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Geography and History of Japan
Japan is situated in the Northeast Asia region, approximately 4.5 to 5 hours by plane from Vietnam. Not too far, yet not too close.
Being situated in the temperate zone, Japan experiences four distinct seasons, each with its unique charm. Traveling to Japan during any season offers mesmerizing views and fantastic photo opportunities, so feel free to plan your trip with confidence. The capital of Japan is Tokyo.
The most renowned tourist destinations in Japan, easily accessible from Vietnam with direct flights, include Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. However, beyond these, Japan boasts many other beautiful locations.
European-themed Amusement Park in Kyushu
Japan is divided into four main islands and numerous smaller ones, forming an archipelago in the Pacific Ocean. The largest island is Honshu, where most of Japan's provinces and famous cities, including the aforementioned ones, are concentrated. The second-largest island is Hokkaido, known as the setting for the film 'I Wish.'
Hokkaido, with its capital city Sapporo renowned for Sapporo beer, is a favorite destination for Japanese citizens. The island is cherished for its stunning natural beauty and delicious seafood. The third-largest island is Kyushu, famous for its natural hot springs and delightful Ramen noodles.
The fourth-largest island, Shikoku, boasts four small provinces and is the least known, even among the Japanese community. However, there is much to discover here, such as citrus orchards, Shodoshima Island, and the famous Bon dance.
Lastly, the collection of small islands in the southernmost part of Japan-Okinawa. Okinawa attracts Japanese tourists due to its distinct cultural features compared to other regions of Japan, with some resemblance to Vietnam.
When visiting Okinawa, you'll encounter many similarities with Vietnam while also experiencing unique Japanese cultural aspects. Okinawa is particularly renowned for its well-preserved coral reefs. If you're a fan of diving to admire coral reefs, I'm sure Okinawa will captivate you.
Peace Memorial Park and historical buildings (Hiroshima)
Regarding history, Japan underwent a feudal era, influenced by China like other East Asian countries, the Meiji Restoration that brought Japan closer to developed European nations, World War processes, post-war reconstruction, and more.
Japanese history is intricate and fascinating (similar to the history of other nations worldwide), portrayed through numerous historical manga (Kaze Hikaru, an exceptional series for manga enthusiasts), architectural structures of temples, and various museums.
I highly recommend the museum about the atomic bombing in Peace Memorial Park (Hiroshima). If you ever visit Hiroshima, make sure to explore this museum to gain a deeper understanding of the value of peace that Japan has realized and endeavors to convey to the international community.
Language and Currency in Japan
Japanese people speak Japanese, and while some young individuals understand English, the Japanese accent can be challenging. Similar to Vietnam, urban areas have more English speakers, but the primary language remains Japanese. It's advisable to carry a portable Wi-Fi device or buy a 4G SIM card for assistance with Google Translate while exploring.
Transportation, attractions, and airports have English signage, providing some assurance. However, not all restaurants have English menus, and some might not even feature pictures. If time permits, it's recommended to research must-try eateries or rely on recommendations. If you're stuck, Google the dish you're looking for, show the picture to the restaurant owner, and hope for the best, hehe.
Regarding currency, Japan uses the yen. Foreign currencies, including the dollar, are rarely accepted, so be sure to exchange your money. Japanese yen includes coins and banknotes. Banknotes range from small to large denominations: 1,000 yen, 2,000 yen (rare but cherished as a souvenir), 5,000 yen, and 10,000 yen. 10,000 yen is approximately 2 million VND.
Coin denominations range from small to large: 1 yen, 5 yen, 10 yen, 50 yen, 100 yen, 500 yen. The 5-yen coin is considered a lucky charm and is often used for making wishes at shrines. In Japanese, 5 yen is pronounced go-en, resembling the word 'Duyên' (Destiny). Many tourists keep this coin as a cherished souvenir.
Transportation in Japan
Japan boasts an extensive public transportation system, making independent travel highly convenient. The railway network spans the entire country, even reaching the most remote areas. Various rail companies offer discounted ticket programs, allowing savvy travelers to save on transportation costs and enhance convenience.
The most notable is the JR pass, designed for foreign visitors with a tourist visa. The JR pass grants access to JR trains, including the Shinkansen high-speed trains, across Japan or within specific regions, depending on the type of pass purchased. If you're interested, explore more about this pass.
