Travel Japan: What to eat & to do in the Land of the Rising Sun

Japan is a country in Asia, famous for the title “the land of the rising sun” because it is the first country to welcome the sunrise on the continent. This country possesses many majestic natural landscapes, cultural identity and unique cuisine. When you travel Japan, you will experience a modern lifestyle mixed with long-standing cultural traditions. To have a journey to thoroughly explore the beauty of this country, you can refer to the experiences in this article by Smile Travel Co., Ltd.

1. Introduce to Japan

Japan is an archipelago located outside the Asian mainland, in the East Asian region, with an area of ​​377,834 square kilometers. Because it is an island nation, Japan is surrounded by sea and is not adjacent to any country or territory on the mainland. Because of its favorable location, Japan has many opportunities to develop trade with Korea and China. 

Japan is located on the Pacific Rim, in a temperate zone, so it has four distinct seasons, including spring, summer, autumn and winter. This, along with the terrain and territory spanning 25 degrees of latitude, helps Japan have beautiful nature and rich vegetation. 

In terms of topography, Japan has a coastline of 37,000 kilometers and mountains and hills occupy most of the natural area (about 73%). Among them, this country owns more than 532 mountains higher than 2000 meters, of which Mount Fuji is the highest mountain with an altitude of 3776 meters.

2. How do you travel Japan?

2.1 How to travel from Vietnam to Japan?

The fastest way to travel Japan from Vietnam is by plane. If you travel on your own, you will need to proactively prepare all the steps from making a passport, hunting for plane tickets, buying travel insurance, etc. In particular, if you intend to travel Japan, you need to register for a visa early because the time to prepare and receive a visa can be 1 month or more.

2.2 How to get around in Japan

You can travel Japan by many different means of transport. In particular, this country has a very developed public transportation system and people mainly use this type of means. Therefore, when you come here, you can experience all types of public transportation in Japan. Among them, trains and buses are considered the most optimal travel options. You can use these means of transportation to travel conveniently to attractions at a low cost. Alternatively, you can travel in Japan by Shinkansen bullet train or taxi.

3. When should you travel Japan?

In each season, Japan puts on its own beauty. Each beauty brings different emotions to visitors. Therefore, you can travel Japan in all four seasons of the year, depending on your preferences. In particular, below are three ideal times to visit Japan for all tourists: 

• Late March to mid-April 

This is the time when Japan is entering spring, right when cherry blossoms are blooming. Although the temperature is still quite cold, the white landscape of winter has been replaced by the gentle, romantic pink of cherry blossoms. In addition, in Japan at this time there are also many spring festivals and interesting flower viewing sessions. 

• June to August

If you miss the cherry blossom viewing tour, you can travel to Japan in the summer. At this time, the weather in Japan is often hot and humid and has persistent rains, creating conditions for hydrangeas to bloom. This is also the time when Mount Fuji opens to welcome climbing groups and fireworks festivals begin. 

• September – November

Japan is now entering autumn with a strong change in nature and climate. The weather this season has become cooler and more pleasant. The whole world is filled with colorful red and yellow leaves. Autumn is also considered the most beautiful season to travel Japan.

4. What to do in Japan

As a country with modern life, Japan still retains its long-standing traditional cultural values. When you travel Japan, you will have the opportunity to experience these unique cultural features through the following activities: 

• Learn about tea ceremony culture

The tea ceremony (in Japanese “chanoyu” or “sado”) began to develop around the end of the 7th century and became a characteristic feature of Japanese culture. When you travel to Japan, you will have the opportunity to learn about the art of making Japanese tea, including tea ceremonies, tea making tools, types of tea, preparation and enjoyment rituals. 

• Learn the art of flower arranging (Ikebana)

The traditional Japanese art of flower arranging (Ikebana) has a long history, originating around the 7th century. Ikebana was originally created to pay homage to nature, evoking the beautiful qualities of flowers and emotions through the rules of decoration. In general, this form of flower arrangement will focus on color and arrangement, highlighting the symbolic meaning of “heaven”, “earth” and “humanity” in creation. At the same time, it also focuses on visual art elements to convey emotions to viewers. 

