I have recently returned from the September trip to Japan ( I chose not to do the add on to Hong Kong as I've been before). What a fascinating place it is. There's no doubt that it's a long journey, but there's a fascinating mix of traditional and modern, kimonos and shrines and bullet trains.
There is a lot of travelling involved, and a few early starts, as the cities are far apart but time definitely doesn't drag.
We visited many shrines, temples, and cities. The food may be challenging, especially if you don't like fish, but there were many different eating experiences and my skills with chopsticks improved dramatically! There are a few opportunities to eat 'Western' style and our group of 16 used them if we wished.
I would like to add that our local guides were fantastic,as was Steve, our JY guide. My luggage arrived 5 days after me and I can only say I am extremely grateful to all the guides for doing all they did to chase my luggage, and my fellow travellers helping me out with clothing. Being a fairly small group, we mixed well.
Highlights for me were the Japanese gardens, Hiroshima~ quite sobering~ and the vast range of eating experiences!
Practicalities: worldwide adapter works fine, we had no problem with mossies, hotels were lovely and go with an open mind and try everything. Nearly forgot - make use of the free water in the first hotel, top it up from the tap water( perfectly safe) and put it in your fridge ready for the next day.
Happy to answer questions, but well worth the journey.
Jean
