JAPAN TRAVEL GUIDE

For nearly 220 years, during a period known as Sakoku, turned its vision inward, effectively cutting ties with the rest of the world. During this isolation, Japanese culture blossomed and a unique cultural identity flourished that is still evident today in artforms such as haiku poetry, kabuki drama, wood-block prints, the tea ceremony, landscape gardening, and bonsai trees. Japan began to open up its ports and, on March 31, 1854, signed the Treaty of Kanagawa (Japan-US Treaty of Peace and Amity). This led to establishing diplomatic relations with other western powers and the modernization of Japan. Today, Japan is a beguiling juxtaposition of modern and ancient, cutting-edge and old- fashioned—where chic fashionistas can be found alongside kimono-clad geishas and hundred- year-old temples stand in the shadow of glittering high-rises. Here, you are spoiled for choice, with opportunities to enjoy world-class cuisine, soak in a natural hot spring, chant with monks, hike mountain trails, stroll peaceful garden paths, search for wildlife, walk the neon-lit streets of futuristic cities, and shop until you drop—Japan has the power to enthrall and delight even the most experienced travelers.

• Japan 101...... page 2 > • Top Attractions...... page 6 > • Natural Wonders ...... page 8 > • Cultural Pursuits ...... page 9 > • Etiquette ...... page 10 > • Traditional Handicrafts ...... page 11 > • Must-try Dishes ...... page 12 > • Independent vs. Guided Travel . page 13 > JAPAN 101

When to Go Accommodations Japan is a year-round destination, though generally, Japan has a huge variety of spring and fall are the best times to visit. Days are sunny accommodation options; some that $ - $50 or less and temperatures are mild during March and April and you won’t find anywhere else in the $$ - $50 - $100 October and November. Summers can be very hot and world. Most people choose to stay at $$$ - $150 - $300 humid in most of Japan, while winter is cold with heavy hotels, but you should be aware there $$$$ - $300+ snowfall in the Japanese Alps and Hokkaido. are other options to consider.

Spring is from March to May. Temperatures are warm Western Style Hotel $$ - $$$$ but not too hot, plus there isn’t too much rain. The famous Western style hotels, with all the amenities you would cherry blossoms are out during this time, and there are expect, can be found across Japan, especially in the larger plenty of festivals to enjoy. cities. You can find everything from basic to five-star luxury.

Note: “Golden Week” falls in the springtime and is Business Hotel $ - $$$ made up of four national holidays which fall into a seven- day span. This means many Japanese people will also be Rooms are small but clean, usually have WiFi, and as they traveling around the country and accommodations and are aimed at professionals who might have missed the tours are often booked far in advance. last train home, come equipped with everything you might need: towels, soap, shampoo, toothbrush, comb, and robe. Summer runs from June through August, and the country They always have a private bathroom, desk, fridge, and experiences a three to four-week rainy season, usually kettle. Some business hotels may have laundry facilities, free from mid-June to mid-July. It is hot and humid during breakfast, and even onsen bath. Business hotels don’t this time ,and temperatures are often in the high 80s°F. have charm or character and the staff may not speak much Summertime highlights include Mt Fuji, which opens for English, but they are a good budget option for a few nights. climbing in July, and beach holidays in Okinawa. Ryokan $ - $$$$ Autumn is from September to November and is A ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn. You’ll sleep in a characterized by light breezes and cooler temperatures of tatami mat room on a futon—a stack of thin mattresses that around 45 - 50oF. October is the best month to observe are stored during the day. Usually the only furniture is a low the colorful autumn foliage. It’s during this time that many table with cushions. The most traditional inns are made from exhibitions, music concerts, and sports tournaments are wood with sliding paper doors and offer views of elegant held in Japan. gardens. Modern ryokans are more affordable and look like a normal hotel from the outside, but with tatami mat rooms. Winter, from December to February, is quite dry and Modern ryokans are more likely to have en suite bathrooms, sunny along the Pacific coast, and the temperatures rarely air conditioning, and other modern conveniences. drop below freezing. The temperatures drop as you move Many traditional ryokan rooms don’t have private north, with the Central and Northern regions experiencing bathrooms, and even if they do, communal bathing is part heavy snowfall. This is a wonderful time to plan a ski of the experience, especially in towns famous for its onsens. vacation, or appreciate the magical landscapes from an Typically, there are separate male and female bathrooms, outdoor onsen (hot spring). Southern Japan is relatively sometimes with set bathing times. If you’re not comfortable temperate and experiences a mild winter.

ZEGRAHM EXPEDITIONS | www.zegrahm.com | 844.285.8013 < 2 > with communal bathing, look for ryokans that allow you Hostel $ - $$ to reserve a time slot for a private bath. Some of the more The most affordable option for budget travelers, hostels expensive ryokans have private baths in the rooms. usually feature shared bathroom facilities, dormitory-style Dinner and breakfast are usually provided, and this is part bedrooms, and shared common areas. This is a great option of the reason the room price is high. In your room or a to meet and interact with fellow travelers. Rooms are often public dining area you’ll be served a traditional, multi-course gender segregated; however, some hostels do offer private Japanese feast. rooms, some with en suite facilities.

