Notes:
- Japan is a safe country for solo backpackers ๐
- Plug/socket type, is the same with what we have.
- I asked everyone. The Information center, the staff in convenience store, even the staff cleaning the temple for directions. I really don't have a sense of direction. Even though there's a language barrier, they really tried to help me ๐
- Not a fan of japanese food. Sometimes, I eat 2 pieces of sushi (but now, I can eat more than 2, haha). So I just go somewhere with rice bowls or pastries.
- I love their breads and CHOCOLATES!...any chocolates, they were really good๐
- While planning my tour, my head hurts on their subway map because of multiple lines. But once you get there, it will be easy for you to navigate.
- I had an app for japanese phrase book, but I didn't get a chance to use them๐
- I didn't buy the JR pass cause I know, I won't be able to maximize it, so I opt to reserved to overnight bus to go to Tokyo
- I bought 2day Kansai Thru Pass, you can used this for 2 unconsecutive days, it includes booklet and map, but Kansai Thru Pass is limited in terms of subway lines. You might want to research, before buying it. I was able to used this, going to Nara and Kyoto. I just needed to buy separate ticket toTsutenkaku and Osaka Castle, but the rest I used the Kansai Thru Pass.
- In Kyoto, you can visit all/most of the tourist spots, using the 500yen Kyoto Tour Bus. Unlimited ride for 1 day. Just ask a map (with corresponding bus#) at the information center in kyoto station.
- Going to Fushimi Inari Shrine, is a different route. So you need to buy ticket to train station.
- Sleeping in capsule hotel is a good experience. I felt like I'm android of dragon ball z, LOL
- Coin lockers are easy to find, if you want to leave your luggage... and it comes with different sizes, from small to x-large.
- Lawson and Family Mart are the popular convenience stores in Japan (for a quick snacks)
- Willer Bus is a cheaper way to go to Tokyo. An overnight bus that will take 7-8hrs from Osaka-Tokyo or travel through Shinkansen (Bullet Train) that will only take 2hrs to Tokyo.
- There are different types of transportation/tickets in Tokyo.
- Autumn season: I just do the layering. It's really cold in the morning and night...you can buy hot pad in convenience store too.
- I bought yen before my trip, as I've read that it will be hard to look for ForEx in some place
- If you will stay in dormitory, make sure to have ear plugs. Chances are 1 or 2 roommates will snore.
- You will have your own locker, just bring your own padlocks, or you can rent one.
- Most of their toilets have bidets...love it! :)
References:
Japan-Guide: http://www.japan-guide.com/
Jorudan site: http://www.jorudan.co.jp/english/
Kansai Thru Pass: http://www.surutto.com/tickets/kansai_thru_english.html
Willer Bus: http://willerexpress.com
Kyoto Transport: http://www.city.kyoto.jp/koho/eng/access/transport.html
Tokyo Transportation: http://tokyo-tokyo.com/tokyo_transportation.htm
Accommodations:
J-Hoppers (Osaka): http://j-hoppers.com/
9hours (Kyoto): http://9hours.jp/details/index/
Sakura Hostel (Tokyo): http://www.sakura-hostel.co.jp/
and some japan blogs/forums :)
Expenses: I post it here :) Japan...the Plan (estimated budget, fortunately it was the actual expenses :) )
Labels: Asia, Japan, Japan travel blog, solo backpacker in Japan