In Japanese transportation, cards are the primary means of payment. It's more convenient to purchase and use a card. Standing in line to buy tickets or exchanging coins for bus fares can be cumbersome if you're not familiar with Japanese currency. The 2000¥ denomination card is available at automated ticket machines or ticket counters at all JR stations. It includes a 500¥ card and 1500¥ usable credit. Once the 1500¥ is used up, you can recharge the card. When no longer needed, return the card to get back the 500¥ deposit. This card is also accepted at 24-hour convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Lawson, FamilyMart, and more.
As for cars, they drive on the left side, contrary to Vietnam. If you have an international driver's license and plan to drive, be aware of the left-hand driving. Self-driving car rentals are common in Japan, offering an ideal choice for those with a license who want to explore Japanese roads on their own.
Through this, you'll experience Japanese driving culture, marked by orderliness and tranquility. Along your journey, you can stop at highway rest areas for dining or restroom breaks. Clean restrooms are another aspect of Japan's hospitality that leaves an impression on travelers.
Where to go in Japan?
As mentioned earlier, Japan boasts numerous diverse tourist destinations. Exploring the entire country in one trip would likely take a whole month. The most famous and well-traveled route is from Osaka to Tokyo, as Vietnam currently offers direct flights to this region.
Mount Fuji lakeview
If traveling the Osaka-Tokyo route, you can visit key spots such as Osaka, Kyoto, Nagoya, the historic Shirakawa village, Mount Fuji, and Tokyo. For details on destinations along this route, check out this link.
If you're focusing on the Kansai region, consider places like Osaka, Kobe, Kyoto, and Nara. For a more leisurely experience, Hiroshima is also stunning, and you can conveniently reach these destinations with a JR pass.
Places I've Checked In in Japan
Culinary Delights - What to Eat in Japan?
Japan also enjoys rice as a staple, similar to Vietnam. Meals typically include soup, rice, vegetables, and various dishes. Japanese people use chopsticks, so the menu often features noodle dishes like ramen, udon, soba...
Japan's culinary culture is rich and diverse. Alongside famous traditional dishes like Sushi, Sashimi, and tempura, there are also international influences such as Kobe beef steak and a variety of sweets.
Japanese cooking ingredients are of high quality, resulting in exquisite dishes. The limited use of seasonings in Japanese cuisine highlights the natural freshness of the ingredients.
Fresh seafood in Hokkaido
Generally, Japanese dishes tend to have a sweet taste, which might be challenging for those unaccustomed. Opt for simpler options or instant noodles if needed. Alternatively, explore Thai, Korean, or Vietnamese restaurants in Japan for a different culinary experience. Surprisingly, I find Thai food in Japan more appealing than the original, hehe.
Japan's famous Kobe beef dish
I particularly enjoy Western-style desserts in Japan. Remember, it's the Western style, not Japanese style. They are delicious and visually appealing. There are even dessert buffet shops that customers adore.
Sweet treats buffet
Restaurants in Japan vary from upscale to budget-friendly, allowing you to choose based on your budget. As mentioned earlier, some restaurants may not have English menus or pictures.
On the contrary, restaurants in tourist areas or shopping centers go the extra mile to attract customers. Besides well-crafted menus, they display lifelike food samples at the entrance, which looks incredibly enticing. By the way, Japanese food sample artistry is world-class; it often looks better than the real thing, hehe.
Indulge in the delightful Takoyaki dish
Planning a shopping spree in Japan? Discover the must-visit spots!
Japan, a shopping paradise catering to everyone's needs. Explore renowned global brands and find utility items at incredible prices, starting at just 20k yen.
Top picks for souvenirs include functional foods, cosmetics, electronics, and delectable treats. Visit drug stores for supplements and cosmetics, and head to retail giants like Bic Camera and Yamada-denki for the latest electronics. Remember, if you're getting electronic gadgets, be mindful of the voltage.
Most domestic products in Japan are designed for 110V, so if you're bringing them to Vietnam, you'll need a transformer or opt for items compatible with a wider range from 110-220V. Rumor has it that domestic Japanese goods surpass those sold abroad, attracting many tourists to Japan in search of the highest quality products.
For branded items, explore high-end grocery stores or visit outlet malls for incredible discounts (usually due to minor defects or being out of season). From clothing, handbags, to branded cosmetics, Japan has it all. If you're looking for cute and affordable souvenirs, check out the 100-yen stores—adorable, creative, and budget-friendly.
