If you’re studying Japanese, you may be preparing for an upcoming trip to Japan. Traveling to Japan is an unforgettable experience, but if you want to make the most of your trip, you have to prepare in advance.
Here are 10 Japan travel blogs to help you plan ahead for your upcoming trip.
1. Only in Japan
Only in Japan covers nearly every popular and traditional aspect of the country and culture. From manga to beaches to backpacking, you will be well prepared for your trip if you read this blog regularly.
With a vast range of information to help you prepare for your trip, Only in Japan has earned a reputation as one of the go-to Japan travel blogs
2. Japan Travel Mate
If you’re interested in the nation’s history, Japan Travel Mate gives you a taste of everything there is to see and do in Japan.
Japan Travel Mate is a photo-based blog, so you can get a pretty accurate idea of what you will see and experience while you’re in Japan.
3. Japan Travel Guide
Traveling on a tight budget can be challenging. Luckily, Japan Travel Guide is an excellent resource for the budget-conscious jet setter.
This Japan travel blog breaks down how much you can expect to pay so you will know exactly how much money to save. It also offers a lot of great tips to help you save money on your trip.
4. Schauwecker’s Japan Travel Blog
Schauwecker’s Japan Travel Blog offers visitors a lot more than just a look at the best tourist spots. This blog covers things like the progress made since the tsunami that rocked northern Japan in 2011.
Besides travel tips, this blog also helps you stay up to date on the latest news.
If you’re looking for an unconventional travel experience, you can find some real gems on this site.
5. The Poor Traveler
For an honest and humorous look at traveling in Japan (and other places), check out The Poor Traveler.
These two bloggers seem to encounter some strange, unexpected situations.
Visit their site to read about the reality of traveling to Japan and other Asian countries on a limited budget.
6. FlipKey
If you’re planning a trip to Japan, or anywhere else for that matter, FlipKey is a very helpful, reliable resource.
If this will be your first time in Japan, make sure you start with the 30 Tips for First Time Travelers to Japan blog post. It covers all the basics on how to interact with people, and proper etiquette while staying in Japan.
7. Three Weeks in Japan
This travel blog recounts the adventures of Robert, the blog writer who started the site in 2009.
While the site covers many different travel destinations, there are some great Japan-specific blog posts.
Make sure to check out the Three Weeks in Japan article for details about northern and southern areas, so you can plan to go to the beaches in the summer or visit the mountains before the snow falls.
This blog gives you a great idea of just how much you can do in a short amount of time in Japan.
8. Zooming Japan
Zooming Japan takes a more practical approach to traveling in Japan. It gives you advice on learning the language, and helps you prepare so you don’t experience (as much) culture shock.
9.This Beautiful Day
If you’re planning to stay in Tokyo during your trip to Japan, make sure you check out This Beautiful Day.
From food to transportation and accommodations, this Japan travel blog provides useful information on things to do in the capital.
10. Just One Cookbook
You may be wondering why a cooking blog is on this list, but Just One Cookbook is a great travel resource, and you’ll already be ahead of the game when it comes to Japanese cuisine.
If you’re going to spend time in Kyoto, Just One Cookbook has a set of blog posts dedicated to the city. This thriving city was actually the nation’s capital until 1869, so it has a very rich history and you can still see a mix of traditional and modern-day architecture.
Whether you’re traveling to Japan for business or pleasure, get the most out of your trip by planning in advance. These Japan travel blogs will help you plan a fun, safe, and budget-friendly trip to Japan.
Another great way to learn about Japan is by reading about current events in Japan. Here are the eight best websites for Japan news.
Photo by Laurenz Bobke
Maile Proctor