Minshuku $ - $$ Apartments $$ - $$$$ A minshuku is a more basic, family-run version of a ryokan, Vacation rental services are becoming more popular and like a Japanese-style bed and breakfast. They are smaller prevalent in Japan. Options vary from apartments and with a homely atmosphere, and offer a great opportunity rooms with traditional or modern interior, as well as restored to meet local families and experience traditional Japanese historic houses. In addition to Airbnb, there are several other life. Minshuku tend to be small with just a few guest rooms. companies offer platforms for private home rentals in Japan. In-room amenities tend to be basic and may include a television, small table, heater, tea set, and towels. Most Capsule Hotels $ have shared bathroom facilities. Some older minshuku may Mainly targeting a male clientele in need of nothing but a not have locks on room doors. Dinner and breakfast, when bed, capsule hotels accommodate guests in small capsules. included, are usually served in a common dining room. A television, a shared bathroom, and coin lockers are usually provided. Pensions $ - $$$ Pensions are comparable to minshuku (see above), except Transportation that they offer Western-style rooms rather than Japanese- Japan has an efficient public transportation network, style rooms. They are typically found in mountainous resort especially within metropolitan areas and between the large towns and in the countryside. cities. Japanese public transportation is characterized by its punctuality, superb service, and the large numbers of people Temple $$ - $$$ using it. For a truly unique experience, you can stay in a Japanese Buddhist temple. The room style is similar to a ryokan—you’ll Air Travel sleep on futons in tatami mat rooms, share communal baths, Most visitors arrive in Japan by airplane, landing in one and eat multi-course feasts for dinner and breakfast. The of four international airports—Narita or Haneda in Tokyo, difference is you’ll be served shojin ryori vegan meals, and Central Japan in Nagoya, and Kansai in Osaka. Over 50 you’ll be encouraged to participate in the early morning domestic airports connect all of Japan’s islands, and offer chanting and meditation ceremony with the monks. You can a fast and efficient way to cover great distances quickly. find temple lodgings in Kyoto temples and in Koya-san, a Thanks to the deregulation of Japan’s airline industry and pretty temple village up in the mountains a few hours outside increasing competition from discount airlines, domestic of Osaka. airfares have dropped dramatically in recent years, and

ZEGRAHM EXPEDITIONS | www.zegrahm.com | 844.285.8013 < 3 > flying can sometimes be a cheaper alternative to the Ship shinkansen (bullet train) on some routes. Discount air passes Consisting of several thousand islands, Japan is naturally are available for exclusive use by foreign tourists, which home to an extensive network of ferry routes. Japan’s four enable pass holders to use domestic flights at a fixed cost of main islands (Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Shikoku) are slightly above 10,000 yen (around $90) per flight. connected by bridges and tunnels, but many smaller islands can only be reached by ship. Trains Japan’s four major islands—Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu and Car Shikoku—are covered by an extensive and reliable network Renting a car is an option worth considering if you plan of railways. Trains are a very convenient way for visitors to to explore rural Japan where public transportation can be travel around Japan, especially in conjunction with the Japan both inconvenient and infrequent. A rental car can also be Rail Pass (several options are available). About 70 percent an economical alternative when traveling in groups, or can of Japan’s railway network is owned and operated by the make traveling with a lot of luggage easier. On the other Japan Railways (JR), while the remaining 30 percent belongs hand, a car is usually unnecessary or even burdensome for to dozens of other private railway companies, especially in exploring Japan’s big cities, where it is not recommended. and around metropolitan areas. Japan’s high-speed trains Traffic in large cities tends to be heavy, orientation (bullet trains) are called shinkansen and are operated by difficult, and parking inconvenient and expensive. Public Japan Railways. transportation is generally a better choice when exploring metropolitan areas. Subway Tokyo, Yokohama, Nagoya, Sendai, Sapporo, Kyoto, Taxi Osaka, Kobe, and Fukuoka have city subway networks, In Japan’s large cities, taxis are an expensive and linked to other rail systems including the JR Yamanote Line unnecessary alternative to the efficient public transportation in Tokyo, the JR Loop Line in Osaka, and JR Shinkansen system. However, taxis are often the only way of getting lines. Most subway systems in Japan start at around 5am around once trains and buses stop operating around and the last trains depart at around midnight. Services are midnight; this results in a sudden increase in their demand, less frequent on weekends and public holidays. Subway especially on Friday and Saturday nights, when long lines announcements are generally in Japanese, but English and waiting times at taxi stands at train stations are not announcements are not uncommon. The next station is often uncommon. In smaller cities, the countryside, and in Kyoto, displayed on electronic boards in the carriages in both public transportation tends to be less convenient, thus taking Japanese and English. Some subway lines have women-only a taxi from the nearest train station to your destination can carriages running in the rush hour period—look out for the be a good alternative. If you travel in groups of three or pink sign on the platform. more people, taxis can also be an economical option if you Unless you’re only in the country for a day or two, you’ll are traveling a short distance. really benefit from grabbing a stored value card. You can buy a PASMO card from a machine or the station office and then reload it when you need to. You may also purchase online one, two, or three day passes; these offer unlimited use on the Tokyo subway system. Please observe the rules of no food or drink, no loud conversations, no bags or feet on the seats, and make as much room for others as possible.

