Oh hi yo gozaimas JAPAN!

Luckily, as our last post said we have drawn Japan as the next magical destination on WanderLust.

Background on Japan/ Blogger:
       My name is Bryce Kobayashi, and I am EXCITED about telling you, the attentive listener, about Japan. Yes your probably thinking, Japan didn't they have an earthquake, and radiation is spilling all over the country, and people are dying. Although I am not currently living in Japan, from research, I have discovered that the tsunami hit Fukushima and Daiichi. It has been encouraged by "Lonely Planet" to not visit Fukushima and Daiichi or anywhere in a 50 mile radius. However, do NOT let that detract from exploring this awesome country, just avoid those parts.
Furthermore, I have visited Japan (before the tsunami) for two weeks, and everyday was like a trip to Disneyland for the first time.

The Exciting part:
When you think of traveling you probably think what new perspective can this destination offer me, or maybe I want to get away from my daily grind and explore something NEW. Well have no fear because Japan is here. Japan has can accommodate everyone.
First off, for non-Japanese speaking people you would probably want to stay around Tokyo or Kyoto, which is convenient because that is where modern technology thrives and major railways lead. While in Japan you'll find the cheapest and most efficient way to travel is by rail. Japan has a bullet train traveling at almost 200 miles an hour. The bullet train, or shin-kan-sen (sheen-con-sen), is more luxurious than your bed in the morning. Like the Harry Potter movie they have a trolly that goes up and down the aisles with goodies that would make your mouth water. The picture belowt shows the train and the pass that you have to purchase to ride the train, but if anything you have a nice souvenir.   

Tokyo:
Nike started off in Japan! Bill Bowerman and Phil Knight began manufacturing track shoes by contacting Tiger manufacturing co. in Japan and the rest his history.

It's safe to say that, one of the largest companies in the world began in Japan, therefore shopping in a forgien destination should include Japan. Tokyo has a shopping district that features many name brands, and has department stores in a building that are at least 3 or 4 floors high and run half a mile long (limited space in Japan).

Another place that is a must visit is the Tsuikiji Market. This market is the largest fish market in the world. When you go to the grocery store or the local sushi bar you get to splurge on fish shipped over the ocean and cut in front of you. At the Tsuikiji Market, you get to see and possibly taste the fish caught only 30 minutes ago, and experience quality that is indescribable in words. Maybe dollars though, because fish this fresh is not cheap. 

Kyoto:
    This city is still modern, but has hints of original Japanese culture. Here you can see more Japanese scenery like the raked pebble gardens, traditional Japanese restaurants, and the Kyoto-fu, Shinga prefecture or golden temple.

Kyoto-fu, Shinga prefecture- was built in 811 A.D. for multiple owners. The thing that makes this special is the history, but also that it is said that if you jump from the main halls veranda and survive with no injuries your wish will come true. However, the Japanese government has prohibited jumping due to too many injuries.

 Hiroshima:
The Itsukushima Shinto Shrine is a wood structure that stands on top of the water, depending on what time you visit the shrine. Japanese people believe that this is a gate way for spirits to come in and our of our world. As stated before, you have to go at a certain time to touch the shrine. The tide covers and uncovers a path to get to the shrine.
While visiting the surrounding area of the shrine, you'll notice quaint eateries and a small shopping district that you can pick up souvenirs for love ones at home or yourself.

End:
As a precaution this blog only scans the surface of Japan and the exciting things you can do there. As a preview note, Japan has vending machines on EVERY corner, and no trash cans. However, I would drop sushi on the ground and still eat it because the ground is so clean.
If your a college kid the amazing thing is Japan has vending machines with beer in them! Ramen is cheaper than cup a noodle and tastes much better.
For the adults. It is a common Japanese belief that business is war, and every business owner is willing to fight for your business. Don't be surprised if employees go out of their way to help you. And I mean run to open the door for you, run to get your a new towel, run around a track to make you feel like you did some exercise.

Travel:
Delta is now offering a round trip with hotel for 1,103.
6 night stay at ChiSun Hotel with bath accommodations (Western Style hotel)
Close to airport and walking distance to train station
Flight leaves LAX Oct 24, 2011 @ 7:05p
Arrives at LAX Oct 31, 2011 @12:45a

More information: http://www.expedia.com/pub/agent.dll?qscr=cmsh&subm=1&CMBTX_0_rgnm=TYO&dsct=&dnam=TYO&dlvl=&rtmn=&rtmx=&dcty=LAX&ddpt1=10/24/2011&drtn1=10/31/2011&tdpt1=362&trtn1=362&ffst=0&crom=1&cadu1=1&cSei1=0&cmbt=2&qryt=8&rdct=1

However, for those of you that are looking for a FREE flight to Japan, the Japanese National Tourism Agency has announced a 10,000 ticket give away to stimulate the economy. The contest has no been approved by the Japanese government yet, but is expected to start in April. All you have to do is submit an online application that states your information, where you plan to attend, and how the trip will benefit you.
If you have never been to Japan, the my blog can be a good reference on where to get started for your application.

I hope this blog is helpful and entices you to visit Japan because of its wonder and beauty, and everything the country has to offer. Next Jamie has rolled for the destination Bora Bora. She has chosen to report on great ideas for a honeymoon location within Bora Bora.
Signing out: Bryce