#hotels in kochi city japan

[mayakshethra]

Discover Exotic Destinations with Our Tailor-Made Travel Packages

Travel is one of the most enriching experiences we can indulge in, offering a unique opportunity to explore new cultures, cuisines, landscapes, and traditions. Yet, the process of planning a trip can often be daunting and time-consuming. This is where our tailor-made travel packages come in, designed to take the stress out of planning and ensure that every journey is as unique and unforgettable as the destinations themselves best travel agency in kochi

The Essence of Tailor-Made Travel

Tailor-made travel is all about customization. Unlike standard package tours that follow a predetermined itinerary, a tailor-made package is crafted specifically for you. Whether you're an adventure enthusiast, a culture vulture, or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, our travel experts work closely with you to design an itinerary that perfectly matches your interests, preferences, and budget.

The Benefits of Tailor-Made Travel Packages

Personalization: Every aspect of your trip is tailored to your desires. Want to spend an extra day exploring a hidden beach or visit a local artisan market? With a tailor-made package, you have the flexibility to do just that.

Expert Knowledge: Our travel consultants possess extensive knowledge about destinations around the world. They can provide insider tips on the best times to visit, must-see attractions, and hidden gems that aren't found in standard guidebooks.

Time-Saving: Planning a trip can be incredibly time-consuming, especially when trying to coordinate flights, accommodations, activities, and transportation. Our experts handle all these details, allowing you to focus on enjoying your journey.

Stress-Free Experience: With all logistics taken care of, you can travel with peace of mind, knowing that support is available around the clock in case of any issues or changes.

Top Exotic Destinations for Tailor-Made Travel

Let's delve into some of the most exotic destinations you can explore with our tailor-made travel packages.

1. Bali, Indonesia

Bali is a paradise on Earth, renowned for its stunning beaches, lush rice terraces, and vibrant culture. Whether you're interested in surfing on the southern beaches, exploring the artistic town of Ubud, or diving in the crystal-clear waters of Nusa Penida, Bali offers a diverse range of experiences. Our tailor-made packages can include private villa stays, guided temple tours, and even personalized yoga retreats.

2. Machu Picchu, Peru

For history buffs and adventure seekers, Machu Picchu is a dream destination. This ancient Incan city nestled high in the Andes Mountains offers breathtaking views and a fascinating glimpse into the past. A tailor-made package can include a guided trek along the Inca Trail, a scenic train ride through the Sacred Valley, and a visit to local villages to experience traditional Andean culture.

3. Santorini, Greece

With its iconic white-washed buildings, stunning sunsets, and azure waters, Santorini is a quintessential romantic getaway. Our tailor-made packages can include a stay in a luxury cliffside hotel, private boat tours to nearby islands, and exclusive wine-tasting experiences at local vineyards. Whether you're celebrating a honeymoon or simply looking for a picturesque escape, Santorini delivers in spades.

4. Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan, is a city of timeless beauty and tradition. From the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove to the historic Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), Kyoto is filled with awe-inspiring sights. Tailor-made packages can offer guided tours of ancient temples, traditional tea ceremonies, and even personalized kimono fittings. For those interested in culinary adventures, we can arrange exclusive dining experiences at Michelin-starred restaurants.

5. Serengeti, Tanzania

For wildlife enthusiasts, the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania is an unparalleled destination. Witnessing the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebras traverse the plains, is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Our tailor-made safari packages can include private game drives, stays in luxury tented camps, and visits to local Maasai communities to learn about their way of life.

6. Iceland

Iceland, with its dramatic landscapes of geysers, waterfalls, glaciers, and volcanic craters, is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers. Tailor-made travel here can include guided tours of the Golden Circle, glacier hiking, soaking in the Blue Lagoon, and even a chance to witness the Northern Lights. Our packages ensure you experience the best of Iceland, tailored to your preferred level of adventure.

Creating Your Perfect Itinerary

Creating a tailor-made travel package begins with a conversation. Our travel experts will take the time to understand your interests, preferences, and travel style. Do you prefer a packed itinerary or a more relaxed pace? Are you traveling solo, as a couple, or with family? What are your must-see attractions and experiences?

Once we have a clear understanding of your vision, we'll craft a personalized itinerary that includes accommodations, activities, transportation, and any special experiences you desire. Throughout the planning process, you'll have the opportunity to review and tweak the itinerary until it perfectly matches your expectations.

Why Choose Us?

Our commitment to excellence and passion for travel sets us apart. We pride ourselves on creating unforgettable travel experiences that go beyond the ordinary. Here are a few reasons to choose our tailor-made travel packages:

Experience and Expertise: With years of experience and a network of trusted local partners, we offer unparalleled knowledge and access to unique experiences.

Personal Service: We prioritize your needs and preferences, offering personalized service and support from start to finish.

