Japan is known for icons like Mt Fuji, Tokyo Tower and Sky Tree. I have surpassed the latter two just to accommodate seeing the Fujisan (yes that's how locals call it). With two attempts Fujisan was shy. The first attempt is on Lake Kawaguchiko. It totally hid in a huge fog both days we stayed in Yamanshi, Fujisan never appeared. Not even a glimpse of its majestic slope. The second attempt I went to Hakone. It was in the ropeway that I saw it but the snow cap was partially covered by thick clouds even if it was all sunny. Who would have known that I will see Fujisan in all its glory. And this is on the flight to Singapore. Today was a great day since I've seen Tokyo Tower and Sky Tree up close.
Relaxation at its best. I also tried their Rumor massage which is known as Shiatsu, where they apply pressure points. Relaxing and can take all the sore on a traveller's tired legs. And of course nothing beats a night dip on a public bath or as they call it, an Onsen. Be reminded about their etiquette though. It's one thing I totally enjoy and savour. I love rotunburi because you get closer to nature. And for Japanese people going to bath is like a ritual.
In terms of accommodation, I chose some variety. Of course I did try the famous capsule hotel in Shinjuku. I totally loved it. Plus the public bath. I stayed around Shibuya and Akasaka. This is the best spot to get a hotel by the way. Shibuya is like Time Square (city never sleeps) so it's always lovely. Shinjuku has the best nightlife. Akasaka has the best restaurants and close to Roppongi if you want an upscale bars.
The food is something to savour in Japan, including their very own matcha green tea - which I totally love. My fave so far is our Kaiseki at Seikoro Ryokan in Kyoto. I also like Okonomiyaki in Osaka. Takoyaki in Dotonburi. Ramen/Soba in Shibuya. Sushi in Tsukiji. Izakaya/Yakitori in Akasaka. Wash it all with a hot green tea and you're good to go.
Finally what set this trip apart is the timing. It was just before the golden week (which can be daunting. Imagine all 127 million Japanese would go to the city or the tourist spots) and it was before early April , which can be really cold. Third week of April I reckon is the best time. It started to be a lot warmer and also the best part is you can still catch the Sakura festival if you go up north. I went to Hirosaki, Aomori and they have a Sakura festival. I was able to see endless cherry blossom trees. Wiki says it's about 5,000 trees. Words and pictures can't describe how beautiful they are.
Some unfortunate events did happen. Firstly my new Saint Laurent sunglasses fell on a Shinkansen from Osaka to Kyoto. I lost my Oakley sunnies in Golden Pavillion in Kyoto. Lastly my bags went missing after I opened the coin locker in Osaka. I was able to retrieve all of them except my Oakley. My suspicion is that it fell whilst walking. As for the recovery of my personal effects, I am happy and full of gratitude to JR staff. Even if they can't speak English they still were very very helpful and dedicated to be of assistance. I love JP Rail, Suica and most of all Shinkansen travel. JP rail pass green card is a good value for money.
I have to put Japan among the best places I've been. And if I will be given a chance I would have stayed at least a month and learn their language, even the basic ones.
