After getting back from Thailand a few months ago, I started getting back into
the routine of a day to day life. I took a hiatus from blogging and took time to pursue my other passion; photography. I also started back to school.
Having a technical background from an early age, I dropped out of college after high school in order to pursue a career in the computer industry. This path led me in a fantastic direction filled with offices, 401ks, and a neck tie everyday. After a few years, I ended up hating life and my stupid tie.
That’s when I started wondering from job to job and eventually wound up in Thailand and having my eyes opened to travel. And not just travel, but blogging, writing, and my number one passion next to travel, photography. Since starting College again and being forced back into American society, I haven’t been able to quench my thirst for travel. Having made it through almost an entire term, I decided it was time to hit to road again in search of another adventure. My choice?
Japan!
Japan has been #1 on my list right next to Australia for a very long time. I’m so fascinated with their entire culture and land, it’s border line scary. Now, I’m not saying I try be Japanese and watch countless hours of anime and eat sushi for every meal like some Americans I’ve be met (not that I think EVERYONE in Japan does that). That doesn’t mean that I don’t love sushi or some anime, but you get the idea.
Why didn’t I go to Japan instead of Thailand? The cost. Japan is expensive. Bottom line. Thailand is cheap and I was able to afford a longer stay. My trip to Japan will be short and sweet unfortunately; only about two weeks. Then only way this little jaunt is remotely possible is due to an awesome air fare deal and the decision to not buy a car and keep riding my bike everyday. At the end of June I’ll be flying out of Portland International (PDX) to Tokyo Japan for the low low price of just under $600 (USD) round trip. More on this in another post.
The next month is going to be a very busy month. My brother is graduating from High School (Go bro!), friends are having birthdays, and I have to figure out what I want to see and do! I’ve got a new camera and I need a guide. That’s where you come in!
I’m looking for thoughts and suggestions on what to see and do while in Japan. What are some awesome things that I HAVE to see? Anything you can suggest off the beaten path? Please leave you comments either here or you can reply on Facebook. Either way, let your voice be heard!
Hello! I'm Adam Mayfield and
I am the aurthor of this site. Currently I'm living a minimalist
lifestyle. I've sold almost all of possessions and have a travel addiction I can't seem to shake!
Kyoto! Okay, that’s definitely not off the beaten path, but it’s the most beautiful city I’ve ever seen. I visited it twice in the same year — that’s how much I love it. And Tokyo has the newish Ghibli Museum (which will mostly just be of interest if you’re a Miyazaki fan).
I’ve heard from several people that Kyoto is the place to go! It’s on my list! I’m thinking heading to Nara too since it’s so close. I’m thinking between Tokyo, Kyoto, and Nara I’ll have plenty to do in my short two weeks.
I don’t know what’s your current plan, but don’t miss Nara either. And if you want to push until the Seto Islands and then Hiroshima, I’m not one to prevent you.
I’ve read about Nara and it seemed pretty neat. I wasn’t sure if it was going to make it on my list but, since I’ve gotten a recommendation I’ll be sure to spend a day or two there.
I’m planning on leaving Tokyo on Monday after I see Harajuku on Sunday. I figure I’d spend a few days in Kyoto and a day or two in Nara. After that I have no plans. My flight doesn’t leave Haneda til the 5th of July so I’ve got a few extra days.