Japan Tours Switzerland

Category: Japan Travel

  • Subways Tokyo

    Subways Tokyo

    THE TOKYO SUBWAY

    Version française
    The Tokyo Metro consists of 13 lines and 274 stations. 9 lines are operated by Tokyo Metro and the other 4 by Toei.
    As in all subways there are various types of tickets.

    A single ticket costs 170 to 320 yen for Tokyo Metro (depending on the distance you travel). Toei prices, on the other hand, range from 180 yen to 380 yen. If you plan to use the ticket do the minimum 170 Yen one, if you go beyond the mileage, you will pay the difference at the exit in the “Fair Adjustment machines” just before the turnstiles.
    I remind you that the ticket is not only for entering but also for leaving the station. So be sure not to miss it.

    In the subway you can use the Pasmo and Suica. With these cards you get a very small discount (by the way). 170 yen (2 yen) ticket, 200 yen (1 yen), 250 yen (8 yen), 290 yen (7 yen), 320 yen (6 yen)
    Tickets and day passes can be purchased at each station at ticket machines. Don’t worry, there is also English.

    The 24-, 48- and 72-hour passes, on the other hand, you have to buy them at certain places (see table below)

    The day pass you will have to insert it every time you enter and leave the subway in the turnstile slot. If you use the Suica or Pasmo instead, do NOT insert it into the slot (it would get stuck), but place it on the reader provided.

    Children under 6 years old do not pay. Those between 6 and 11 years old pay half price.

    In the subway, the Japan Rail Pass is not valid.

    A good alternative to the subway is to use JR’s urban lines such as the Yamanote line or the Chuo/Sobu line.

    Subscriptions
    Tokyo Subway Ticket
    These passes can be used for all 13 Tokyo Metro and Toei subway lines (those shown on the map at the top of the page).
    Passes are available for 24, 48, and 72 hours and are priced at 800, 1200, and 1500 yen (half for children ages 6 to 11). If you purchase the 24-hour pass, the validity begins at the time of first use (e.g., 7:00 am on 04/04) and ends exactly 24 hours later (e.g., 7:00 am on 05/04).
    These passes can be purchased at Narita and Haneda airports, BIC Camera stores, major subway stations, and other places listed at this link

    These passes are NOT valid on JR lines and private company lines (ex: Yurikamome, Monorail, Keikyu, Keisei, Keio, etc.).

    It is possible to purchase this pass in a discounted package together with the Skyliner train ticket (see details)

    These passes entitle you to discounts or small gifts at lots of places in Tokyo. To see log on to the Chika Toku website (see details)

    Price: 800, 1,200 and 1,500 yen (half for children ages 6 to 11)

    Validity: on the 13 Tokyo Metro and Toei lines.
    Duration: 24, 48 and 72 effective hours

    Three people, two women and man, sitting side by side on a subway train, Tokyo commuters.
  • Kyoto

    Kyoto

    Kyoto (Japan) was the capital of Japan and the residence of the emperor from 794 until 1868. It is now the seventh largest city in the country with a population of 1.4 million people.

    Over the centuries, the city was destroyed by many wars and fires, but due to its historical value, the city was left out of atomic bomb targets and was also spared from air raids during World War II. Kyoto has countless temples, shrines and other historically priceless structures that survive in the city to this day.

    Kyoto nowadays is a city heavily populated by both residents and tourists who have also changed the atmosphere of the city a bit in recent years, but because of this, shopkeepers have increased and the city’s economy has had a huge surge.

    The city is divided into 5 major districts, Shimogyo (Kyoto Station), Higashiyama, Nakagyo, Sakyo and Yamashina; however, I prefer to give you an orientation of the city through north, south, east and west because it is not easy for us Westerners to remember the Japanese names. In the next few pages we will analyze the various areas of the city and what you can see, most of the spots are Buddhist temples or Shinto shrines but not only that, you will also discover a city full of gardens and nature.

    Kinkaku-ji, Temple of the Golden Pavilion in Kyoto, Japan
    Sakura in kyoto
    Daigoji Temple in Autumn, Kyoto, Japan

    Getting around Kyoto (Japan)
    Unlike other Japanese cities, Kyoto has a rectangular street system and many streets have names. The main street runs from east to west.

    In the centre of Kyoto there are countless places for eating, shopping and entertainment; the centre starts from Shijo-dori (4th Avenue) to Kawaramachi-dori. JR Kyoto station is located south of Kyoto.

    However, between north and south, the most important street is Karasuma-dori (Karasuma Street), which runs from Kyoto Station through the city centre to the Kyoto Imperial Palace.