When it comes to food (snacks, alcohol, etc.), head to supermarkets or the ever-present Donkihote stores—your one-stop-shop for everything from daily essentials and clothing to electronics and even sex toys. While the variety might not match specialty stores, it's a time-saving option.
A final tip for the shopping enthusiasts: know when Japan's sale season is. Typically, extended holidays mark the sale period, with the most robust and prolonged sales occurring from late December to the end of January for Christmas and New Year. Another significant sale happens during the Golden Week holiday in May, running from late April to mid-May.
The third sale season falls during the extended holiday in August, usually the second or third week of the month. For clothing, the transition between seasons marks the sale period. Snag some outfits to wear in December, April, or September. Wishing you a vacation filled with both travel adventures and fantastic sale finds! Hihi.
Where to stay in Japan?
One crucial aspect of traveling is selecting a suitable hotel. Japan is an expensive country, especially compared to Vietnam's income levels, making hotel expenses relatively high. In addition to the usual 5-star, 4-star, and 3-star hotels found in other countries, Japan offers a unique type known as a ryokan—decorated in traditional Japanese style. Upscale ryokans provide unforgettable cultural experiences, but they come with a hefty price tag, hihi.
There are also guesthouse-style accommodations, dormitories, and, notably in Japan, capsule rooms—an intriguing cabin-style space. Each person gets their own compact area (though it might be a bit cozy), and the prices are budget-friendly. If you're up for the experience, it's worth trying. Most capsule hotels cater exclusively to men, but there are a few rare ones with accommodations for women, so ladies, you can give it a go too.
Other considerations for your trip to Japan
When heading to Japan, keep these points in mind for a smooth journey:
- In Japan, the voltage is 110W, and the outlets are flat. So, if you bring electrical devices from Vietnam, make sure to get an adapter if your plug is round. Most electronic gadgets travelers bring, such as phones, laptops, cameras, are designed to work with voltages ranging from 110-220W, so you don't need to worry much. Just pay attention to the plug shape, as it's crucial for compatibility.
- When booking a hotel, remember to check if they provide soap and towels. Japanese people are very particular about hygiene, so they often avoid using provided items. Hotels that offer toiletries need to be high-end; otherwise, they won't provide them. Japanese visitors usually bring their own soap, often transferred into small containers, as they can be quite selective, especially about soap.
- If you're visiting Japan during the rainy season (June-July), remember to bring an umbrella. The rain can be persistent, much like the rain in Hue, hihi.
Budget to prepare
Next, let's talk about the budget. For a trip to Japan, you'll need to allocate funds for airfare, visa, accommodation, transportation, meals, and internet.
When it comes to flights to Japan, airlines operating the Vietnam-Japan route include Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet, Jetstar, JAL, and ANA. Additionally, if you opt for layovers, you can explore tickets from Korean and Hong Kong airlines. If you manage to snag a cheap ticket, you'll spend around 4-5 million VND on airfare.
As for visas, all Vietnamese tourists visiting Japan require one. The visa processing fee is approximately 600k VND if you handle it directly at the embassy/consulate, or 1 million VND and above if you use a service (the exact cost depends on the service provider you choose).
Accommodations in Japan can be pricey, especially during peak domestic travel seasons. (The high domestic travel seasons include autumn and extended holiday periods such as Christmas, late April to early May, and mid-August). If you opt for hostel-style accommodation, the average cost is 500k VND per night. During peak seasons, it might go up to 700k VND per night, so multiply by the number of nights for an estimate of your accommodation expenses.
For transportation, if you're staying within one city, budget around 200k VND per day. If you plan to explore multiple cities, consider getting a JR pass for cost savings. Prices vary, with the nationwide pass costing around 6 million VND for 7 days and 9.5 million VND for 14 days.
When it comes to dining, if you want to save money while experiencing Japanese cuisine, budget at least 500k VND per day.
For renting wifi or a sim card, calculate around 130k VND per day for wifi and 500k VND for a one-week sim card.
Adding it all up, include a 10% buffer for unexpected expenses to get the total amount you need to prepare. If you plan on additional shopping, adjust accordingly based on your personal preferences. Hihi.
That concludes MM's sharing. Hopefully, you've gained some insight into Japan, helping you plan the perfect itinerary. Opting for a Japan tour is not a bad idea, especially if you're unsure about your language skills or budget. Give it a try for a complete and fulfilling travel experience!
TravelWithMM
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