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Seeing the Real Japan with ExotissimoThank you for choosing Exotissimo Travel Japan to or-

ganize your travel arrangements in Japan. This docu-

ment will give you some more information about the

country, the different destinations within Japan, useful

information for travelers, and a listing of the Exotissimo

preferred hotels.

Our dedicated teams at Exotissimo Japan are experts at

what they do. Knowledgeable, passionate, and enthu-

siastic, there is no request too big or too small for our

staff. The latest addition to the Exotissimo collection of

destinations, our team consisting of local and expatri-

ate staff has learned all of the hot spots, hidden gems,

and everything in between. We will of course show you

the highlights of this spectacular country but also are

pleased to show you lesser known sites

Where to go in Japan

A vast archipelago consisting of over 7000 islands, Ja-

pan offers a multitude of varied and contrasting desti-

nations for visitors to explore. Four main islands form

the most well seen and known areas of Japan, and

home to most of the Japanese population. The islands

Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu and Shikoku make up 97%

of the country’s land area. The main island of Honshu

plays home to Japan’s key destinations, but the other

three islands offer varied landscapes and environments

for tourists to explore, including sublime skiing areas in

Hokkaido and unknown beaches on Okinawa, an island

chain which stretches over one thousand kilometers

from Kyushu to Taiwan. Most classic itineraries to Japan

will explore the highlights of cosmopolitan Tokyo, the

beauty of the infamously shy Mt Fuji, the blooming city

of Hiroshima and the veritable melting pot of UNESCO

world heritage sites, Kyoto. Being the experts we are,

our little tip to all would be to take some time to visit

Takayama, a charming destination with a very unique

culture, located high up in the Japanese Alps.

At the cutting edge of modern technology and trans-

port, Japan is an easy destination to navigate and travel

around, when making use of the famous Shinkansen

or Japanese Bullet Train. These feats of modern tech-

nology traverse a network of lines across Honshu and

Shikoku, at speeds up to 186 miles per hour. Linking

most major hubs, the efficiency and speed is put well

into real terms when comparing the two and a half

hour train journey between Tokyo and Kyoto with the

seven hour journey by road.

When to go in Japan?

A truly seasonal country, Japan boasts four distinct

seasons in line with the Western Hemisphere. From

March to April, the climate is at its most attractive with

pleasantly warm days, and limited rains. This time also

welcomes the infamous cherry blossoms, a stunning

attraction for visitors, but an attraction that draws in

the masses, so be prepared not to be the only visitor at

this time of the year!

From June to August, the heat and humidity of summer

hits in, and temperatures can hit 40 degrees centigrade,

though generally this isn’t the most popular time to

travel but for lovers of the heat, it can mean fewer

crowds. A tip and a great alternative to the cherry

blossoms are the autumn colors in November; however

this can also be a very busy time in places such as

Kyoto. Spectacular in their own right, the temperature

from September cools down and autumn becomes a

very pleasant time of year to visit. With winter comes

superb skiing opportunities and the chance to try out

as many of the Onsens (hot springs) as possible, De-

cember through February.

When planning your trip to Japan, it is wise to take

into account the Japanese public holidays, as this is

the most popular time for domestic travel, meaning

not only is availability hard to come by, but hotel rates

increase dramatically. Check with your Exotissimo con-

sultant for exact details, but key holidays to consider

include Golden Week (April 27 – May 6) and New Years

(December 29 – January 3) when everything shuts down.

This is a guide to the best of the best of Japan. We’ve

provided ideas for travel, sightseeing and accommoda-

tion with a few insider tips along the way

A veritable paradise for seekers of luxury and high-

end accommodations, Tokyo plays home to some iconic

properties; Think of a hotel in Tokyo and many will

remember the Park Hyatt Tokyo from the Sofia Cop-

pela film ‘Lost in Translation’, surely one of the few

hotels in the world that employs a professional pillow

fitter. Located in the neon lights of Shinjuku, the Park

Hyatt’s dramatic perch on the top floors of a Kenzo

Tange-designed tower affords sweeping views of the

city and Mt Fuji. Possibly the best located hotel in the

Where to stay?

What to see?

Shopping and DiningThink of Tokyo and a multitude of pictures may come to mind. A city of many faces, this incred-ible metropolis is home to some of the globes most unique and quirky cultures. Tradition meets modernity on a daily basis in Tokyo, as Tokoyites grace the streets in kimonos while neon lights emit from up above. Cosmopolitan to say the least, Tokyo breathes cutting edge arts, ever-evolving fashions, unfathomable architecture, epicurean delights, striking gardens, world class museums and galleries, ancient temples and an energy that is hard to match. Named the fourth most ‘livable’ city in the world, Tokyo cannot fail to entice and fascinate. It might be hard to imagine that this city grew from a modest fishing village when learning that it now sprawls over 2000 square kilometers, but being made up of 23 separate wards, allows for easy exploration of this dynamic city.

The centre of the city is defined by the JR Yaman-ote railway line, which loops around the area that used to be reserved for Shogun and his samurai. Best considered as a patchwork of smaller towns that have merged together to form the capital, each one has its own distinctive personality and culture. One of the highlights of any trip to Tokyo is time spent exploring, wandering and simply absorbing the city and its people, and we highly recommend a few hours or even days doing so. Discover the back street away from the large av-enues of the city - this is where the real life of Japan is played out!

Tokyo

city, The Peninsula Tokyo is, has an enviable position

in the prestigious district of Marunouchi, directly op-

posite the Imperial Palace. For fashionistas looking for

luxe living within walking distance of Tokyo’s famous

Ginza shopping street, look to the Conrad Tokyo with

panoramic views of Hamarikyu Gardens.

