Where to visit in Japan

It's been a month since I went to Japan and I am still not over it! I have post Japan blues. 

While editing my photos (which hasn't helped!) I thought I would do a post on the places I think are worth seeing (not including Tokyo, as everyonre knows that's amazing!), so here we go.....in no particular order....

KYOTO

Kyoto used to be the capital of Japan for centuries, before it was Tokyo. There are loads of  Shrines, Temples, and gardens located in the city and on the outskirts. This is a great place to stay as there is lots to see and do and you get a real sense of traditional Japan.

What to do in Kyoto.........

Be a Geisha!

The famous Geisha district of Gion is located in Kyoto. There you can get transformed into a Geisha have a photo shoot and walk aroud the traditional narrow backstreets in your Kimono. I used the maiko-henshin studio. I would recommend the mini outdoor package as you get to have your photo taken outside, and half an hour free time to wander around and take your own photos.

The  International Manga Museum

This is well worth a visit if you are a fan of Manga. There is a huge library where you can sit and read pretty much every manga book ever made, as well as an exhibition on the history of manga and exhibitions of various artists.

Murin-An Garden

 A relaxing garden tucked away in the middle of Kyoto. Used by the Emperor for important business meetings and entertaining dignitaries.

Things to see around Kyoto......

Kinkakuji Temple - Golden Pavillion

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Nijo Castle

Todai-ji Temple (with tame deer in the grounds - beware they bite your bum! - they did mine anyway!)

Nara Park. Beautiful green park with 1000 year old Cedar trees and a Buddhist Shrine.

Other Places around Japan....
HIMEJI

Himeji is well worth a visit to see the castle which is in the Bond film 'You Only Live Twice' and 'The Last Samurai'.  There is not much else to do here, so not really worth staying longer than a day. We just got the train to visit the castle.

MIYAJIMA

Miyajima is a beautiful little Island just 20mins ferry ride from mainland Japan. There are lots of things to do here, Including...quiet secluded beaches, a cable car up a mountain with views of Japans inland sea, Lots of wildlife - deer, monkeys lizards and birds. If you go to Miyajima I would recommend staying in a Ryokan which is a traditional Japanese guest house with the sliding panel doors, futons and natural hot spring baths which are usually outdoors.





MATSUE

Matsue Castle. Also known as the “Black Castle”, it is one of the few castles in Japan that is the original wooden form.There is also a museum of modern art and a wildlife sanctuary here.


That's my round up of the places I saw and would recommend. All I can say is if you ever get the chance to go to Japan...GO GO GO! x