Nagoya: one of Japan's largest cities, a modern busy metropolis. From the heights of
Nagoya Tower to the depths of the subway system, from the old castle to the modern form
of Oasis21, Nagoya really mixes it up.
Koyasan: an ancient small town with temples and shrines in the snow. Here you can stay with Buddhist monks in the
birthplace of Japanese buddhism. Wake early for the morning recitations and then enjoy the best food.
Kyoto: the old capital of Japan. With a modern heart built on ancient foundations, temples scattered throughout the city,
and a surprise on every corner.
Hiroshima: a once-ruined city rebuilt in the name of peace. The museum details the horror and the hope for building
a world without nuclear weapons.
Jigokudani: a little valley with a population of snow monkeys. It may take a few hours to reach from civilisation,
but the monkeys will surprise you with their antics and make the trip worthwhile.
Shizuoka: another modern town. Bursting with busy karaoke places, signs and lights everywhere, and a dinosaur.
Tokyo: the capital of Japan in all its shiny glory. All neon and lights and mirrors and skyscrapers. Tokyo never
sleeps!
Fujisan: Japan's highest peak. At 3,776m high at the moment, it is an active volcano so this could change! The views
from the bullet train are stunning.
Castles and temples. Pagodas and pavilions, shrines and gardens.
All the Japanese shiny newness. Buildings and towers create the distinctive
form of the modern japanese town.
Trains and planes. The trains dont always arrive on time, but
they do always stop in exactly the right place.
The unique cuisine of Japan - or at least some of the things
I sampled whilst trying to stay vegetarian.
Food glorious food. Most stations sell all sorts of food from bright kiosks and vending machines.
In the Koyasan Monastery we were fed fine vegetarian food to our room.
Okonomiyake are rich omelettes made with vegetables (or fish and meat) at your table. You order the ingredients and then mix them up and cook them on the big hot plate in front of you. After a few minutes and few deft flips with the supplied spatula, you eat!
Of course there are fast foods too. Including the rice burger from Mos Burger.