• Wearing a traditional Kimono

Kimono (in Japanese, “thing to wear”), is a type of traditional Japanese clothing, for both men and women. In particular, women’s kimonos often have outstanding colors and patterns while men’s kimonos are often dark and have no patterns. If you travel Japan, you should experience wearing a Kimono and immerse yourself in the traditional Japanese space. In addition, this is also an opportunity for you to explore traditional handicrafts and express your style and personal impression through the outfit you choose. 

• Hot spring bath (Onsen) 

This is definitely an interesting experience that you cannot miss if you travel Japan. In particular, you can participate in this activity in any season of the year, including winter and summer. Japan has many different types of natural hot springs, classified according to the minerals in the water and health benefits. In addition, you can freely choose indoor and outdoor bathtub styles. 

• Sumo wrestling

Sumo wrestlers are one of the typical symbols in Japanese culture. Meanwhile, Sumo wrestling is considered a national sport of this country. When you travel in Japan, you not only get to watch wrestling but also have the opportunity to visit the Sumo furnace. 

• Shopping

Japan is also one of the world’s famous shopping paradises because there are many different types of stores. The items on sale range in price from domestic items priced at 100 yen to expensive luxury items. There are also long shopping streets (shotengai) in most cities, especially large cities like Tokyo and Osaka. Therefore, besides the airport store, you can buy souvenirs (muaomiyage) here. 

• Night walk in Akan Kamuy Lumina forest

This is an activity that takes place in Akan forest, part of Akan-Mashu National Park. This activity is organized by Moment Factory from May 11 every year. With this activity, visitors will walk through a magical night forest with many unique performances. In addition, you will also learn about the importance of “living with nature” through stories of the Ainu people.

5. Where should you travel in Japan?

As a beautiful island nation, Japan possesses many valuable tourist destinations that captivate visitors. Below are 5 places that you cannot miss if you have the opportunity to travel Japan. 

• Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji is a symbol of Japan, and is also the top famous tourist destination that every tourist should visit when you travel to Japan. The mountain is located about 100 meters from the center of Tokyo and visitors can easily get here by bus. Mount Fuji has a cone shape and is covered with snow all year round. Besides conquering the mountain peak, you can ski, have fun, and walk on snowy roads. 

• Kyoto Monuments Complex

This is the name of a complex of many famous places and scenic spots located in Kyoto, Uji and Otsu. This place currently preserves many historical and cultural relics with material and spiritual value of the Japanese people dating back more than 1,000 years. The Kyoto Monuments Cluster is also home to more than half of the temples and many of Japan’s most ancient mansions. Here, you can explore 14 Buddhist temples, 3 Shinto shrines and Nijo castle, such as Kozanji temple, Kiyomizu temple, Ryoanji temple, etc.

• Tokyo Tower

Tokyo Tower is located in the Shiba-koen area, in Tokyo. The tower was built in 1958 with a height of more than 333 meters and has an architecture similar to the Eiffel Tower in France. When visiting Tokyo Tower, you can observe and enjoy panoramic views of Tokyo city as well as surrounding areas day and night. Therefore, if you are preparing to travel Japan, don’t forget to add this place to your itinerary so you don’t miss the colorful picture of the bustling city. 

• Himeji White Crane Castle

Himeji Castle is a renovated building from an ancient fortress, built with more than 36 wooden canopies and covered with white plaster. From a distance, this place appears like a charming natural picture with images of cranes flying in the sky. In 1993, this work was recognized by UNESCO as a world cultural heritage. 

• Temples and pagodas

Japanese culture values ​​Buddhist and Shinto beliefs. Therefore, there are more than 100,000 sacred temples and pagodas across this country. To explore the spiritual culture and admire the ancient temple architecture here, you must definitely visit these places if you travel Japan. Among them, some famous works, loved by many tourists inside and outside Japan are Nikko Pagoda, Itsukushima Shinto Shrine, Meiji Emperor Temple, Kinkaku-ji Temple, etc.