Value for Money: Our strong relationships with suppliers ensure you receive the best value for your investment.

Traveling to exotic destinations should be an exciting and enriching experience, not a stressful one. With our tailor-made travel packages, you can discover the world's most breathtaking locations with ease and confidence. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, our customized itineraries ensure that your journey is as unique as you are. Let us take care of the details so you can focus on making memories that will last a lifetime. Embark on your next adventure with us and discover the magic of tailor-made travel best travel agency in alappuzha

[visacollect]

Securing Your Japan Visa Online: Essential Guide and Top Reasons to Explore Japan

Hitting the Japanese road? It's important to know the japan online visa requirements whether you're going for a business meeting, to see the cherry blossoms, or to visit one of the country's historic temples. This complete guide will help you figure out what you need to make the application process go smoothly and the 5 main reasons you must visit Japan Five great reasons to visit Japan:

Cherry Blossoms: Japan is beautiful all year, but Cherry Blossom Season is especially lovely. Beautiful pink blossoms brighten the scene. Spring dinners beneath cherry blossom trees are popular in Japan.

Japanese Food: Sushi, ramen, and tempura are world-renowned Japanese dishes. In Japan, you can try the most authentic versions of these dishes while also discovering new ones.

Hokkaido: The northern island of Hokkaido features beautiful parks, hot springs, and wildlife. The Ainu people, who have their unique culture and cuisine, live there.

City Adventures: Japan's cities are filled with magnificent skyscrapers, delicious food, and exciting activities. Our journey will take us via Tokyo, Kochi, and Osaka, each with its unique charm.

Countryside Peace: Japan offers peaceful countryside to admire nature away from cities. The snow-covered Mount Fuji is a must-see. It is a breathtaking volcano and one of Japan's most famous landmarks.

Do I need a visa to go to Japan? To visit Japan, many tourists need to have a visa. What you need varies on where you are from, why you are visiting, and how long you plan to stay. Before you plan your trip, you should always check the most up-to-date Japan online visa rules. How to Get a Japan Visa: A Step-by-Step Guide No matter why you want to travel to Japan, applying for a visa online takes a few steps and a lot of paperwork. In general, all applicants need these things:

Form to Apply for a Japan Visa: First, fill it out online. Then print it out and sign it. Valid Passport: Make sure your passport has two blank pages and is good for at least six more months. Size of a passport Picture: Make sure you follow the exact measurements and background colour rules. Flight Itinerary: Show how you plan to get in and out of the airport without getting a ticket yet. Daily Itinerary: Write down what you plan to do each day in Japan. Proof that you have a place to stay: a hotel reservation or a letter from your host. Financial Records: Bank records or tax returns are proof that the business is solvent. Letter of Invitation: If you want to visit someone or go to a business meeting. Proof of Your Reason for Travelling: Documents that are specific to your type of ticket.

A certificate of eligibility (COE) from a sponsor in Japan is needed for visits that are not for tourism, work, or short stays. Instructions for the cover letter and photo A cover letter sent to the Embassy or Consulate tells them about yourself and your trip plans. Japan has rules about the size, background, and expression of the picture you need for your visa.

Documents that are unique to each travel purpose The papers you need can change depending on why you're going to Japan—for business, pleasure, school, work, vacation, or transit. Make sure you know what kind of visa you need by calling the Japanese Embassy or Consulate.

Invitation and Money Paperwork If you want to visit Japan for work or pleasure, you need an invitation letter from a host in Japan or a company. If someone is paying for your trip, you will need their promise letter and proof of funds. ID Card or Certificate of Eligibility For some kinds of visas, you need a COE, which your sponsor in Japan must get from the Immigration Services before you apply.

Remember that this guide isn't complete; you may be asked to provide more papers. Check to see if you need to send originals or copies of the papers. All papers should be written in English or Japanese. If they are not, you should have them translated by a professional.

Discover Japan with Ease: VisaCollect - Your Passport to a Stress-Free Visa Experience! Do you need help applying for a visa? Visit VisaCollect for help from professionals and make your dream trip to Japan come true. Remember that getting ready for the application process will make it go more smoothly. Have a great trip!

In conclusion To get your Japan online visa, you need to gather certain papers and carefully follow the application process. You must make sure you me Japan's visa requirements to have a smooth trip, whether you're visiting as a tourist, going to school, or looking to work.

FAQs How early should I get a visa for Japan?

Start the process three to six months before your trip if possible.

Can I get a visa for Japan online?

Yes, you can apply for some types of visas online. For more information, visit the webpage of the Japanese Embassy or Consulate.

What if I haven't bought my plane ticket yet?

You only need to make a trip plan when you apply; you don't have to buy the ticket.

Should I get a visa to visit Japan for a short time?

