Hello! from Japan

About Japan and my life

hidanotaka

5 great things in a beautiful water town, Gujo Hachiman

by Leave a Comment

Hi, How are you? I’ve been traveling in Gifu area these days!

This time I wrote about a relatively unknown area to tourists, Gujo Hachiman. It is a small, riverside town which was founded in the 16th century as a castle town. 
Gujo is known for clear water, Ayu river fish, and Gujo dance festival.

Below are the 5 major places I visited and things you should check in Gujo Hachiman.

1.Hachiman castle 

Located on top of a hill, it is one of the oldest reconstructed wooden castles in Japan.
It was founded in 1559, destroyed in the early Meiji period(1868-1912) during Japan’s attempts to modernize called the Meiji Restoration, and was reconstructed in 1933. 
There is a museum inside of it, displaying a lot of materials from samurai era including the samurai armors, the heirloom of Aoyama clan, and samurai swords.
The castle keep is an important cultural property, and it was listed as one of the 100 Japanese castles in 2017. You can enjoy a panoramic view from there.During Autumn leaf season, the maple trees surrounding the area attract visitors. 

You can get to the castle by car or taxi. Or, if you like hiking, you can get there on foot. It takes about 20 min to get to the top. 

hachiman castle
It was one of the coolest castles I had ever visited!
top of hachiman castle
Great view from the top of the castle

Time: 9:00am to 5:00pm (Mar to May, Sep to Oct)
8:00am to 6:00pm (June to Aug)
  9:00am to 4:30pm (Nov to Feb)
*Closed from Dec 20th to Jan 10th

Price: 310yen (650yen for a ticket that includes the visit to the Hakurankan Museum) 

2.Hakurankan Museum

It is a museum located near Hachiman castle. 
It includes an exhibition, Gujo Odori demonstration, and Museum gift shop. You can learn about History and culture of Gujo-Hachiman here.

Hakurankan Museum
Hakurankan Museum

Time: 9:00am to 5:00pm (During Gujo-Odori event, it is open until 6:00pm)
Price: 540yen to enter. *Closed from Dec 24th to Jan 2nd

3.Gujo-Otori (Dance festival)

It is held from mid-July to early Sep (over 30 nights every day) every year.
It is designated as a significant intangible cultural folk asset by the Japanese government. 
It was originally started to encourage the town’s citizens to get together, and it has a history of over 400 years.
Dancers make a big circle and perform to the traditional music of Shamisen, Bamboo flute, and Taiko Drums. 
During Obon season in the summer, the festival continues all night and over 30,000 people gather. 

Lanterns for Gujo Odori.
Lanterns for Gujo Odori. Too bad that I couldn’t be there during the event!!

4.Igawa Komochi 

There is a small canal called Igawa Komochi located near the river (Yoshida river) close to Hachiman castle. 
Big Koi fish swim there peacefully and it really is a beautiful canal. 
Although it is small and short, the canal is very unique and worth visiting to take pictures!

Igawa Komichi
Entrance of Igawa Komichi
Koi fish
Koi fish. They were really big!

5.Food replicas 

Gujo hachiman is known as the home town of food replicas. 
You can not only enjoy watching very realistic food replicas, but also make them and take home as souveniors!
Samples are from Japanese food like temple and sushi to other kinds like pizza, curry, cake, etc. 
There are many places where you can make your own, but one of the most popular is Sample Kobo. The main shop (Honkon) is open from 9:00am to 17:00pm (closed on Tuesdays).

food replicas
They look really delicious but they are all food replicas!

Access

From Nagoya 

Take JR Tokaido Line or Meitetsu Konsen Line to Gifu station.
Then, take JR Takayama Line to Mino Ota Station, and use Nagaragawa Railway to Gujo Hachiman Station. 
(It is about 2 hours and 50 min travel)

From Takayama

Take Nohi express bus to Gujo-Hachiman station.
(It is about 1 hour and 45 min travel)

cafe by the river
At a cafe by the river. It was so peaceful that I could be there forever!

The city is very compact and rural, so you can see things just walking around. If you would like to enjoy a quiet, country side of Japan (and less touristy area), Gujo Hachiman is a great place to visit!

See you next time!
Taka

*I’m a professional composer by the way.
You can listen/download my album below.
Free Somebody
Skyhigh

Visit Mt.Norikura, an excellent hiking place in Japan!

by Leave a Comment

Hi, how’s eveything?
We just had a terrible typhoon a few days ago. 

It didn’t hit Takayama, the area where I live now, but a lot of places in Nagano have damaged seriously. 
I hope nothing bad will happen this year any more… 

Beautiful view at Mt. Norikura

Last month I climbed Mt. Norikura, which is 3,026m meters above sea level and is one of Japan’s 100 famous mountains. 
It was my first time to get there and I really enjoyed my trip so I would like to share about it here. 

To get there, it is the best to take a bus.
Private cars are not allowed in the area.
Bus goes to a station at 2,702 meters above sea level (which is the highest bus stop in Japan).
You can use Nohi bus from Takayama, Hirayu, or Honoki-daira(takes about 90min, 60min, 45min respectively).

From the bus station, you can choose to climb different areas as shown on the map below. 

Map is provided by Norikura Natural Environment Guide Center,
Hida Norikura Tourism Association

To its highest peak, Mt.Kegamine, it takes about 90 min on foot. 
Although you could wear casual clothes and shoes, you are strongly advised to wear climbing shoes as the way to get there is really steep and can be slippery if it rains. 

This is the way to the highest peak of Mt. Norikura

You can enjoy watching beautiful ponds, flowers, and wild life such as Ptarmigans in Mt.Norikura.

A pond in Norikura

From mid-July to mid-September, you can take early morning bus to see the sunrise, and Norikura is particularly popular during September to October when visitors can enjoy beautiful Autumn leaves. 

Norikura in Autumn

If you are planning to visit Mt. Norikura this year, you need to be hurry because it will be closed at the end of Oct. The opening day is on May 15th every year.

Mt. Norikura is a perfect place to hike in Japan! 
Enjoy visiting there and taking pictures of beautiful nature. 

See you next time!
Taka

*I’m a professional composer by the way.
You can listen/download my album below.
Free Somebody
Skyhigh

Visit the majestic Gifu castle on 300m high Mountain

by Leave a Comment

Hi, How are you doing?
I went to Gifu Castle a few weeks ago and I really enjoyed visiting the place so here’s some info to share. You can not only enjoy the view of the city from the top, but also learn the history (especially about the Warring/Samurai period in Japan).
If you have a chance, be sure to check this majestic castle!

view from gifu castle
View of Gifu city from the top of Gifu Castle.
It was a little cloudy when I was there but was really worth seeing!

About Gifu Castle

Gifu castle was originally named Inabayama Castle. 
It is believed that Nikaido Yukimasa(a butler to the Kamakura Shogunate) was the first one to build fortress on the top of the Mt. Kinka in 1201.

Saito Dosan was the castle lord during the Warring period, and later on in 1567, Oda Nobunaga became the lord and subjugated the area.

He also renamed the area from Inokuchi to Gifu ,and the name of the castle became Gifu castle. With this castle as his base, Nobunaga fought to unify Japan for over 10 years. The castle fell just before the war of Sekigahara, when Nobunaga’s grandson, Nobuhide became a member of the West Squad, and the East Squad invaded the castle.
The castle was destroyed in 1601 ,and some of the structures (castle towers and turrets) were moved to Kano Castle. 

The present castle we can visit is the one that was reconstructed in 1956.
You can enjoy the sight as Nobunaga had once viewed the world from the top of the castle(at 329m above sea level). 
You can take a view of Nagara River(famous for cormorant fishing), city of Gifu, and tall mountains including the Japan Alps. 
The observation area is open at night time occasionally from Spring until December. 

gifu castle on mt.kinka
Gifu castle on top of Mt.Kinka

About Oda Nobunaga

He was one of the most powerful feudal lords in the late 16th century. 
He tried to unify Japan and gained control over most Honshu(main island). 
Nobunaga was born on June 23, 1534, as the 2nd son of Oda Nobuhide, a daimyo in Owari (now part of Aichi prefecture).
Through his childhood, he was known for his strange behavior and people called him Outsuke (meaning, the Great Fool). 

In 1551 Nobuhide died unexpectedly. It is said that Nobunaga threw ceremonial incense at Nobuhide’s funeral, acting outrageously.
To take responsibility for his misbehaviors and to teach Nobunaga the right way of serving as a samurai, his menter Hirate Masahide committed Harakiri (suicide to show obligation). 

Some of the Oda clan were against him for his misbehaviors but Nobunaga destroyed those who came against him including his younger brother, Oda Nobuyuki (He had eliminated all opposition groups within the clan and Owari area by 1559). 

Among a lot of legendary battles he had during the Warring period, one of the most famous is the Battle of Okehazama.
In 1560, he fought against Imagawa Yoshimoto (he was a powerful lord based in Suruga, present-day Shizuoka prefecture). 
Yoshimoto had over 25,000 men, and they were marching toward Kyoto to expand his territories. One day at the narrow gorge of Dengaku-hazama, they were celebrating their victories.
Nobunaga, with only about 2,500 warriors, set some flags and dummy troops some distance away to get attention ,and at the same time, carried out a surprise attack from behind.
This led him to the victory and he became known by many warriors throughout Japan.

Later on, he changed the way people fight from using horses and swords to firearms and that brought him great success in conquering many areas in Japan. 

At Gifu, he instituted Rakuichi Rakuza (Free market, free guild).
With this, he eliminated barriers such as taxes, unions, and trade guilds.
This stimulated the economy and the castle town flourished.

On June 23rd when he was 47, his retainer Akechi Mitsuhide rebelled against him at Honoji temple in Kyoto and Nobunaga killed himself in the burning temple. 
He is still remembered as one of the most powerful, innovative historical figures.

nobunaga
You can see this golden statue of Oda Nobunaga at JR Gifu station.
Notice that he has a rifle instead of a sword!

Access to Gifu castle

To visit the castle, it is the best to use a bus from the train stations.
You can take a but at JR Gifu station or Meitetsu Gifu station and get off at Gifu Koen Mae(is is about 15 min travel) ,and walk to Mt. Kinka ropeway. 
From there, you can get to the station near the top of the mountain.
You can then take a walk to Gifu castle. 

Ropeway fare are 620yen for one way and 1,080yen for both ways.
To enter Gifu castle and Gifu castle museum located nearby, you need to pay the admission fee of 200yen.
Opening hours are 8:30am to 5:30pm during May 12 to Oct 16th, 9:30am to 4:30pm during Oct 17th to Mar 15th, 9:30am to 5:30pm during Mar 16th to May 11th. 