    Kyoto has an adequate public transport system for a city of its size, consisting of two underground lines, a dense bus network and several railway companies, whose lines are not always conveniently interconnected. Taxis and bicycles can be a viable alternative.

    To explore Kyoto, I recommend using public transport with an IC card, such as Icoca, which is accepted on practically all trains and buses in the city. Alternatively, travellers intending to use the bus or metro should consider one of the available day passes. Below is more information on this.

    KYOTO LINES
    Karasuma Line runs from south to north.
    Tozai Line runs from east to west.


    KYOTO UNDERGROUND LINES
    Hankyu Railway connects Kyoto station with Osaka and with a stop in Karasuma you can reach Arashiyama (bamboo forest)
    Kintetsu Railway connects Kyoto with Nara.
    Keihan Railway connects Kyoto with Nara.


    SPECIAL KYOTO TICKETS AND PASSES
    ICOCA a prepaid card that can be bought at any station. This card does not offer discounts but convenience in using transport.
    Kyoto Sightseeing Card is a one- or two-day pass that allows you to use Kyoto’s subways and trams as much as you want; it also offers discounts to enter some of the city’s attractions. Cost: 1 Day 1,200 yen – 2 Days 2,000 yen.
    Kyoto One Day Bus Card is a one-day pass that allows you unlimited use of Kyoto trams. Cost: 500 yen.

    Tokyo Experience

    Visit the biggest metropolis and futuristic city of Japan.

    • Flights from Europe or America in economy class round trip
    • Restaurant and tipical Isakaya Experience in Tokyo
    • All overnight stays in Japan
    • All visits and excursions mentioned in the program
    $2890

    Traditional Japan

    A journey into the traditional Japanese world.

    • Flights from Europe or America in economy class round trip
    • Traditional Japanese Experience like Shodo Calligraphy, Ikebana flower lesson
    • All visits and excursions mentioned in the program
    • All overnight stays in Japan
    $2890

    Wild Japan

    Explore the wild side of Japan.

    • Flights from Europe or America in economy class round trip
    • Transportation into wild areas anf forests
    • All visits and excursions mentioned in the program
    • All overnight stays in Japan
    $4890
  • Hakodate – Hokkaido

    Hakodate – Hokkaido


    Hakodate and Southern Hokkaido
    Retro Western influences, succulent seafood, inland beauty and spectacular night views

    Retro Western influences, succulent seafood, inland beauty and spectacular night views
    The picturesque town of Hakodate is renowned for its fresh seafood and spectacular views, while its location at the southern end of Hokkaido is perfect as a base for exploring the lush natural surroundings.

    Don’t miss
    Shopping in the historic Motomachi district
    A view of the city’s twinkling lights from Mount Hakodate
    A relaxing walk in Onuma Park and on Onuma Lake

    Getting there
    Hakodate can be reached by air, rail, road and sea.
    You can fly directly to Hakodate from major Japanese airports, including domestic airports in Hokkaido, such as Chitose, Okadama, Asahikawa and Monbetsu.
    The JR Tohoku/Hokkaido shinkansen connects Tokyo with Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto Station in four hours. Take a local train from Shin-Hakodate-Hokuto station for the last leg of the journey to Hakodate. From Sapporo in Hokkaido, JR express or local trains depart for Hakodate. All routes are covered by the JR Rail Pass.
    Alternatively, you can take a Chuo bus from Sapporo station. If you are looking for a scenic option, regular ferry services are available between Hakodate and Aomori across the Tsugaru Strait. The journey can take up to four hours.

    A well-preserved frontier spirit
    Although Hakodate has been inhabited since the Jomon period and later by the Ainu, its modern face emerged during the 19th century, when Japan reopened to the world. The historic Motomachi district is home to many buildings dating from this period.
    Stroll through Hakodate’s past and visit the Red Brick Warehouse complex in Kanemori, which has become one of the city’s favourite shopping and dining destinations.

    Visit the morning fish market
    Hakodate is one of Hokkaido’s main fishing ports. To see the day’s catch, visit the morning market at Hakodate Station, where you will find seafood and other products.
    See fresh salmon roe, sea urchins, crabs and other delicacies from the sea before sampling them at one of the many restaurants in the market. The local speciality is rice donburi with seafood.
    Not just seafood
    Besides seafood, Hakodate offers dishes for all tastes, from ramen to tempura to burgers. Don’t miss the city’s burger chain, Lucky Pierrot. The chain has more than twelve locations, each one artistically decorated in its own distinctive style.

    Glittering landscapes
    At night, Hakodate glows with lights. For the best views, you have two options: Mount Hakodate or Goryokaku Tower. From both locations you can admire the city in all its luminous beauty.

