Japan Travel Guide – Amateur Traveler

Travel to Kyoto and the Kansai region of Japan

We could start talking about the wealthy imperial cities of Kyoto and Nara with their thousands of temples and shrines and a few palaces too, but Amanda starts us off with the food which is appropriate because Osaka is sometimes called the “nation’s kitchen.”

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Must know

Language

The language of Japan is Japanese. There are a number of English speakers, especially in the tourism industry.

Currency

The currency of Japan is the Yen. ATMs are readily available and electronic payments are popular.

Current

Japan uses 100V, as opposed to 120V in the US and 220V in most of the rest of the world. They use plug styles A and B like in the US

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Kyoto

Hakone

Nara

Osaka

Hikone

Tokyo

Tokyo – Amateur traveler

Our most popular episode of all time on Amateur Traveler is this one with Jason who lived in the city for 13 years. He tells us which sites to visit, but also how to watch sumo wrestlers practice or where to find the best raman.

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Odaiba: City of the Future – Tokyo

Visit Tokyo’s city of the future in Odaiba. A hands-on digital art museum, a replica of the Statue of Liberty, futuristic ferries, Toyota concept cars and more.

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Tokyo is a different city during the day than it is at night. We chat to some travel blogger friends about their favorite thing to do in the city at night.

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What to do with 3 days in Tokyo. Where you can watch the sunset or have a bite to eat. Where you can see the city skyline for free. Where you can see a wedding or make a wish.

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Tokyo gets more rain than snow in winter. But this fascinating city attracts fewer visitors and Tokyo shines in winter and especially in December.

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Elsewhere in Japan

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Hear about hiking the Kumano Kodo trek in Japan. Sherry Ott talks about her experiences on this path used by medieval emperors on the Kii Peninsula.

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One of Japan’s ancient capitals is Kamakura, an easy day trip from Tokyo and well worth a visit. This seaside town is home to a number of important temples and shrines, including the Big Buddha.

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Listen to a week-long trip to Japan starting in Tokyo, focusing on some UNESCO sites in Kyoto, Niko, Nara and Kamakura. Castles, temples, shrines and more on this journey through Japan’s history.

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