Title: Embracing the Beauty of Spring: A Guide to Exploring Japan's Scenic Wonders

As winter fades away, Japan transforms into a mesmerizing canvas painted with delicate pink hues of cherry blossoms, captivating travelers from around the globe. Spring in Japan is synonymous with Hanami, the tradition of cherry blossom viewing, where friends and families gather under the blooming trees to celebrate the ephemeral beauty of nature.

Amongst the bustling metropolis of Tokyo, the serene charm of Osaka, and the traditional allure of Kyoto, lies an unforgettable journey waiting to unfold.

Tokyo: Where Modernity Meets Tranquility

Tokyo, a bustling metropolis pulsating with energy, transforms into a dreamlike landscape during spring. Amidst the city's skyscrapers and bustling streets, visitors can find respite in the numerous scenic sites:

• Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: A tranquil oasis in the heart of Tokyo, offering a serene escape amidst lush greenery and blooming cherry blossoms.

• Ueno Park: Home to over a thousand cherry trees, Ueno Park boasts picturesque ponds, temples, and museums, providing the perfect backdrop for Hanami picnics.

• Meiji Shrine: A sacred oasis nestled within the bustling city, offering a glimpse into Japan's rich cultural heritage amidst towering cedar trees and serene gardens.

• TeamLab Borderless: Immerse yourself in a world of digital art at TeamLab Borderless, where art, technology, and nature converge to create an otherworldly experience.

• Vegan Ramen Noodle Soup at TeamLabs Restaurant: The base of the soup is oat milk containing a hint of sweetness. It is then combined with a special miso sauce which is a blend of several types of miso unique to Japan, white sesame paste, and further infused with ginger and garlic.

The dish is topped with mushrooms, tomatoes, broccoli, and other colorful vegetables that are rich in flavor. The vegetables are dipped in hot olive oil to brighten the color.

The dish is finished with homemade tea salt made from circulated tea leaves and a pinch of sansho (Japanese pepper).

The homemade medium-thick noodles are made from Hokkaido wheat and organic whole wheat flour from the town of Aya in Miyazaki Prefecture. The noodles have a rich flavor and a slippery, glutinous texture.

Beyond the framework of veganism, their ramen was developed to be loved by people around the world while incorporating Japan's unique fermentation and flavour culture.

You have to try this Ramen

• Authentic Japanese Dining: Experience the art of Japanese cuisine at traditional restaurants, where skilled chefs showcase their expertise through exquisite dishes, paired with the finest sake.

Osaka: Discovering History Amidst Modernity

Osaka, Japan's second-largest city, is a juxtaposition of ancient tradition and modern innovation. Visitors can immerse themselves in the city's rich history and vibrant culture while exploring its iconic landmarks:

• Osaka Castle: Step back in time and explore the majestic Osaka Castle, a symbol of the city's storied past and architectural grandeur.

• Bullet Train Adventures: Embark on a journey aboard the renowned Shinkansen bullet train, marveling at the breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji as you traverse the picturesque Japanese countryside. If traveling from Tokyo to Osaka, be sure to sit on the left hand side of the train and reserve your tickets in advance.

• Elegant Accommodations: From cozy guesthouses to luxurious hotels, Osaka offers a range of accommodations to suit every traveler's preferences, providing comfort and convenience at affordable prices.

• Navigating Train Travel: While navigating Osaka's extensive train network can be daunting, planning ahead and reserving tickets in advance ensures a seamless travel experience. Remember to sit on the left-hand side of the train to catch a glimpse of Mt. Fuji on your journey.

Kyoto: Unveiling Timeless Traditions

Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan, beckons travelers with its timeless beauty and rich traditions. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in a world steeped in history and culture, exploring enchanting landmarks and engaging in immersive experiences:

• Matcha Tea Making: Discover the art of tea making with a traditional Matcha tea ceremony, where every step is a testament to Japan's reverence for nature and mindfulness.

• Samurai Sword Training: Channel your inner warrior with a samurai sword training session, where expert instructors impart the ancient art of swordsmanship amidst the backdrop of Kyoto's historic streets.

• Gion Geisha District: Witness the grace and elegance of Japan's geisha culture in the historic Gion district, where traditional teahouses and wooden machiya townhouses transport visitors to a bygone era.

• Arashiyama Bamboo Forest: Lose yourself in the ethereal beauty of the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, where towering bamboo stalks create a serene sanctuary for reflection and exploration.

• Fushimi Inari Shrine: Ascend the vermilion torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine, a sacred pilgrimage site dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice, and experience a sense of awe and reverence amidst the tranquil forested paths.

The Japan Railway Ticket

The Japan Rail Pass is a physical ticket, that means delivery and activation work different from an airline ticket. It is important to order your JR Pass on time.

The pass is the one ticket for unlimited travel around Japan on the JR Network, which includes most types of trains on both the hyper fast Shinkansen bullet train lines and extensive conventional rail network. With over 20,135 km of rail to explore, the Japan Rail Pass is your sightseeing passport for the whole country if this is your only means of exploring. We choose between taking the train between Tokyo-Osaka-Kyoto-Tokyo and used private means for the rest of the trips.

In terms of budget the Japan Rail Pass is highly cost-efficient. For example, a return ticket between Tokyo ⇿ Kyoto is about the same price as a 7-day JR Pass, with the pass you get 7 days of unlimited travel for the same price. The longer the duration of the pass, the more cost-efficient your travel becomes on a day-to-day basis.

Additionally, the Japan Rail Pass includes a variety of other transport like local JR busses, ferries and the Tokyo Monorail. Various discounts are also available upon showing the pass at hotels, shops and museums.

When to order the Japan Rail Pass?

The Japan Rail Pass is a physical ticket, similar to your national passport. That means there are some logistics to take care of, like shipping the Japan Rail Pass Exchange Order to you. It is thus important to order the pass ahead of travel through your travel agent for physical deliveries or have your tickets dropped off a your hotel.

It's recommended to place your order at least 2 weeks before your flight date to Japan. This way there is enough time in the rare case a delay happens, they have plenty of time to solve any issue and it will also be for your own peace of mind.

Advanced order for the Japan Rail Pass can be placed starting 6 months before your planned travel date on JRPass.com. Orders with a lead time longer than 3 months, will be dispatched about 60 days before your selected day of travel. This is because the Exchange Order has to be activated within 90 days after issue.

Why Japan Should Be At The Top of Your Bucket List

From the ethereal beauty of cherry blossoms in Tokyo to the timeless traditions of Kyoto, Japan offers an unparalleled journey through history, culture, and natural splendor. Whether you're seeking urban adventures amidst towering skyscrapers or serene moments amidst ancient temples and gardens, Japan's springtime charm promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you longing to return year after year. So pack your comfortable shoes, embark on a journey of discovery, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Japan in spring.

Interested in joining our next Japan Trip?

Join our next trip to Japan in November 2024. The itinerary will be out by the 15th of April 2024. Email us for inquiries on inquire@traveletvogue.com or call +254724520249

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Writer

Kui Kamau