It was a busy day in the office when a voice echoed across the room, "Daryl, do you have $500 to spare?" Naturally, I asked, "What's the catch?" The reply came swiftly, "Return airfare to Japan." Before the sentence even finished, whispers filled the air, urging me to seize the opportunity. In the blink of an eye, the flights were booked, and I found myself on my way to Japan... Game on!
After finalizing my decision to embark on this adventure, a multitude of questions started to pile up. Where should I go? What should I do? What are the must-see attractions? Have I planned the adventure of the year? And most importantly, will I pack enough socks for the journey ahead? With these thoughts in mind, I began compiling a list of the places I wanted to visit and explore during my time in Japan. Some of the destinations that made it onto my list include:
As I delved deeper into planning my trip, I discovered some great apps that would assist me during my travels in Japan. One of them is "Triposo," which provides comprehensive offline maps, currency conversion, and valuable information about the country and its various towns. Another useful app is "Japanese Pocket Lingo," an affordable language learning tool that allows me to access and listen to common phrases. While it's interesting that the app features only a female voice, it will undoubtedly aid me in communicating effectively during my stay.
When it comes to traveling around Japan, one option that international visitors should consider is obtaining a JR Rail Pass. This pass provides unlimited travel throughout the country, making it incredibly convenient and cost-effective. With this pass in hand, I can easily explore different regions of Japan without the hassle of purchasing individual tickets for each journey.
As a travel enthusiast, I'm excited to embark on this 12-day adventure in the captivating land of the rising sun. With the Mount Fuji climb, hot springs at Lake Yamanaka, and the opportunity to immerse myself in Japanese culture, I know that this trip will be an unforgettable experience.
10-08-2016 (Day1)
At 4 AM, I bid farewell to Australian soil, embarking on a 13-day journey to Japan, the land of the rising sun. My first stop was Cairns, just a quick two-hour flight from Brisbane, followed by a three-hour layover. During the wait, I exchanged $645 Australian dollars for 44,900 Yen in preparation for my time in Japan. Boarding the plane, I embarked on a seven-hour flight, enjoying breathtaking views of the clear blue skies as we flew over the Great Barrier Reef and Papua New Guinea. Engaging in my comic concept book and gazing out the window, time swiftly passed, and before I knew it, I spotted clouds, indicating our arrival. As I stepped off the plane at Narita Airport, the humidity hit me with full force at 300%, a stark contrast to the anticipated cool weather.
Undeterred, I commenced my adventure by acquiring a JR Rail Pass, an essential item for any tourist, and a data SIM card, realizing the immense value of Japan's data offerings. With my essentials in hand, I tackled the train system, initially daunting but made easier by the English signage. It didn't take long to feel comfortable navigating the trains, and I couldn't help but appreciate the convenience compared to my home country.
Having successfully reached my hotel, the "APA Keisei Narita Ekimae," I embraced my excitement and promptly ventured out with my camera gear in hand. Exploring the surroundings, I allowed myself to get lost in the charm of the city, capturing mesmerizing photos along the way. Finally, at 1 AM, I returned to the hotel, content with my late-night escapade and filled with anticipation for the adventures that awaited me in Japan. CLICK HERE...
11-08-2016 (Day 2)
Waking up early again, I hopped on the famous bullet train, Shinansen Hikari 467, heading from Tokyo to Kyoto, a 582-kilometer journey. The train was incredible, reaching speeds of up to 280.6 kilometers per hour, smoothly navigating bends while offering stunning scenery outside. Kyoto greeted me with scorching 37-degree heat, a surprise for a place known for snow. I explored Kyoto, discovering hidden gems like Nijo Castle. Checking into my first Airbnb, a traditional 60-year-old Japanese house near Hanazono train station, I received a warm welcome from the hosts—Arigato Gazaimasu, Yasa & Fuyu.
On a positive note, I managed to master the word "Sumimasen," which means "Excuse me" in Japanese. The Japanese people are incredibly friendly and always willing to lend a helping hand.
12-08-2016 (Day 3)
I began my day with a visit to the mesmerizing Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, where I spent hours exploring its tranquil pathways and discovering hidden shrines. I followed the peaceful river upstream, away from the tourist crowds, and enjoyed a delicious riverside lunch. Afterward, I hiked up the challenging trail to the Iwatayama Monkey Park, where I observed playful Japanese Macaques and enjoyed stunning views of Kyoto. In the evening, I fulfilled my dream of becoming a Samurai at the Samurai Kembu studio. Throughout the day, I marveled at Japan's cleanliness and the absence of graffiti, enhancing the country's natural beauty. It was a day filled with unexpected adventures and unforgettable experiences.