Bus In Tokyo, Osaka, and some other large cities, buses serve as a secondary means of public transportation, complementing the train and subway networks. In cities with less dense train networks like Kyoto, buses are the main means of public transportation. Buses also serve smaller towns, the countryside, and national parks. Using buses in Japan can be intimidating to foreign tourists (and even Japanese people), because there are different ticketing systems depending on the company, and recognizing the stop where you need to get off can be challenging. While some bus companies do a good job at providing English signage, timetables, and announcements, many buses lack any English information, altogether.

ZEGRAHM EXPEDITIONS | www.zegrahm.com | 844.285.8013 < 4 > When you board a taxi, note that the vehicle’s left rear door want to have cash on hand to use in small restaurants, is opened and closed remotely by the driver. You are not markets, or in more rural towns. There are still many places supposed to open or close the door yourself, except when where credit cards are not accepted, so it is a good idea using a different door. If you do not speak Japanese or if not to rely on your plastic alone. your destination is not well-known, it is recommended to give your driver the address of your destination on a piece of Travel Tip paper or, point it out on a map, since the Japanese address Be sure to alert your bank that you will be traveling, so they system can be confusing even to local taxi drivers. know your transactions aren’t fraud. Also, it’s a good idea Many taxis accept payment by credit card. Stickers on the to carry more than one card in case you have an issue with door often indicate accepted payment methods. When one of them. Make sure you carry them in two different paying in cash, try to avoid paying small amounts with large locations—for example, one in your wallet and another in bills. Tipping is not necessary in Japan. your backpack—so if one gets lost or stolen, you still have access to the other. Bicycle Bicycles are widely used in Japan by people of all age Health & Safety groups and social standings. Visitors will find rental bicycles Japan is one of the safest countries in the world with a very available in many tourist destinations as an alternative low crime rate. In case of a dangerous situation, you can means of getting around. They can be an inexpensive and call 110, Japan’s emergency number, or look for a police convenient way to explore relatively compact cities or towns, box, often located on every other street corner. where distances between attractions are slightly too far to No vaccinations are required to enter the country, the tap cover on foot. Rental shops can usually be found at train water is safe to drink, and foods are prepared hygienically stations. all over the country. Japanese hospitals are well equipped and you can expect a high standard of treatment if you Money Matters should require it. We recommend purchasing travel In Japan, the currency is yen ( ¥ ). The current exchange rate insurance for peace of mind, as medical costs can be (July 2018) is as follows: expensive.

• USD: $1 = ¥110 Communication • British Pound: £1 = ¥147 When bringing your cell phone, it is not necessary to get a SIM card for your travels in Japan. WiFi is common, and • Euro: €1 = ¥130 you’ll find it in most hotels or hostels, as well as in coffee • CAD: $1 = ¥84 shops and restaurants around the country. While in WiFi, you can easily talk with friends and family back at home • Australian Dollar: $1 = ¥83 through apps like Skype and Facebook Messenger, and Tip: We recommend downloading a converter app on your you can connect with locals using WhatsApp. If you do phone to see the exact exchange rate for your selected want to get cell service with a data plan so you always currency at the time of your trip. Or, jot down the conversion have Internet access, it is possible to buy a Japanese SIM rate in increments of $1, $10, $50, $100, etc. in your card, but make sure your phone is unlocked and has the notebook or a slip of paper that you can keep in your wallet. capability to accept a foreign SIM—many do not.

ATMs Helpful Phrases: An ATM is an easy and convenient way to withdraw local While no one expects you to speak the language fluently, currency. They can be found at airports, in train stations, making an effort to communicate in Japanese is always and convenience stores in most big Japanese cities. You will appreciated and can even be fun! typically get the best exchange rate possible at an ATM. • Hello: Kon’nichiwa Make sure to stock up on cash before heading to a rural town, where ATMs are not as prevalent. • Thank you: Arigato If you don’t have an ATM card, or you prefer to have money • Thank you very much: Domo Arigato in-hand when you arrive, you may order yen from your home • Beer, please: Biru kudasai bank before you leave. (Do this at least two weeks before your departure date). • Cheers! Kanpai • Bathroom: Basurumu Credit Cards • How much? Ikura Major credit cards will typically be accepted at big hotel • Delicious: Oishi chains, nice restaurants, or shops in large cities, but you’ll • Beautiful: Kireina

