non-refundable. However, the hotel have been very accommodating and have switched our dates to our new ‘2024 Grand Tour – TAKE TWO’.
Also don’t forget to cancel/amend your airport hotel, lounge and parking if you’ve book these too.
If you’re wondering why our cruise was cancelled?
We were sailing from the Seychelles to Oman (and then on to the UAE), whilst not in the Red Sea (nor were we cruising the Red Sea), cruise lines are currently diverting from this area to avoid the operational and safety risks that the situation with the Houthi’s is creating.
Grand Tour Take 2…
These ‘Grand Tours’ are all about learning new things that I can share with my clients. Now we will be flying with Etihad Airways to Seoul, spending two nights here before embarking on Riviera (Oceania Cruises) for 11 nights. We will be visiting several ports in Korea and then on to Japan where we will spend two nights in Tokyo. From Tokyo we will be flying back to Manchester, with a 4-night stopover in Abu Dhabi, staying in the hotel we amended from our original trip.
This trip is full of firsts:
- First time I’ve flown with Etihad;
- First time I’ve been to Korea;
- First time I’ve sailed with Oceania Cruises (I have done several day ship visits!);
- First time I’ve been to Japan;
- First time I’ve stayed at the stunning Conrad in Abu Dhabi.
I will of course be sharing all my advice and insights from each part of my trip, so if you’ve got any questions please don’t hesitate to ask.
“My last day in the office is now the 5th March and I will be back in the office on the 28th March. Please book an appointment here if you’d like to catch up before I go”.