Most Inspirational Moment
As others have said, too difficult to choose just one. The many shrines where locals are praying while tourists gaze upon them, the giant Buddha at Nara, the Golden temple and gardens, the scenery of the Japanese Alps with the autumn colours, the monkeys, the excitement of the bullet train's speed and the unforgettable experience of the Onsen.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Chiko Hansen worked very hard to ensure we all saw as much as possible. She offered suggestions and accompanied people on visits that were outside the itinerary. It was tough for her to try and keep 15 people together in the busiest railway station in the world. She is incredibly energetic and it could be hard work trying to keep up! It is a huge benefit that she is Japanese (though now lives in Australia) and so could give us insights into the Japanese way of life. We ate with Chiko in some great local restaurants that the ordinary tourist would not have found. On the downside, her sense of direction was not always the best and she had to be persuaded to occasionally stop to allow eating or comfort breaks.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Be prepared for more walking than the trip notes suggest. Quite a lot of energy required and good idea to carry snacks and water in a small backpack. Take comfortable shoes that are easy to slip on and off for temple visits. Do plenty homework to help decide what you want to do on the free days as some places will need advance booking. If you want to see the Tokyo fish market make a plan to go early (0600-0700?) as when we went at 1000 it was closing. Evening eating places seem to close by 9pm, so plan to eat fairly early. Look out for the "Western style" toilets as you have to squat in the Japanese ones