For those in search of a more modest stay, The Ho-

tel Niwa combines traditional Japanese aesthetics with

modern Tokyo style. With washi paper screens in every

room and a tranquil garden courtyard, Niwa truly is an

oasis in the heart of Tokyo. Or look to the Cerulan Tow-

er Hotel, situated in the heart of cosmopolitan Shibuya,

the birthplace of Japanese fashion. For affordable ac-

commodation without compromising on style, we rec-

ommend the b ikebukero, just steps from countless

dining options.

Aside from innately absorbing the energy and eccen-

tricities of Tokyo, there are some incredible sites to be

seen and experiences to be had:

Meiji Jinja, Tokyo’s most famous shrine is dedicated

to the spirit of the late Emperor Meiji. The shrine is

a popular site for Japanese weddings; if you are lucky

you may see a bride and groom dressed in traditional

Shinto wedding attire. Head to Tokyo’s old town, and

Asakusa, home to Sensoji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest Bud-

dhist temple, and the city’s oldest Geisha district and

see Tokyo from a different angle on a cruise down the

Sumida Gawa River to Hamarikyu-tien. This stunning

former private garden of an Edo Period lord is an oasis

surrounded by a sea of skyscrapers.

For lovers of seafood and fish, no visit to Tokyo would

be complete without a visit to the Tsukiji Fish Market

- the world’s largest fish market. Get here early in the

morning to enjoy a sushi breakfast and talk to your

travel consultant about the opportunity to witness the

daily tuna auction.

Think of Tokyo and you’ll imagine the bright lights of

Shinjuku. A neon wonderland where towering sky-

scrapers cage in the bustle of Tokyo’s premier business

and shopping districts and nightlife for those in search

of nocturnal activities. Shinjuku station is an attraction

in itself – with 2.3 million commuters passing through

every day, it is the busiest train station in the world

and a city in itself.

Boasting a vibrant arts scene, Tokyo is home to many

galleries, exhibitions and museums, with content of

interest to all. Ueno Park is home to a multitude of

museums including Tokyo National Museum, the oldest

and largest museum in Japan, and the Tokyo Metropoli-

tan Museum of Art. Or head to Roppongi, Tokyo’s self-

proclaimed ‘Art District’ and home to some of Japan’s

newest and most cutting edge galleries and museums.

Our favorites are the Suntory Art Museum, showcasing

the very best of Japanese traditional art, and the Mori

Art Museum, offering not only some of Tokyo’s best ex-

hibitions but unsurpassed views of the city from its

53rd floor perch in the Roppongi Hills building.

From arts to fashion, Tokyo is the lifeblood of some of

the globes most dynamic and exciting design indus-

tries. Take in a fashion show in Harajuku, browse the

boutiques of Daikanyama or hit the designer shops on

Omotesando, Tokyo’s answer to the Champs Elysees.

Tokyo has over 250,000 restaurants, and 3 times more

Michelin starred restaurants than Paris. This means that

you will never go hungry! While Tokyo doesn’t have any

regional food of its own, you can experience every re-

gional food from throughout Japan as well as cuisines

from throughout the world.

For sushi fans, make sure to try one of Tokyo’s numer-

ous kaiten-zushi (conveyor belt sushi) restaurants, for

a cheap and fun meal. Or, head to Tsukiji Fish market

for the freshest sushi breakfast you will experience. If

Tempura is more your thing then grab a seat at Ten Ichi

and watch the chef’s create tempura masterpieces.

Mix it with the locals in Omoide Yokochi (Memory lane)

– a ramshackle collection of tiny restaurants and bars

between the train tracks in Shinjuku, or for a really

memorable night out than look no further than Ninja

– a ninja themed restaurant that serves up great food

as well.

The basement levels of Tokyo’s Department stores are

veritable food heavens, featuring an enormous selec-

tion of fresh and prepared food, and the free tastings

are a great way of trying new food!

The gateway to Mount Fuji and the closest link to the

Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, the town of Hakone is

an easy two hour train ride from Tokyo. This small

town is famous for its onsen natural hot springs, and

has natural beauty in abundance, with a multitude of

outdoor activities on offer. No trip to Hakone would be

complete without dedicating time to enjoying the hot

springs of this volcanic region - no bad way to spend

a few hours! There are hundreds of onsen to choose

from and to take a dip in, and Exotissimo can recom-

mend our favorite hot spring tips. Being one of the

closest areas of natural beauty to Tokyo, Hakone can

become busy in peak season, but with a bit of care-

ful planning the best of the sites can be seen without

encountering too many of the crowds.

Of course, one of Hakone’s main draws for visitors is

the hope of an opportunity to glimpse the iconic Mt

Fuji. Japan’s highest mountain, Mt Fuji majestically

towers at 3776 m, and is commonly affectionately re-

ferred to by the locals as ‘Fuji-san’. Throughout any

day spent exploring Hakone and its environs, there

may be the chance to glimpse of Mt Fuji, but is im-

portant to keep in mind that she is a notoriously shy

mountain and it needs to be a clear day. However on

these clear days, it is even possible to view Mt Fuji

Hakone/Mt Fuji from Tokyo itself.

The National Park offers a variety of trekking routes,

catering for all levels of fitness with some well marked

out hiking trails offering treks ranging from two hours

upwards. Beyond the natural attractions of Hakone and

the National park, Hakone is also home to a multitude

of cultural sites, museums and shrines. Travelers with

Exotissimo with benefit from the insight of our unique

tips and recommendations when visiting Hakone.

Hakone offers a refined selection of hotels that we rec-

ommend, but the quintessential Hakone/Mt Fuji experi-

ence is residing in a traditional Japanese-style ryokan

for the night. Ryokan accommodation in Hakone comes

complete with tatami mats, shoji rice paper sliding

doors and onsen baths and you will spend the evening

relaxing in your yukuta (lightweight kimono). We can

suggest some of our favorite ryokans, but for a truly

deluxe experience splash at the Hakone Ginyu, a luxury

ryokan built into the side of the mountain giving stun-

ning views of the surrounding mountains and gorge.

