Driving in Japan: Kyushu or Okinawa?
Whether or not it is a good idea to hire a car when visiting Japan is a question that often crops up. Like many travel questions, there's not really a firm, simple answer. Although, for first-time visitors to the country it isn't something I'd usually recommend.
But there are some exceptions.
For those looking to get well off the beaten track, having a car can be an easy way to explore more of Japan's quiet, rural or mountainous areas.
In this short clip from one of my Travel Planning Calls I answer a client's question about whether or not it would it be a good idea to hire a car during their itinerary when they are in the southern islands of Kyushu and Okinawa.
I hope you find it useful.
I have a more detailed guide called Driving in Japan Made Easy: A Beginner's Guide you can read if you'd like to learn more. For information on the countries in which you will need a translation of your national driver's licence in order to drive in Japan read Driving Passport Translation in Japan.
12 Must-Try Outdoor Activities in Japan
Breathtaking vistas, rich culture, and diverse landscapes make Japan a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. From the powdery slopes of Hokkaido to the palm-fringed beaches of Okinawa, Japan’s nature impresses at every turn.
Whether you seek exhilarating activities or peaceful scenery, Japan offers unforgettable outdoor experiences to suit all adventurers.
As you plan your travels, make time for hikes through lush forests, soaks in steaming hot springs, and walks along dramatic coastlines.
Add in some skiing or snowboarding, diving or snorkeling, cycling, rafting, canyoning or horse riding. With such wondrous natural beauty, Japan promises outdoor memories to last a lifetime.
In my post 12 Must-Try Outdoor Activities in Japan you'll find plenty of ideas and inspiration for adding a piece of Japan's outdoor adventures to your next itinerary.
Sip Your Way to Bliss: 5 Best Hiroshima Coffee Shops for Java Lovers
Beyond the serene Peace Park and sobering A-Bomb Dome, Hiroshima has blossomed into a vibrant, forward-looking city with charming secrets, including cosy coffee houses in love with quality roasts and laid-back atmospheres.
When you need a peaceful, rejuvenating sightseeing break, these 5 java gems offer the perfect aromatic escape - to sit back and savour a perfect cup.
With relaxed vibes, speciality beans, and warm decor, you'll find the intimate ambiance in Hiroshima's coffee shops as rich as a smooth pour over.
From quaint holes-in-the-walls with sweets, to craft shops brewing sweet coffee scent, this guide features locations and contact info to help you plan how you'll soak up Hiroshima's hidden cafe culture.
Question Time! Budgeting For Travel in Japan
I'm interested to hear from you about how you approach budgeting for your trips to Japan.
Any special approaches, techniques, online resources or tools, spreadsheet templates, etc. you use?
Or maybe you don't actually sit down and create a formal budget as such, just come up with a plan and price it up as you go
However you do it, even if you don't do it, I wanna know!
Leave a comment below (or email me via the Contact page) and tell me how you budget for your travels in Japan.
Read my posts How Much Does It Cost to Spend a Day in Tokyo? and 5 Travel Essentials You Need BEFORE Coming To Japan for more thoughts on the topic.
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