Outdoor Activities You Will Surely Enjoy When in Japan

Hike up Mount Kurama

Japan is a country with gorgeous scenery, which makes it ideal for visitors who love to hike. Hike through the forest of Kurama and you’ll find a bamboo grove, a river, and a cute little waterfall. But if you want to get a little bit breathier, you can have a go at climbing the mountain and up to the Kurama-dera temple. The hike is steep and rugged, so it’s only suitable for people with some kind of fitness level, and the views at the top will be a fantastic reward.

Get Physical and Climb Mount Fuji

If you prefer to do physical activities on your trips away instead of walking around museums for days, Japan offers many outdoor activities. Mount Fuji is the highest mountain peak in Japan, and while that might sound daunting, it’s actually a very manageable climb even for relative hiking and climbing beginners. This is because there are mountain huts on the slopes, and well marked trails and signage. There are four main trails, and some take as little as six hours to ascend.

Camp in HakusanNational Park

Nature lovers in Japan – stop what you are doing and find your way to Hakusan National Park immediately. This is one of the most incredible hiking destinations in Japan, with Mount Hakusan providing an epic climbing challenge, and the diversity of flora and fauna around you providing the opportunity to explore the best of Japan’s natural scenery. If you fancy spending a longer expanse of time in the park, you are welcome to pitch a tent at Nanryū Sansō camping ground. It might be wise to do so in the summer months when the weather makes camping a little more comfortable.

Hike From Waterfall to Waterfall in Akame

There is little more delightful and relaxing than taking a dip in a natural pool created by a waterfall. Well, in the town of Akame you won’t just find one waterfall, but a whole bunch of them. It’s here that you’ll find incredible cascades of up to 30 metres in height. Just be aware of the wild salamanders, which also happen to be fond of this corner of Japan as well!

Get a Slice of Nature on the Daibatsu Hiking Course

Japan is a nature lover’s paradise. If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of nature and get lost in the forest, the Camp in Hakusan National Park Nature lovers in Japan – stop what you are doing and find your way to Hakusan National Park immediately. This is one of the most incredible hiking destinations in Japan, with Mount Hakusan providing an epic climbing challenge, and the diversity of flora and fauna around you providing the opportunity to explore the best of Japan’s natural scenery. If you fancy spending a longer expanse of time in the park, you are welcome to pitch a tent at Nanryū Sansō camping ground. It might be wise to do so in the summer months when the weather makes camping a little more comfortable.

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Less Popular Sites in Japan That Deserves Attention

Lake Ashi

If you are looking for some peace, tranquillity, and natural beauty on your trip to Japan, you should look no further than the stunning Lake Ashi. This crater lake offers superb views of Mount Fuji, the numerous hot springs surrounding the lake, and the abundance of nature in the area. The best way to discover the lake is with a relaxing boat cruise. A trip from one end of the lake to the other takes just 30 minutes and costs 1000 yen.

Public Bath Capital of Japan, Kinosaki

If you are into the hot springs thing, you aren’t going to struggle finding a place to rest your weary muscles in Japan, but the place with the most delightful public baths in the country has to be the town of Kinosaki. Our favourite onsen in the city is called Goshono-yu. This is because the outdoor spring faces a waterfall, and the view is nothing short of stunning. The waters are also said to bring good luck for finding a marriage partner.

Authentic Karaoke Box Experience

A trip to Japan is not a trip to Japan without some ritual humiliation in the form of a late night karaoke session. Tokyo might just be the karaoke capital of the world. Karaoke boxes (private karaoke rooms) can be found in streets close to train stations all over the Japanese capital. Yes, there will be a lot of songs in Japanese, but most will have English classics, so make sure that you brush up on your favourite Elvis and ABBA tracks.

Yakitori

When you need to have a break from eating sushi for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, it’s time to switch to some skewers of yakitori. Yakitori is essentially skewers of meat, typically chicken, and they date all the way back to the 17th century in Japan. These days, there are thousands of places where you can enjoy yakitori in Tokyo but we recommend Iseya. This is a down and dirty yakitori shop that’s 80 years old with absolutely no frills. But the flavour is out of this world, and it tastes even better when washed down with a cold beer.

