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| Japan Travel Guide for backpackers |
Cherry blossoms and snow-capped Mt. Fuji, palaces and Zen gardens, and bustling, busy cities tightly packed with people on cell phones, this is modern Japan.
Japan is a country that was nearly wiped in WWII but pulled itself towards itself so to speak, and re-created itself, to the extent that it became a thriving prosperous powerhouse of trade and industry within a few decades. 1990 brought a decline in fortunes, but the determination and organization of the Japanese people will prevail and the country will survive. |
Tokyo - This city buzzes with energy and life in a hectic neon frenzy that is overwhelming, exciting and thoroughly energizing.
Daisetsuzan National Park - Situated in central Hokkaido, Japan's largest national park (2309 sq km/1432 sq mi) is made up of volcanoes, lakes and forests, and offers sensational hiking or skiing.
Kyoto - Once the imperial capital way back in 794 to 1868, Kyoto is still the cultural centre of Japan and is filled with temples and gardens.
Nagasaki - After suffering the absolute horror of nuclear destruction, Nagasaki recovered slowly and determinedly and is today a thriving and colourful city.
Kirishima National Park - Lose yourself in the sheer beauty of Japan's natural landscape, where waterfalls, wildflowers, and volcanic lakes wait to entrance you. |
 DAILY BUDGET in JAPAN - Japan is a very expensive country for travellers, possibly even the most expensive in the world, but if the budget conscious backpacker can put up with the very cheapest hostels, self catering, and watch traveling costs very closely it is possible to get by on US$60 to 70 a day. Remember long distance travelling can munch your cash faster than pac-man on ephedrine, and it would be worthwhile buying a Japan Rail Pass. |
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From March to May it is spring in Japan and the celebrated cherry blossoms are in full regalia, but it is also a time when the Japanese take a break and to avoid the crush it might be wiser to visit in September to November when autumn is in full flush and the weather is still pleasant. December to January is bitterly cold, and June to August is sweltering.
Gion Matsuri festival in July in the city of Kyoto dates back to 9th century and is a fantastic affair which culminates in a procession of magnificently decorated floats. Over March/April the Japanese Cherry Blossom Festival known as Hanami is celebrated and best seen in the Yoyogi and Ueno Parks. |
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