13-08-2016 (Day 4)
Waking up in Kyoto, I eagerly set off for Nara Deer Park, excited to encounter the adorable little deer that roam freely there. These cute creatures, no taller than my waist, proved to be quite mischievous. For a small fee of 150 yen, I purchased deer food and spent the rest of my time fending off their persistent nibbling. They were notorious for snatching tourist maps and even stole my ice cream! The park itself was vast, and I spent a delightful five hours exploring its diverse landscapes. It was a refreshing experience to wander off the beaten path, finding peaceful corners where I could immerse myself in the tranquil beauty of nature. I shared the serenity with my family through videos showcasing the swaying trees, lanterns, and the melodic symphony of cicadas and birds.
As my time in Kyoto drew to a close, I anticipated my upcoming adventure in Takayama, a small traditional village. The Airbnb I booked had no showers, but fortunately, there were famous hot springs, known as onsen, nearby. However, being a person with visible tattoos, which are considered taboo in Japanese culture, I wondered how accepting they would be, as in these bathhouses, one can only enter in their natural state. I braced myself for the unique experience that lay ahead, curious to see how my tattoos would be received. Fun times were certainly on the horizon.
14-08-2016 (Day 5)
Takayama was an absolute delight, and the train journey from Gifu was a highlight in itself. The scenic route along rivers and through mountains offered breathtaking views of the rural landscapes of Japan. The train conductors even provided a guided tour, pointing out national landmarks and townships along the way. I was captivated by the beauty of the rivers and mountain ranges throughout the two-hour trip. It was an unexpected surprise and a magnificent adventure.
Upon arriving in Takayama, I was greeted by a small town with few overseas tourists. However, I quickly encountered fellow Australians from South Australia, who were also exploring the area. Together, we embarked on a hike up the hill to see the Takayama Ruin Castle. Although it turned out to be just a stone marker, the walk through the forest was enchanting, until we came across a bear warning sign. It was a reminder that precautions should have been placed at the park's entrance. Nevertheless, I later learned from my host that bears occasionally wander through the village.
Before delving into the nighttime activities, I savored a traditional fried pork ramen and cold sake—a perfect meal to indulge in the cultural ambiance of the mountain village. As night fell, the real adventure began—an onsen experience. Due to my tattoos, I couldn't visit a spring-driven onsen, as they strictly prohibit any tattoos, regardless of their size or placement. However, public onsens were still accessible. To partake in the bath, one must completely undress in the changing rooms, carrying only a small face wash towel. After showering without covering up, it was time to immerse in the bath alongside about ten other naked individuals. Once finished, it involved showering down, drying off with the small towel, and returning to the changing room to dress. It was truly an unforgettable experience.
15-08-2016 (Day 6)
Despite the rain, I found joy in dancing around and exploring the town. When I needed a break, I sought refuge in the cozy café where I was staying. I can't emphasize enough how amazing the breakfast cooked by my host, Hormi, was. Nutella cushions, potato bake with cherry tomatoes, strawberry yogurt, and refreshing mint tea made for a delightful meal.
After some photo editing and movie making, I ventured out again into the old town village. I stumbled upon a sake shop and couldn't resist buying a little something as a gift for myself back home. Time slipped away, and before I knew it, it was nearing 3 pm (4 pm for my friends in Australia). I decided it was time for lunch, and once again, ramen was on the menu. This time, it was deep-fried chicken and tender pulled beef with snow peas, served alongside rice and Japanese pickles. After a leisurely walk back to my accommodation, I made a call home and took a well-deserved nap.
Nighttime arrived swiftly, and I packed my bath bag for another visit to the onsen. This time, I brought my camera along. Don't worry, there won't be any revealing photos! I ventured out to capture the enchanting beauty of the town at night. Takayama is a place where tradition and relaxation intertwine. Walking amidst temples, shrines, and expansive wooden parklands, and indulging in delicious food and sake, I felt truly immersed in the countryside. There were no flashy lights or mainstream shops; it was all about the locals and their way of life. Some houses even doubled as shops, which is why I chose to stay in a café for today. It was someone's home, yet also a shop. As day 6 of my trip came to an end, I bid it goodnight.