Alternatively Gora Kadan, a former holiday home for

the imperial family combines world class hotel facilities

with traditional architecture.

For a blended East meets West accommodation option

Where to stay?

we recommend Gora Tensui, located in Hakone Machi.

One of the few establishments in Japan, where you can

sip on sake in the café while soothing your feet in the

hot springs. Offering Japanese style bedrooms, some

with views from the open air baths and Western style

rooms with observation decks on which to relax and

reflect after a day sightseeing.

Alternatives to the ryokan style accommodations in-

clude the historical Fujiya Hotel, whose doors opened in

1878, since becoming one of the most classical resorts

in Japan or the Hyatt Regency Hakone, located at the

green foothills of the Fuji Hakone Izu National Park, in

Gora an area famous for its onsens.

Beyond the comfort and genuine Japanese hospitality

of your ryokan or hotel, Hakone and its surroundings

offers a multitude of attractions and activities for visi-

tors.

It goes without saying that on every visitor to Hakone’s

wish list, a glimpse of the majestic Mt Fuji is high.

Fujisan towers above Hakone and its environs and can

What to see? be admired from up-close or afar while visiting some of

the regions other attractions.

Another must do in the Fuji-Hakone National Park, is to

ride the world’s second longest cable car up Mt Owaku-

dani, passing over sulfurous fumes, hot springs and

hot rivers in this volcanic area. Here, try eating an egg

hard boiled in the sulfuric hot springs which make Ha-

kone famous. If you do, it will add seven years to your

life! Centered around Lake Ashinoko, a lake formed by

a volcanic eruption 3000 years ago, the National Park

houses the Great Boiling Valley, a volcanic hot spot full

of sulphurous springs: Be prepared for the unusual

smell of sulphur!

On the water board a majestic replica pirate ship

sweeping across the Lake Ashinoko, before taking a

ride on the Hakone Tozan ‘switchback train’, zig zag-

ging though the mountains and giving amazing views

of the surrounding valleys.

Beyond the natural wonders of the area, Hakone offers

many other options as well; the Hakone Open Air Muse-

um, featuring sculptures from world renowned artists,

including a Picasso exhibition, set against the back drop

of Hakone’s picturesque mountains.

And of course no visit to Hakone would be complete

without enjoying the abundance of Japanese hot

springs. Some of our favorites include Yunessun, a

unique spa resort featuring Sake, Coffee, Green Tea and

Red Wine baths, or for a more traditional Japanese ex-

perience pop next door to Mori no Yu, which has a

numerous indoor and outdoor onsen including baths

that can be rented privately so you can share a soak

with your loved one.

The once capital of Japan and the Emperor’s residence

for over a century from 794, Kyoto is now Japan’s sev-

enth largest city with a population of over 1.4million

people. As the center for Japanese power for a time,

Kyoto was looked to as a hub for culture, tradition and

religion. Fast forward to the current day and Kyoto is

arguably one of the best examples of a blended city

environment, where old meets new and modernity in-

tertwines with tradition.

On first glance, it may be hard to believe that Kyo-

to is not only home to an astonishing 1600 Buddhist

temples and 400 Shinto shrines but also to a stagger-

ing 17 UNESCO world heritage sites. During the city’s

time in power, temples and shrines were continuously

constructed for the emperors, shoguns geishas and

monks. Kyoto was one of the few areas to escape the

allied bombing World War II and as a result still boasts

a plethora of pre-war buildings. A city continuously

undergoing modernization, these buildings now jux-

tapose newer architecture, of note, the Kyoto Station

complex, a giant futuristic glass structure and one of

the largest and most striking railway stations in the

Being at the top of most visitors to Japan ‘must see’

list, Kyoto is well equipped with a multitude of accom-

modation options, ranging from basic temple stays up

to deluxe internationally known hospitality names. As

with the rest of Japan, Kyoto experiences extreme peak

seasons, notably during the cherry blossom season and

world. The now urban façade of this large metropolis

initially masks the renowned historical attractions, but

with the right knowledge, information from Exotissimo

and a touch of curiosity, most visitors to Kyoto will

soon realize that the hidden beauty of these attrac-

tions can be sought out in the parks and hidden spots

around the city.

Kyoto is well connected to other hubs in Japan by the

Shinkansen (bullet train), taking just over two hours

on the train from Tokyo and 15 minutes from Osaka.

On arrival bear in mind that Kyoto is built on a grid

system, so with the help of a map and some simple

instructions, visitors find this fascinating city relatively

easy to navigate.

Kyoto

public holidays, when hotels rates soar and availability

can be hard to come by. For this reason we recommend

booking as far in advance as possible. Some visitors

even stay in Osaka during this period which opens up

a wider range of accommodation choices. To help with

your selection of accommodation for your Japan tour,

Where to stay?

Exotissimo has handpicked a number of our favorite

properties, with an option for all tastes and budgets.

For a deluxe stay, we recommend looking at the Hy-

att Regency: Located in the traditional, secluded Hi-

gashiyama temple area, this luxurious hotel with a

contemporary Japanese concept features an interior

designed by über hip Japanese design group Super Po-

tato. If you’re in search of a stay with historical roots

the historic Westin Miyako Hotel, founded in 1890, has

welcomed such dignitaries as Queen Elizabeth 2 and

Albert Einstein.

With a location high in the hills of the picturesque

Higashiyama area, the Miyako is Kyoto’s iconic hotel.

Perhaps the thought of a design led property ticks your

boxes? If that is the case take a look at the Hotel Gran-

via. With a convenient location within the architectur-

ally stunning Kyoto Station building, this stylish hotel

displays a private art collection throughout the hotel.

Or for a well located stay in the heart of Kyoto, the Ho-

tel Monterey is located right in the center of downtown,

just a three minute walk from 2 subway lines and sur-

rounded by many restaurants and shopping options.

