Memories and Conclusions

D and I have been back from Japan for a few months now and thoughts have settled enough to write a few notes and conclusions down that may be interesting or useful to readers. Obviously, there are many people far better informed than me on Japan, so my thoughts are just that, my thoughts. Research extensively to expand your understanding.

1) Don't visit Japan in August, unless you're a salamander. It really was shockingly hot and humid.

2) If you want to interact with Japanese people, try to find a local guide for at least some of your trip. If you are an extrovert and not at all shy, you may be able to strike up spontaneous conversations here and there, but you may also offend. If you book a guide, even for one day, they are likely to introduce you to people who are ready and open to chat. On our self-guided travel, only one local ventured to speak with us.

3) Kyoto appears to be a mini-Japan. Everything there from the traditional to the modern, and in a much more manageable area than Tokyo or Kyoto. Don't stint on the number of days you commit to it. It really is wonderful.

4) Castles: They have ALL been burned down and rebuilt, usually many times. Matsuyama was the loveliest of the ones we visited because it had last been rebuilt in the 1800's in the original style, wood and stone. Avoid Osaka-jo unless you love reading history panels; it's all concrete and too busy. 

5) Gardens: We only saw four of the well-known ones. Ritsurin on Tokushima was the most beautiful and especially wonderful for pine trees.

6) Bonsai: Omiya Bonsai Museum is wonderful, but don't miss Hoshun-en which is buried in the Daitoku-ji Temple in North Kyoto.

7) If you love a ferry trip while travelling, consider the crossing from Hiroshima to Matsuyama. Long enough to chill out, but with lots of interesting scenery along the way.

8) Temples: Zenkoji, Nagano was the one we liked the best, BUT...there are thousands, so there will doubtless be more wonderous ones to see.

9) Dotombori in Osaka is absolutely BONKERS! Very crowded, seemingly at all times, but well worth a visit. Shopping and food, amped up to the max.