16-08-2016 (Day 7)
Goodbye Takayama! Although I had planned to swim in the Sea of Japan in Toyama, the distance and limited time prevented me from doing so. Instead, I embarked on a full-day trip to Tokyo, eager to experience the bustling city.
During my four-hour journey on the Shinkansen Hakutaka 564 bullet train, I received an email from my Airbnb host warning about an approaching typhoon. With Nagano passing by, the once serene sky transformed into a menacing display of dark clouds. Despite the storm, the high-speed train raced toward Tokyo at a speed of 280km/h and arrived safely. Rushing from one platform to another at Shinjuku station, I finally made it to my accommodation.
As I emerged from the station, the rain had turned into a light shower, and the skies cleared. After settling in and receiving some tips on Tokyo's hotspots, I ventured out for an evening adventure. I ascended the 42nd floor of the Government building, where the observatory provided a breathtaking view of Tokyo's immense size. Everywhere I looked, towering buildings stretched as far as the eye could see. Recognizing the magnitude of the city, I decided to save the exploration for the next day.
As the rain poured outside, I opted for a cozy dinner and some relaxation. I enjoyed listening to the rain, watching a movie, and treating myself to a couple of ice creams.
17-08-2016 (Day 8 )
After a light morning rain, the sun emerged, revealing a clear blue sky and glistening dewdrops on the grass. I embarked on a leisurely stroll through the city, discovering a remarkable park with traditional Japanese gardens, restaurants, and expansive grass fields. It struck me as peculiar that there were signs prohibiting stepping off the designated paths, no sports or picnics, and no loud music. Nevertheless, the park was still inviting, and I yearned to lie in the fields and enjoy a relaxing afternoon with friends, similar to what we do in the park back home.
After a day of exploration, I found myself several miles away from my intended destination. However, getting lost is part of the adventure of traveling. I hopped on a train, enjoying the refreshing coolness of the air conditioning. Soon, it was time to head back and unwind, as tomorrow I have a date with Japan's highest mountain, which begins at the early hour of 4:30 am. Goodnight, everyone!
18-08-2016 (Day 9)
Today was a momentous day as I embarked on the journey to climb Mount Fuji, the highest mountain in Japan at 3,774 meters. I stored my belongings in a locker at Shinjuku station and joined a group of 10 climbers, including two ladies from Sydney, three Americans, a Swedish couple, and a young married couple from Dubai (originally from Melbourne). Accompanied by our two tour guides, we set off at 10 am, meeting a Japanese lead climber who treks the mountain every day.
The fog was dense, limiting visibility to just a few meters, but it didn't deter us. As long as we kept ascending, we knew we were on the right track. We continued climbing, taking short breaks every hour to rest, hydrate, and relieve our tired shoulders. Hours passed until we reached the 7th station at 2,940 meters by 4 pm. After checking into our cabin and having a dinner of Hamburg patty, rice, and miso soup, it was time for bed. Sleeping at 5 pm proved challenging, so some of us explored the surroundings, marveling at the mountain as the clouds dissipated and the true scale of our altitude became apparent. The distant views showcased tiny villages illuminated by lights, emphasizing the vastness of the landscape.
Despite the struggle to sleep, the alarm rang at 10 pm, signaling the continuation of our trek. We had to make it to the summit by 5 am. Stepping outside, we were greeted with a breathtaking sight. Clear skies revealed clouds below, a full moon above, and shimmering stars. Equipped with headlamps, we resumed our ascent, navigating the darkness for hours on end. At midnight, we paused to celebrate one of the American climbers' birthday, singing "Happy Birthday" in the midst of this extraordinary experience. They even brought a bottle of champagne to mark the occasion, adding a touch of grandeur to the celebration.
But that tale deserves its own telling. For now, let's continue the journey as we push forward towards the summit.
19-08-2016 (Day 10)
We continued our trek up Mount Fuji, reaching an altitude of 3,000 meters. The view and the magical atmosphere made all the struggles worth it. As we climbed higher, the thin air became noticeable, and some people required oxygen bottles to breathe. We arrived at the summit entrance, which stood at 3,710 meters above sea level. At this point, a decision had to be made: continue around the crater to the highest part of the mountain at the weather station (3,774 meters). Five of us chose to proceed, and the trek felt almost like running due to the pace. Surprisingly, there was reception at the summit, so I called my parents to share the incredible experience. The view from the top was breathtaking, with the sunrise, moonset, clouds below, and surrounding mountain peaks creating a surreal panorama.