The question for visitors to Kyoto is often not just ‘what

to see’ but ‘where to start’? With over 2000 temples

and 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites in and around the

city, planning your visit can seem overwhelming. Here

are our top tips for which sites are must do’s, where

to explore and how to make the most of your time in

Kyoto.

One of the highlights for most visiting Kyoto is a trip

to Nijo Castle. This ornamental castle was built by the

founder of the Edo Shogunate as his Kyoto residence

and is surrounded by stunning gardens. The main

building was completed in 1603, and is famous for its

Momoyama architecture, decorated sliding doors and

‘chirping’ nightingale floors. Kinkakuji – The temple of

the Golden Pavilion was originally built as a retirement

villa for the Shogun, after his death becoming a Bud-

dhist Temple and is now one of Kyoto’s most famous.

Kiyomizu (Pure Water) Temple was built without the use

of nails or joiners and offers unrivalled views of Kyoto

from the 13m high veranda jutting out from the Main

Hall.

Kyoto’s most famous Geisha district, Gion is full of tea

houses and cobbled streets and the atmospheric Hi-

gashiyama district, whose busy lanes lead up to Kiyo-

What to see?

mizu and are filled with quaint shops selling souvenirs

including Kiyomizu-yaki pottery, sweets and pickles is

well worth exploring.

Arguably most famous for its autumn leaves in Novem-

ber, Kyoto has multitude of spots from that come alive

during this time. Talk to your travel consultant for our

inside tips on where to see the best views. A city with

few hills and little traffic, Kyoto is the perfect place

to explore on two wheels with routes and bikes suit-

able for all. Ride between temples, around the center

or through the parks, a great way to see the city as

locals do.

Beyond the more classical sights of Kyoto, Exotissimo

Travel can arrange a whole host of Japanese experienc-

es to speckle your days in Kyoto with. From Geisha’s to

traditional Arts, cookery to meditation, immerse your-

self in Japanese culture and traditions in Kyoto, for a

deeper understanding of this awe inspiring country.

HiroshimaFor many visitors to Hiroshima, the startling first im-

pressions of this historically tarnished city are far from

expectations, linked to the tragic history of this now

blooming center. It cannot be forgotten that Hiroshima

is famous for one moment in history: On 6 August 1945

it became the first target of an atomic bomb. However

fast forward to the current day and Hiroshima has not

only risen phoenix-like from the ashes, but has rebuilt

itself as one of Japan’s most laid back, vibrant cities full

of wide boulevards, great food and friendly, welcoming

people.

Naturally some visitors to Hiroshima may have some

hesitations about what to expect, what questions to

ask and the sensitivities of the subject of the A-bomb.

However Hiroshima’s residents, many of whose families

lived through the event in 1945, are united in the quest

to ensure that such a tragic event never happens again.

Around the Peace Park it is not uncommon for a friendly

local to strike up a conversation, and if the topic arises,

feel free to continue it as you consider appropriate.

With simialarites to Japan’s other major cities; blink-

ing neon lights, contrasting styles of architecture and

buzz that is rarely found elsewhere in the world, the

first time visitor may find it hard to believe that such

an event unfolded here. The modern day city though

industrial in some respects, is also a major Japanese

hub with a thriving art scene, and is a city rich in gal-

leries, monuments and museums, which can easily fill

a day or two’s sightseeing. Three excellent art galleries,

a passionate sports scene and an expected range of

epicurean delights are just some of the experiences

on offer here. If you really want to fit in with the

locals, swot up on the Hiroshima Carp – the local base-

ball team with their red uniform, the color symbolizing

a never ending fighting spirit and attend a baseball

game. The lively and friendly people of Hiroshima are at

their best when cheering for their favorite team.

The city even has it’s version of one of Japan’s most

famous foods, okonomiyaki. A delicious and traditional

savory pancake, similar to an omlette, the name is

derived from the word okonomi, meaning “what you

like” or “what you want”, and yaki meaning “grilled”

or “cooked”. The Hiroshima version features a handful

of soba noodles added to the mix, and is a must-try for

visitors to Hiroshima.

Exotissimo has selected a small number of properties

to recommend to clients. Though Hiroshima does not

have any true deluxe properties, our portfolio of Hi-

roshima hotels offers the best options around town

to choose from. In an enviable position on Peace

Boulevard only minutes walk from the Peace Park, the

Crowne Plaza brings modern amenities, chic design and

a friendly atmosphere to Hiroshima. If its location, lo-

cation you’re looking for, take a look at the Rihga Royal

Hiroshima, located in the heart of the city, just minutes

walk to the Peace Park, Hiroshima Castle and the Muse-

um of Art, with the city’s best shopping and entertain-

ment options on its doorstep and stunning views of the

Castle and nearby bay. For a stylish, contemporary stay,

check out the Hotel Flex: An ultra modern hotel located

on the Kyobashi riverside, just a 5 minute walk from

the central station. Located in a vibrant neighborhood,

close to lively shopping districts and entertainment ar-

eas, the Oriental Hotel offers good value for money and

is within walking distance of the Peace Park.

Of course most visitors to Hiroshima priority will be

to spend some time at The Peace Park and Museum.

Sitting in the middle of the city, the museum and sur-

rounding park offer a theme of hope and peace. The

area where the park now lies was ground zero for the

Where to stay?

What to see?

Atomic Bomb on 6th August 1945. After the bombing

the Memorial Park was created and dedicated to those

who lost their lives in the attack. Stroll through the

park and discover many memorials, monuments and

statues, before heading into the Museum itself. A visit

to the park and memorial is naturally moving, and can

be an intense day for some, so some time out in one of

the city’s parks to reflect afterwards, can be a welcome

experience.