There’s Gifu City Museum of History located near the Ropeway station, in Gifu park. You can learn about the culture and history of Gifu city there. 
It has the permanent exhibition focused on Oda Nobunaga.
It hosts special exhibitions throughout the year displaying some historical art works. It is a good place to stop by before/after visiting Gifu castle.

・Hours: 9:00am to 5:00pm (closed on Mondays, the day after national holidays, and during end of the year and new year holidays)
・Price: 300yen to enter 

Historical places around

Shobo-ji Temple 

Just below the Mt.Kinka, there’s a temple called Shobo-ji, where a big Buddha is enshrined. 
It is 13.63m in height and is the largest dry lacquer Buddha statue and also one of Japan’s Three Great Buddhas (others are Nara and Kamakura’s Buddhas. Some people claim that Takaoka’s Buddha to be one of the greatest). 

Shobo-ji's Budhha

Inaba Shrine

It is a shrine beloved as the tutelary shrine of Gifu.
It is over 1,900 years old and it is believed that it was moved to its current location from Mt. Kinka by Saito Dosan.

Inaba Shrine

By visiting Gifu castle, you can learn what the life during Samurai era was like. 

Many festivals are held throughout the year in the area as well.
Among them, the most famous is Ngara river fireworks festival in the summer(on the last Saturday of July and 1st Saturday of August). 
Over 30,000 fireworks are set of at the event and it is breathtaking.
Have fun visiting Gifu!

See you next time,
Taka

*I’m a professional composer by the way.
You can listen/download my album below.
Free Somebody
Skyhigh

Top 9 amazing things in Toyama

by Leave a Comment

Hi, how’s it going?
I went on a trip to Toyama city the other day.
It is one of the closest and the biggest city areas from Takayama city in Gifu prefecture, where I currently live.

Toyama city takes one-third of the land of Toyama prefecture, and is the capital of the area. It flourished as a castle town and the production of medicine was the major business during Edo period.
There still remains a lot of drug stores, and you can enjoy visiting many museums and great sushi restaurants. 
Here is the list of must-see places and things in Toyama prefecture.

・Sightseeing spots

Kurobe Gorge (黒部峡谷/Kurobe kyokoku)

Kurobe Gorge is one of the deepest gorges in Japan.
You can enjoy the natural scenic beauty as well as some hot springs around.
There is a slow-moving train which was originally made for the construction of Kurobe Dam during 1920s to 1930s.  
It connects Unazuki and Keyakidaira stations (takes about 80 min to travel and goes through over 40 tunnels and across over 20 bridges). 
The train runs from April to November and is especially popular during Autumn when visitors can enjoy beautiful Autumn leaves.

the kurobe gorge
写真提供：（公社）とやま観光推進機構

Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route

It is a mountain sightseeing route between Tateyama(Toyama) and Omachi(Nagano), which goes through the Japanese Northern Alps.
The highest point is 1975m, and it includes 7 different transports such as a trolleybus, funicular, and ropeway.  
You can enjoy panoramic view of the mountains, ponds, as well as famous Kurobe Dam, which is 186 m high and the biggest dam in Japan. 
Until the end of May, the wall of snow (that is about 20 m high) can be seen on the road.
The area is closed for private vehicles. Be careful not to get confused with Kurobe Gorge which is located in the different area.

tateyama kurobe alpine route
写真提供：（公社）とやま観光推進機構

Gokayama

It is a traditional style village designated as a world heritage site along with Shirakawa-go. 
Traditional architectural style (called Gassho-Zukuri) can be seen there together with beautiful nature around.
Many of the houses are over 300 years old and you can learn how people managed to live in the countryside of Japan.

gokayama
写真提供：（公社）とやま観光推進機構

Toyama Castle park

Located near JR Toyama station, Toyama Castle Park covers the former grounds of Toyama Castle.
Although the castle keep is a reconstructed building, the area has a Japanese garden and an art museum.
You can enjoy the view of the city from an observation deck located on the top floor.
The park is popular during April when people gather to enjoy the cherry blossom.
The Sato Memorial Art Museum is located across the park, which has paintings, local lacquerware, ornaments, and some traditional Japanese tea rooms.

toyama castle

Fugan Canal Kansui Park

Located about 9 min walk away from the North exit of JR Toyama Station, Fugan Canal Kansui Park is a popular spot to relax.
It has a spring, waterfall, playground and bridge. 
Starbucks coffee there won the best store design award in 2008, and is known as one of the most beautiful Starbucks buildings in the world.

starbucks in toyama

Toyama Glass art museum

This museum has a large collection of both traditional and modern glass art works and is also a library inside.
The building was beautifully designed by world-renowned architect, Kengo Kuma.
On the 6th floor is a glass garden produced by Dale Chihuly, a famous contemporary glass artist.  

glassart museum

・Open from 9:30am to 6:00pm (until 8:00pm on Sat).
・Closed first and 3rd Wednesdays each month, on Dec 31st ,and Jan 1st.
・Price: 200 yen for permanent exhibition, 700-1,000yen for temporary exhibitions.

・Events

Yotaka Festival

It is a festival which is usually held on the second weekend of June. 
Giant lantern floats (a big one can go over 7 meters in height) go around the city.
After the procession, they are bashed into each other to destroy the opponent.
It is said that the tradition of fighting started over hundreds years ago when the roads were narrow.
Each group that carry lantern floats wouldn’t give way to the other, and they fought to show which one was stronger. 
The tradition is kept to this date but the festival is not just for the fighting of people merely competing for winning.
It is to vitalize the city and the communities, and energize the people who participate and view the event.
In May, pre-festival event, Fukuno Yotaka Festiva is held.Lanterns are displayed and lit up during the night time.
Traditional music and dance are performed and people sing Yotaka song.

yotaka festival
写真提供：（公社）とやま観光推進機構

Owara kaze no bon

It is an annual traditional dance performance event held during the night of Sep 1st to 3rd and has a history of about 300 years.
It is said that the festival was started to appease typhoons and hope for good harvest of rice.
As many as 250,000 visitors come during the event every year. 
People wear Kimono and a hat (dancers hide their faces from the wrath of the god) ,and dance to the traditional music played by instruments like Shamisen and Kokyu. The performance lasts all night.

owara kaze no bon

・Seafood

Fish, Shrimp(Shiroebi) ,and squid(Firefly squid) caught in Toyama bay are really fresh and tasty especially between March and June. 
Masu-zushi (pressed-trout sushi) is a speciality of Toyama.
It is kind of sushi which is made using traditional food-preservation skills. Slices of trout are prepared on vinegered rice and wrapped with bamboo leaves. It is then pressed for several hours.
There are a lot of sushi and sashimi places in the city where you can enjoy these fresh seafood and Masu-zushi.

写真提供：（公社）とやま観光推進機構

Toyama city is near Gifu and Ishikawa prefectures and is a great place to stop by. 
You can enjoy amazing nature, inspiring museums, and delicious seafood as well as exciting festivals.
Take your camera with you and enjoy your visit to Toyama city!

See you next time,
Taka

*I’m a professional composer by the way.
You can listen/download my album below.
Free Somebody
Skyhigh

12 amazing places you should visit in Hokkaido

by Leave a Comment

It seems that the rainy season this year is going to last longer than usual in Japan.
As the temperature is going high, I already started missing the cool weather.
So, this time I wrote about Hokkaido, which is the Japan’s northernmost area and it is one of the best destinations during hot summer time. 
Hokkaido is known for its tremendous land with great nature, landscape, and food culture.
22% Japanese land belong to Hokkaido and many parts of it are unspoiled.
Hokkaido attracts many outdoor lovers from all over the world like hikers, campers, and cyclists in summer, skiers and snowboarders in winter.

Here are 12  places you should visit in Hokkaido with info about food culture there.

1.Sapporo

It is the capital city of Hokkaido and there are about 2 million people there.
Combining both Japanese and foreign cultures, this place has unique atmosphere. 
Many foreign cultures were introduced to this area during the Meiji Restoration period, when Japanese people started learning from overseas.

clock tower

Sapporo Clock Tower, which was build it 1869, is a historical and cultural symbol of Sapporo.
This place was originally used as the first institution for Agricultural Studies in Japan, and students conducted their military training and physical education here. It is now a museum of history and the iconic tower of Sapporo. The bell rings every hour and tells the time to the city.

sapporo beer

Beer is a popular product in Sapporo. Sapporo beer, which is the oldest Japanese beer brand is popular all over the areas in Japan. You can find Sapporo beer easily (the one with a Star label on) at any convenience stores or supermarkets. The technique of beer brewery was introduced to Japan from Germany in the late 1860s and the very first one was brewed in Sapporo in 1876 by a Japanese brewer, Seibei Nakagawa, who trained in Germany. At the Sapporo beer museum, you can take a guided tour of the history and brewing methods and taste fresh beer after the tour.

snow festival

The must-see event in Sapporo is the Sapporo Snow Festival.
It is an annual event held in February. It features about 250 snow/ice sculptures on display outside in Odori Park, Tsudome, and Susukino.
At night, some of them are lit up and you can enjoy viewing/taking pictures of the beautiful art works.

2.Otaru

It is a harbor city which can be reached by train from Sapporo within an hour. This area thrived as a port city, and many western style buildings were made during Meiji era.
Glassware and music boxes are popular products here, and it is also known for its picturesque city view. There are many museums and shops, so this area is a good place to buy souvenirs!
In February, the Otaru Snow light path festival is held every year, when snow lanterns and illuminations light up the city during from 17:00 to 21:00 everyday.

otaru

3.Hakodate

Hakodate is the southernmost city of Hokkaido. 
This city is the first port to open up to foreign trade, so you’ll find a lot of international influence in this area.
The Hakodate Morning Market (open from 5:00am until 3:00pm everyday), which is just a minute walk away from Hakodate Station is a great place to enjoy fresh seafood.
Major sightseeing spots are the Motomachi area, the Kanamori Red Brick Warehouses, and  Goryokaku park with its historic relics. 
At night, you can enjoy the amazing view. The night view here is considered one of the most beautiful in Japan along with Kobe and Nagasaki.