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With all the contrasts of this complex culture, what should Kyoto you see and do on your trip to Japan? Here are a few Kinkakuji - Most people travel to Kinkakuji, a Buddhist places we recommend for first-time travelers. temple in northern Kyoto, for the beautiful Golden Pavilion. But you should also take a walk through its Japanese Tokyo strolling garden (kaiyu-shiki-teien). This garden showcases Meiji Shrine (Tokyo) - Located in the Shibuya natural and man-made design via a pond that reflects neighborhood, the Meiji Shrine honors the deified spirits of the golden pavilion. The landscape is also structured to (Japan’s 122nd emperor, who opened Japan represent famous places in Japanese literature. It is based on to the west after a long isolation) and Empress Shoken. the minimalist Muromachi period of garden design. Formally dedicated in 1920, the original shrine buildings were burned during the war, then rebuilt in 1958. Heian-jingu - At just over 100 years old, the Heian-jingu The shrine complex is composed of two parts: Naien, which is relatively new. Ogawa Jihei (1860-1933), houses a treasure museum of articles from the Emperor and created the beautiful, surrounding Shin’en Garden, a quiet Empress, and Gaien, which includes a gallery and sports leafy space where, if you visit in spring, has the best cherry facilities. The entrance’s gate is made from 1,500-year- blossom viewing spots in Kyoto. The shrine was built to old cypress, and the area is planted with over 100,000 commemorate the 1,100th anniversary of the founding trees. Learn more about the Emperor and Empress before of Kyoto. The strolling garden features a pond, dragon you go; they were well-known for their progressive views, as stepping stones, and a covered wooden bridge adorned well as their life-long dedication to writing Waka poetry. with a phoenix. The Samurai Museum - Located in Shinjuku, the Samurai Nara Museum showcases over 700 years of samurai history. Todai-ji Temple - Just one hour from Kyoto, Nara was the Permanent exhibits include clothing and weapons, all in a capital of Japan from 710 - 784 AD. The Todai-ji Temple small but beautiful space. Visitors can explore the museum complex. a UNESCO World Heritage Site, contains the on their own; the museum is laid out in chronological order, world’s largest wooden structure, which was built in 743. with captions in Japanese, English, Chinese, and Korean. Within the temple complex, the Great Buddha Hall houses There are also guided tours available approximately every the world’s largest bronze Buddha. It’s known as Daibutsu, 20 minutes. Visitors can try on samurai clothing (battle coats, and was originally cast in 749. Visitors can also explore helmets, and kimono) and take photos while wielding a the Todai-ji Museum, the Bell Tower, smaller temples, a sword. There are also live performances every day, samurai cultural center, and more. Note that small deer roam the calligraphy lessons, and a sword lecture. grounds at will, and are believed within the Shinto religion to be messengers of the gods—today, they are considered The Ghibli Museum - Studio Ghibli is a world-renowned, national treasures. During a visit, be sure all bags are tightly groundbreaking animation studio with many beloved films, closed and nothing is sticking out of your pockets or hands. including Spirited Away (which won the Best Animated The deer are quite adventurous and boldly seek out food. Feature Oscar in 2003), My Neighbor Totoro, Princess What you think might be a barrier (such as a zipper) may Mononoke, and Howl’s Moving Castle. The museum is a not be much of a deterrent to them! Special deer crackers place of pilgrimage for Studio Ghibli fans. The museum has are available for purchase and offer a great opportunity to a cat bus replica (from Totoro), a theater, cafe, bookstore, grab a selfie with these adorable ambassadors. rooftop garden, and plenty of interactive options for kids.