Hiroshima boasts three world class art galleries: The

Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art features

artists such as Henry Moore and Andy Warhol; the Pre-

fectual Art Musuem which collects and exhibits the tra-

ditional arts of Hiroshima, craftwork of Japan and Asia

and is located next to the beautiful Shukkien Garden;

and the Hiroshima Museum of Art which displays mod-

ern Western Art in addition to modern Japanese paint-

ings in Western Style. For a museum of a different sort,

check out the Hiroshima City Manga Library, containing

tens of thousands of Japanese comic books, or car en-

thusiasts can visit the Mazda Museum.

Miyajima Island is a small wooded island located in

the Inland Sea. Here can be found perhaps Japan’s

most photographed site - The Floating Torii Gate. Des-

ignated as one of Japan’s ‘3 Most Beautiful Views’, the

shrine it belongs to dates back to the 6th century and

is designed in a pier like structure. Hiroshima Castle

– although destroyed by the atomic bomb, it has since

been restored to its former glory and is a great spot

from which to admire panorama’s over the city.

Osaka

Often the first or last destination on a Japan itinerary,

Japan’s second city may be low on sights but makes

up for it with great food, vibrant nightlife and friendly

locals. Just 45 minutes from Kyoto, Osaka was the capi-

tal of Japan prior to Kyoto and although not a major

tourist destination, it is a great city in which to while

away a few hours or an evening with plenty on offer

to entertain.

Takayama

Due to its previously inaccessible location nestled high

in the mountainous Hida alpine region, this beautifully

preserved old town was cut off from the rest of Japan,

allowing it to develop its own unique culture. A very

Other Destinations

distinctive architecture can be seen in Shirakawago–

a UNESCO World Heritage listed village famous for its

‘Praying Hands’ style farmhouses. Explore the Miya-

gawa morning market before visiting one of the many

sake breweries, where the famous drink is of a particu-

larly high quality due to the area’s clean water sources.

The Hida No Sato Folk Village is an open air museum

exhibiting over 30 typical farmhouses and other tradi-

tional buildings from the Hida region and the Takayama

Festival Floats museum, displays floats from the fa-

mous Takayama festival.

Koya- San

Holy Mt Koya (Koya-san) is the center of Shingon Bud-

dhism, an important Buddhist sect which was intro- duced to Japan in 805 by Kobo Daishi. A 2 hour train

journey from Osaka winds its way up into the moun-

tains of Wakayama Prefecture. The final ascent to the

top of Koya is made by cable car. At Koya-San, sleep in

Buddhist temple lodging, and watch the monks chant

in the early morning. Dine on shojin ryori, traditional

Buddhist cuisine on this mystical mountain. Here, over

one hundred temples have sprung up along the streets.

The most important among them are Kongobuji, the

head temple of Shingon Buddhism, and Okunoin, the

site of Kobo Daishi’s mausoleum. Koya-san and its sur-

rounds is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Nara

For 74 years during the 8th century Nara was Japan’s

capital and many of the temples and shrines built at

that time still remain. Once the most powerful city in

Japan, present day Nara is a small town whose main

attractions can be covered by foot. Nara Park, a large

park in central Nara is home to most of Nara’s sites, as

well as hundreds of freely roaming deer.

Todaiji Temple, the world’s largest wooden building

and home to Japan’s largest Buddha, and Kasuga Tai-

sha, Nara’s most celebrated shrine. The Nara National

Museum was established over 100 years ago and has

one of Japan’s best collections of Japanese Buddhist

Art including statues, paintings, scrolls and Ceremonial objects. A stroll through Naramachi, a former merchant

district, gives you a glimpse into Nara’s past. Traditional

residential buildings and warehouses have been pre-

served, and boutiques, shops, cafes, restaurants and

a few museums now line the district’s narrow lanes.

Yudanaka and Shibu Onsen

These quaint towns have a long history as hot spring

resorts, dating back hundreds of years when priests,

samurai and poets travelled here to enjoy the hot

spring water. There are many ryokan (Japanese inns)

in town with onsen hot spring baths, as well as public

onsen to try. Guests are encouraged to take a stroll

around town in the traditional onsen clothing of yukata

robes and geta sandals.

These towns are also located close to Jigokudani Yaen

Koen, home of the famous Snow Monkeys.

Jigokudani literally means ‘hell’s valley’ due to the

steam and boiling water that bubbles out of small crev-

ices in the frozen ground, and it is in the baths of this

boiling water that the resident Japanese Macaques like

to soak in on.

The monkeys live in large social groups, and it can

be quite entertaining to watch their interactions. Ac-

customed to humans, they can be observed from very

close and almost completely ignore their human guests.

Whilst the monkeys are most numerous during the

colder months, they can be observed all year round.

Kamakura

Located south of Tokyo, Kamakura is a popular day trip

destination for Tokyoites and tourists alike. A former

capital, turned sleepy seaside town, Kamakura is a

home to many ancient temples and is a center of Zen

Buddhism. A grerat base from which to explore a se-

lection of temples and shrines on foot, Kamakura has

several hiking trails leading through the forests and al-

lowing a respite from some of the crowds on their day

trips. Aside from temples a plenty to explore, Kamaku-

ra has some lovely beaches to be enjoyed on during the

warmer months which come alive during the summer

months with beachside bars and live music.

Eating and Drinking

One of the highlights of any trip to Japan has to be

the awesome experience of Japanese cuisine; from suc-

culent fish roe to bizarre sea weed! The diversity of

Japan’s restaurants is just amazing.

Enjoy slurping on a cheap bowl of noodles with salary

men under the train tracks or dine out on Kobe beef at

Aragawa, the world’s most expensive restaurant. With

more Michelin stars to its name than the combined

score of London, Paris, New York and Los Angeles, To-

kyo will not fail to seduce the foodie or the fussy eater.

A widely varied cuisine, there are a few staple ingredi-

ents that are commonly used as a base for most meals.

