Japan the Series: Prologue

     "I think I'm turning Japanese!" Just returned from our trip to Tokyo and it was incredible. Over the next week or so I'll be writing blogs and posting pictures from our trip divided into each of the days that we spent there. Overall the trip was a huge success, even despite an earthquake (which we did not feel at all). I have to admit, it was a little hard to come back home. It was a great to see another Asian country to give us a little perspective on the subtly of each different culture and their traditions. I also think having been in Korea for three months meant we were able to spare ourselves from a bit of the initial culture shock and certainly the jet lag. Here are a few of the highlights that I thought the country had to offer.

A Few of the Best Things about Japan

The Subway System - This probably goes for every major city but it really makes the world of difference while travelling. Over the course of 5 days, we probably took about 30 subway rides and if you buy an economy all day pass it is definitely the best way to get around. Our only complaint is that the subway ended at 12:30pm except for on New Year's Eve. But the Japanese have a pretty good remedy for this, just stay out till the first train in the morning!


Japanese Food - Cam and I both don't like sushi (I know it's shocking) so we were a little skeptical of the cuisine that we would be tasting in Japan. But I'm happy to say that we were both blown away by the food that we had there. Bowls of ramen, soba noodles, tempura, rice, and curry were some of the highlights.


The Streets - Although Korea is beautiful in its own way, it isn't the most aesthetically pleasing place I've ever been, especially since British Columbia is hard to compete with. But Japan was a breath of fresh air, even in such an immense city as Tokyo. The architecture was astounding, always mixing the traditional and avant garde modernity. There was a lot more green space, with numerous parks, and rivers. The streets were, for the most part very clean and well kept.


Language barrier - Compared to Korea, there was a lot less written English in Japan like on signs and menus. However, it seemed as though a lot more people spoke at least a little English and were eager to help you out. 


Vending Machines - In Japan, you can find almost anything in a vending machine and they are everywhere. Sure it's a bit of a novelty, but being able to buy a beer from a vending machine is pretty damn cool. 


Heated Toilet Seats - It's as every bit magical as it sounds.

The only real downside to Japan was that it was, as everyone told us it would be, quite expensive. Food, drinks, and accommodation were much more expensive compared to Korea and moderately so to Canada. At a couple of restaurants, a beer would set you back at least 11 dollars and cabs can start their rates at 15 dollars. That being said, it is easy to save on some things in Japan so you can afford to do a couple of more lavish things that the city has to offer. There were many free attractions, like visiting parks and temples, the fish market, or observation towers over the city. As with any city, simply walking around and taking in the energy and sights can prove to be entertainment. As for food, stay off the beaten track and go where the locals go, places just off the main streets can be much cheaper. As embarrassing as it sounds, we had a few meals at McDonalds because it was so affordable and their coffee is actually not bad. By going there, even though it hurt our egos a bit, we were able to spend some more on incredible dinners in the evening.