THE MAGIC OF JAPAN

My recent journey to Japan was unlike any adventure abroad thus far. It was not easy navigating a country that speaks little English. The Tokyo metro and subway system is an unsolved mystery to me. I was turned away at restaurants for not having reservations and when I was able to find a spot to eat, I was often reduced to pointing to a picture or a neighbor’s plate and hoping for the best. It was colder and more crowded than expected. But even though I had to ask multiple people for help on many occasions, it was all worth it and I was able to get completely wrapped up in the culture and beauty of Japan.

While my trip included time visiting a friend in Tokyo and a wintery escape to Hokkaido for the annual Snow Festival in Sapporo, it was Kyoto that really captured my heart. Even in the dead of winter, Kyoto was a magical and peaceful place. I spent three days exploring the temples and shrines, learning about Buddhism and Shintoism, wandering the Bamboo Forest and the Nishiki Market, ducking in and out of shops, and eating the most delectable foods I could ever imagine. And no trip to Kyoto is complete without a wander through the Gion area where the geishas come out in the evening and a visit to the Kinkaku-ji Temple (otherwise known as the Golden Pavilion).

I urge anyone traveling to Kyoto to rent a bike as I was instructed to do by multiple people. Donned in a hat, gloves, and scarf, I biked from downtown Kyoto along the canal and to the outskirts of town where I started at Ginkaku-ji Temple (the silver pagoda) and made my way down the Path of Philosophy, in and out of various temples and shrines, and ended at the infamous Kiyomizu-dera Temple. It was my favorite day in Japan.

And oh the food! Not only are Kyoto and other areas of Japan less crowded in the winter months, but the hot brothy meals will taste even more heavenly when it is cold outside. I drooled over beef udon, miso ramen, and sukiyaki (meat and veggies swimming in a hot broth). The sashimi was exquisite and I even tried several local favorites like pickled daikon (radish-like), green tea ice cream, and bean and rice cake stew.

While Japan may temporarily frustrate you if you are traveling without a group, it is worth navigating as the reward is a precious experience you will never forget. I will go back for the ramen alone! – Ellen, May 2016