The base ingredient of most meals in Japan is white

rice, in Japanese gohan, literally translating as ‘meal’.

Aside from fish, soya beans form a large proportion of

protein and are the base for miso soup, served with

almost every meal. Tofu, bean curd and soy sauce are

also commonplace in dishes.

Think of Japanese cuisine, and sushi may well come

to mind. A staple of Japanese cuisine, sushi (cooked,

vinegared rice with various toppings) and sashimi (raw

fish) and now wildly popular throughout the world.

The preparation of these delicacies is highly complex,

and apprentices train for two years in traditional meth-

ods of selecting and preparing the freshest of fish from

the markets.

However, if raw fish isn’t your thing, don’t worry - the

post war generations of Japanese are just as happy eat-

ing pork, chicken and beef.

The eating methods that go along with Japanese cuisine

are also integral to the culture, and it’s worth bearing

in mind a few simple guidelines on the correct method

for eating with chopsticks:

• Refrain from placing chopsticks upright in a bowl of

rice, or using your own chopsticks to transfer food to

another person’s chopsticks – these reflect rituals per-

formed in Buddhist funerals

• It is acceptable to either rest your chopsticks on the

edge of your bowl or plate, or place them on the ce-

ramic chopstick rest (hashi-oki) that many restaurants

provide.

• Using chopsticks to move items on the dinner table,

or point at people or things with is considered rude.

• Stabbing your food with chopsticks is also considered

bad manners, and should only be done if you are really

struggling to use them in the traditional way. It is ac-

ceptable to eat sushi with your fingers.

Japanese cuisine mainly utilizes fresh ingredients

sourced locally resulting in every region in Japan hav-

ing its own delicacies and regional specialties. This is

truly one of the delights of travelling through the coun-

try, sampling each region’s individual dishes and ex-

periencing the different ingredients and cooking styles

unique to the area. From the fresh sashimi and crab

of Hokkaido, to the okonomiyaki pancake in Osaka, the

delicious purple potato soft ice-cream of Kamakura and

the Yatsuhashi biscuit of Kyoto, the food of Japan will

fascinate and delight all visitors.

CLOTHING HEALTH

LANGUAGE

INTERNET

CREDIT CARDS

ELECTRICITY

FOOD

Lighter clothing in the summer time is best in Japan

and warmer clothes in the winter (especially if you are

in the Alpine regions). If you are travelling in the spring

then bring some warmer clothes as the temperature

does drop at night.

Japanese are always meticulously dressed and you will

be judged (and sometimes treated) based on how you

dress so you may want to avoid bringing ripped and

tatty clothes.

Easy to slip on/slip off shoes are essential when visiting

temples, staying in ryokans etc. For the same reason,

make sure you leave any socks with holes at home.

Whilst Japan is less strict than other Buddhist countries

about what to wear when visiting temples, it is always

polite to cover shoulders.

No vaccinations are required except for yellow fever

if you are coming from an area where the disease is

present.

Many visitors who don’t know a word of Japanese have

traveled successfully throughout Japan on their own,

but travelers armed with a few phrases of the native

language and some tips on communicating with the

Japanese will find their trip more enjoyable. One of the

first rules of thumb is to have destinations like hotels,

restaurants, and attractions written in Japanese so that

they may be shown to taxi drivers, people on the street,

Major hotels have Business Centers with PCs connected

to the Internet. Almost all hotels have free LAN cable

access in rooms if you bring your own laptop. Japanese

style ryokan accommodation can sometimes have wire-

less internet available but rarely have PCs to use.

Cybercafés are very rare in Japan, due to the preva-

lence of internet access on mobile phones and at home.

Manga Cafes (like a cross between a comic book library

and internet cafes) are usually located near stations

but require registration and staff rarely speak English.

It is important to note that Japan is very much a cash

society, and credit cards are not as widely used as in

Western countries. Credit cards are mainly accepted in

urban areas in top end restaurants, shops, and hotels.

However, it is not advisable to rely entirely on credit

cards, as inexpensive restaurants, neighborhood shops,

The electric current used throughout Japan is 100 volts,

A.C. However, there are two kinds of frequencies (or

cycles): 50 Hertz in eastern Japan (including Tokyo and

regions northeast of the capital) and 60 Hertz in west-

ern Japan (including Nagoya, Kyoto, Osaka, and other

points southwest).

At major hotels, two outlets for both 110 and 220 volts

are installed for electric razors, hair dryers, travel irons

and other small appliances. Japan uses 2-flat-pin plugs

(as in the U.S.) and cannot accommodate columnar-

shaped plugs or 3-pin plugs, which will need a plug

adaptor.

Japan is not just a land of sushi! Whilst fish is in abun-

dance, Japan has a huge variety of food types to cater

for even the fussiest eater. Rice is the main staple dish,

and noodles such as ramen, soba and udon with vari-

ous toppings are common.

Most food is eaten with chopsticks so best get practic-

ing as cutlery is not always available at restaurants.

AIRLINES

AIRPORT TAX

ARRIVAL IN JAPAN

BUSINESS HOURS

ARRIVAL FORMALITIES

ATMS

International: Japan is extremely well serviced by al-

most every major airline.

Domestic: Domestic airlines include Japan Airlines (JAL)

and Air Nippon Airlines (ANA), Skymark, Skynet and Air

Do.

All airport taxes are included in the price of your ticket

and do not need to be paid for at the airport.

BY AIR

Tokyo is one of Asia’s largest air hubs, so it is very well-

connected to the rest of the world. Tokyo is home to

two international airports, Narita and Haneda.

Other airports in Japan that are serviced by internation-

al flights include Osaka’s Kansai Airport and Nagoya’s

Chubu Centrair Airport.

Japan - FAQs

Department stores and shops are open 7 days a week

from 10pm to 7:30 or 8pm. Museums, temples and

other tourist attractions are usually open from 10am to

5pm, with entry closing 30mins before.