6. Which food should you eat in Japan?

Japan possesses a diverse and rich cuisine with many delicious and beautifully presented dishes. In particular, visitors can easily enjoy these dishes at many different locations, including traditional restaurants and street food stalls. Are you about to travel Japan and don’t know what to eat? Below are some suggestions from Smile Travel Co., Ltd for you. 

• Sushi

Sushi is considered a symbol of Japanese cuisine, first appearing about 1300 years ago. This is a dish with a unique combination of rice mixed with vinegar and fresh seafood such as salmon, shrimp, tuna, oysters, etc. It is made from fresh ingredients, sushi has a mild flavor, bringing a fresh feeling on the tip of the tongue. 

• Sashimi

This is also a traditional dish that tourists cannot miss when you travel Japan. This dish is made from fresh seafood and is often used as an appetizer in formal meals in this country. Seafood is cut into thin, even pieces and eaten with mustard, white mustard and perilla leaves, etc.

• Okonomiyaki pancakes

Pancakes originated from Okasa city of Japan and are known as “Japanese pizza”. This dish is made from flour, potatoes, eggs and many toppings such as onions, shrimp, squid, cheese, meat, etc. 

• Takoyaki

This is a famous specialty of Osaka that people who travel Japan can find at all street eateries. This dish is made from flour, dashi powder, octopus, eggs, cabbage, ginger and sour onions. The cake has a crispy outside, soft inside, served with mayonnaise and another special sauce. 

• Ramen noodles

Ramen does not originate from Japan but is a “national” dish, a symbol of this country’s cuisine. This noodle dish is cooked in a delicious broth, combined with eggs, soy sauce and meat. Today, ramen shops are found throughout cities and towns in Japan, allowing visitors to Japan to easily enjoy them. 

• Hitsumabushi – Grilled Eel

This is a typical Nagoya dish made from fresh eel. The eel will be cleaned and grilled on charcoal until cooked. Then, it will be cut into small pieces and placed on a bowl of white rice. You will enjoy this dish with spices such as salt, soy sauce, wasabi and seaweed. 

• Mochi Cake

Mochi Cake is a traditional dish, often used by Japanese people on Tet holidays, special festivals and normal days. This cake will be used as a dessert and enjoyed with tea to fully enjoy the sweet taste without getting sick. The cake has a soft, smooth crust and a naturally sweet filling inside. If you are bored of salty dishes, you definitely cannot miss this dish if you have the opportunity to travel Japan.

7. How much does it cost to travel to Japan?

Do you love and want to travel Japan but are worried about the cost? To help you calculate reasonable trip costs and have many valuable experiences without spending too much of your budget, Smile Travel Co., Ltd has compiled some expenses you need to prepare to visit Japan. Specifically as follows: 

• Visa costs

Visa is the first mandatory item you need to plan to travel Japan. Accordingly, the cost of getting a visa yourself at the Japanese Embassy is about 30 USD. Meanwhile, if you apply for a visa through travel companies, you will have to pay about 160 – 200 USD. In return, the possibility of getting a visa will be higher. 

• Airfare

The cost of airfare to Japan may vary depending on departure point, flight route, ticket type, etc. To have a cost-effective flight, you should hunt for tickets 2 – 3 months in advance and regularly follow airline promotions to have the opportunity to own free airline tickets. 

• Travel costs in Japan

Depending on the vehicle and distance traveled, you may have to pay different costs. In general, transportation such as subways and buses will have cheaper fares. But the specific price depends on the tour route when you travel Japan. 

• Accommodation costs

Normally, hotel costs will account for about half of the amount you have to spend in a day of traveling to Japan. Depending on room type and hotel class, prices can range from 2000 – 12000 yen/night. This is a reasonable cost for tourists who want to visit Japan for a short time. If you want to travel Japan for a long time, you should choose hotels near attractions, central areas or train stations and book 2-3 months in advance to save costs. 