4.Niseko

This place is a very popular ski resort that attracts people from all over the world. The powder snow in this area is high in quality and there are a lot of hotels and Onsen spots. 
If you like outdoor activities like hiking or skiing, you should definitely check this are out!

niseko

5.Asahikawa

This is the 2nd largest city in Hokkaido after Sapporo. There is a popular Zoo called Asahiyama Zoo, which has a glass tunnel through the penguin pool. You can learn about wild animals in Hokkaido such as eagles, deer, wolves, cranes. polar bears, etc. 
Asahikawa ramen is a popular local food there. The broth is soy sauce based and a little more oily compared to most ramen in Japan.
Eating the ramen seeing the beautiful nature in Hokkaido will surely be a great experience!

asahikawa

6. Lake Toya

This lake is known for its spectacular view with the active volcano Mt. Usu and the nature around it. Lake Toya is one of the most popular hot spring areas in Hokkaido as well. In 2008, G8 summit was held here.

lake toya

7.Furano and Bie

Furano and Biei are best-known for their lavender fields. 
In Biei area, there is a popular blue pond called Shirogane blue pond and a spectacular waterfall called Shirahige Falls (it means “white beard waterfall”) , where you can see white curtains of water there and from November to April, light-up events take place from 6:00pm until 9:00pm. Biei Shirogane Onsen is another popular spot where you can relax taking a hot spring watching majestic nature around.

furano
blue pond

8.Noboribetsu Onsen

Located in south-western Hokkaido, it is the most popular hot spring town in Hokkaido.
There are 9 different kinds of hot-springs.
Among them, the most impressive one is Jigokudani, or Hell Valley.
The valley is 450 m wide, and 3,000 liters of hot water is produced per minute. In the north of the town, there are various hiking courses around.
Virgin forests in the area are designated as Japan’s natural monument.

9.Daisesuzan National Park

It is the largest national park in Japan (226,764 ha, more than 3 times bigger than Tokyo).
It is a great place for hikers. There are many different hiking courses, so any levels of hikers can enjoy walking in the beautiful nature seeing wild animals and flowers.
Asahi-Dake (2,291m) is the tallest mountain in the area, and there is a ropeway which goes up to 1,600m above the sea level.

daisetsuzan

10.Lake Mashu

This lake is considered as one of the clearest caldera lakes in the world.
Visitors are not allowed to go down to the lake, but there are two observation decks from which you can enjoy the views on a fine day. 
It is the best if you could rent a car to get there, but you could take infrequent buses that run between Mashu station and the Observation deck 1 (until November). 

lake mashu
http://photo.hokkaido-blog.com/html/03/mashuuko.html

11.Shiretoko National Park

This national park in the Shiretoko Peninsula in eastern Hokkaido was added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2005.
The nature there is unspoiled and it can be accessed only by foot or boat.
It is a home to many wild animals such as beers, foxes, deers, etc.
Just like in all national parks, you are not allowed to feed or throw away trash in the area so you need to follow the rules strictly if you are going.
In winter, drift ice can be seen in the Shiretoko Peninsula.

shiretoko

12.Shikaribetsu Kotan

During winter (from January to March only), there will be a snow village at the highest elevation lake in Hokkaido, which is 800 m above the sea level. This is called Shikaribetsu Kotan and it features numbers of attractions such as ice bars, ice hot springs, and ice concert halls.
At night, some buildings are lighten up.
If you would like to enjoy the winter in Hokkaido, make sure that you check Shikaribetsu Kotan!

kotan
http://photo.hokkaido-blog.com/

Popular cuisine in Hokkaido

・Ramen

There are basically four different kinds of ramen soup in Hokkaido: Miso (Sapporo), Soy-sauce (Asahikawa), Salt (Hakodate), and Curry (Muroran). 
You can enjoy locally grown, fresh vegetables with delicious soup and noodles. Eating ramen is great especially during cold winter!

ramen

・Milk and Cheese

Hokkaido is known for its daily product.
Cool summers and snowy winters in Hokkaido is great for farming and agriculture. The quality of milk and cheese produced there is very high and rich in taste.

hokkaido milk

・Seafood and vegetables

Thanks to the surrounding seas, there are a lot of tasty seafood in Hokkaido such as salmon roes, squids, sea urchins, shrimps, crabs, sea shells, and various Sashimis. All of them are very fresh and taste great!
Hokkaido’s huge land is great for making vegetables.
You can enjoy fresh vegetables throughout the year.

How to get to Hokkaido from Tokyo

The easiest way to go there is by an airplane. The price varies depending on the season and the airline you use, but it usually costs from around 10,560yen to 25,000yen for a round trip. It takes about 1 hour and a half. 
As an alternative way, you could take Hotoku Shinkansen (bullet train) from Tokyo station to Shinhakodate Hokuto station. It takes about 4 hours and costs around 22,690yen for one way(reserved seat), but you can enjoy the beautiful view during the train ride.

Enjoy traveling there and embrace the nature!

If you need more info about Japan, give me a comment here or send me a message to[email protected]

See you next time,
Taka

*I’m a professional composer by the way.
You can listen/download my album below.
Free Somebody
Skyhigh

3 easy steps to use chopsticks (and 9 don’ts)

by Leave a Comment

Chopsticks were originally from China, and they became popular in Japan and Korea by 500 A.D. Back then, people used chopsticks made from trees and bamboos but nowadays we see many different kinds of them.
Japanese chopsticks are generally shorter than Chinese or Korean chopsticks and we use them when we eat Asian cuisines (and sometimes even when we have food from western countries).
They are hard to use at first but once you get used to them, you will be amazed to know how useful they are.
Here is the easy, 3 steps guide on how to use chopsticks.

3 easy steps to use chopsticks

1.Hold the lower chopstick

Put the lower chopstick under your thumb, resting it on palm.
The end of your lower chopstick should be sticking out about 1 inch.

2.Hold the upper chopstick

Lightly grip the upper chopstick with your thumb, index, and middle fingers just like holding a pencil.
The tips of chopsticks need to be lined up.

lower chopstick

3.Move the upper chopstick to pick up food

Lower chopstick remains stationary, and only upper one is moved to pinch and control the food. Be careful not to cross them or force too much.

chopsticks

Etiquette while using chopsticks

Not everyone follow these rules strictly these days, but it is always good to know manners to show your politeness.
Here are 9 things you should avoid doing while using chopsticks in Japan.

1.刺し箸/Sashi Bashi

Do not stub food with chopsticks.
There is another Sashi Bashi with different writing, “差し箸” ,which is to point someone with your chopsticks. This is also considered rude.

2.握り箸/Nigiri Bashi

Do not use chopsticks grabbing.

3.くわえ箸/Kuwae Bashi

Do not hold your chopsticks in your mouth.

4.立て箸/Tate Bashi

Do not leave chopsticks vertically in the bowl of rice as this is only done at the funeral as an offering to the deceased.

5.箸渡し/Hashi watashi

Passing food from one pair of chopsticks to another is rude as this is related to a funeral.
This is done when placing the bone of the deceased in a cinerary urn.

6.舐り箸/Neburi Bashi

Do not lick or suck on your chopsticks.

7.探り箸/Saguri Bashi

Do not use chopsticks to sift through the contents of a dish (or dishes) in search of something. This is considered greedy and rude.

8.寄せ箸/Yose Bashi

Do not pull a dish using chopsticks.

9.叩き箸/Tataki Bashi

Do not play with chopsticks like drumming.

It is also important to place chopsticks across your plate or dish after eating. This is the sign to tell that you are done eating and show appreciation to the one(s) who prepared your meal.

Many restaurants and markets in Japan provide you with a pair of wooden chopsticks that need to be broken apart.
They are called waribashi (割り箸). These are disposable ones.
If they are in a plastic bag, be careful when opening it.
There is usually a tiny toothpick with them and you may hurt yourself if you don’t know it!

Enjoy your Asian food with chopsticks!
See you next time,
Taka

*I’m a professional composer by the way.
You can listen/download my album below.
Free Somebody
Skyhigh

23 important events/holidays in Japan

by Leave a Comment

How’s it going? It is the rainy season in Japan now, but it’s already getting hot! It feels like summer already.
Any plans for the summer this year?
I’m thinking about traveling a lot!

This time I wrote about some of the most important annual events and national holidays in Japan.
Hope this article will help you understand more about my country and culture!

In Japan, when a national holiday is on Sunday, the following Monday will be a holiday and a day between holidays will also be a holiday.

Some events below are from western countries and you can see how much we are influenced by different cultures (but at the same time we do keep some traditional events, which is very cool I think!).

January 1st  
正月/Shogatsu
New year Day

Jan 1st is the first day of the new year in Japan and many businesses are closed until Jan 3rd. Most people go back to their parents’ place and celebrate eating Osechi (An assortment of small dishes. Each dish has meaning, and people traditionally eat it to wish for good health and prosperity for the family for the year) ,and Mochi (rice cake).

Second Monday of January
成人の日/Seijin nohi
Coming of Age Day

Young men and women who are turning 20 are celebrated on this day.
They wear traditional Japanese clothes and celebrate together (legal drinking age is 20 in Japan, so many of them enjoy drinking).

kimono girls

February 11th
建国記念日/Kenkoku kinenbi
National Foundation Day

It is the day to celebrate the mythological foundation of Japan.
According to the earliest Japanese history record, the first Japanese emperor was crowned on this day in the year 660 BC.

February 14th
バレンタインデー/Valentine’s Day

It was brought from western countries and it became a tradition in the late 1970s (Chocolate companies ran advertisement and it became popular. Most Japanese chocolate companies make half their annual sales during Valentine season).
In Japan, women give chocolate to men (Chocolate that is given to a loved one is called “Honmei-Choko”, to co-workers/bosses is called “Giri(obligation)-Choko, and to friends is called “Tomo(Friend)-Choko”). March 14th is called “White Day”, when men are expected to return the favor to the ones who gave them chocolates on Feb 14th.

chocolate

February 23rd
天皇誕生日/Nennou Tanjoubi
Emperor’s birthday

It is the birthday of the current emperor, Emperor Naruhito.

March 3rd
ひな祭り/Hina Matsuri
Doll’s Day (Also called Girl’s Day)

It is the day to pray for good health and happiness of young girls in Japan. It is a tradition to display Japanese dolls dressed in decorative robes of the ancient imperial court at home.
Traditional food like Hishi-mochi (diamond shaped rice cakes) ,Chirashi sushi (many ingredients and raw fish are mixed and they are put on top of sweet vinegared rice) are displayed and served on the day.

hinamatsuri

Around March 20th
春分の日/Shunbun nohi
Vernal Equinox Day

It is the day around Mar 20th, when the March equinox occurs.
It is less popular now but people traditionally ate Botamochi on this day (rice cake covered with pasted red beans).