Offices are open Monday to Friday from 9am to 6pm,

Post Offices 9am to 5pm and Banks 9am to 3pm.

Upon arrival in Japan, all visitors must complete an

entry/exit form including a customs declaration. It is

important that your copy of this form is kept safe with

your passport while in Japan and is presented to the

customs and immigration officials on departure.

If you have booked a Meet and Greet service with Exo-

tissimo, our representative will be waiting in the arriv-

als hall holding a sign with your name on it.

Foreign credit, debit, and cash cards are useful for ob-

taining cash. However, most ATM machines are only for

cards issued in Japan and do not accept foreign cards.

The exceptions are ATMs located at Narita and Kansai

international airports and at more than 24,000 post of-

fices and Seven Eleven, convenience store, throughout

Japan.

For Service hours and locations for ATMs at Seven Elev-

en: http://www.sevenbank.co.jp/intlcard/index2.html.

Post offices where this service is available display the

“International ATM Service” symbol (a green clover) and

stickers indicating which cards are accepted. Cards from

the Cirrus, Plus, Maestro and Visa Electron networks are

accepted, as are Visa, MasterCard, American Express,

Diners Club and JCB credit cards. VISAELECTRON, PLUS,

Maestro, Cirrus, China Unionpay, DISCOVER.

Service hours for ATMs at post offices vary depending

on the location, but in general they are:

Monday to Friday: 07:00 to 19:00/21:00/23:00

Saturday, Sunday and national holidays: 09:00 to 17:00

The minimum amount you can withdraw at any ATM is

10,000 JPY.

Check with your hotel or tour guide when you need to

make a withdrawal. We recommend using the Interna-

tional ATMS at the airport when you arrive.

Always consult your Exotissimo travel agent for rout-

ings, fares and flight availability to Japan. Discount

websites and flight search engines may offer some

good deals.

and some Japanese inns, especially in rural areas, often

do not accept credit cards.

MONEY

PHOTOGRAPHY

POSTAL MAIL

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS 2011

Photo developing labs are common in Japan, provid-

ing normal print films as well as professional quality

films (like slide films). Digital photos can easily be

downloaded and loaded onto a CD-Rom in case you

run out of memory. Memory Cards are very good value

in Japan.

The simplest way to post mail or packages is at hotel

front desks. Otherwise, postcards and stamps are avail-

able from post offices, convenience stores and kiosks

at train stations all over the country. Post offices are

open Monday to Friday 09:00 to 17:00, though central

post offices (often located near main train stations)

have longer hours and may be open on weekends and

Japan observes 15 national holidays. Government offic-

es, banks, and most businesses are closed on holidays,

but most restaurants and stores remain open. Major

museums remain open during most holidays, though

small, privately owned museums are generally closed.

Note that the only exception to the above is during

New Year’s, when many restaurants, stores and muse-

ums and all offices, are closed, generally from January 1

through 3. During that time, clients may have to dine in

hotels in some destinations, though in resort areas and

major tourist towns some restaurants remain open.

January 1

New Year’s Day (gantan - some businesses don’t re-

open until the 4th or 5th)

January 10

Coming of Age Day (seijin no hi)

February 11

National Foundation Day (kenkoku kinen no hi)

March 21

Spring Equinox (shunbun no hi)

Japanese money is called yen, symbolized by “¥”.

Coins are minted in denominations of 1yen, 5yen,

10yen, 50yen, 100yen and 500yen. Notes are issued in

denominations of 1,000yen, 2,000yen, 5,000yen, and

10,000yen.

Money can be exchanged at both Narita and Kansai in-

ternational airports, all banks and Post Offices that dis-

play the “AUTHORIZED FOREIGN EXCHANGE” sign, hotels

(for hotel guests only), and major department stores

in large cities (at their customer service or money ex-

change window). Traveler’s checks in U.S. dollars, Japa-

nese yen, and other denominations can be exchanged

for yen at the above locations, but note that a passport

is required for all transactions.

Note, too, that banks in rural areas may not accept

traveler’s checks, and virtually no stores or restaurants

do.

Keep in mind that exchanging money and traveler’s

checks at banks and post offices in Japan can be a

very lengthy procedure so we do recommend the use

of debit/cash cards. RELIGION

SHOPPING

SAFETY

Shintoism, which is indigenous to Japan, and Buddhism,

which was introduced to Japan in the sixth century, are

the two main religions in Japan. Many Japanese practice

religions, celebrating birth and marriage in accordance

with Shinto rites while following Buddhist ceremonies

for funerals and memorial services. Shintoism, which

originated as a way of dealing with ancient people’s

fears of demons and the supernatural, has no written

doctrines. A Shinto place of worship is referred to as a

shrine. The Buddhist place of worship is a temple. Free-

dom of religion is guaranteed to all by the constitution.

Shopping in Japan is a cornucopia of unexpected trea-

sures, from traditional crafts to high-tech wizardry.

Every region has its own local handicrafts, made with

techniques passed down from generation to generation.

Souvenirs to look out for in Japan include pearls, elec-

trics and electronics, cameras, watches and clocks,

bamboo ware, kimono, silk goods, pottery and lacquer

ware.

Overseas visitors in Japan with temporary status who

spend more than 10,001yen on any given day in one

shop are entitled to a refund of the 5% consumption

tax. Only department stores and specialty shops used

to dealing with foreign tourists offer the refund, and

clients must show their passports. No refund is granted

for cosmetics, food, alcohol, cigarettes, medicine, film

and batteries, which include the consumption tax in

their price tag.

Japan has long led the world as one of the most crime-

free countries in the world. Even large cities like Tokyo

and Osaka are remarkably safe. Not only are crimes

against visitors virtually unheard of, but even personal

and others who might provide assistance. Barring that,

if travelers need to ask directions or make enquiries,

they’re best off seeking out younger people, especially

university-age students, or businessmen, since all Jap-

anese learn English in school.

