Getting around in Japan

Unless you are just on a short break and are doing a city holiday in Tokyo, you are probably going to want to move around a little in Japan. Japan is actually a rather large country spanning some 2000km end to end, so choosing the right mode of transport can save you a lot of time and money.

Flying on rails

The Shinkansen, or “bullet train”, is one of the famous feats of Japanese engineering. This train was the first of its kind in the world, providing high-speed rail transport across the country since 1964. With its 300km/h top speed this is no longer the world fastest train, France’s TGV is faster, but it is still very impressive. A trip to Japan should always include a journey of this train, if it is not for convenience then for its historic and engineering feats.

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Rikugien garden visit


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It is almost November, autumn has well and truly arrived and it is more than time for me to visit a japanese garden. Japanese gardens are truly something special, and should not be missed. Even if you are not into gardens, pick the best one or two and take some time to stroll through them, chances are you will be converted.full story ...