It depends on where you are from. Japan has deals with some countries that let them visit without a visa.

If I only have a tourist visa, can I work in Japan?

No, you need a certain type of work visa to work officially in Japan.

What is a COE (Certificate of Eligibility)? Do I need one?

For some kinds of visas, you need a COE, which a sponsor can only get in Japan . How long does it take to get a visa for Japan?

Times vary, but you should expect at least 5 working days for tourist visas. For other types of visas, it may take longer.

Can I get a longer visa while I'm in Japan?

Yes, but you need to apply before the end of your present visa.

What should I do if my visa application is turned down?

You can find out why you were turned down and maybe resume with more information.

Do kids need a visa to go to Japan?

Depending on the reason for their trip, all travellers, even kids, need the right IDs.

[earaercircular]

Barbecue in the pool

Osaka: Barbecue Restaurant Opens Inside Old School Swimming Pool

Japan is running out of children, and schools across the country are having to close. What to do with the empty buildings? A visit to Osaka where they came up with something special.

At first, innkeeper Hajime Otsuki found his new workplace a bit scary. After all, it wasn't that long ago that the 27-year-old went to school and was exposed to Japanese horror culture. "As a child, I heard stories about ghosts at school," the Gakkou no Kaidan[1] that children and young people in the island state like to tell to scare each other a little. That's what Otsuki had to think about when he started working for the barbecue restaurant Ikuno BBQ Skypark. Because it is housed in a disused Miyukimori Elementary School in the Ikuno district of the city of Osaka. More precisely: on the roof of the school. To be more precise: in the swimming pool on the roof of the school.

Japan is the oldest society in the world. According to data from the Tokyo government, almost 30 percent of the 125 million people in the island state are 65 and older. The proportion of older people is growing, there are fewer and fewer young people. As a result, schools have to close. Angular buildings remain that the authorities and investors do not want to abandon without a fight.

So make something out of it, school building recycling is on the rise. They are renovated and reused as hotels, wellness facilities, museums or restaurants. Especially in Japan's hinterland, which is badly affected by the aging population. "Staying overnight in closed schools is just fun!", the travel portal travel.jp titled an article with examples from Gunma, Akita and other prefectures. The coastal town of Muroto[2] in Kochi advertises its "schoolhouse aquarium"; where primary school children once crammed, you can now see hammerhead sharks, sea cucumbers and sea turtles. And in Mihama-chō[3], Fukui Prefecture, the site of a nuclear power plant, a closed school is being used as a public "Energy-Environment Learning Center."

Only eleven first years left

The Ikuno BBQ Skypark is a new take on the trend. However, it is a bit out of the ordinary, because Osaka's Ikuno district is not in the remote countryside, but is an urban thicket of old houses and narrow streets. "There still are a lot of people here," says Hajime Otsuki, "but not a lot of children." Ikuno is not well connected to the public transport network and spreads the crumbling post-war charm in many corners. In addition, many foreigners traditionally live here, especially Koreans. Young Japanese families are more drawn to tidier parts of Osaka with modern tower blocks or single-family homes.

In any case, the Miyuki Mori elementary school was running out of children. According to the school information service Gaccom,[4] in 2020 she only had 76 students in the six grades. Eleven children went to the first class, and only nine children to the fourth. In March 2021 the school closed. The floor below the Ikuno BBQ Skypark is a reminder of the house's past: empty classrooms. Forgotten benches. A lonely office chair stands in front of a chalkboard covered in scribbles. The dawn light falls through yellowed curtains. Sad.

But a local urban developer saw an opportunity in the void. The company Retown[5] specializes in reviving urban places in a sustainable way. It saw the ex-school in Osaka's neglected corner of diversity as an ideal place for a multicultural center. Retown financed the project through crowdfunding - and the Ikuno Co-Lives Park with 22 tenants has been open since the beginning of May. The premises include sports schools, offices, guest rooms, a recording studio, a library - and on the roof the Ikuno BBQ Skypark in the pool.

"Barbecue has always been popular in Ikuno," says Hajime Otsuki. Barbecue is typical of Korean cuisine, but there was no public place for it, because barbecues are not allowed in Japanese parks. So it made sense to use the roof with the swimming pool. But how? "First we thought: we fill the pool with water," says Otsuki, but then someone could have fallen in. In addition, a full pool would have cost space for guests - and levelling it was not possible because the city, as the landlord, would have had to approve it. So the water stayed out. Around a hundred people can now take a seat in elegant seating groups on the bottom of the pool and prepare their own or pre-ordered food on the table grill.

