By Jeannie Knudson
Japan encompasses over 4,000 islands, but there are only four major ones, and many of the smaller ones are uninhabited. The geography in Japan varies from warm coastal
beaches to colder mountainous regions and the major metropolitan areas are densely populated. Visitors to Japan are encouraged to learn a few simple phrases in Japanese for expressing greetings and gratitude, but English is widely spoken and travelers find it easy to communicate with the locals.
Accommodations
Western-style hotels in Japan often cater to tourists and offer everything from executive suites to single-occupancy business travel rooms. These hotels are usually situated within major cities and provide transportation to and from local airports. Unlike major hotels, ryokan are smaller accommodations with a Japanese flair. Ryokan are akin to bed-and-breakfast establishments in the U.S. The rooms in a ryokan are minimal on furniture, with low tables for dining and mats or futons for sleeping.
Transportation
Though rental cars are available while visiting Japan, with the country's densely populated areas and traffic conditions, rental cars are not the usual mode of transportation for most visitors. Trains, buses and subways are popular forms of transportation for tourists and locals. Subways and buses are affordable and make frequent stops at all the major tourist and business centers, while trains allow fast and safe travel over long distances. Taxis are available for hire and offer fixed-rate cabs for individual use or more budget-friendly shared rides.
Japanese Culture and Etiquette
When visiting a Japanese style establishment, visitors are usually expected to remove their shoes at the door. Hosts or proprietors may offer sandals for indoor use, but it's advisable for visitors to wear socks just in case. Even indoor slippers are to be removed before entering a dining area. In Japan, bowing is a sign of respect, gratitude, greeting or farewell. When bowing, it's important to bow at the waist--not the head--and breaking eye contact during the bow is an essential part of the custom.
Shopping
Shopping is a popular pastime in Japan, and there is no shortage of places to buy everything from souvenirs to sundries. Malls and outlets abound in Japan and many visitors are drawn to electronic gadgets when they visit. Electronic gadgets in Japan are often found at cheaper prices than their western counterparts, but shoppers should make sure that the items are adaptable to western electrical outlets and appliances. Flea markets and street vendors are found all over Japan and haggling at these establishments is not only common, it's expected.
Cherry Blossom Festivals
Cherry blossom season is a highly popular time in Japan for both locals and visitors. The blossoming season may change each year, as blooming forecasts depend upon local weather. Mid to late March is the most common time to see the blossoms and enjoy the festivals throughout most of Japan. But, in eastern Japan and the extreme north, the cherry trees may not bloom until April or even May. Cherry blossom festivals are found in and around all major cities and the festivals can last up to a week in some areas.
Resources
About the Author:
Jeannie Knudson is an avid traveler with a love for the written word. She has been a freelance writer for over 15 years and holds a Bachelor's Degree in English from the University of Northern Iowa. She enjoys sharing her knowledge and experiences on eHow and Travels.com.