ZEGRAHM EXPEDITIONS | www.zegrahm.com | 844.285.8013 < 6 > Hiroshima Kenroku-en - Located just outside the gates of Kanazawa Peace Memorial Park - Located in what was once Castle, this ancient garden is considered one of the Three the city center, the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Great Gardens of Japan (the other two are Koraku-en Museum is an important part of Japanese history. After an in Okayama and Kairaku-en in Mito). The garden was atomic bomb was dropped on August 6, 1945, the area initially developed in the mid-1600s and features a pond, was burned, flattened, damaged, and vaporized. This waterways, teahouse, pagoda, the oldest fountain in Japan, UNESCO World Heritage Site seeks to educate visitors and a flower viewing bridge. It is also known as the Garden about this horrific event, as well as the damaging after- of the Six Sublimities. effects suffered by victims. The museum also places great emphasis on peace and understanding of the past through Shirakawa-go its exhibits, park, and the Peace Database. The park features This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an isolated mountain the Children’s Peace Monument (also called the Tower of a village located in central Japan’s Sho River Valley, where Thousand Cranes), which is a beautiful area that includes nature reigns supreme. The area offers gorgeous wintry millions of origami paper cranes. scenes, an abundant hanami (cherry blossom) season, green summers, and beautiful fall colors that illuminate the Miyajima - Located in Hiroshima Bay, the island of importance of the changing seasons to locals. Ogi-machi Miyajima is known for its beautiful forests, historic temples, Gassho Style Village showcases historic buildings dating and “floating” torii gate. This island, also known as the from the 1800s. They have steeply sloped thatched roofs, Island of the Gods, is one of the most beautiful places in which resemble two hands meeting in prayer. These roofs Japan and is part of Setonaikai National Park. The Shinto were designed to withstand the weight of winter’s heavy Itsukushima Shrine, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, snow. The attics are typically utilized as work spaces, often was established in the 6th century. The shrine is most famous as a space for breeding silk worms. While there, wander for its red torii, or gate, that appears to float during high the Gasshozukuri Minkaen Outdoor Museum, which is tide. The first gate was built in 1168, but being made of comprised of 26 buildings, including a watermill, shrine, and wood, there have been a number of replacements over the temple. Also, visit the Tajima House Museum of Silk Culture, years. The current gate dates back to 1875. On the island, located in a gassho-style building dedicated to silk farming. you’ll find other shrines and temples as well as beautiful maple trees. If you visit in the fall, be sure to plan a trip here Naoshima to see the autumnal colors. Whenever you visit, partake in One of the best places in Japan for art lovers, the art island delicious pastries stamped with (or in the shape of) a maple of Naoshima is home to a large collection of contemporary leaf. As in Nara, watch for the deer, which are sacred and art museums, galleries, exhibits and installations. Benesse can be quite bold. House (also home to Naoshima’s most noteworthy hotel) features works by an impressive collection of artists, Kanazawa including Hiroshi Sugimoto, Gerhard Richter, Shinro Ohtake, Kanazawa is one of the best-preserved Edo-period cities Richard Long, David Hockney, and many more. The in Japan where you will find many wonderful temples, gorgeous Chichu Art Museum was designed by Tadao Ando shrines, and museums in a compact central area. Be sure to let in an abundance of natural light, and features a small to visit city’s historic teahouse and geisha district, as well but impressive collection of works by artists including Claude as the Nagamachi Bukeyashiki samurai district, the bustling Monet, James Turrell, and Walter De Maria. The Art House Omicho Market, the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Project is a collection of abandoned houses and workshops, Art, and Myoryu-ji (the Ninja Temple). You can also explore as well as a temple and a shrine, that have been converted the remains of the Takeda Shrine, dedicated to a revered into venues and art installations for artists from Japan and local samurai. around the world.

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Don’t miss Japan’s abundant natural wonders, which range Hakone - Famous for hot springs, natural beauty, and from unique wildlife to gorgeous landscapes. views of Mt Fuji across Lake Ashinoko, Hakaone is a popular getaway located about an hour from Tokyo. One of the Cranes - In Asia, the crane has long been considered a more unique features in Hakone, is “Hell Valley” a hot spring symbol for good fortune and longevity. The most famous filled crater surrounded by barren landscapes interspersed species is the red-crowned or Japanese crane (tanchozuru), with forest and sulphuric steam escaping from earthen vents the second-rarest crane species in the world. Japanese cranes at odd angles and locations. Visitors often take an aerial are black and white, with a bare red patch of skin atop their tram or bus up to reach the hot springs. Once there, you can head. There are an estimated 2,750 Japanese cranes left in purchase chicken eggs (kuro tamago) that have been cooked the wild, with 1,000 of those in Japan (mostly in Hokkaido). in the sulphuric hot springs, which turns them black and are Head to the Arasaki Crane Reserve in winter to see the reputed to extend your life by seven years. annual gathering of 14,000 cranes, including the common crane, hooded crane, white-naped crane, and sandhill crane. If you’re lucky, you could also spot the rare demoiselle or Onsen - There are over 3,000 onsen (natural hot springs, Siberian crane. The Izumi Crane Visitor Centre provides usually segregated by gender) scattered all throughout excellent viewing (and photography) areas. Arrive early for Japan. Entire towns are built around onsen, and there are the best sightings, as the birds are most active around sunrise. even onsen-focused hotels, which are called onsen ryokan. While onsen differ from each other in color (depending on Monkeys - The snow monkey, which is also known as what minerals are present), smell (depending on how much the Japanese macaque, is native to Japan and lives in sulfur is in the water), and temperature (hot, hotter, hottest), mountainous areas. Snow monkeys are most famous for their the experience essentially will be the same. penchant for swimming and relaxing in natural onsen (hot First, you head into the washing room and scrub yourself springs). The most popular portrayal of snow monkeys (aside from National Geographic onsen photos) is the three wise completely. Once you’re clean, cover yourself with a small monkeys. You will find this “see no evil, hear no evil, speak no towel (don’t let it touch the water!), then slip into the hot evil” depiction in fairy tales, stories, art, and, most famously, spring and relax. If you’re lucky, it’ll be snowing, making for at Nikko’s Tosho-gu Shrine as a carving. a magical experience. Please Note: Some onsens may deny entry if you have a Rebun, or Flower Island - Located at the northernmost tattoo, as they have been associated with illegal, or gang part of Japan, Rebun Island is home to extraordinary flowers, activities in the past. You may choose to conceal your tattoo including many endemic species. Surprisingly, all are alpine with a waterproof bandage, or check with the onsen before plants, which really should not be growing at such a low you enter the bathing area. altitude! The island has six walking paths, ranging from short strolls to more strenuous hikes. Along the way, you can see a waterfall, take a forest road, hit a high observation point, or climb a mountain—all while being surrounded by beautiful scenery. Rebun Island is part of Rishiri-Rebun-Sarobetsu National Park.