The pool is 25 meters long and only 90 centimetres deep because children used to learn to swim here. You can therefore easily look over the edge of the pool into the sunset. The pool is not covered with tiles, as is common in public swimming pools, but with light blue iron plates, a cheaper alternative. A counter is mounted at the front where there used to be two starting blocks. The edge of the pool is equipped with small lights. But basically the pool is still the same as when it was filled up. On lane three, a couple sits so close to the target wall that they could hit it at any time.

The two older men on lane five are grilling at a distance behind them. And on the other side, a guest climbs over one of the ladders into the pool. "The influx isn't that big yet," says Hajime Otsuki, but the summer is still young. In any case, it is atmospheric in the pool above the roofs of Ikuno when the red-golden light of the evening gradually turns into the dark blue of the night. At least for people who don't believe in school ghosts.

Source

Thomas Hahn,  Barbecue im Schwimmbecken, in Süddeutsche Zeitung, 25-07-2023,

[1] School Ghost Stories (学校の怪談, Gakkō no Kaidan), also known as Haunted School, is a 1995 Japanese horror film directed by Hideyuki Hirayama. It follows a group of schoolchildren who encounter spirits and other supernatural happenings in an abandoned wing of their elementary school. The film is the first instalment in the School Ghost Stories film series, and was followed by School Ghost Stories 2 in 1996.

[2] Muroto (室戸市, Muroto-shi) is a city located in Kōchi Prefecture, Japan. As of 30 June 2022, the city had an estimated population of 12,121 in 7079 households and a population density of 49 persons per km2. The total area of the city is 248.18 square kilometres.

[3] Mihama (美浜町, Mihama-chō) is a town located in Fukui Prefecture, Japan. As of 1 May 2018, the city had an estimated population of 9,643 in 3175 households and the population density of 63 persons per km². The total area of the town was 152.35 square kilometres.

[4] Gaccom is a portal site composed of the two parts as follows; 1, The school information page provides the information of nursery schools, kindergartens, elementary and middle schools in Japan. 2, The community page provides the community where the parent in the same school can interchange each other and supports it.

The coverage of use is different respectively by the conditions of the registration to Gaccom. The range of use depends on the conditions of the registration. https://www.gaccom.jp/wp/?pagename=about_gaccom_en

[5] http://retown.co.jp/

[jetsettermac]

golden week: shikoku

april 30-may 7, 2023

>> see all golden week 2023 posts <<

for golden week this year i decided to visit the four prefectures on the island of shikoku!

you can get to shikoku by ferry, plane, or train. i choose train, so i came in through okayama on a bridge over the seto inland sea, which was really cool!

for most people, including me, takamatsu city in kagawa prefecture is the gateway to shikoku. i spent the first several days of my golden week there. the first day was a travel day, but the second day i spent exploring takamatsu. i visited ritsurin garden, which is one of japan's most beautiful gardens (though not the top three). it was a really nice garden with a clearly laid out walking path throughout. i also gathered up my courage and went up to the observatory in symbol tower, which offers views of takamatsu city and the seto inland sea from the 29th floor. finally, i visited a shrine deep into the city to get my kagawa goshuin.

the following day i had a day trip to tokushima. i originally was going to visit the naruto whirlpool, but they only appear during high/low tide so timing the visit can be difficult. ultimately i decided to visit tokushima city instead, and went to the awaodori museum and the nearby shrine. when i came back i tried sanuki udon, which was pretty good!

after that was a travel day to kochi city. perhaps one of my favorite days, the views from the train through central shikoku were immaculate! we went through the iya valley, and i got to see oboke gorge from the train window.

kochi city was really fun. it's the type of city that really lets its hair down at night. i visited the castle museum, the castle grounds, a shrine, and the shopping streets in downtown kochi. there's something really nice about a pacific city with tall palm trees and a relaxed nightlife!

the day after was another travel day, going back up through central shikoku and then over to matsuyama city in ehime. unfortunately the bad weather was rolling in, so that same day i made a quick visit to dogo onsen and the surrounding area, which is a really cool area. there's a cute animated clock that plays music through the day, and there's a shopping street with lots of souvenir opportunities. dogo onsen is currently being renovated but even so, you can still see the front!

on may 6, the last full day, it did heavy-rain. however, before it started i was able to visit a shrine in ehime and get a new goshuin book because i filled up the old one! my hotel was near okaidou shopping street which was convenient for the rainy day situation, since it's covered.

and may 7th i went home from ehime via okayama! i had originally planned to go on the jet ferry, but with the weather being terrible for two straight days i decided it's safer to take the train.

to sum it all up, shikoku is known as this backwater country sort of place, and in some ways it is. it's not very accessible for wheelchair users, and most places required paper tickets and could not accept ic cards for trains, BUT everyone i met was super kind and wanted to chat (shoutout to the man at the shrine who let me take cute pictures of my new goshuin), and shikoku just has a vibe about it that's very cool and fun. i would love to go back next time i'm in japan.