Tidal Whirlpools in Naruto

The Naruto Strait is where the Pacific Ocean meets the inland sea, and the force of the two currents battling against each other creates some really extraordinary whirlpools. In fact, the Naruta whirlpools can reach a diameter of 30 metres, and that makes them the largest whirlpools in the whole world. They only appear twice a day, so make sure you check out the current timings before trekking it to Naruto. Once you are there, it’s easy to see the whirlpools from Naruta Bridge.

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Japan for Travellers Who Are Kids at Heart

Embrace Your Inner Child at the Tokyo Kite Museum

This is certainly not one of the major museums to be found in Tokyo. In fact, it’s located in a room above a restaurant. But if you have a fondness for Japanese crafts and the days you spent flying kites as a kid, this charming Tokyo attraction will be right up your street. The space contains around 300 kites, many of which are hand painted with the most incredible detail, depicting stories from Japanese folk tales and legends.

Ride a Glass Bottom Boat in Okinawa

As a set of Islands, Japan is a country that has a lot of ocean to be explored. Over in Okinawa, there are 150 islands and crystal clear waters with so much impressive marine life under the sea. If you don’t fancy the effort of going on a dive, another way of exploring the oceans there is by taking a trip on a glass bottomed boat. You’ll get to see clown fish, butterfly fish, a beautiful selection of coral, and much more right up close.

Rent a Tandem Bike in Yoyogi Park

Although Tokyo is a large and bustling city, it also has a good number of green spaces where you can walk around, find some peace, and get back to nature. Yoyogi Park is one of the largest parks in the city. If you happen to be travelling with a partner, one of the most romantic things to do is rent a tandem bicycle in the park, and cycle your way through the greenery together.

Buy a Daruma Dollin Takasaki

Daruma dolls are extremely important objects in Japan. These traditional Japanese dolls depict the founder of the Zen Buddhism sect, and they are used as symbols of good luck and the ability to persevere. Takasaki is a too often ignored small city to the northwest of Tokyo, and the production of daruma dolls is something of a specialty here. This is definitely the place to seek one out, and it’s worth taking a walk around the Daruma Doll Museum while you are at it.  

 Bungee Jump Off a Bridge

Looking for a way to really get your heart pumping and raise your adrenaline while you’re on your travels? We have just the thing for you – a bungee jump off Ryujin Bridge. This is the largest bridge on mainland Japan, and it covers a huge V shaped ravine that you will take the jump into. As you approach the bridge, you’ll hear the faint screams of other people who have decided to make the plunge, and if that doesn’t put you off, the jump will make you feel the most alive you have ever felt!

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ASSISI is A Must See When In Europe

A little further afield, but still in Umbria, and, like Orvieto, perched on a hill, the medieval city of Assisi is the birthplace of St. Francis, and so it is an important pilgrimage site for thousands of the faithful.  There are many churches here, the most important one being the 13th century Papal Basilica of St. Francis of Assisi.  But there are other interesting things to see and do in this fun little town.

Leave Roma Termini bound for Foligno by transferring to a train bound for Assisi.  The total time for the trip including the train change is about two hours.  When you arrive you will discover that the Assisi train station is not very close to the main part of the old city.  However, there are inexpensive buses that leave frequently from the train station for the trip up the side of the hill.

The bus will stop fairly close to Assisi's main sight; the Basilica of St. Francis, which is the final resting place of Italy's most famous saint.  It's a rather odd-looking structure when you first see it: it is actually two churches built on top of each other.  The lower basilica contains the tomb of St. Francis and frescoes by famous Italian artists like Giotto and Cimabue.  The walls of the upper basilica are decorated with beautiful 13th century frescoes by Cimabue.

Another important church here is associated with St. Clare.  She lived at the same time as St. Francis, and she founded the Order of the Poor Sisters, now known as the Order of the Poor Clares.  The Basilica of Santa Chiara is dedicated to St. Clare and contains her tomb.

There are quite a few other churches in Assisi.  When you've had your fill of churches, there are other things to see here.  Wander through the cobblestone streets and you'll eventually hit the main square of Assisi. It's called the Piazza del Comune ("Communal Square"), and this is the place to be. 