April 29th
昭和の日/Showa nohi
Showa Day

It is the birthday of the former Emperor Showa.

sakura and a bird

May 3rd
憲法記念日/Kenpo kinenbi
Constitution Day

It is the day to celebrate the promulgation of the 1947 Constitution of Japan.

May 4th
みどりの日/Midori nohi
Greenery Day

It is the day to be thankful for nature’s blessings (it was on April 29th until 2006 as Showa Day. It was moved to this date and celebrated as a day of Golden week now).

May 5th
こどもの日/Kodomo nohi
Children’s Day (Also called Boy’s Day)

It is a day to celebrate children’s happiness.
As the counterpart to Hinamatsuri, this day is also known as Boy’s Day.
On this day, Koinobori (carp-shaped windsock) is displayed (there’s a Chinese legend that a carp that swims upstream becomes a dragon).
Traditionally, the big black carp represents father, red one represents mother, and small ones are children.
As it was originally the day for boys, some people display Samurai dolls at home on this day.
Kashiwa Mochi (Rice cake wrapped in Oak leaves), and Chimaki (Sweet rice wrapped in a bamboo leaf) are served on the day (although this tradition is less popular now).

koinobori

July 7th
七夕/Tanabata
Star Festival

It is a Japanese festival originating from Chinese Qixi festival.
It is believed that the Milky Way separates Orihime and Hikoboshi (Vega and Altair stars), and they are allowed to meet once a year on this day.
People write wishes on colored paper and hang them on bamboo trees.

tanabata

July 20th
海の日/Umi nohi
Marine Day

This is the day to give thanks to the ocean.
It was designated in 1995 as the first holiday in the summer months.
Many schools start Summer vacation around this time.

August 11th
山の日/Yama nohi
Mountain Day

This is another relatively new holiday set in 2016 to appreciate blessings from mountains.

August 13th to 16th
お盆/Obon

It is a Buddhist event for commemorating ancestors.
It is said that the spirits of ancestors return to visit relatives during this time of the year.
People visit graves and Obon dance is performed at many temples and shrines.
Some people hang lanterns in front of houses to welcome those spirits.
At the end of Obon season, people float lanterns down the rivers for ancestors’ spirits to go back to their world safely.

obon lanterns

Third Monday of September
敬老の日/Keirou nohi
Respect for the aged day

This is the day to honor and respect the elder people.
Events to assist the elders are held on this day.

Around September 23rd
秋分の日/Shubun nohi
Autumnal equinox Day

People reconnect with their families by visiting temples, shrines, and graves on this day. It is also the day to celebrate autumn harvest.

Second Monday of October
体育の日/Taiiku nohi
Health and sports Day

In 1964, Tokyo Olympics was held on this day.  
Most schools have an annual sports festival around this time of the year.
In 2020, it will be on July 24th when the opening ceremony of 2020 Tokyo Olympics is held.
After 2020 on, the name of this holiday will be changed to Sports Day.

November 3rd　
文化の日/Bunka nohi
Culture Day

It was originally Emperor Meiji’s birthday.
It is a day to promote culture, art, and academic endeavor now.
Festivals are held in schools and at many places in Japan, and selected artists receive awards. In 1946, post-war constitution was announced on this day.

November 15th  
七五三/Shichi go san

It is a traditional rite of passage and a festival day to celebrate girls of 3 and 7 years old and boys of 5 years old.
Children wear traditional Japanese style clothes and people celebrate the growth and well-being of them.
Chitose ame (kind of a red and white, long candy) is served to hope for their long, healthy life (a crane and a turtle ,which represent long life in Japan, are drawn on the bag of it).

Shihigosan

November 23rd　
勤労感謝の日/Kinrou Kansha nohi
Labor Thanksgiving Day

This is the day to commemorate labor and production.
Labor festival is held in Nagano each year to think about the environment, peace, and human rights.

December 24th and 25th
クリスマス/Christmas

It is not a national holiday, but Japanese people celebrate Christmas just like in many western countries (these days in city areas, people even enjoy Halloween wearing costumes on Oct 31st).
Christmas trees are displayed and decorated at stores and stations ,and people get busy buying presents (and cakes!).

December 31st 　
大晦日/Oomisoka
New Year’s Eve

Families get together and most people clean the house to welcome the coming year. Watching some special TV programs while eating Soba noodle is a typical thing people do on this day.
At midnight, you hear the sound of Joya No Kane (New Year’s Bell).
Monks at temples ring the bell 108 times to remove worldly passions such as anger and pain ,and purify everyone’s minds.

a bell at a temple

By the way, Japan has as many as 16 national holidays (on average) and a worker can take 20 paid days off a year.
However, because the work environment is very competitive and the number of employees are declining in Japan (due to the aging population combined with the diminishing number of children), most people take only about 10 paid holidays.
Reference: https://welove.expedia.co.jp/press/40915/

We do need to improve the work environment to enjoy holidays and event more!
How about in your country?
Do people have enough time to enjoy national holidays and events?
Give me some comments below!

See you next time.
Taka

*I’m a professional composer by the way.
You can listen/download my album below.
Free Somebody
Skyhigh

21 Famous Japanese proverbs

by Leave a Comment

Hi, How are you?
I’ve been busy working as usual… But I’m making my living doing what I love so I have no complaint! Life is great.
I teach Music and English every week, and I’m getting ready for new music project.
Oh, and me and my friend are planning to start a Youtube channel.
I will inform here when we are ready!

This time I listed some of the most popular Japanese proverbs.
I like learning proverbs because we can learn important teachings.
While I was doing some research, I found that there are a lot of similar sayings in English.
It is very interesting to know different words (often animals or objects) are used to express the same meaning, and see the different way of seeing the world.
Here is the list of them.
Have fun learning Japanese and expressions!

kids learning

1.船頭多くして船山に上る/ Sendou ookushite funeyama ni noboru.

Too many cooks spoil the broth.
Sendou means “A leader on a ship”.
If there are too many leaders on a ship, it will sail to a wrong place.

2.ちりも積もれば山となる/Chiri mo tsumoreba yama to naru.

Many drops make a shower.
Chiri means “Dust” and Yama means “A mountain”.
Even a very small/little thing like dust, it will be like a mountain if it piles.
It is used to talk about either good or bad result that a habit/practice brings.

3.藪をつついて蛇を出す/Yabu wo tsutsuite hebi wo dasu.

Let sleeping dogs lie.
Yabu means “Bush”, and Hebi means “a snake”.
If you do unnecessary thing like poking at the bush, a snake (or a trouble) will come out, so just let well alone.

4.笑う門には福来たる/Warau kado niwa fuku kitaru.

Good fortune and happiness will come to the home of those who smile.

5.嘘つきは泥棒の始まり/Usotsuki wa dorobou no hazimari.

Lying leads to stealing (and it gets worse, so don’t form a bad habit).

6.二度あることは三度ある/Nido aru koto wa sando aru.

What happens “Nido” (twice) will happen “Sando” (three times).

7.明日は明日の風が吹く/Ashita wa ashita no kaze ga fuku.

Tomorrow is another day.
The direct translation is, “There will be different wind blowing tomorrow”.
This is often used to tell someone to take it easy and be optimistic.

blowing

8.終わり良ければすべて良し/Owari yokereba subete yoshi.

All is well that ends well or It will all come good in the end.

9.百聞は一見にしかず/Hyakubun wa iken ni shikazu.

A picture is worth a thousand words or Seeing is believing.

10.二兎を追う者は一とも得ず/Nito wo oumono wa itoumo ezu.

He who runs after two hares will catch neither.

11.残り物には福がある/Nokori mono niwa fuku ga aru.

There is fortune in leftovers.
It is often used to tell someone that there is unexpected good in what others have left behind, so don’t give up/let’s be positive even if you are (or something is) left behind.

12.七転び八起き/Nana korobi ya oki.

Ups and downs.
The direct translation is, “Fall seven times, stand up eight times”. Even if you fall seven times, you can be successful by standing up eight times and keep on going, so never give up.

13.石の上にも三年/Ishi no ue nimo sannen.

Perseverance prevails.
The direct translation is, “Three years on a stone (will make the stone warm)”. Be patient and you will achieve your goal.

14.猿も木から落ちる/Saru mo ki kara ochiru.

Even homer sometimes nods.
Saru means “A monkey”. The direct translation is, “Even monkeys fall from trees”.

15.芸は身を助ける/Gei wa mi wo tasukeru.

Art brings bread.
Gei means “Art”. Mi wo tasukeru means, “Help someone”.

16.将を射んと欲すれば、先ず馬を射よ/Shou wo inn to hosureba, mazu uma wo iyo.

Do not shoot straight for the top (instead, see things well first and start with something that will lead to success/goal).
The direct translation is, “If you want to shoot the general, first shoot his horse”.

17.初心忘れる可からず/Shoshin wasuru bekarazu.

Don’t forget your first resolution or Never lose your humility.

18.千里の道も一歩から/Senri no michi mo ippo kara.

A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.
Sen means “A thousand”, and Ri is an old unit of measure which is about 4 kilometers.
So, Senri is 4,000 kilometers. “Senri” is used to talk about a long journey.

a lot of books

19.泣きっ面に蜂/Nakittura ni hachi.

It never rains but it pours.
The direct translation is, “A bee comes to someone crying”.
One misfortune rides upon another’s back.
Well, that happens a lot, doesn’t it?

20.出る釘は打たれる/Deru kugi wa utareru.

A nail that stands will be hammered down.
This one explains Japanese society well I think.
If you don’t conform to the rest, you’ll get hammered down….Ouch

21.猫に小判/Neko ni koban.

Cast pearls before swine.
Neko is “A cat”, and Koban is “Gold”, so the Japanese version is “Cast gold before cat”.

cat

Thank you for reading!
If there’s anything that you want me to write, let me know!

Have a great month,
Taka

*I’m a professional composer by the way.
You can listen/download my album below.
Free Somebody
Skyhigh

Lost in Japan? 17 useful Japanese phrases ≪with audio≫

by Leave a Comment

So many people, and so many narrow streets… It’s very easy to get lost in Japan! Things are very convenient and safe here, but the transportation system is a bit complicated and if you can not read/speak Japanese, you might have hard time finding the best way to get to your destination even using Google map.
Here are some of the useful phrases that you can use when you get lost and want some help in Japan. Learn these expressions and enjoy your travel in Japan!

Japan

・When you want to ask

すみません/ Sumimasen

Excuse me.

（ここは/今）何処ですか？/ (Kokowa/Ima) doko desuka?