[tripcounselors]

Queen of Arabian Sea: Kochi

This city is known as the "Queen of the Arabian Sea," and in addition to that title, it also boasts holding one of the world's most magnificent natural harbors, and for many centuries, it functioned as the center of the international spice trade. In addition, this city also boasts possessing one of the world's most beautiful natural harbors. Old Kochi, which is now referred to as West Kochi, is a general word that refers to a group of islands that includes Willingdon Island, Fort Kochi, Mattancherry, and other localities. This phrase was formerly used to describe what is now known as West Kochi.

Kochi is not only a bustling commercial port but also the historical and contemporary financial centre of the state. Its long history of commercial activity dates back at least 600 years. Kochi is the state capital. Kochi is a city that is famous for its proximity to the water and can be located on the coast of Japan. This cosmopolitan town is home to some of the nation's most prominent heritage hotels, in addition to exclusive boutiques and art galleries.

If you have any questions about our interesting and affordable Kochi trips, please don't hesitate to contact one of our Knowledgeable Trip Counselors now.

[yousakana]

今日 6月15日は弘法大師・空海（お大使さま）の誕生日。高知県室戸市には、空海が悟りを開きその名前の由来となったと言われている「空と海」がみえる洞窟『御厨人窟（みくろど）』があります。 空と海がみえる洞窟。空海、悟りの地『御厨人窟（みくろど）』 – Land of Kukai’s enlightenment “Mikurodo Cave” 高知県室戸市には、弘法大師・空海ゆかりの場所が数多く残っています。『御厨人窟（みくろど）』は、約1200年前の平安時代、青年時代の空海が悟りを開いたといわれる洞窟です。内には五所神社があります。「空海」と名は、この洞窟の中からみえる空と海に感銘を受けたからと言われています。残したい日本の音風景100選（環境省） In Muroto City, Kochi Prefecture, there are many places associated with Kobo-Daishi Kukai. The Mikurodo Cave is said to be the cave where Kukai attained enlightenment as a young man in the Heian period (794-1185), some 1,200 years ago. Inside the cave is the Gosho Shrine. The name ‘Kukai’ is said to have been inspired by the sky and sea seen from inside the cave. One of the 100 soundscapes of Japan that should be preserved (Ministry of the Environment). 御厨人窟（みくろど） 住所：高知県室戸市室戸岬町3225-2 アクセス：高知東部交通バス停「岬ホテル前」下車、徒歩3分 時間：9:00〜17:00 Mikurodo Cave Address : 3225-2, Cape Muroto-cho, Muroto City, Kochi Prefecture Access : 3 min walk from Misaki Hotel-mae bus stop (Kochi Toubu Kotsu Bus Stop). Time : 9:00〜17:00 (御厨人窟) https://www.instagram.com/p/Ce0Y6h7vQRJ/?igshid=NGJjMDIxMWI=

[pamy92]

Dear Girl ~Stories~ the Movie 3

Caught the movie the same day it opened in Japanese cinemas! Huge spoilers and movie summary under the cut! 

I have never seen the first two DGS Movies but I know it is full of crack and of HiroC bullying OnoD. Boy, I was so right! The movie from start to end was hilarious! Poor, poor OnoD! 

The movie opened with HiroC and a sleepy OnoD whispering in their hotel room their theme for this ‘episode’ of DGS - “I did not bring my passport.” HiroC said that they will be going ‘overseas’ for this episode, hence why they are up bright and early to rush to Haneda airport. 

Landing at the Kingdom of Kochi

Of course, they did not go overseas at all but travelled to Kochi, in which they have reimagined it as The United Kingdom of Kochi (UKK). OnoD was so peeved about it, and they had to go through a fake immigration where the officer asks them English questions like:

“What is the purpose of your trip zeyo?”

 > HiroC & OnoD: Sightseeing zeyo.

“What is your occupation zeyo?”

> Japanese famous voice actor zeyo!

If they do not use zeyo at the end of their sentence, the officer pretended not to understand them at all haha! 

The Kingdom’s Currency

After clearing ‘immigration’, HiroC introduced the UKK currency - zeyo. In which 100-yen is equivalent to 100-zeyo. The cast actually made coins and note for UKK. The 10,000 note had OnoD’s portrait and a moustache on it! It was so hilarious! 

First, they decided to stop for a quick bite! Since Kochi City is famous for katsuo (tuna), they visited an eating place and tried katsuo tataki and some fried candied katsuo fries! Both stall vendors kept to the game and pretence of dealing in zetto, instead of Japanese yen! OnoD was screaming in aghast hahaha! 

Sightseeing in Kochi City 1: Harimaya Bridge

They then got changed into the national outfit of the UKK, which is literally a samurai outfit! Then, they went sightseeing! 