There are quite a few things to see here: there is an interesting fountain with three lions on it in the middle of the piazza; the 13th century Palazzo del Capitano del Popolo with its clock tower, the early 14th century Torre del Popolo or more commonly known as the People's Tower; the Palazzo dei Priori ("Palace of the Priors"); and the Temple of Minerva, a 1st century BC Corinthian columned Roman temple that was turned into a church, Santa Maria Sopra Minerva, in 1539.

Sitting high above the city is a medieval castle called RoccaMaggiore.  It offers a great view of Assisi and the surrounding hills, as well as an exhibition about Calendimaggio, which is Assisi's spring festival.

All over Assisi you will see wonderful medieval houses on the cobblestone streets.  After trekking up to Rocca Maggiore, it's time to wander down these streets and head back to the Piazza del Comune.  There are shops and restaurants in this area.  Try Ristorante Taverna dei Consoli.  You can enjoy great Italian food al fresco right on the piazza.

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Ballarat, Australia: Learn Why It is Worth Visiting

There are few cities in Australia which create grandiose impressions on first glance but the city of Ballarat in Victoria certainly does that. Nowhere does this better than when you enter from the west of the city via the Western Highway along the Avenue of Honour where the 22 kilometer long street is lined with trees in honour of all those who fought in the First World War. Ballarat has an interesting and rich history, growing prosperous due to the wealth of gold which came from the nearby reef mines, and its multitude of cultural attractions creates a wonderfully energetic and appealing atmosphere for visitors.

Lydiard Street

Wander away from the train station and you will discover the beautiful Lydiard Street. Built in the 19th century, Lydiard Street is famous for its stunning historical architecture, ranging from terraced shops, soaring edifices and intricate iron-lace balconies – all creating a charming ambience for those who appreciate the beauty of 19th century architecture.

Ballarat Art Gallery

Not only does that Ballarat Art Gallery have one of the best collections of art in Australia, it is also the oldest provincial museum in the entire country. Originally opening in 1884, the first Eureka Flag is still on display, frayed edges and all. Encased in a special cabinet with muted lights in order to safeguard it, it really does capture the imagination. The art gallery also provides free guided tours between Wednesday and Sunday at 2pm.

The Botanical Gardens

Ballarat’s Botanical Gardens are the perfect attraction for visitors of all ages. It was first created in 1858 just to the north of the modern day city and has blossomed into a fantastic site filled with a range of different flora. The Conservatory within the gardens highlights particular flowers, especially that of begonias, and the Begonia Festival which takes place in March every year for ten days. Within the Botanical Gardens there are certain sights not to miss, including a gigantic redwood tree along the Avenue of Big Trees, as well as a wealth of statues of classical designs that were donated by gold miners who struck it rich.

Sovereign Hill

One particular attraction which draws in the crowds at Ballarat is the recreated Sovereign Hill. Reached via the number 9 bus on Sturt Street, Sovereign Hill is a fantastic day out for all the family. Situated just over a kilometer to the south of Ballarat, it was established around a true mine shaft from the late 19th century. All the buildings on Sovereign Hill are all based on paintings and photos of what Ballarat used to look like in the middle of the 19th century, giving it an authentic feel.

Gold Museum

Literally facing Sovereign Hill, the Gold Museum offers a tantalizing insight into gold rush fever. The museum holds real gold mined from Ballarat, along with a great collection of gold coins and interesting historical facts. This includes the conditions of the miners and the reasons that led to the Eureka Sockade. Wander around this incredible city and you will discover a destination that will capture both the imagination and the heart.

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Ballarat, Australia: Learn Why It is Worth Visiting

There are few cities in Australia which create grandiose impressions on first glance but the city of Ballarat in Victoria certainly does that. Nowhere does this better than when you enter from the west of the city via the Western Highway along the Avenue of Honour where the 22 kilometer long street is lined with trees in honour of all those who fought in the First World War. Ballarat has an interesting and rich history, growing prosperous due to the wealth of gold which came from the nearby reef mines, and its multitude of cultural attractions creates a wonderfully energetic and appealing atmosphere for visitors.