Mt Fuji - The tallest mountain in Japan, Fuji also carries a long historical and cultural importance. The volcano has shaped the landscape here and is both a pilgrimage site and popular tourists destination.

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Musical Performances - From the ubiquitous karaoke Bunraku is a medieval tradition that utilizes puppets to tell bars to performances on traditional Japanese instruments, a story. The puppeteers are dressed all in black in order to music plays a huge part in Japanese culture. Popular musical make the puppets stand out. attractions include Taiko drums (which date to the 7th century), bamboo flute, or the shamisen (a lute-like stringed instrument). Spot a Geisha - The most significant marker of living Not all music played on these instruments is traditional: tradition in Japan is geisha. These professional women study modern music is often incorporated into the repertoire. Of and train for years in dance, song, music, and conversation. course, there are also variety of other musical genres in They wear a traditional kimono with a wig and full white face Japan, from J-pop to jazz, heavy metal, and classical. makeup. Apprentice geisha are called maiko. Kyoto is the best place to see them—there are around 100 geisha and Sing Karaoke - One of the most popular things to do in 100 maiko, located in five geisha districts. Hospitality and Japan is karaoke. Found at many bars and restaurants, this is high culture are the hallmarks of a successful geisha. Geisha a fun group activity. If you’ve never done it before, karaoke entertain at special teahouses and restaurants, and also involves grabbing the microphone and singing along to perform at concerts and theaters. If you would like to meet recorded music (without a vocal track) in front of an audience with a geisha or maiko, the easiest way is to arrange for a or group of friends. The lyrics are printed on a screen, and meal at a kaiseki restaurant, though expect to pay a premium audiences love to see singers with passion and enthusiasm. for this unique experience.

These days karaoke has become a global phenomenon, with Sumo Wrestling - As Japan’s national sport, sumo wrestling popular songs available in various different languages. Before is both an exciting tournament and fascinating cultural you go, pick a song (or two) to practice, so you can really experience. Two wrestlers compete on an elevated clay ring shine during your turn at the mic. with the goal of each wrestler trying to force the other either off his feet or out of the ring. Matches are surprisingly quick— Tea Ceremony - Called “the Way of Tea,” this is a deeply usually lasting only a few seconds. Official sumo tournaments, cultural activity that showcases the preparation of powdered are held every other month. Of the six annual tournaments, green tea, called matcha. Influenced by Zen Buddhism and three are held in Tokyo, with the others held in Nagoya, dating back to the 9th century, the traditional tea ceremony Osaka, and Fukuoka. You may also visit sumo training centers takes place in a tea house with a tatami room and specific throughout the year to observe an exhilarating live practice hanging scrolls and flower arrangements. Utensils used session. include a tea pot, bamboo whisk, tea bowl, and tea scoop. It’s an aesthetic experience like no other.

Theater - There are three types of traditional Japanese theater–Kabuki (which arose from the geisha in the early 1600s), Noh, and Bunraku (a puppet theater). Kabuki theater is a ritualized performance that combines music, dance, drama, and often sword battles. The art form is rich in showmanship, involving bold make-up, elaborate costumes, and outrageous wigs. Over 400 Kabuki works are still regularly performed today. Noh theater is characterized by elaborate costuming, masks, and ritualized performances. If you are in the Kanazawa area, be sure to visit the Kanazawa Noh Museum to learn more.

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Japan is an extremely polite society, and there are many rules • Blowing your nose in public can be considered rude. of conduct to be observed. Here are a few tips for a blooper- Japanese people often go into the bathroom to blow a free trip to Japan. stuffy nose.

• Eating while you walk is considered sloppy. Instead, find • On a crowded subway or train, it is polite to take off your a place to sit and enjoy your snack. backpack and hold it in front of you.

• Slurping noodles not only cools them down as you eat, it • Taking off your shoes is common courtesy before entering also indicates that the meal is delicious. So slurp away, many places. If the floor is raised at the doorway, it is an it’s the polite thing to do! indicator that you should remove your shoes. Sometimes, there are special slippers to be worn in the bathroom. • Mixing other food with rice is usually not done. You eat a bit of one and then a bit of the other, but they should • In Japan, tips are not expected. Though servers will likely never be mixed together as you do in many Western not be offended, they will probably be confused. countries. • Wait to be introduced; it is considered impolite to • Do not stick your chopsticks straight up in a bowl of rice introduce yourself, even in a large gathering. or lay your chopsticks across the bowl you are eating from. Always use the chopstick stand (if provided), and if • While foreigners are expected to shake hands, the not, fold the paper chopstick wrapper into a tent shape traditional form of greeting is the bow. The deeper and rest the tips of the chopsticks on it you bow, the more respect you show. As a visitor, it is acceptable to bow your head slightly, since no one • When drinking alcoholic beverages, it is customary to expects you to understand the subtle nuances of bowing. serve each other, rather than pour your own drink. • It is considered disrespectful to stare into another person’s • Pointing is considered rude. Instead, use an open hand to eyes. In crowded situations the Japanese avoid eye make gestures. contact to give themselves privacy.