First, they decided to visit the famous Kochi bridge - Harimaya-bashi, a hilariously tiny, 20-meter red arched bridge. Along the way to the bridge, OnoD was gushing excitedly that this bridge is as famous as America’s Rainbow Bridge and the UK’s London Bridge. But silly OnoD mistakenly called London Bridge ‘Big Ben’ hahahaha!!!  

Everyone thought it was going to be a huuuuuuge bridge but no. It was tiny af, even HiroC was wondering how on earth it got famous. They made OnoD do a voice recording for the DGS ringtone (?) download, and it was hilarious! OnoD got super embarrassed! 

They also recorded some random bridge-crossing footage for the trailer, which is super funny! 

Sightseeing in Kochi City 2: Kochi Castle  

The team then visited Kochi Castle in their samurai outfits next! They passed the statue of Itagaki Taisuke, and HiroC joked that Itagaki-san’s raised hand must be representing the length of Kochi’s katsuo! Hahahha!  

They also visited the statue of Sakamoto Ryoma, and OnoD pretended to voice-over as Sakamoto while HiroC chatted to the statue. 

They posed for pictures with the castle at the backdrop and made OnoD say more cheesy lines! OnoD wanted to visit the castle but HiroC trolled OnoD, saying that he can’t visit the castle because the current King of Kochi lives there. OnoD then asked who are those visitors at the viewing deck then, and HiroC said they are staff serving the King lol. The only way OnoD can enter the castle is if he becomes King. Thus, this gave birth to OnoD’s resolve to be King (now you know why the part 2 poster mentioned about being King zeyo). 

Sightseeing in Kochi City 3: Lunch

The cast settled down for lunch, and ordered everything on the menu with katsuo. Two of the cast members only had saba-sushi. 

Sightseeing in Kochi City 4: Katsurahama Beach

They went to the beach afterwards and made OnoD shout his promise to be King of Kochi to the sea! It was a short scene but pretty funny! Poor OnoD had to run a lot! 

Sightseeing in Kochi City 5: Tosa-token Center 

Kochi is also famous for their Tosa fighting dogs! They sat through a short 3-minute dog fight. I think a lot of audience members got visibly uncomfortable seeing the two dogs fight. Even OnoD started tearing up and HiroC looked really uncomfortable watching it. At the end of the fight, HiroC had to hit OnoD roughly on the chest to snap him out of his depression at seeing dogs fight. But they got to see Tosa puppies and they are HUGE!!!!! A puppy shook paws with OnoD, to his delight! 

Sightseeing in Kochi City 6: OnoD’s Family Shop & Home

Next, they visited OnoD’s family shop - Ono Furniture Store! HiroC trolled OnoD that MamaD was waiting outside the shop for him, but instead it was a punk-looking lady riding a Harley Davidson motorcycle. OnoD cannot believe that lady is MamaD and she rode off after exchanging some hilarious words with the two. 

The cast then entered the shop, and we saw framed pictures of idol-like OnoD on the wall! The cast also decided to purchase some furniture! UchiP decided to buy some furniture for the office and some super tacky indoor slipper stands that is shaped like a Wing Chun martial artist might use to practice fighting (Ace of Asia reference), in which 3 lucky movie viewers get to win! One girl said “But..I don’t need it.” a little too loudly, which made the whole theatre laugh. The cast explored the shop and OnoD kept encouraging them to buy something, especially the huge vase that is on sale (refer to part 2 poster). 

Since no one is at the shop, they then decided to pop by OnoD’s home to greet his parents! The scene opened with OnoD looking embarrassed af in his living room haha! MamaD and PapaD had masks on, and us audience members also got a mask as a gift!

We got to see pictures of OnoD when he was in elementary school (HE WAS SO CUTE OMG), and trophies from his seiyuu career. MamaD shared a bit of all the mementos of her son, and could remember every single picture, autograph and magazine. We can see she is OnoD’s biggest supporter. 

While MamaD prepared dinner, HiroC went to OnoD’s childhood bedroom. He then showed us some of his very old anime collection, and suddenly went to dig through his study desk! He found an old cassette player and his first generation gameboy console, which HiroC agreed that it was super nostalgic! Suddenly, OnoD opened the lowest drawer to reveal lots of old academic textbooks and paper, and started digging behind frantically to...PULL OUT A 2005 COPY OF PLAYBOY MAGAZINE!!!!! OH MY GOSH, everyone started clapping in the theatre as HiroC flipped though the magazine while OnoD shared about when he got this magazine (he was 25 years old then) and how he managed to hide it all these while. Thank god the magazine had mosiac over it, but yes - naked women! 

After that, they went down and MamaD had made a feast for the cast and crew! She even made OnoD’s favourite tamagoyaki & HiroC’s Hamburg steak. OnoD got emotional as he heard his mom talk about him, and they celebrated his birthday with cake! 

