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TRAVEL – JAPAN
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t turns Japan is bemusing and bonkers, mind- bogglingly high-tech and charmingly uncomplicated, a place of sprawling cities and untouched back
roads. Although the country has shaken off much of its “mystery”, for those considering a visit it remains one where insider knowledge is invaluable. These days InsideAsia Tours’ James
Mundy is responsible for the company’s PR but he spent fi ve years leading group tours around the Pacifi c Ocean island country.
Japan is centre-stage with the Rugby World Cup and next year’s Olympic Games. How’s it coping with such high levels of interest? “With tourism numbers increasing, and huge international events on the horizon, Japan is a ‘hot’ destination but it has excellent public transport and more hotels are opening. Being considerably smaller than Tokyo, the cultural capital of Kyoto is struggling a little but we always encourage people to get away from the ‘usual’ sights and experience ‘off the radar’ places.”
There’s been a view Japan is an expensive destination as well as one that can be intimidating. What advice would you give someone looking to plan a trip?
“Japan has had the ‘expensive’ tag since the 1980’s. Since then, there has been little infl ation, and it is actually good value and cheaper with costs similar to – if not a little cheaper than – the UK. A real bonus of travelling with a tour leader is they can advise on the best things to do and value to be had. And there’s no tipping!”
Public transport in Japan is world- leading but it’s a contrasting country with so much to see and do. What tips have you?
“The country is vast, from subtropical islands to the sub-Arctic winter of the northern island of Hokkaido. Our staff have all lived in Japan and have spent time travelling around the country and are full of ideas and suggestions based on interests, budget and the travelling time available.
Don’t try to do too much but don’t confi ne yourself to one area either.”
You’ve lived and worked in the country. What’s your favourite part? “Tokyo always feels like it is where I was meant to be but increasingly I’ve felt drawn towards Fukuoka. The area around Hakata has a large city feel, beaches nearby, plenty of shopping, and the food (ramen!) is incredible.”
Two of my personal highlights of Japan (aside being lucky enough to see Mount Fuji on a cloudy day) were staying in a ryokan and the audience with an apprentice geisha. “I think everyone has different highlights but a glimpse of Mount Fuji and meeting a geisha are always wonderful. A stay in a ryokan (traditional inn) is also really special. Japan is very safe and people are friendly and keen to help. Stories of random acts of kindness are really not unusual.”
What about cherry blossom? It looks an amazing time to visit but isn’t it very busy indeed?
“Cherry blossom is beautiful. People gather under trees and enjoy picnics and drinks and it’s a very positive season. However, it’s busy and is peak travel period. As an alternative, the stunning red and gold of autumn peppers mountainsides and fi lls temple gardens and is really lovely.”
Are there things that surprise people about Japan? “The Japanese are often considered conservative and unapproachable but they’re friendly and keen to help visitors enjoy their country. People are also surprised how clean it is with a lack of litter and vandalism. And trains leave exactly on time and the journey takes as long as it says it will!”
Is it possible to get tickets for the 2020 Olympics? “It’s possible to get tickets from offi cial sources. We’re not an offi cial agent but can organise travel around the event to ensure fans get the most out of their time in country and experience the culture.”
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