Guest Post by Lucy West
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Visitors come from all over the world just to experience the onsen or hot springs in Japan’s flourishing countryside. The warmth of hot spring water on the skin and a backdrop of lush mountains is a relaxing evening some can hardly resist. Between the cities and the countryside, Japan has a lot to offer every traveler!
Clear your mind and step back into an ancient way of life, when you visit Japan. If you’re coming from England (like I was), you’ll want to prepare for your long day of flying by checking out East Midlands Airport parking. Enjoy an easy night of rest before you leave, and secure your Southampton Airport parking by booking early! You won’t regret the ease of mind!
Japan is a popular destination for its scenic countryside and interesting culture. Among the cleanest and most beautiful countries in all the world, Japan is home to friendly people, ancient shrines, delicious food and fabulous metropolitan areas such as Tokyo. If you are like me, you will be instantly amazed by the sheer size of this enormous city. Take the elevator to the top of Tokyo Tower where you can view this city’s never-ending skyline, cut with skyscrapers. If you are looking to shop, I suggest heading to Akihabara, Harajuku or Machida where a wide selection of shops are sure to keep you busy for an entire day! The best place for nightlife in Tokyo is none other than the district of Shibuya. If you are looking for an exciting night out, take a train to this part of town. Don’t worry about the time, since the Japanese love to stay out late party all night long. And what’s a Japan experience without some good old karaoke! Be sure to check out this Japanese favorite.
If you are like me, you will not be able to resist delicious Japanese food. For a taste of authentic Japanese noodles, head to the nearest ramen shop. Traditional ramen tastes nothing like the package you buy at the grocery store. I highly recommend the tonkatsu ramen – it’s my favorite. The best foods to try are things like fresh sushi, udon, soba and all types of fish. Japan is known for its highly skilled fishermen, so you can’t go wrong with the catch of the day. And when you are finished with your meal, save your money on tips. It’s actually considered rude to tip in Japan!
One of my favorite things to do while in Japan is visit the shrines. The Great Buddha of Kamakura is just one of the sights I highly recommend. This small village has much to offer its guests, and there are various shrines and gardens to see just in this area. Another favorite is the small town of Odawara on the coast of Japan. There you will find the reconstruction of Odawara Castle, complete with a scenic moat filled with enormous orange and white Koi fish.
What is a trip to Japan without visiting the onsen or hot springs? Japan is home to a wide range of hot springs due to its volcanic origins, and there are many regions with natural springs. I recommend you check the tattoo policy when booking if you happen to have some ink. Due to the nature of tattoos in Japan, some onsen will not allow you to enter with tattoos.
Japan’s trains run all over the country and will take you wherever you need to go. The shinkansen or bullet train is fast for those long journeys between cities. If you take my advice and book before your journey, you will be happy for Heathrow airport parking. Prebook your parking spot and enjoy an easy ride home after all the excitement.
To step into an ancient way of life, visit the scenic islands of Japan!
Lucy West is a keen traveller, writer and often even dabbles in photography. Based in the beautiful Kent countryside she tries to takes time out and to write and is passionate about all things social media. You can contact her at lucy.west@parkbcp.co.uk