As part 1 of the movie wrapped up, OnoD invited HiroC to stay overnight at his house. But...did HiroC stay overnight? We will only find out in part 2 of the movie! 

We then got to see teasers of part 2 as well as some funny behind-the-scenes footage during the credits! 

It was a really funny movie and my cheeks hurt from laughing and grinning so much! The theatre also sold official movie goods and DGS expo goods as well, but I didn’t get any! 

I can’t wait to watch part 2 but I am not sure if I will be able to catch it as I will not be in Japan during the first few days of its release! But, I shall try! 

[charllieeldridge]

21 Things To Do in Japan: An Insider’s Guide

Right now, Japan is one of the hottest travel destinations on the planet. The frequently trodden path from Hiroshima up to Tokyo (or vice versa) is still the backbone of Japan’s travel center. While there are some undoubtedly beautiful places in this area, the rest of Japan is home to spectacular scenery, awesome food and oodles of culture.

There are endless things to do in Japan. Truly there is no other country like it on earth; for many, it’s this uniqueness that makes it particularly spellbinding. Its customs and culture both confuse and enlighten, while its history inspires and saddens. Meanwhile, Japan’s scenery captivates and the food is the stuff of legends.

Welcome to one of the world’s most awe-inspiring countries!

I spent 2 months in Japan taking in Southern Honshu by trains, boats, and buses and exploring Hokkaido, Kyushu and Shikoku by rental car. In that time I hiked all over Hokkaido and Kyshu, took on death-defying roads in the Ilya valley, relaxed in many a sumptuous onsen and enjoyed some of the finest food I will ever eat.

Unsurprisingly, I’m already planning my next trip to Japan.

There are numerous things to do in Japan to keep you busy for a very long time. Here’s a list of 21 to get you started.

1. Eat Anything and Everything

Japan is a foodie paradise, so it’s no surprise that eating makes it onto the list of things to do in Japan. Food here can go from the cheap and cheerful to incredibly expensive (sushi in a swanky Ginza establishment comes to mind).

Sampling proper Japanese food is, without a doubt, one of the best things to do in Japan. Dig into frozen salmon on Hokkaido, Chicken Nan-ban on Kyushu, Okonomiyaki in Hiroshima (although this can be found everywhere) and pretty much everything in Osaka.

If you are lucky enough to visit Osaka, one of Japan’s food havens, you must eat takoyaki and conveyor belt sushi as both were invented here! Surprisingly, both are very affordable despite their heritage status in this region of Kansai.

Eating doesn’t have to be expensive, and if you’re travelling Japan on a budget, there are numerous chain restaurants serving sushi from 100 yen ($0.94) a plate, a bowl of ramen noodles for around $5. Plus, convenience stores have a range of affordable options.

Whether you want to chow down on ramen or sample the best sushi, eating is one of the best things to do in Japan.

2. Explore the Shiretoko National Park

The island of Hokkaido is Japan’s last remaining wilderness. Jutting out of the island’s northeast, pointing towards Kamchatka a few thousand miles away, the Shirteoko National Park sometimes feels like it’s at the edge of civilization.

The national park is home to a reasonably large population of brown bears that you may be able to see on a cruise or a hike (note, if a bear is spotted on the 5 Lakes Trail then the entire trail is closed).

There are plenty of trails ranging from an hour or so to full-day hikes up to the peak of Mount Rausu. Check out the small town of Rausu on the eastern side for some awesome sashimi and free natural hot springs located right on the beach.

☞ SEE ALSO: Cost of Living in Japan – The Ultimate Guide for Digital Nomads

3. Stargazing and Hiking at Lake Mashu in the Akan National Park

Regarded as one of the world’s top stargazing spots, Lake Mashu in the middle of the Akan National Park is just as stunning during the waking hours. During the day, there is a fantastic hike to the top of Mashu Dake, offering picturesque views over the national park — another absolute must!

The area around Lake Mashu is spotless, partly due to the fact that people are not allowed to approach the lake itself. This makes the area of water one of the cleanest spots in Japan.

After completing the Mashu Dake hike, grab some food in the village of Teshikaga before heading back to watch the stars. Truly mesmerizing.

4. Pay Your Respects at the Peace Museums (one of the most important things to do in Japan)

The atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki brought about the end of World War II with the surrender of Japan. This horrific period in history is forever intertwined within the Japanese psyche.

The peace museums and memorials in both cities offer honest, thought-provoking accounts of what hundreds of thousands of innocent civilians went through from the moment the bombs were dropped.

Despite being completely destroyed, both Hiroshima and Nagasaki have risen from the ashes to become vibrant modern cities in their own right that are definitely worth a visit. As awful as this history is, visiting the Peace Museums is one of the most important things to do in Japan.

