Japan has finally opened its doors to travelers after a long period of isolation due to the pandemic. My friend Sheila, an avid traveler, recently made the trip and was generous enough to share her experiences of what it’s like to visit the Land of the Rising Sun now. From the breathtaking cherry blossoms to the ever-evolving cultural landscape, her insights provide a glimpse into what awaits those ready to explore.

After all, if we look back, Japan’s last closure lasted an impressive 200 years! Thankfully, this time around, it hasn’t been nearly as long. While the joyful reopening brings hope for many Japan enthusiasts, it’s important to note that some things have inevitably changed.

Cherry Blossoms

Sheila spent 3 ½ weeks immersing herself in rich experiences, including leading her very first cherry blossom tour. She had never witnessed the cherry blossoms in full bloom before and was awestruck by the beauty around her. While some popular sites were a bit crowded, she discovered that many areas remained pleasantly serene.

Pro Tip: If the weather turns rainy, grab an umbrella! Visiting popular sites like the bamboo forest in Arashiyama and Rikugien Gardens in Tokyo is a great idea when it’s drizzling; she found them to be nearly deserted, and the umbrellas create picturesque contrasts with the cherry blossoms in photos!

Are Signs in Japan in English or Japanese?

Travelers will be pleased to discover that English signage has become more prevalent throughout Japan’s cities. The preparations leading up to the ill-fated 2020 Olympics have helped increase the availability of English (or, more accurately, romaji) signage. This is particularly true in Tokyo.

For those instances where signs and menus are solely in Japanese, Sheila found Google Translate to be an incredible resource. Thanks to its photo translation feature, she could snap pictures of menus, which were translated seamlessly into English. It certainly made navigating the local dining scene a breeze!

Is Japan Cash-Only?

Japan has recently begun evolving away from its cash-centric culture, which can be surprising for some. While it’s true that many small shops and food stalls may only take cash, visitors should be pleased to know that major hotels and restaurants now accept credit cards.

However, if you plan to refill your Suica or Pasmo cards, be prepared to do so with cash. Sheila was also surprised to find that numerous museums still only accept cash for entrance fees, so it’s wise to have yen on hand!

Do You Still Have to Wear a Mask in Japan?

Mask mandates have largely been lifted across most places in Japan. While it’s evident that many locals still choose to wear them—often more so than folks seen in North America—this has generally been part of Japanese culture long before the pandemic. Sheila usually opted to wear a mask indoors but felt comfortable going mask-free outside, which was the trend among others as well. However, wearing a mask when feeling under the weather is considered polite.

Hotels in Japan

If you’re seeking a traditional Japanese experience, Sheila highly recommends the Dormy Inn chain. Their hotels feature in-house onsens (hot spring baths) for a unique relaxation experience. Although breakfast is an added charge, the variety and quality make it worthwhile. The hotel also caters to guests with complimentary pajamas and toiletries. After enjoying the onsen, guests are treated to a free ice cream cone or even a bottle of Yakult!

Hotels to Avoid When Visiting Japan

Sheila advises steering clear of Apa Hotels. While budget-friendly, these hotels are associated with controversial viewpoints regarding Japan’s wartime aggression—a topic that has stirred public debate. As conscientious travelers, it’s essential to use our spending power wisely.

Unique Places to Visit in Japan

In her travels, Sheila delights in unearthing unique destinations during her tours. Here are some new and favorite spots that she encountered on her recent trip.

In Tokyo

On one particular day in Tokyo, Sheila needed a lunch spot and relied on her host daughter for recommendations. This led her to discover Yakuzen Curry Jinenjo, a delightful curry restaurant that wowed her both with its fabulous food and the chef’s charismatic personality.

Another must-visit is the Theater Puppet Show, which Sheila first experienced in 2018. Guided by her wonderful Tokyo host, Naomi, the charm of this performance left a lasting impression.

The talented puppeteer, Mitsuaki Tsuyuki, previously a children’s art teacher, has embraced the world of finger puppets and has been captivating audiences since 2000. His venue is intimate and visually engaging, with a performance designed to transcend language barriers. At only 500 yen, it’s an incredibly budget-friendly cultural experience!

For a hands-on experience within walking distance of the renowned Sensoji Temple, Sheila recommends trying your hand at indigo dyeing at Wanariya Indigo Dying. Visitors are guided through the process by engaging English-speaking staff, creating their unique dyed souvenirs.

Visit the Asakura Museum of Sculpture

Located in the former residence of artist Fumio Asakura, the Asakura Museum of Sculpture houses a stunning collection of artwork. What makes it particularly special is the serene courtyard, adorned with plants, fountains, and the gentle sound of birds. The rooftop garden provides a delightful view of the bustling metropolis below. Just remember to wear nice socks, as shoes must be removed before entering!

Touring Osaka

If you’re fond of cats like Sheila, you might enjoy visiting the Cat Diorama Café. Cleverly merging the charm of a cat café with a unique diorama setup, this delightful venue brings joy to cat lovers while serving delicious meals.

After initially starting as a restaurant with a miniature train diorama, the owner, Naoki Teraoka, found himself rescuing cats during the pandemic. Today, the café serves as both a restaurant and a cat rescue, providing a wonderful backdrop for enjoying a meal while petting some adorable felines.

Touring Hiroshima

Lunchtime in Hiroshima can be a delightful fusion of cultures at Le Paris Bistro, where French cuisine is infused with Japanese elements. With a reasonable price point and lovely atmosphere, the dining experience there is well worth a visit. On one occasion, a dessert that resembled a puppy arrived at their table, surprising everyone!

While in Hiroshima, a visit to the somber Peace Park is essential. For a tranquil escape, consider a walk to the nearby Shukkeien Gardens, a hidden gem that many visitors found to be their favorite during Sheila’s tour.

What to Do in Kyoto

When guiding a group of ladies through Kyoto, one of the standout experiences is donning a colorful kimono. The embrace of this tradition is warmly received by locals, ensuring a positive interaction for all participants. However, selecting the right kimono rental service is crucial, especially for those who may require plus sizes. Sheila’s first experience in this arena revealed some mismatches, but thankfully, her host son was able to find a perfect solution!

For the best service, Sheila now recommends Yume Kimono Kyoto, which accommodates a range of sizes while providing reasonable prices and ample options.

As you navigate Japan, be open to immersing yourself in the rich culture, connect with the remarkable people, and, of course, indulge in the exquisite local cuisine! Happy travels await!