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Japan is a shopper’s delight with everything from haute Yosegi - This artform hails from Hakone, located in a couture to electronics to handmade paper. While you are mountainous region near Mt Fuji. It’s a type of traditional welcome to shop ‘til you drop in everything from mega- Japanese parquetry developed during the Edo period, using stores to quaint mom and pop shops, we highly recommend pieces of wood to create intricate mosaics. These hand-made that you seek out some of Japan’s traditional handicrafts. products include puzzle boxes, jewelry boxes, coasters, cups, Many handicraft industries are unique to the country, so you and decorative items. should have no problem finding a high-quality, one-of-a-kind souvenir to remind you of your travels. Chochin - These collapsible bamboo lanterns, covered in paper or silk, emerged in Japan around the year 1085. They Shodo - Shodo is the art of Japanese calligraphy using a are usually adorned with shodo or a painting. Chochin are brush to paint single characters, words, or short poems; some hung at temples and as decorations for matsuri. They are may even resemble landscape paintings. The art has been also traditionally used to mark shops and restaurants such as influenced by Buddhist thought and many monks are masters izakaya. of this artform. - With a history going back more than 1,000 years, Wood block prints - Known as Ukiyo-e, this genre of Japanese this hand-molded paper is made from fibers of plants such art thrived from the 1600s to 1880s. These pictures often as paper mulberry, bamboo, hemp, rice, or wheat. Washi is portray famous Kabuki actors, Mt. Fuji, the lively city life in produced the same way as ordinary paper, but the process the Edo period, and more. All have a distinctive style with a involves far less chemicals. For centuries, the Japanese have beautiful usage of color. Currently, ukiyo-e designs can be used washi for all kinds of things—window, door, and lantern found on many small items and stationery as well. coverings; wrapping paper to keep kimono dry; candy wrappers; writing paper; art work; and money. Origami Paper - Origami is the Japanese art of folding paper to create decorative art. Japanese origami paper is well Yukata - These light summer kimonos are easy to pack and known for its colorful prints and high quality. It can be a great come in a variety of colors and patterns. Yukatas can be souvenir if you’re looking for something authentic and fun. You found in specialty kimono shops. In the summer you can even can find origami paper in most stationery shops. find them in major supermarkets such as Aeon or Ito Yokado.

Fans - The folding fan was invented in Japan. Japanese fans Nambu Ironware -The first product to be designated as a are considered a cultural item that are used in ritual, dance, Traditional Craft of the Nation in 1975, this traditional craft and festivals. They were also historically used as a weapon of has approximately 400 years of history. The handmade war by the samurai. Japanese folding fans, known as Sensu, ironware created by skillful craftsmen can last for three vary widely in quality and often feature original art. generations if used with care. Some of the latest designs are very stylish and can be used with induction stoves. Daruma - This small doll made from papier mache is thought of as bringing exceptionally good luck, since it always returns Maki-e - A type of Japanese lacquerware using powdered to its original position even if knocked over. Dolls are sold metal such as gold, silver, copper, or pewter. An artist uses without the eyes painted in: the custom is to make a resolution a fine brush to shape the powder into decorative patterns and paint in the left eye of the daruma. If the challenge is on items such as pens, boxes, vases, jewelry, and even cell successful, the right eye is then also painted. phone cases.