    Hakodate, Japan at Fort Goryokaku in winter.

    Glittering landscapes
    At night, Hakodate glows with lights. For the best views, you have two options: Hakodate Mountain or Goryokaku Tower . From both locations you can admire the city in all its luminous beauty.

    The colourful alpine flora of Mount Esan
    Another destination to consider is Mount Esan, two hours east of Hakodate by bus. Mount Esan is an active volcano renowned for its wealth of alpine plants. Don’t miss the Azalea Festival in early summer when the slopes of the mountain are dyed red.
    Bathe in wine-coloured springs or with a sea view
    Another reason to visit the Mount Esan area is the chance to relax in an unusual, rejuvenating thermal spring. The naturally burgundy waters of Esan Onsen have been attracting visitors since the 19th century.
    On the coast, the Mizunashi Kaihin Hot Spring allows you to dive right in front of the sea. You’ll have to choose a good time to visit, as swimming is only possible when the tide is low.

    Venture beyond the borders
    Hakodate is a great starting point for exploring southern Hokkaido. Head for the wide open spaces of Onuma Park, with its lakes dotted with small islands. Consider a trip to Esashi, a picturesque fishing port with many historic buildings, or a visit to the castle town of Matsumae .
    If you have time, take a ferry to the beautiful island of Okushiri, covered with pastures and beech forests, for a taste of island life.

  • Asakusa – Tokyo

    Asakusa – Tokyo

    Asakusa is a district located in Tokyo, Japan. It is known for its historic temples, traditional streets, and cultural events. Asakusa is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors every year. This article explores the unique aspects of Asakusa that make it a must-visit destination in Tokyo.

    Keywords: Asakusa, Tokyo, temples, traditional, cultural events

    Asakusa traditional japanese district in tokyo and asakusa shrine

    Asakusa’s Temples

    Asakusa is home to several historic temples, with the most famous being Sensoji Temple. This temple is the oldest in Tokyo and is dedicated to the Buddhist goddess Kannon. Visitors to the temple can experience traditional Japanese culture, such as praying at the shrine, buying souvenirs, and eating traditional snacks. The temple is especially beautiful during the cherry blossom season, when the trees are in full bloom, creating a stunning contrast against the temple’s red buildings.

    Asakusa traditional japanese district in tokyo and asakusa shrine

    Traditional Streets of Asakusa

    Asakusa’s streets are lined with traditional Japanese buildings, giving visitors a glimpse into Tokyo’s past. Nakamise-dori, the street leading to Sensoji Temple, is a prime example of this. It is home to many traditional shops selling souvenirs, snacks, and clothing. Visitors can try on a yukata, a traditional Japanese garment, and take pictures in front of the temple’s main gate. The street is also illuminated at night, creating a magical atmosphere.

    Asakusa traditional japanese district in tokyo and asakusa shrine

    Cultural Events in Asakusa

    Asakusa is home to several cultural events throughout the year, the most famous being the Sanja Matsuri festival. This festival is held in May and is dedicated to the three founders of Sensoji Temple. It is one of Tokyo’s largest and most exciting festivals, with over two million visitors attending each year. The festival features parades, traditional music and dance, and street food. Visitors can also witness the portable shrines being carried through the streets by locals.

    Asakusa traditional japanese district in tokyo and asakusa shrine

    Food in Asakusa

    Asakusa is a food lover’s paradise, with traditional Japanese snacks, street food, and restaurants. Visitors can try delicious snacks such as senbei (rice crackers), ningyo-yaki (sweet cakes), and manju (sweet buns). Asakusa is also famous for its tempura, a dish of battered and fried seafood and vegetables. Visitors can try tempura at a traditional restaurant or at a street food stall. Asakusa is also home to many izakayas (Japanese-style pubs), where visitors can sample traditional Japanese dishes and drinks.

    Monjayaki restaurant in Asakusa tokyo japan

    Asakusa’s Charm

    Asakusa has a charm that is unique to Tokyo. Its historic temples, traditional streets, cultural events, and delicious food make it a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Tokyo. Asakusa’s charm lies in its ability to transport visitors to Tokyo’s past, while still being a thriving and modern district. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or food, Asakusa has something for everyone.

    Asakusa traditional japanese district in tokyo and asakusa shrine

    Conclusion Asakusa is a district in Tokyo that has something for everyone. Its historic temples, traditional streets, cultural events, and delicious food make it a unique and must-visit destination. Whether you’re interested in experiencing traditional Japanese culture or trying delicious food, Asakusa has something for everyone. So, next time you’re in Tokyo, make sure to add Asakusa to your itinerary.

    You can find a tour guide on Giorgio Profili travel guide about Japan and Asakusa