Japan Is Calling

Time to start planning for spring

Japan is now fully open. Citizens of most countries can just get on a plane, fly to Japan, and receive a 90-day tourist visa upon arrival. Here are a few things to get you thinking of Japan and to help you plan a trip.

I recently discovered a site called Japan Rail & Travel, which is produced by Japan Rail. It’s a must for anyone thinking of exploring Japan by train. Check out all the new trains like the Ginga West sleeper train (between Kyoto and western Honshu) and the Fuji Excursion (between Shinjuku and Kawaguchiko near Mt Fuji).

If you want to ride the rails without breaking the bank, you’ll need a Japan Rail Pass. You can now buy passes online direct from JR (no exchange order needed - just a confirmation code in an email). You can also buy Japan Rail Passes in Japan after you arrive:

A major perk for those who purchase a pass online is the ability to use the new Japan Rail Pass seat reservation system. This is the only practical way to make JR seat reservations from abroad.

Next, here are some pictures from the brilliant Random Wire website, produced by a British fellow by the name of David. He shot these during this year’s Hanatoro light-up event in Higashiyama, Kyoto. David is an intrepid traveler who explores all corners of Japan and other parts of the world. His detailed and beautifully photographed trip reports can be used to plan your own adventures. Check it out the site!

Here are the steps at Kiyomizu-dera Temple:

Here’s Ishibei-koji Lane:

Here’s Yasaka-no-To Pagoda:

Finally, here’s one of my favorite songs from Japan: Kanashikute Yarikirenai by The Folk Crusaders. There’s a painfully wistful tone to this song that captures the feeling of many Japan lovers during these past few years. Give it a listen.