Summer Traveling, Destination: Japan

Summer is almost upon us! Well, technically it’s already here, but with the way global warming/mother nature is acting right now, it’s hard to tell the difference between each season in the middle of the year. Initially I had planned on taking a quick trip to Japan to eat watermelon, sushi, and ramen all within the same hour! Alas the idea was struck down by the news that tourists are only allowed to enter the country via a travel agency which translates to “stick to an itinerary and don’t wander around the country, for the safety of our citizens.”

Now you may be wondering, “What’s so bad about that?” However, only people who are new to traveling the world and have never been to Japan would think this way. That is because the best way to experience what Japan really has to offer is to get lost in a dingy alley, find a yattai store and experience eating some yakisoba, takoyaki, ramen and more, or enter an X Rated toy store! The best ones are those disguised as an anime souvenir shop, but once you get deep within the store...well, let’s just say Sailor Moon’s outfit might look shorter than it originally is.

When visiting different countries, it’s best to prepare for the things that you might not be used to in your home country. The best way to do so is to read up on some of the things that would be beneficial for your trip, learning the etiquette and mannerism of the country, as it shows a sign of respect for the country and its traditions. For example, did you know that when eating any food in Japan with chopsticks, you should not put them straight on the plate as it is seen as disrespectful?. It is traditionally placed that way at funerals. When you are done eating, place them flat by the side of your bowl or plate.

I have always been an avid ‘Curious George’ type of person, maybe it’s the journalist in me but I always wanted to learn different things from different cultures. So before I take a trip to any country, I spend a week learning basic do’s and don’ts and the culture shock I have to prepare my mind for so as to not offend anyone.

When I was planning my first trip to Japan (I went four times in two years) I did a lot of research, but the one book that helped me, in particular, was Culture Shock! Japan by Raina Ong. Published in 2017, Raina Ong showcases her knowledge of Japan and its history, having lived there for over a decade and traveled to all the prefectures of Japan.

The Singaporean native travel writer packed this book full of information on surviving Japan, whether you plan on visiting short-term or living there permanently. She covers various needs-to-knows as a guide about the country, from understanding the different regions, Do’s and Don’ts, transportation, working in Japan, to how to set up a bank account. This well-detailed book is an essential read for anyone interested in Japan and learning the culture. Without this book, I would not have been able to immerse myself in the country nor be able to explore certain parts of the city without making certain mistakes that could be seen as culturally disrespectful. If you decide to travel and explore Japan this book is the Holy Grail for your traveling needs so get a copy now! What would you like to do when you visit Japan?

Article edited by Lindsey Huddleston & Lola Lujan.