Where is this place/am I now?

〜は何処ですか？/ – Wa doko desuka?

Where is -?

道に迷いました。/Michi ni mayoi mashita.

I’m lost my way. “Michi” means “Way”.

〜へはどうやって行ったら良いですか？/ – He wa douyatte ittara ii desuka?

What is a good way to get to -? “Douyatte” means “How to”.
When you don’t know how to do something, you could ask like, “どうやってするのですか？Douyatte suru no desuka?”

〜への行き方を教えて下さい。/ – He no ikikata wo oshiete kudasai.

Please tell me how to get to -. “Oshiete” means “Tell me” or “Teach me”.

〜が見つかりません。/ -Ga mitsukari masen.

I can’t find -. This phrase can be used when you lost something and you are looking for it. For example, “Tokei ga mitsukari masen” meaning, “I can’t find my watch.”

ここから何分くらいかかりますか？/Kokokara nanfun kurai kakarimasuka?

How long does it take to get there from here?

lost

・Other useful expressions

右/左 / Migi/Hidari

Right/Left

ここ/そこ/あっち / Koko/Soko/Attchi

This place(or here)/That place(or there)/Over there

(この/あの)道をまっすぐです / (Kono/Ano) michi wo massugu desu.

Go straight (this/that) way. “Massugu” is “Straight”.

(右に/左に/角を)曲がる / (Migini/Hidarini/Kadowo) Magaru.

Turn (right/left/at the corner). “Magaru” means “To turn”.

(歩いて/車で/バスで/電車で) 〜分くらいです。/ (Aruite/Kuruma de/Bus de/Densha de) – fun kurai desu.

It takes about – min (on foot/by car/by bus/by train).

遠い/近い / Toui/Chikai

Far/Close

案内しますよ。/ Annai Shimasuyo.


I will take you there.
Lucky you if you get this phrase from the person you are talking to!

〜で乗り換えて下さい。 / – de norikaete kudasai.

Please transfer at -. “Norikae” means “Transfer”.

助かりました！ / Tasukarimashita!


You saved me! /That was a help!
You could use this phrase to say thank you.

walking on the street

By the way, we don’t usually use “Block” in Japan when we talk about the directions.
So, you rarely hear someone says things like “Go straight this way for 2 blocks…”.

It is hard for Japanese people who can not speak English well to explain the direction.
But if you can use the Japanese words and phrases here, it will be much easier for you to get the right information when you are lost/looking for a place.

This reminds me of the time when I visited the U.K.
When I went to the U.K for the first time (about 4 years ago), I couldn’t find the hostel I was staying, so I asked for a help and a very friendly local drove me there.
I was very thankful for that! And I try to do the same every time I see someone who needs help in Japan now.

Japanese people are generally friendly and helpful, so don’t be afraid to talk to locals when you need some help.
If you know some Japanese, it is most likely that they will try to help you as much as they can.

Hope this post will be of your help.
If there’s anything that you want me to write, feel free to send me a message to [email protected]
Or you could simply give me a comment.

See you next time!
Taka 

*I’m a professional composer by the way.
You can listen/download my album below!
Free Somebody
Skyhigh

All about capsule hotels in Japan

by Leave a Comment

Paying for food, transportation, shopping, and accommodation….
Traveling in Japan costs a lot of money.
If you are staying for a long time in Japan, you should plan out carefully.
There are a lot of delicious food and interesting goods, so without planning, you will end up spending too much money!

Here is an option for those who want to save some money during their trip in Japan: Staying at capsule hotels.
If you don’t care too much about the place to stay (or if you are a minimalist then definitely!), or looking for an interesting place to stay, booking capsule hotels is a great idea.

It will be a great experience staying at this unique accommodation and most of them are very comfortable and affordable.
Check the info below and learn all about capsule hotels!

capsule hotel and a laptop

Capsule hotels are cheap places to stay.
They were originally made for salarymen when they couldn’t make it home overnight.
Therefore, most capsule hotels are made only for men.
However, more and more capsule hotels are offering accommodation for women and foreigners recently.
At such places, they usually offer gender segregated sleeping floors for men and women and well maintained with security systems.
Such capsule hotels are usually found near major train stations and it only costs around 3,000yen to 5,000yen per a night to stay
(except at some premium capsule hotels that offer more space and luxurious experience).

sleeping lady

The type of capsules are different depending on the hotels.
A typical capsule is a fiberglass unit (about 1.2 m wide, 2 m long, and 1 m high), and has a single size futon mattress with sheets, blankets , and pillows, a TV/radio ,bed light, outlet, and WiFi inside with a curtain/door to cover the entrance.
Usually, two units are stacked and lined up side by side along the corridor.

capsule hotel osaka
This is the original capsule hotel in Osaka.

Bathroom/Shower room are shared with other guests like a hostel or guesthouse.
Some places have restaurants, laundry machines, vending machines, lounges with massage chairs, game/manga rooms, or even a Sento (Sento is the communal bathing place. About Sento, check my another post:https://hidanotaka.com/sento/).

inside a capsule hotel

Getting interested? But don’t rush!
Here are the things that you should know before going to a capsule hotel.

・You need to remove your shoes upon checking in.
You will be given a key with the number of the capsule you are using. You will have to return the key to check out, so don’t lose it!

・Smoking is not allowed inside of a capsule.

・You need to refrain from making too much noise or mess.
*Note that some capsule hotels are for a single stay.
At such places, you need to check out and check in again if you are staying more than a day.

Here are the recommended capsule hotels

In Tokyo

Shinjuku Kuyakusho-mae Capsule Hotel
It is located close to Shinjuku station, near Shinjuku piccadilly movie theater.
This place has a 24 hour bath and sauna with a lounge, restaurant, and coin-operated laundries.

Check in: From 4:00pm until 3:00am
Check out: 10:00am
Price: 2,500 to 3,800yen for women, 2,600 to 3,600yen for men

Capsule Value Kanda
It is a popular capsule hotel near Akihabara station.
They have luggage storages and 24 hour room service.

Check in: From 5:00pm
Check out: 10:00am
Price: 2,900 to 3,400yen

Hotel Asakusa & Capsule
This place is located near Asakusa station.
It has a large shared bath, free wi-fi, and a lounge, and each capsule has a TV and Yukata robe.
Although they don’t serve food, it is a cheap, comfortable place to stay!

Check in: From 4:00pm
Check out: 9:30am
Price: 2,200yen
*You could choose to stay at a room here. It costs 4,400yen per a night.

In Osaka

Capsule Hotel Inn Osaka
It is the first capsule hotel appeared in Japan in 1979.
I went to this place about 4 years ago and it was quite comfortable!
It has a big sauna and spa, a restaurant, laundry machines, and a spacious TV room with sofas. It’s only for men, however!

Check in: From Noon
Check out: 10:00am
Price: From 3,400yen

In Kyoto

Smart Stay Shizuku
It is a brand new (opened in 2018) capsule hotel near Kyoto Station.
It has a manga/magazine room, massage chairs, coin-operated laundry machines, a sauna, vending machines, and a restaurant.

Check in: From 4:00pm untill 5:00am
Check out: 10:00am
Price: From 3,980yen

If you would like to stay at a luxurious capsule hotel, you could stay at First Cabin Haneda.
It is fancier than average capsule hotels and is inside of the Haneda International airport.
The price is a bit higher than average capsule hotels, but you will be able to enjoy spacious single room.
Check in time is until 7:00pm, and Check out time is 10:00am.
It costs about 6,000yen per a night to stay at a first-class cabin.

Narita Airpot also has this kind of service, at the place called Nine Hours Narita Airpot.
It costs 4,900 per a night on weekdays, and 5,900yen on Friday and weekends.
Check in time is from noon to 5:00am, Check out time is 10:00am.
*There are a lot of First Cabin and Nine Hours in major city areas in Japan! If you don’t know which capsule to stay, you should always look for them.

staff at a hotel

I hope this post will make your stay in Japan easier.
There are a lot more capsule hotels all over Japan, and they are very convenient.
You will have a very comfortable stay if you can use some Japanese phrases and talk to staff.
Check my another post to learn some useful Japanese phrases: https://hidanotaka.com/17-simple-japanese-phrases-used-in-hotels/

Taka playing the guitar
This is me playing my guitar.

If there’s anything that you want me to write, feel free to send me a message to [email protected]
Or you could simply give me a comment.

Have a great day!(or night)
Taka 

*I’m a professional composer.
You can listen/download my album below!
Free Somebody
Skyhigh

17 simple Japanese phrases used in hotels《with audio》

by Leave a Comment

Hi, How’s it going? 
We just had the longest vacation time Golden week in Japan, and everyone’s back to work/school now.  
I met a really nice couple from Israel and showed them around.

It is always nice to be friends with people from overseas!

Alright, this time I wrote about some simple, useful Japanese phrases that you can use at a hotel.
I have experience working as a front desk at a guesthouse ,so I’m sure they will be of some help.
If you know these 17 expressions below, you will have no problem staying at a hotel in Japan!

When you check in

1.チェックインをお願いします/Check in wo onegai shimasu.

Check in, please. 
Onegai Shimasu means, “Please”. It sounds formal and is a nice phrase to use when you talk to someone you meet for the first time. 

2.予約人数は（一人/二人/三人) です/Yoyaku ninzu wa (Hitori/Futari/Sannin) desu.

I have a reservation for 1 person/ 2 people/3 people. 
“Yoyaku” means a reservation. When you count the number of people, “Hitori” is used for 1 person, “Futari” is used for 2 people, and from 3 people on, “ – nin” is used. 
(“San” is three. “Yon, Go, Roku, Nana, Hachi, Kyu, Jyu” are four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, ten respectively).

3.予約番号は～です/Yoyaku bangou wa – desu.

My reservation number is -. 
Most hotels won’t ask you to tell your reservation number but you should have it just in case. You are required to show your passport, so don’t forget to take it out when you check in!

4.～から～まで泊まります/- kara – made tomarimasu.

I’m staying from – to -. 
It is great if you know how to say the dates in Japanese, but if you don’t, you could use English and say like, “ 24th kara 26th made tomarimasu” and they will understand.

5.カードで払えますか？/Card de haraemasuka?

Can I pay by (credit) card? 
Hotels should be ok, but at some hostels/guesthouses in the countryside do not accept credit card, so you might want to bring some cash with you if you are going to such places.
You can learn more about this on my another post: https://hidanotaka.com/4-things-you-should-know-before-visiting-japan/

When you check out

6.チェックアウトをお願いします/Check out wo onegai shimasu. 