Lydiard Street

Wander away from the train station and you will discover the beautiful Lydiard Street. Built in the 19th century, Lydiard Street is famous for its stunning historical architecture, ranging from terraced shops, soaring edifices and intricate iron-lace balconies – all creating a charming ambience for those who appreciate the beauty of 19th century architecture.

Ballarat Art Gallery

Not only does that Ballarat Art Gallery have one of the best collections of art in Australia, it is also the oldest provincial museum in the entire country. Originally opening in 1884, the first Eureka Flag is still on display, frayed edges and all. Encased in a special cabinet with muted lights in order to safeguard it, it really does capture the imagination. The art gallery also provides free guided tours between Wednesday and Sunday at 2pm.

The Botanical Gardens

Ballarat’s Botanical Gardens are the perfect attraction for visitors of all ages. It was first created in 1858 just to the north of the modern day city and has blossomed into a fantastic site filled with a range of different flora. The Conservatory within the gardens highlights particular flowers, especially that of begonias, and the Begonia Festival which takes place in March every year for ten days. Within the Botanical Gardens there are certain sights not to miss, including a gigantic redwood tree along the Avenue of Big Trees, as well as a wealth of statues of classical designs that were donated by gold miners who struck it rich.

Sovereign Hill

One particular attraction which draws in the crowds at Ballarat is the recreated Sovereign Hill. Reached via the number 9 bus on Sturt Street, Sovereign Hill is a fantastic day out for all the family. Situated just over a kilometer to the south of Ballarat, it was established around a true mine shaft from the late 19th century. All the buildings on Sovereign Hill are all based on paintings and photos of what Ballarat used to look like in the middle of the 19th century, giving it an authentic feel.

Gold Museum

Literally facing Sovereign Hill, the Gold Museum offers a tantalizing insight into gold rush fever. The museum holds real gold mined from Ballarat, along with a great collection of gold coins and interesting historical facts. This includes the conditions of the miners and the reasons that led to the Eureka Sockade. Wander around this incredible city and you will discover a destination that will capture both the imagination and the heart.

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Signing Up For Travel Flight Alerts

Now that we have Facebook set up and you’re getting flight alerts, let’s talk about what websites you should sign up for to receive additional travel alerts. The following websites don’t send out error fares or amazingly cheap deals that need to be booked at a moment’s notice, but they do post some really good deals and they last much longer.

AIRFARE WATCHDOG

A lot of people use airfarewatchdog.com to build their travel bucket list. They have a cool feature that allows you to put in what cites you want to travel to and the price you want to pay. They will then send you an alert when a flight for the price want, going to your destination becomes available. You can also tell them which airlines you don’t want to receive offers from, which is also a great feature. Another reason they make people’s list is because they are one of the only websites that will send alerts for Southwest Airlines.

FARE COMPARE

This is another one of traveler’s go-to websites. People like this site because they love to use miles to travel. So whenever possible, they try their best to book my flights on American Airlines. With Fare Compare they give you the ability to search for deals by departure city and airline. That means you can type in LAX to “everywhere” on American Airlines and it will send you daily alerts on all of the flights leaving from LAX on American Airlines that, based on their algorithm, are considered to be good deals.

AIR-FARE

Some have a love hate relationship with this website. Not because the information isn’t good (it’s great) but the website is in need of some serious updating. While the website appears to be outdated (ignore the part at the bottom that says “last updated in 2008”), the rates are actually current. Many have contacted them several times about changing it, but here we are in 2016 and they’re still stuck in 2008, but people just ignore it. People recommend this site because, at a quick glance every day, you can get an idea of what’s leaving from my city and what the prices are. This gives you a starting point to compare with other websites, but it’s not uncommon for me to end up booking what they have posted because it’s often the lowest price you can find. The downside to this site is they focus only on domestic flights and only list about 25 departures cities. One thing to note, Air-fare.com is NOT the same company or website as Airfare.com. Airfare.com is a website which is not that popular, based on its laundry list of negative reviews, it should be avoided.

Be careful in scoring your travel flights online. Only transact with reputable sites!

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