ZEGRAHM EXPEDITIONS | www.zegrahm.com | 844.285.8013 < 11 > MUST-TRY DISHES

Careful preparation and meticulous presentation are Ramen - These thin egg noodles are almost always served crucial elements of Japanese cuisine. Food is an art form in a hot broth flavored with shoyu (soy sauce) or miso. and even the simplest dishes are often prepared by chefs This is topped with a variety of ingredients such as slices who have trained for many years. Food is so important of roast pork, bean sprouts, sweetcorn, soft-boiled egg, or to Japanese culture that UNESCO has added traditional butter. Ramen is popular throughout Japan and different Japanese cuisine, or washoku, into its Intangible Cultural regions are known for their unique variations. Heritage list, meaning that the preservation of this way of eating is vital to the survival of the traditional culture. It Onigiri - Translated as “rice ball,” this Japanese fast food was only the second national traditional cuisine honored consists of rice shaped into a ball or triangle and filled as such, after French food. In fact, Tokyo has 14 Michelin with a salty or sour ingredient like pickled prune, salted three-star restaurants, which surpasses even Paris. salmon, or fish roe. Many are wrapped in nori, a type of seaweed. Sushi - You simply can’t go to Japan and not try sushi. It would be like going to Italy and not eating pasta. Udon and Soba - Udon, are thick white noodles made Compared to other meals in Japan, sushi is not all from wheat flour. They are boiled and served in a broth, that expensive—so order it often! Try a conveyor belt usually hot but occasionally cold in summer. Soba are restaurant where you can pick each piece off the moving long, thin buckwheat noodles—a staple of Japanese counter beside you. cuisine, particularly in the mountainous regions where hardy buckwheat fares better than rice. The noodles are Tempura - Light and fluffy tempura is Japan’s contribution served in either a hot, soy sauce-flavored broth or at room to the world of deep-fried. The batter-coated seafood and temperature on a bamboo mat with broth on the side for vegetables are traditionally fried in sesame oil and served dipping. with either a tiny pool of salt or a dish of soy sauce- flavored broth spiked with grated radish for dipping. Green Tea - The tea in Japan is different than the loose- leaf variety you may be used to. Here, the leaves are Kaiseki - Part dinner, part work of art, kaiseki is Japan’s ground into a fine powder called matcha. Not just a haute cuisine. It originated centuries ago alongside the beverage, there is green tea flavored EVERYTHING! Lip tea ceremony in Kyoto (and Kyoto remains the capital gloss, KitKat bars, and especially, ice cream, which is of kaiseki). There’s no menu, just a procession of small found everywhere. courses meticulously arranged on exquisite crockery. Only fresh ingredients are used and each dish is designed to Dietary Restrictions evoke the current season. While some restaurants do make an effort to cater to those with common food allergies by informing patrons Okonomiyaki - Okonomi meaning “what you like,” and of what is in the dishes, this trend is far from universal. yaki, meaning “grilled,” this savory pancake is “grilled We recommend that you carry around a card with your how you like.” The batter and toppings vary throughout allergy information printed on it in Japanese. Research the country, but the traditional version is said to have Japanese cuisine and seasonings beforehand so you are originated in Osaka. Here you will find pancakes filled familiar with the ingredients. Use Google Translate or a with cabbage, yam, pork belly, and green onions. Other similar app to scan food labels or menu terms. If you rely versions can include noodles, seafood, cheese, and even on an EpiPen for emergencies, be sure to bring extra ones fried eggs. to Japan just in case.

ZEGRAHM EXPEDITIONS | www.zegrahm.com | 844.285.8013 < 12 > INDEPENDENT VS. GUIDED TRAVEL

When it comes to travel, there is no “right or wrong” way Zegrahm Expeditions has been organizing tours to explore. Your personality, interests, and what you are to Japan for over two decades. Our itineraries offer an looking to achieve in your travels to this fascinating country. immersive experience and are led by seasoned experts and personable local guides. Independent Travel Japan is a safe and easy place to visit on your own. Imperial Japan Transportation in large cities is efficient with lots of English- Discover the castles, temples, and shrines of Japan’s imperial language signs to help you find your way around, though past as you explore Tokyo, Takayama, Kanazawa, Kyoto, the Tokyo subway system can be confusing. As you travel and Hiroshima. to more rural areas, English is less prevalent, so make sure to plan ahead and do your research. Independent travel October 9 – 20, 2018 offers you the flexibility of changing plans depending on April 16 – 28, 2019 the weather or your mood, and you are able to do as much October 7 – 19, 2019 or as little as you like according to your interests. You may also choose to a join city tour or book a day trips to learn more about specific attractions. We recommend purchasing Sacred Traditions: Japan Revealed a guidebook or three well before your travels and do lots of The perfect adventure for those with an interest in Japanese research and planning before you leave. Travel insurance arts, cuisine, customs, and culture. This itinerary is perfectly can prove invaluable in case something goes wrong. timed to take in the autumn colors—you’ll visit celebrated gardens, hike serene trails, learn about Japan’s traditional Guided Travel industries, and make meaningful connections with locals. Guided tours offer you the peace of mind that all of your October 12 – 30, 2018 arrangements are taken care of down to the smallest detail. Guides often offer a wealth of information and can point out Snow Monkeys & Cranes of Japan interesting features or cultural phenomenon that you would not notice otherwise. Japan is unique in so many ways, Discover Japan’s wild side as you witness huge gatherings having a local to offer insight and answer questions will of white-napped cranes, search for Steller’s sea eagles, and deepen your understanding and appreciation of Japanese watch the playful antics of Japanese macaques as they soak culture and traditions. A guided tour is also a great way in the hot springs of Jigokudani. to get into the more rural, or lesser-traveled regions of the January 16 – February 3, 2019 country without having to deal with complex logistics or the language barrier. Tour companies often have connections Treasures of Japan with South Korea throughout Japan and can arrange insider access to a multitude of Japanese experiences, such as tea ceremonies, Travel with comfort and ease aboard the 100-guest meeting with geisha, kimono fittings, dance performances, Caledonian Sky, savoring gorgeous coastal scenery and and much, much more. A guided tour is also a great choice waking up in an exciting new port each day. A team of if you’d like to meet and travel with like-minded people. expert leaders and lecturers will be with you every step of the way as you discover some of Japan’s many treasures. April 12 – 28, 2019 This trip is featured in National Geographic Traveler, August 2018.

Or, design your own itinerary with Zegrahm’s Private Travel services. Our experts will help you plan the Japan vacation of your dreams.

Call 844.285.8013 to speak with an Expedition Advisor today!

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