Check out, please. 
Yes, the same expression “Onegai shimasu” works here as well. 

7.鍵をお返しします/Kagi wo okaeshi shimasu

I’m returning the (room) key. 
You can say this as you return your room key to the receptionist.

8.ありがとうございました/Arigatou gozaimashita.

It is a formal way of saying Thank you. 
Hotel staff will appreciate it if you say this when you leave!

Trouble 　

9.すみません、～が動かないのですが/Sumimasen, – ga ugokanai no desuga. 

Excuse me, it seems that – is not working.
“Ugokanai” means something is “Not working”.

10.すみません、～の使い方を教えてください/Sumimasen, – no tsukaikata wo oshiete kudasai.

Excuse me, please tell me how to use -.
If you don’t know how to use an air-conditioner, a shower, or a TV, use this phrase to ask for a help!

Sending luggage

11.～へ荷物を送りたいのですが/ – e nimotsu wo okuritai no desuga.

I would like to send my luggage to – . 
If you have big suitcases and want to send them to the next destination, use this phrase. 
Note that you need to ask at least 2 days prior to the expected date of the arrival as it takes time to deliver suitcases. 
If the hotel doesn’t have a delivery service, take your luggage to a nearest convenience store.
Most convenience stores can help you send your stuff.

12.幾らかかりますか？/Ikura kakarimasuka?

How much will that be?
The price is different depending on the size and the distance, but it usually costs roughly around 3,000 yen to send one suitcase. For the detail, check the website of Yamato delivery service.

Talking to hotel staff

13.おすすめのお店はありますか？/Osusume no omise wa arimasuka?

Do you know any good restaurant? /Which restaurant do you recommend?

14.そこは何時から空いていますか？/Soko wa nanji kara aite imasuka?

What time does the place open?

15.～まで行きたいのですが/- made ikitai no desuga.

I’d like to go to -. 

16.～へはどうやって行きますか？/ – he wa douyatte ikimasuka?

How do you go to -? /How can I get to -?

17.～はどこですか？/ – wa doko desuka?

Where is -?

These are the 17 most used expressions at a hotel. 
Not all workers at hotels can speak English fluently (especially in the countryside).
It is the best to learn them before going to a place to stay!

By the way, there’s no tipping system in Japan.
So, you don’t need to pay anything even if a porter helped you carry your luggage or a cleaning staff came to clean up the room!

https://hidanotaka.com/new-album-free-somebody/

My new album, “Free Somebody” is well received all over the world and I’m really, really happy about it!
If you haven’t listened to it, check it out here: Free Somebody

My previous work, is also available: Skyhigh 

Thank you for your support!
I’ll keep on posting my music and info about Japan here. 

If there’s anything that you want me to write, feel free to send me a message to [email protected]
Or you could simply give me a comment below.
I’ll see you next time!
Taka 

New Album, “Free Somebody” is out!

by Leave a Comment

Hi, How’s it going?
May 1, 2019 is the first day of Japan’s new era, 令和 Reiwa.
And it is the release date of my new mini album, “Free Somebody”.
Among hundreds of songs I wrote, I chose 4 songs and recorded during Oct last year and Jan to March this year. Then I had an engineer mixed in April.

It’s been about 4 years since I released my last full album “Skyhigh” ,which was my first and an experimental work using a lot of instruments including synth guitar, vocal effects, banjo, violin, soundscape, etc.
This new album has the message “Set yourself free to free people around you.”
I focused more on words, melodies, and vocals this time.
Just like the last time, I composed and played all instruments, and then wrote lyrics and took all vocals (the guitar solo on 1 and 3 are played by Yoshihiro Kajita, the guitar player I admire the most in Japan).
The analog mixing technique by the engineer, Michifumi Onodera helped the album create the feeling of floating.
If you have speakers in your room, I recommend that you play my music using them and you can fully enjoy the acoustics.

The album artwork is by Gaku Yamazaki, a cartoonist in Tokyo.
The door represents the way to the freedom.
It is always up there right in front of you and waiting for you to open.

I feel that I’m very fortunate to be able to work with great talents!You can watch movies of the recording process on my another post: https://hidanotaka.com/happy-new-year/

Here are the 4 songs and lyrics.

recording

1.Angel
I wanted to express true love through this song.
It has a unique floating feeling with the sounds of synthesizer and the air.

Lyrics:
“I’ll be waiting for you to come here
Until the day I’ll be with you
No matter how long it takes I really don’t care
‘cause my life is for you
You are an angel for me
There’s nobody else like you
Must be an angel for me
I really love the way you are
When I see your eyes that make me feel alright
When I see your smile that makes my world so bright… “

2.One
This song is about “Living through anything”.
We only live once and with strength and belief, I believe that we can push the limits to achieve what we desire.

Lyrics:
“窓の向こうの青い空　ずっと見つめている
You are looking at the blue sky through the window

何かを探しているような　迷っているような
You seem like looking for something or maybe wondering where to go

そんな顔で君は　もううつむかないで
Don’t look down with the sad face like that anymore

何も起こらないよ　
Nothing will happen doing that

誰かの声を待っていちゃ　奇跡だってさ
If you are just waiting for someone to show you the way

さあその手で扉を開いて　その足でこの世界を行くんだ
Now, open the door with your hands and live your life

そこで待っているよ　もっと大きな自分自身
And you will be a lot greater

未完成のままで誰も皆 流されながら歩いているんだ
Everyone is incomplete, and walking/flowing in time just like you

だって一度きりの　二度とない世界で生きているから
We all have one life and living in this world

3. Sounds of Words
This song is about the miscommunication, or the relationships among people who can not understand each other just saying words meaninglessly.
That is sort of a situation which lets everyone down.
I wanted to include this song in the album to express the difficulties we face in life.

Lyrics:
“What are these things we are talking every day and night?
Just like another world’s end,
Nowhere we can go

And there are only words that floating in this empty space
Is there anyway we can find a way to go?

I just want to be with you and that is all
But when I look at you ,you look away and nobody knows
what is going on and then this moment of silence
comes and goes and take us to the place we’ve been before
You just want to be with me that is what you say

But when you look at me I look away unintentionally
moving away from the time we should share
and the sounds of words are fading away again.”

4.Free Somebody
This song is about living harmoniously with someone important.
And that is the way one should take after setting his/herself free, I believe.

Lyrics:
“僕らはこの毎日の意味を知らずに歩いていた
We were walking without noticing the messages we receive everyday

あの日いつもの交差点で出会うその日まで
Until the day when we met at the crossing that we would go through

何かが始まる音がして　時計が止まった
We felt that something started and the time stopped for a moment

この先の道に何も　確かなことは無くとも
We don’t know what the future brings

ずっと笑い合っていようよ　今はこのままで
But let’s be together and stay as we are

寂しさや悲しみさえも　分け合えるように
And we can share the ups and downs

どうかそのままでいてね
So please stay as you are

いつか思い出が風に消えるまで
Until the very last day when the memories fade in the air

そっと手を重ねて 離さないように
Let’s hold hands and be as one

ずっとこの日々が輝きますように
I hope to continue this forever

そっと手を重ねて 離さないように
Let’s hold hands and be as one

Here is the link to download/listen to this new album: Free Somebody
My previous work, is also available: Skyhigh 

I will keep on creating art and music.
I’m very thankful for being able to do what I like and really appreciate everyone’s support.

I hope my works will be your inspiration.
Taka

taka


53 useful Japanese words and phrases《with audio》

by Leave a Comment

Hi, How are you doing?
We just had the Spring Festival in Takayama.
The festival lasts for 2 days but we had a rainy day on the first day so the festival floats didn’t go out.
However they did on the 2nd day.
I was able to see them and take some pics.

About Takayama City, you can check my another post:https://hidanotaka.com/about-takayama/
We have festival 2 times a year here. Come visit if you have a chance!

This time I listed useful Japanese words and phrases that you can use during your stay in Japan.
There are still many places where the staff can only use Japanese, so I’m sure these expressions here will be of some help.
If you could use some of them, it will be much easier to communicate and make friends in Japan!

・Basic words and phrases

おはようございます/Ohayou Gozaimasu

Hello/Good morning. More casual way of saying it is おはよう/Ohayou.

こんにちは/Konnichiwa

Hello/Good afternoon.

こんばんは/Konbanwa

Good evening.

おやすみなさい/Oyasumi Nasai

Good night. More casual way of saying it is おやすみ/Oyasumi.

ありがとうございます/Arigatou Gozaimasu

Thank you. More casual way of saying it is ありがとう/Arigatou.

お元気ですか？/Ogenki Desuka?

How are you? More casual way of saying it is 元気?/Genki?

Japanese girl

・Getting to know each other

初めまして/Hajime Mashita

Nice to meet you.

私の名前は〜です/Watashino Namaewa …Desu.

My name is …

あなたの名前は何ですか？/Anatano Namaewa Nanndesuka?

What is your name?

好きな（映画/音楽/スポーツ)は何ですか？/Sukina (Eiga/Ongaku/Sport) Wa Nandesuka?

What is your favorite (Movie/Music/Sport)?

・Saying Goodbye

お会いできて良かったです。/Oaidekite Yokatta Desu.

It was nice meeting you.

またね/Matane

Take care/See you again.

さようなら/Sayounara

See you/Goodbye. A bit more casual way of saying it is さよなら/Sayonara.

You could also say じゃあね/Jya Ne to your friends. While さようなら is polite and often used as a farewell message,
じゃあね often has the meaning “See you again soon/Let’s meet again”.

Harajyuku

・At a store/restaurant

(これ/あれ)は何ですか？/(Kore/Are)Wa Nandesuka?

What is this/that?

幾らですか/Ikura Desuka?

How much?

いいですね/Iidesune

Good. More casual way of saying it is いいね/Iine.

大丈夫です/Daijobu Desu.

I’m fine/It’s OK (Polite way of saying No).
You could also say 結構です/Kekkou Desu to directly say “No thanks”.

(Wifi/この商品)はありますか?/(Wifi/Kono Sho-hin) Wa Arimasuka?

Do you have Wifi/this product?

(トイレ/試着室/レストラン/メニュー)は何処ですか? (Toilet/Shichakushitsu/Restaurant/Menu) Wa Dokodesuka?

Where is a (toilet/fitting room/restaurant/menu)?

〜へ行きたいです/…E Ikitai Desu.

I’d like to go to 〜．

〜を食べたいです/…Wo Tabetai Desu.