After spending an hour at the summit, we began our race to descend within four hours. The descent was fast-paced, covering 1,500 meters in 45 minutes. We reached a checkpoint where we split up to go at our own pace, as this section was the most dangerous due to falling rocks. Along the way, I encountered my tour guide, who had a severe fall resulting in injuries. I helped her up and carried her backpack, even though I had already been carrying around 21 kilograms of luggage for the past 10 days. We reached the first aid unit at the base camp, where she received proper care.
Afterward, we headed to an onsen spa at Lake Yamanaka to relax and enjoy each other's company. Exhausted, we boarded the bus back to Shunjuku. Everyone was so tired that there wasn't a single open eye on the bus, except for the driver. We expressed our gratitude and went our separate ways. I went to Tokyo-Chuo to stay at a capsule hotel, where I enjoyed a long shower and promptly fell asleep. It was an unforgettable day, and I highly recommend experiencing the wonderful and magical adventure of Mount Fuji when visiting Japan.
20-8-2016 (Day 11)
After enduring the exhausting climb and descent of Mount Fuji, I found myself in a state of complete exhaustion. My legs refused to cooperate, and every movement felt like a challenge. Despite the rainy weather and my hunger, I pushed myself to get up, regain my composure, and embark on a leisurely walk around Chuo. I strolled through the streets, taking in the sights and eventually stopping to order a much-needed meal. It was a day dedicated to relaxation and recuperation.
I managed to last about three hours before returning to my accommodation and succumbing to sleep once again. The only adventure I had that evening was the virtual one on my computer, as I eagerly edited the magnificent photos I had captured during my Mount Fuji expedition. It was a satisfying way to relive the memories and preserve them in a visually stunning form.
21-08-2016 (Day 12)
As I embarked on a new day in Tokyo, I packed my bags and checked out of the capsule hotel. My destination was Shibuya, and upon arriving, I was immediately struck by the bustling and vibrant atmosphere. Shibuya truly had it all, from 24-hour nightclubs to the largest anime shop in Japan, and from high-end brands like Prada to trendy stores like Forever 21. It was a sensory overload, but in the best way possible.
I spent my time wandering through the streets, immersing myself in the eclectic mix of shops and marveling at the sheer volume of people. It was an eye-opening experience, and I found myself weaving through the crowds, taking in the energy of the city.
After a few hours in Shibuya, I felt the need to continue my journey. I made my way back to Narita, where I had booked a room at the Richmond's Hotel. When I entered my room, I was overcome with a mix of relief and joy. The sight of a comfortable double bed that felt like a cloud made me almost want to cry tears of happiness. I settled in and allowed myself to fully relax and unwind.
As evening approached, my hunger called, and I ventured out in search of dinner. It struck me as strange how, on my first visit to Japan, I felt lost and unfamiliar with the lifestyle. But this time, everything seemed more familiar. I knew what to look for, where to go, and even though I hadn't been there before, it felt like home. Japan had a way of embracing me and making me feel comfortable, as if I belonged.
Japan is undeniably a beautiful place, and my words, even with the aid of my photos, cannot fully capture its essence. It is an experience that must be lived, a journey that everyone should embark on at least once in their lifetime. The richness of its culture, the kindness of its people, and the wonders it holds are beyond compare. You must visit Japan to truly understand its magic.
22-08-2016 (Day 13)
On the day of my departure from Tokyo, a cyclone hit the city, bringing strong winds and torrential rain. Due to the severe weather conditions, I decided to delay my departure and sought refuge at a nearby McDonald's. The wind was so powerful that people walking outside seemed to be leaning at a 45-degree angle, and the rain fell in thick sheets, unlike anything I had ever witnessed before.
It turned out to be a day of reflection and writing, as I took the opportunity to work on this memoir of my travels around Japan. The atmosphere inside the restaurant provided a cozy shelter from the elements, allowing me to focus on capturing the memories and experiences I had gathered during my time in Nippon.
Despite the unexpected turn of events, I embraced the chance to reminisce and document my journey, finding solace in the process. It was a moment to pause, reflect, and appreciate the adventures I had embarked upon, knowing that even the unpredictable weather couldn't dampen the incredible experiences I had lived through in Japan.
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