• Food costs

Normally, dishes served in restaurants, eateries and Yatai street vending carts will be relatively reasonably priced, about less than 1,500 yen/day. You can also save money by eating at 100 yen shops and convenience stores (like Family Mart, Lawson, 7-11, etc). In addition, you should avoid buying fresh fruit because this is an expensive dish in Japan. 

• Sightseeing costs

Japan has both free and paid attractions. Each destination will have different fees. Therefore, if you are preparing to travel Japan, you should carefully learn about the attractions to have a convenient trip.

8. How to travel Japan respectfully

Travel is not only a journey of cultural discovery but must also show visitors’ respect for local culture. Therefore, to travel Japan respectfully, you should pay attention to some etiquette in Fusang as follows: 

• Always say “please” and “thank you” in Japanese politely to show your respect. 
• When traveling by public transportation, you should avoid making noise and keep your phone on silent mode. 
• If you take the escalator, you should stand to one side and leave space for those in a hurry. 
• Want to travel around Japan by Shinkansen or other express train but have too much luggage? At this time, you should use a city-to-city luggage delivery service because there is usually no room for bulky luggage on the train (unless you have booked a special seat with extra space for luggage). 
• When using chopsticks, you should not stick them into food or stick them straight into a bowl of rice. Additionally, you should not pass food from your chopsticks to someone else’s chopsticks. 
• Eating while walking or eating on trains and buses will not be welcomed. 
• Japan’s service culture says no to tipping. 
• If visiting sacred spaces such as temples and pagodas, you should lower your voice, only take photos when allowed, give way to people who are praying and show your respect. 

In general, Japan is a country with many different rules. Therefore, it is very normal that you do not know about a certain reaction. It’s important to be open, respectful and willing to learn from the locals. Thus, your travel to Japan will definitely have more interesting discoveries.

9. Things you need to keep in mind when traveling to Japan

To make your travel to Japan convenient and safe, you should keep in mind a few things as follows: 

• Language: English and Japanese are two languages ​​widely used in Japan. However, if you are not confident, you can use technology applications that support translation to avoid difficulty communicating. In addition, don’t forget to quickly learn some basic Japanese communication sentences. 
• Currency: The official currency in Japan is the Japanese Yen. In particular, in addition to large-denomination banknotes, you should also exchange coins for easy use when traveling by public transportation or purchasing goods at vending machines in Japan. 
• Phone SIM: Vietnamese SIM cannot be used in Japan. Therefore, you need to prepare a phone sim that can be used in Japan. Currently, there are many Vietnamese agents providing this product. It’s best to buy a phone SIM card before going to Japan.
• Luggage: Besides seasonal clothes and personal items, you should bring some basic medicines such as fever reducers, flu medicine, insect repellent, etc. This makes it easier for you to cope with unlucky situations that may occur.
• Time zone: The time zone in Japan is two hours earlier than Vietnam. Therefore, you should adjust the time on your phone to avoid missing your flight. 
• Safety: Always save the number of the Vietnamese Embassy in Japan to prevent bad situations that may occur during your travel in Japan.

10. Should you travel to Japan on your own or buy a tour?

If you have a lot of experience traveling abroad, especially traveling to Japan, you can travel on your own. This will help you have a more free and comfortable trip with optional itineraries. In return, you will have to prepare all procedures for the trip, from applying for a visa, booking airline tickets, hotel rooms, planning a travel itinerary, etc.

On the contrary, if this is your first time going abroad and traveling to Japan, you should choose the appropriate tour. At this time, tour operators will assist you with all procedures and ensure your trip takes place safely and conveniently. 

Smile Travel Co., Ltd is a travel company headquartered in Hanoi, Vietnam, established in 2015. We specialize in providing tour packages in and out of Vietnam by Vietnamese and international tourists. If you want to travel Japan and need to book a tour, please contact Smile Travel Co., Ltd directly for support.

Above is important information you need to know to ensure your travel to Japan goes smoothly and has many interesting experiences. In addition, don’t forget to contact us to build an itinerary that includes destinations that suit your needs and interests.

Collected and written by: Linh Dang (Smile Travel)

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