If your dream is to visit Japan, like iVillager a18ane's, then get the inside scoop on where to go and what to see from savvy iVillagers on the Travelling On A Budget message board.

Question:
My friend and I have always had a dream to visit Japan. We've set a target to go in either the spring or autumn of 2005. We'd love tips on where to go, and how to meet the local people. We're both middle-aged, so no rave clubs please.
a18ane

Holiday Tips:
I went to Japan 15 years ago for two weeks when I was at school - we had an exchange student who invited me to visit. I can't remember how much pocket money my parents gave me but it was nowhere near enough and I had to wire home for more. Start saving - everything is very expensive.

The student lived in Tokyo so we went all there, took a day trip to Kyoto on the bullet train to visit all the temples and shrines and took part in a tea ceremony.

Tokyo is incredible. The districts I remember particularly are Roppongi (bars, clubs - I know you're not into that but it's worth a visit, honest), Shinjuku (shopping and people watching), Shibuya and Harajuku (I think there are some great noodle bars round this area) and of course Ginza - expensive stores, cafes and the Sony building.

Do get out to Tokyo Tower if you can, I think it is on the road to Yokohama, and see the fantastic views across Tokyo Bay. We also flew down to Okinawa Island for a long weekend at the beach and scuba diving.

I really can't remember the names of the places we went in Kyoto - we hired a taxi driver for the day and he took us to all the major temples and then to a tea ceremony (where I was considered very rude for not finishing my tea in three sips). You must take the bullet train. If you don't get to Mount Fuji itself, you'll have a wonderful view of it from the train.

Japan really was an incredible experience - right down to the minor earthquake that took place while I was there. I did feel completely lost and totally dependent on my friend for constant translation and explanation, even though I spoke conversational Japanese and could read many kanji. I found the juxtaposition of the hi-tech Tokyo and the traditional home life most interesting. If you do visit someone's home, take lots of little souvenirs from home with you as mutual gift-giving is ubiquitous.
jenimhm

I am a Japanese woman living in the UK. It is very nice to read that you are interested in visiting Japan. I also agree with Hisui that you don't have to spend a fortune to travel in there. Firstly, you can purchase a JR Pass in Britain before your trip, which saves a lot of travel expense once you are there. Secondly, stay in the accommodation which caters for the ordinary Japanese travellers, there are many inexpensive Japanese-style inns called Ryokan and small family-run accommodation, called Minshuku, which usually offer bed, breakfast and dinner. But if you would just prefer a bed-only, then there are many business hotels in most cities which are often situated near the JR stations.

Travelling in spring or autumn is a very good choice. The weather is fantastic. If you can, avoid visiting between April 29th and May 5th as there are continuous bank holidays, the traffic is much heavier and you may have to pay extra for accommodation. Finally, very few people can speak English. If you get lost it is very difficult to find a person who can give you directions in English. But you'll always get help at an Information Centre.
doranekochan

I lived in Japan for over six years and returned two years ago. While it's true that Japan is more expensive than other Asian countries, if you've lived in London you won't notice much difference. It is possible to holiday there without going bankrupt.
hisui

Spring or autumn are the best times to visit Japan. They are also the busiest periods as far as the sites are concerned as many of the locals want to see the flowers in blossom in spring, or the 'momiji' in autumn, when the trees start to drop their leaves.

If you intend to travel around, buy a Japan rail pass. This allows you discounted travel on all of the JR-Line trains that span the country. It's only available to foreigners wishing to travel in Japan, and must be booked in your resident country before you leave, so make the most of it. Most travel agents are able to book them, but if you have any trouble, try a Japanese travel agent.

If trains aren't to your taste, then it is also possible to buy discounted internal flights, if you book an intercontinental flight through Japan Airlines or All Nippon Airways. Car hire can be useful if you are staying in the more remote areas as buses can be infrequent.

As for where to go - the choices are limitless. Tokyo is fine, but there are few sites of interest to a tourist in my opinion. Imperial Gardens, the shrine in Asakusa is a must. So are the lights of Shinjuku/Shibuya, the electrical district of Akihabara. Next to Tokyo is a port town called Yokohama. There are a few sites here, and I recommend the 'Ramen Museum'. You might not be interested to see how noodles are made, but inside you'll find plenty of noodle restaurants with people queueing up to two hours just to eat there. For authentic Japanese noodles, this is the best. For sushi the 'Tsukiji' district in Tokyo is a must. All fish is fresh and comes in daily. If you're not frightened at the thought of trying raw fish, then I do recommend it.

Kyoto and Nara should be on your itinerary if you are interested in temples and shrines. All buildings are originals, unlike many of the reconstructions found elsewhere in Japan. Shikoku, one of the islands off the mainland has some of the best nature trails and walks the country has to offer. Hiroshima has the bomb memorial museum, which is very chilling, yet informative. Kagoshima, which lies on the foot of an active volcano, Sakurajima, is also very beautiful. The Onsen or the spring baths in the area are a great treat if you need to unwind.
jasonb21010

Be sure and arrange good travel insurance with medical cover. I recommend this company who are first class for personal service and rates. www.groupsure.btinternet.co.uk
jennypiper

Do you a passion for a particular country you'd like to share? Why not join in with the lively discussions on the Travelling On A Budget message board