I’d like to eat 〜．

〜をしてみたいです/…Wo Shite Mitai Desu.

I’d like to try 〜．

お願いします/Onegai Shimesu.

Please.

これをください/Korewo Kudasai.

This one, please (requesting).

どうぞ/Douzo.

Please (Offering)/Please go ahead/Here you are.

もう一度言ってください/Mouichido Itte Kudasai.

Please say it again.

ゆっくり言ってください/Yukkuri Itte Kudasai.

Please speak more slowly.

(写真を撮っても/触っても)良いですか？/(Shashinwo Totemo/Sawattemo) Iidesuka?

Is it OK to (take a picture/touch)?

はい/Hai

Yes.

いいえ/Iie

No.

すみません/Sumimasen

Excuse me. More polite way of saying it is ごめんなさい/Gomenasai I’m sorry.

何時まで空いていますか？/Nanjimade Aiteimasuka?

Until what time are you open?

おすすめは何ですか？/Osusumewa Nandesuka?

What do you recommend?

〜が食べられません/…Ga Taberaremasen.

I can’t eat ~. If you are a vegan/vegetarian, check my another post:https://hidanotaka.com/vegetarian-and-vegan-in-japan/

美味しい/Oishii

Delicious.

お会計お願いします/Okaikei Onegaishimasu.

Check, please.

ご馳走様でした/Gochisou Samadeshita.

Thank you for the meal.

クレジットカードは使えますか？/Credit Card Wa Tsukae Masuka?

Can I use my credit card?

At a restaurant, you might hear… 

いらっしゃいませ or いらっしゃい/Irashaimase or Irashai

It means “Welcome” or “May I help you?”

店内でお召し上がりですか/Tennaide Omeshiagari Desuka?

Will you be eating here?

お持ち帰りですか?/Omochikaeri Desuka?

Is this takeout?

喫煙ですか、禁煙ですか?/Kitsu-en Desuka, Kin-en Desuka?

Smoking or Non-Smoking?

If you are not feeling well/In case of an emergency, you could say…

具合が悪いです/Guaiga Waruidesu.

I don’t feel well.

助けてください！/Tasukete Kudasai!

Please help me!

Thanks to the advance of technology, nowadays you can communicate using a translator even if you don’t speak any Japanese at all.
But if you know some Japanese words and phrases, your stay in Japan will be a lot more fun and you can have the “Real communication” with locals without any devices and I’m sure it will be a great experience!
People will really appreciate it if you try talking in Japanese.

If you are interested in learning some Japanese slangs, check my another post :https://hidanotaka.com/japanese-slangs/

Have fun learning and speaking Japanese!
Taka

※I’m a professional composer. My songs are available here: Skyhigh 
Or, you can click on the band camp link below to listen.

*Need more info about Japan?
Give me a comment here or send me a message to
[email protected]

4 ways to use a cell phone in Japan

by Leave a Comment

You can’t live comfortably without a phone these days, especially when you are on a trip.
It will be very inconvenient if you can’t get directions, make reservations, or send messages online. 
(And if you can’t use the google translation, it will be very hard to communicate with Japanese speakers!)
But the mobile phone use in Japan can be a little confusing for foreigners because there are so many services and mobile phone companies.
So, this time I wrote about phone use in Japan and listed best options for anyone coming to stay in Japan!

1.Get a SIM card

With a SIM card, you can use your own mobile phone in Japan if it is unlocked and work on a network in Japan.
You can simply buy a Japanese SIM card and data plan for your phone.
Note that most SIM cards are for data only and you cannot make a phone call. 
You can get a SIM card at airports, retailers in Japan (like at Bic camera or Yodobashi), or online.
The price varies depending on the plan, but usually costs around 4,000yen for 30 days of use (1 or 2 GB).

2.Rent a mobile phone

If you don’t have an unlocked phone, you may want to rent a phone in Japan.
By doing so, it will be very easy and inexpensive to make local calls and you will have no problem using Japanese Apps and online services.
You need a picture ID and a credit card to rent a phone. 
Phones can be rented online or at major airports in Japan. 
Rentafone Japan and Softbank are the major companies that offer this service.
After using, you can return the phones at the airport or via the mail.
It costs around 200-500 yen a day for regular phones, and for smartphones, 1,000-2,000yen per a day. 
Calling rates are usually around 40-100yen per a minute. 
(Incoming calls are free)

3.Rent a Pocket WiFi

In remote areas of Japan, it’s sometimes hard to find Wi-Fi connection.
Some trains and buses do not offer Wi-Fi service, so you could be in trouble finding a connection if you rely on Wi-Fi (except at Starbucks and Mcdonald’s).
But don’t worry, Japanese phone companies offer this thing called “Pocket WiFi”.
It’s a small, simple mobile hotspot that helps you connect to the Internet from your devices.
With that, it will be much easier to stay connected no matter where you go in Japan, and you will have the unlimited Internet access. 
You just have to charge it and turn it on and connect it to your phone/PC.
Pupuru and Ninja WiFi are two major, reliable companies that carry this service, and you can order online and have it delivered to your hotel. 
If you are planning to use it , you should request over a few days before the day of use as it is a very popular service for tourists.
Note that you can’t make phone calls using just WiFi, but internet-based call services (like LINE, WhatsApp, Skype) can be used.
Just like renting a mobile phone, you can send it back to the company you used via mail after using. 
It depends on the provider and the service, but it usually costs around 6,000yen for 10 days of use. 

4.Buy a prepaid phone

Although it is not very common in Japan, there are some prepaid phone services. 
As you can have control over your calling expenses, it is a smart way to prevent from using phones too much.  
You just need to go to a mobile phone company that carries this service (Softbank is the most popular) with a passport and tell staff. 
The price for the prepaid phones are from about 4,000yen to 7,000yen. 
Note that if you have a Softbank prepaid phone, making a call to non-Softbank call can be expensive.
You can buy your own calling minutes for a few thousand yen at a time. 
Check the detail about the service here: https://www.softbank.jp/en/mobile/product/prepaid/

Those who are staying for a long time in Japan might want to make a mobile contract. 
You can either go to a network store, or to a large electronics store with your alien registration cards and Japanese bank accounts (Mobile bills can be paid automatically from a Japanese bank).
When you make a contract, you might want to go there with someone who can speak Japanese well because the explanation about the services and contracts can be a little complicated. 

Have a great time in Japan with a phone with you!
See you next time
Taka

※I’m a professional composer. My songs are available here: Skyhigh 
Or, you can click on the band camp link below to listen.

*Need more info about Japan?
Give me a comment here or send me a message to
[email protected]

Vegetarian & Vegan in Japan: What to eat and avoid

by Leave a Comment

Japan’s diet is largely based off of fish and seafood products, so being a vegetarian/vegan in Japan can be difficult sometimes.
But now that we have a lot of tourists from all over the world, the number of vegetarian/vegan-friendly restaurants are increasing to meet the demand.
With pre-planning and checking what and where to eat, vegetarians and vegans can fully enjoy their stay!
Here’s the vegetarian/vegan survival guide to Japan.

What to be careful

You need to avoid 出汁/Daishi as fish (usually Bonite Flake) is used to make it.
It is the foundation of Japanese cuisine and is found in everything from brought to sauces, etc. 
There are some vegetarian friendly kind of Dashi which is based on seaweed or dried mushrooms, but they are not very common.
So you need to be careful every time you see soup or sauce as Dashi is usually in them.
But don’t worry, we have a lot of rice ,vegetable, and bean products. 
Below are the recommended food for vegetarian/vegan.

Recommended food

精進料理/Shojin Ryori

It is a Zen Buddhist temple cuisine and is entirely vegan (no fish, meat, or other animal products are used).
Tofu and wild plants, and various seasonal food are used to make this beautifully decorated cuisine.

漬物 Tsukemono/Japanese pickled vegetables

There are many kinds of pickled vegetables, or Tsukemono in Japan.
Tsukemono appeared long time ago before refrigeration to preserve food.
Salt,vinegar,rice bran, sake lees, miso, and soy sauce are usually used to make Tsukemono ,and the most popular kinds are Daikon (Japanese radish. This tsukimoto is called Takuan), Cucumber, Eggplant, Carrot, and Ume plums.

蕎麦 Soba/Buckwheat noodles

Soba noodles are made from buckwheat flour and they are thin. 
Soba is served either chilled (called Zarusoba) with a dipping sauce, or in hot broth.
It often comes with onions, sesame, and wasabi.
As hot broth contains Dashi, you need to order Zarusoba.
Note that うどん (Udon/wheat noodles) is also popular, but it is usually comes in hot broth with Dashi in it.
If you would like to try Udon, you should find つけ麺 (Tsukemen/Dipping noodles) that comes with noodles and sauce aside.
As long as you avoid dipping in the sauce, it will be OK!

ラーメン Ramen 

It is probably the most popular kind of noodle in Japan.
Ramen shops are everywhere and every place has its own style so it’s really fun trying the different shops.
For vegans, it is hard to find the one to eat as almost all broths contain Dashi. However, there are some vegan friendly ramen restaurants. 
If you would like to try Ramen in Japan, check these places below.

Tokyo
Sora No Iro  (There’s one in Nagoya as well)
Afuri
OUKA

Osaka
Veggie Ramen Yuniwa

Kyoto
Engine Ramen

カレー Curry 

Japanese curry is different from Indian curry. 
Less spice is used and rice and roux come together. 
You can find vegetable curry at most curry restaurants, but it’s likely that roux was made with meat. 
Coco Ichibanya, one of the largest curry chains in Japan, offer an entirely vegan curry so this is the place to go.
For details, check the link here: Coco Ichibanya

寿司 Sushi 

It is not easy to find vegan/vegetarian sushi, but it’s possible to find some. 
At a sushi restaurant, you can order Kappamaki (seaweed rolls with cucumber) , Takuan-Maki (pickled daikon radish roll), and Inarizushi (Vinegared Rice stuffed in a fried tofu pouch. You need to check it wasn’t made with dashi).
Here are some vegan/vegetarian friendly sushi restaurants.

Tokyo
Mominoki House
Shirokanedai Suchicho

※For other places, check the link of the recommended restaurants at the end.

おにぎり Onigiri/Rice ball

Onigiri, or rice ball is made from white rice and often wrapped in 海苔 Nori/Seaweed. 
Many kinds of Onigiris are available at convenience stores and supermarkets. 
Make sure you find the ones that don’t have any fish or meat inside. 
焼きおにぎり (Yaki onigiri/Grilled rice balls with soy sauce on top) can be found at most 居酒屋 Izakaya/Japanese pub.
It usually comes with cold green onions and pickles on the side. Perfect food for vegans/vegetarians!