It goes without saying that you should speak simply,

slowly and articulately, and if you’re still having trouble

communicating, you should write down their question

instead of speaking it, since many Japanese haven’t

had the opportunity to converse in English but may be

able to read it perfectly

holidays as well.

A postcard costs 70yen to send anywhere in the world.

April 29

Showa Day – birthday of the Emperor Showa

(Showa no hi)

May 3

Constitution Day (kenpo kinenbi)

May 4

Greenery Day (midori no hi)

May 5

Childrens’ Day (kodomo no hi)

July 18

Marine Day (uni no hi)

August 13-15

Obon (Festival of Souls) Not an official holiday but many

offices are closed

September 19

Respect for the Aged Day (keiro no hi)

September 23

Autumn Equinox

October 10

Sports Day (taiku no hi)

November 3

Culture Day (bunka no hi)

November 23

Labour Thanksgiving Day (kinro kansha no hi)

December 23

Emperor’s Birthday (Tenno tanjobi)

belongings accidentally left in trains or taxis, on park

benches, or in restaurants are generally turned in to the

local police station and eventually make their way back

to the rightful owner.

TELEPHONE

TIME

WATER

WEATHER

VISAS

TRANSPORTATION

TIPPING

The Japanese mobile telephone system is not compat-

ible with those of other countries, which means that

unless you have a 3G phone, your mobile phone will

not work in Japan.

Mobile phones can be rented at the airport for around

500JPY per day plus insurance and call charges.

You can also hire a phone and use your own sim card

if you want to keep your number.

International calls can be made from hotels and public

pay phones displaying an “International and Domestic

Telephone” sign. These can be found at airports, hotel

lobbies, and other key facilities.

Japan is GMT + 9 and does not operate on a daylight-

savings system.

Tap water throughout Japan is safe to drink.

Japan has mostly a mild climate, but since it’s an ar-

chipelago stretching some 1,800 miles (3,000 km) from

north to south, there are extremes in the weather, not

to mention flora and scenery. The northern end of Ja-

pan is subarctic, while the southern end is subtropical.

Nationals of many countries including almost all West-

ern countries are eligible to enter Japan for short-term

stays (usually 90 days) without a visa for purposes of

sightseeing and for business trips.

Nationals that do not have “Reciprocal Visa Exemption

Arrangements” with Japan must obtain a visa.

To apply for a visa, the applicant must apply in person

to a Japanese embassy or a consulate, usually in his or

her home country.

Check the following website for more information con-

cerning visas:

http://www.mofa.go.jp/j_info/visit/visa/index.html

Japan has probably the best public transportation

system in the world, so the majority of long distance

transport in Japan is on the Japanese trains, including

the world famous Shinkansen bullet train.

The Japan Rail Pass offers overseas visitors an econom-

ical, flexible, and simple-to-use advantage over regular

tickets, allowing unlimited travel on a vast network of

JR trains throughout Japan and comes in 7, 14 and 21

day passes.

Tokyo has an extensive metro and over ground rail sys-

tem. Using a prepaid transport card (PASMO or SUICA)

is the best way to get around.

Kyoto has an excellent bus network and purchasing a

500 Yen bus card (with free English bus map) will get

you unlimited travel on the city buses for 1 day.

Tipping is not practiced in Japan, not even to wait-

resses, taxi drivers, or bellboys.

Attempts at leaving a tip will cause confusion.

A 10 to 15 percent service charge is added to bills at

higher-priced hotels and restaurants. At higher-end

Japanese inns with individualized maid service, a 10 to

20 percent service charge is added. No service charge is

added to bills at business hotels, pensions, minshuku,

youth hostels, and other inexpensive lodgings.

Travelers can, however, tip tour guides and the head

maid at a Japanese inn if special requests were made.

It is best to put the money in an envelope first if do-

ing this.

Taxis can be useful over short distances but get very

expensive very quickly.

Springtime is one of the most glorious times to visit Ja-

pan, and with good reason. That’s when Japan’s famous

trees burst forth into blossom, beginning with plum

trees in March and continuing to May, when the last

cherry blossoms drift to the ground in northern Japan.

The Japanese summer begins in June with the rainy sea-

son, which lasts about three weeks. Although it doesn’t

rain every day, rains can be heavy and umbrellas are

a must.

When the rainy season ends, much of Japan becomes

hot and humid. Exceptions are Hokkaido (which does

not have a rainy season) and mountainous regions with

their resorts. Seaside resorts are also popular respites.

Mt. Fuji’s official climbing season extends from July 1

to August 26.

September signals typhoon season, though storms hit

Japan’s coast only occasionally.

October brings pleasant, crisper temperatures and mag-

nificent fall colors ranging from crimson to gold. This is

the time of harvest, as rice is cut, baled and stacked

in neat rows.

Except for the extreme north, winter in Japan is not se-

vere, especially on the Pacific coast where the climate is

generally dry and the skies are often blue. The southern

regions of Japan, including Kyushu, enjoy mild and even

warm weather, while the northern regions like Hokkaido

and the mountain ranges of central Japan become very

cold with abundant snowfall. Of course, Japan’s many

ski resorts, do a brisk business this time of year, as do

the nation’s thousands of hot-spring resorts, or Onsen.

We do not recommend travelling in the following peak

periods, as virtually all long-distance trains, ferries,

and airlines will be fully booked, not to mention hotels

and other lodging, which often raise their rates in peak

times.

1. New Year holiday season: December 29 to January 3,

plus adjacent weekends.

2. “Golden Week” holiday season: April 29 to May 5 and

adjacent weekends.

3. “Bon” festival season: One week centering on August

15.

www.exotissimo.com

EXOTISSIMO TRAVEL THAILAND

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