You could also try 赤飯おにぎり (Sekihan Onigiri/Red rice and Azuki bean balls) at a convenience store.
It used to be a sacred food and we traditionally eat it on special occasions through out the year such as birthdays, weddings ,and holidays and it is believed that the food ward off the evil spirit. 
I recommend it if you want to try something different!

豆腐 Tofu 

There are plenty of Tofu restaurants in Japan and you can enjoy delicious Tofu meals. 
But don’t assume that all Tofu restaurants offer vegetarian food. 
Most places use Dashi , so you should check before ordering. 
Below are major kinds of Tofu in Japan.

ごま豆腐 Goma Dofu 
It is sesame Tofu, made from ground sesame paste, water, and Kudzu powder (starch powder made from the root of the Kudzu plant). I has the name “Tofu/Dofu”, but actually soy is not used to produce this food.
It is a popular dish served on Shojin Ryori dish.

湯葉 Yuba 
Yuba is Tofu Skin, which comes from boiled soy milk. 
Yuba is formed on the liquid surface during the boiling of soy milk.
It can be a little expensive but has a lot of benefits on health like anti-aging and good for smooth skin.

高野豆腐 Koya Dofu 
It is freeze dried tofu, which is a very old traditional preserved food. 
It is like a sponge, and you need to soak it in the water before eating. 
When you order it at a restaurant, make sure that it is not soaked in Dashi!

湯豆腐 Yudofu 
This is probably the safest for vegans to order. 
Yudofu is boiled Tofu. Kombu kelp is usually put in the hot water with Tofu.
It is especially popular during cold winter season. 

串カツ Kushikatsu/Fried sticks  

It is a kind of fried food with varieties of food on sticks. 
At a Kushikatsu restaurant, you can order Eggplant, Mochi, Mushrooms, Asparagus, Onion, but don’t use the dipping sauce as it usually contains Dashi.

天ぷら Tempura 

There are a lot of vegetable options for tempura. 
Popular ones are, Katocha (pumpkin), Renkon (lotus), Satsumaimo (Sweet potato), Eggplant, Mushrooms, Sansai (wild mountain greens), 
Here again, watch out for the sauce as it contains Dashi.
You can sprinkle some salt instead to enjoy this Japanese food. 
At some places, tempura contains egg in the batter so you need to check before eating out at a restaurant. 

味噌 Miso 

It is made primarily from soy beans and salt and it is generally vegan and vegetarian friendly.
Miso is suitable to people on most diets and it has a number of health benefits. 
But you need to be careful about Miso soup which again contains Dashi.
So, look for miso paste which consists of fermented soy beans, salt and optional grains like wheat and rice. 

Snacks

団子 Dango

It is a Japanese dumpling and sweet, which is made from rice flour. 
It is usually offered on a skewer and has varieties of flavors like sweet soy sauce and red beans. 

餅 Mochi

Mochi is rice cake, and usually served with soy sauce or wrapped with seaweed.
It is popular throughout the year, especially during New year’s days. 

煎餅 Senbei

Senbei is rice cracker.
It’s available everywhere in Japan and there are many kinds of it.
Just make sure you don’t get one with dried fish or shrimp in it.

枝豆 Edamame 

These green, young soy beans can be found at most restaurants and convenience stores. 
It is a very popular snack at pubs and people often order it with beer or sake. 

Recommended restaurants

Tokyo 
Teikoku Hotel(Variety of Food)
Mothers Organic Restaurant (Organic Food)
Komaki Shokudo (Shojin Ryouri)
Veganic to go (Vegan Food)
Omusubi Chaya waseda ten (Organic rice balls)
Organic Vegan Lunch Kaimon Asakusa (Shojin Ryouri)
SUMI-BIO(Vegetable dishes)

Nagoya
ORIBIO Cafe Dining(Variety of Food)
Oyasai (Organic Vegetables)
Vegecafe Lotus (Vegetables and sweets )

Osaka
Sangmi (Healthy dishes) 
Paprika Shakudo Vegan(Variety of Food)
Green Earth (Healthy dishes) 
Atl (Variety of Food)

Kyoto
Ain Spot.Journey (Vegan restaurant)
Little-Heaven (Vegan restaurant)
Biotei (Fresh vegetables)
Shigetsu (Shojin Ryori)
Izusan in Daiji-in Temple (Shojin Ryori)
Dairoku-ji Ikkyu (Shojin Ryori)
Ajiro Main Shop (Shojin Ryori)

When you want to tell Japanese waiter/waitress that you are vegetarian/vegan, it is better to tell that you don’t eat any meat or fish instead of telling them that you are a vegetarian/vegan because some people don’t understand exactly what you can or cannot eat.
Here’s a sentence that might be your help.

“Watashi wa niku to sakana ga taberare masen”

Which means

“I can’t eat any meat or fish”. 

If you are not comfortable saying this, you could write the sentence on a paper and show it.

Food culture in Japan is great and if you choose the right ones, you can enjoy having meals anywhere in Japan.
Eat well and have fun visiting/staying!

See you next time
Taka

※I’m a professional composer. My songs are available here: Skyhigh 
Or, you can click on the band camp link below to listen.

*Need more info about Japan?
Give me a comment here or send me a message to
[email protected]

A Simple guide to train travel in Japan

by Leave a Comment

Hi, how are you?
I’ve been busy writing and working on music and getting ready for new projects.
I just got an art work for my new album and the final version of my songs after mixing.
I think I will be able to release it at the end of this month.
Wait for it!

This time I wrote about train system in Japan.
Japan has a very efficient transportation network. The whole country (expect Okinawa) can be reached by train.
Japanese trains are very safe and clean, and they keep time very well.
Using trains is a very convenient way for visitors to travel in Japan.
However if you are a first timer, you might have hard time understanding how it works.
Here is info about trains in Japan and how to travel using them!

Train Categories

There are 5 kinds of trains in Japan.
You need to choose one depending on your purpose.

1.普通 Futsu (also called Kakutei)/Local

This train stops at every station.

2.快速 Kaisoku/Rapid

It skips some stations.
The price for 普通 and 快速 are the same but 快速 is usually more crowded.

3.急行 Kyuko/Express

It stops at fewer stations than 快速.
In most cases, the price is the same as 普通 and 快速.

4.特急 Tokkyu/Limited Express

It only stops at major stations.
To use this kind of train, a limited express ticket (called 特急券 Tokkyuken) is required in addition to the cost for the regular tickets (they are called 乗車券 Joshaken).
The additional price is from about 500 to 4,000yen depending on the distance you travel.

5.新幹線 Shinkansen/Super Express

It is the fastest and best kind of train to travel distant regions in Japan. Just like 特急, a limited express ticket is needed.

Seat classes

When you take a long-distance train, you get to choose between Ordinary and Green (first class) seats.
Green is less crowded and you will have spacious seats compared to Ordinary ,but the additional 30% to 50% fee is required.
Many of Shinkansen and limited express trains have 自由席 (Jiyu seki/Non-reserved seat) and 指定席 (Shitei seki/Reserved seat).
It costs around 300 to 700 yen to have a reserved seat.
※If you have a Japan Rail Pass, you don’t need to pay the additional cost and make seat reservations for free. You just need to talk to the worker at the counter to reserve your seat.
※Hayabusa, Hayate, Komachi, Kagayaki, and Hokkaido Shinkansen only carry reserved seats.

Seat reservations can be made from a month prior to the travel date at ticket offices, ticket machines, or online.

On Shinkansen, smoking is not permitted on trains, but there are some areas where you can smoke on long-distance trains.

How to buy a ticket

If you are traveling the short distance, you can either buy prepaid IC cards (Suica, for example) or get tickets at ticket machines.
Here is the instruction to get a ticket at a ticket machine for short-distance travelers.

1.Check the map above the machines and find your destination and fare.
2.Put the money into the machine and select the right price.
3.Choose the number of tickets.
4.Collect your ticket(s) and change.

If you want to travel for long distance, you should get a ticket at a ticket counter.
You need to tell where you would to go at what time, and whether you are taking an ordinary or green, reserved or non-reserved.

Going through the gates

With your ticket, you can go through the gates to the paid fare zone.
Insert the ticket into the slot and pick up the ticket that comes up on the other side.
If you are using an IC card, you can touch the IC card reader.
※If you have a Japan Rail Pass, you must go through a manned gate and show your pass.

If you have a limited express ticket, make sure you insert it with your regular ticket.
When you are at your destination, leave the paid fare zone through the gate.
You just need to do the same as you entered.
If you traveled without paying the correct fare, you have to pay the difference at a Fare Adjustment machine or at a manned gate.

Japan Rail Pass

It is also called JR pass (JR is the major train company in Japan).
This pass can be used by foreign tourists only and you will get unlimited use of JR trains including Shinkansen, Limited express, Express, Rapid, and Local trains, as well as Tokyo Monorail from/to Haneda Airport, and Ferry to Miyajima.
(Note that you can ride on JR buses with it, but can’t use highway buses)
If you are staying Japan for a while, you should get it for your convenience and also to save money.
There are two kinds of it: Ordinary and Green (first class).
You can purchase the pass online.
After making the payment, you will receive a voucher.
Within 3 months of buying it, you need to exchange it to the pass in Japan.
(You can exchange it at major JR stations and Airports. You need to show your passport upon receiving your pass)
Details are on the link here:Japan Rail Pass

The price of the pass is
For 7 days: 29,110yen (38,880yen for Green)
For 14 days: 46,390yen (62,950yen for Green)
For 21 days: 59,350yen (81,870yen for Green)

※You could upgrade your Ordinary seat to Green seat by paying additional fee.
※The pass can’t be shared or given to another person.
※You could purchase the pass at stations in Japan (instead of online) at an increased cost.

Note that you can’t use the automatic ticket gates with the pass.
Pass holders need to go through the manned gate and show the pass and passport.
The seat reservation is optional, but when you want to reserve a seat, you need to talk to staff at the station (You can’t reserve your seat using ticket machines).

When you are on train, you need to follow the manner.
To learn about it, check my another post: 13 things to avoid doing in Japan

Train system in Japan is great and once you know how to use it, you will feel very comfortable traveling in Japan.
I hope info here will be your help!

See you next time
Taka

※I’m a professional composer. My songs are available here: Skyhigh 
Or, you can click on the band camp link below to listen.

*Need more info about Japan?
Give me a comment here or send me a message to
[email protected]