☞ SEE ALSO: Living in Japan – A Guide For Digitial Nomads

5. Watch a J-Pop Show

Along with Anime, J-Pop is one of Japan’s biggest pop-culture exports. Getting to see a show, such as AKB48 in Tokyo, is one of the most fun things to do in Japan.

There are numerous music festivals throughout the country during the summer months and many artists are touring regularly. If you want a slice of modern Japanese pop culture, this is a pretty good place to start!

6. Visit an Onsen – An Outdoor One if You’re Lucky Enough

If you’re wondering what to do in Japan to relax, without a shadow of a doubt visiting an onsen (hot spring) is at the top of the list. Whether you’re staying in an onsen hotel, visiting a public bath or checking out an outdoor onsen, get ready to feel cleaner and more relaxed than you ever have before.

One of the things that puts visitors off is the fact that you have to be completely naked. That’s not an option, it’s one of the most basic onsen rules.

There are many other rules as well: don’t dip your towel in the water, don’t splash water when you shower, you can’t have any tattoos, and you must shower before entering. If you’re unsure of the rules you can check with one of the onsen employees, however, the vast majority will have the rules displayed in the entrance or in the changing rooms.

Onsens are a practice unique to Japan and an activity that is very much intertwined with Japanese life. Once you’ve been, you’ll wonder how you were able to survive without this in your life.

If you have the chance, try and visit an outdoor onsen. Coastal onsen towns like Ibusuki near Kagoshima in Kyushu are the best places to find these natural gems.

☞ SEE ALSO: How To Get a Working Holiday Visa in Japan – A Step by Step Guide

7. Hike To The Inari Shrine in Kyoto

Kyoto is one of the most popular destinations in Japan. It is mainly known for its stunning temples and gardens, particularly Ginkakuji and Kinkakuji. However, one of Kyoto’s most enduring and spectacular experiences is visiting the Inari Shrine.

There are so many things to do in Kyoto, with this being one of the most popular sights. Naturally it can get very crowded, however, if you get there early in the morning, around 6-7am, chances are that it will be almost deserted, meaning that you can wander through the torii gates in silence.

8. Take on The Terrifying Roads of the Ilya Valley in Shikoku

Shikoku is the smallest of Japan’s four main islands, but it still packs an almighty punch. Hiring a car is one of the best things to do in Japan and Shikoku is no exception. One of the island’s most popular areas is the stunning Ilya valley.

Single lane roads wind through valleys, traverse rivers and hug the mountainside. Because of this, encountering any other drivers requires nerves of steel and the spacial awareness akin to the most skilled lorry driver.

We spent two nights here a few days after a typhoon had blown through the area, making our driving experience extra tense…but still incredible. 

☞ SEE ALSO: Teaching English in Japan – A Guide To Finding Jobs 

9. Visit a Castle

Castles are one of the best things to see in Japan. The country is littered with stunning castles, some are original structures but most have been rebuilt due to earthquakes or the devastation of World War 2.

Some of the best-preserved original castles are Kochi, Himeji, Matsuyama, Matsumoto and Nijō. If you get the opportunity to visit one of Japan’s stunning castles, jump at it! 

10. Get Acquainted with Japan’s Incredible Rail System

The JR pass is one of the most famous travel documents in the world. For years the JR rail pass has allowed millions of travellers to experience some of the best parts of Japan at an affordable price.

Japan’s rail system is the stuff of legends. Punctual to the second, militantly clean, all while speeding along at over 300km per hour. It is one of the best ways enjoy all the things to see in Japan.

That being said, there are a variety of different regional and local rail passes that may end up being better value for you than the original JR rail pass. Do your research and choose a pass that’s right for you. 

As a word of warning, the Japanese rail system can be extremely confusing. There is a helpful app called Hyperdia that is an excellent resource for planning your train travel across the country, many a time this was a lifesaver! Unfortunately, this app is only available on android, and for sale in certain countries (including the USA and the UK).

If you do find yourself completely lost at the station there are often railway employees wearing badges identifying if they speak English. They will be more than happy to help you.

11. Hike in The Japan Alps

By far, one of the best things to do in Japan is to do some hiking. Home to some of the country’s best hiking trails, the Japanese Alps is the place to experience Japan’s most beautiful scenery.

The region is spread across Gifu, Nagano and Toyama prefectures. Throughout the region, there are various stunning towns that act as the jumping-off point for some incredible day hikes, the most well-known of these towns being Kamikochi, Matsumoto and Takayama.

The region is well connected by public transport and unlike many other mountain areas in Japan, you really don’t need a car. Its reasonably close proximity to Tokyo makes it far more accessible than some of Japan’s other mountainous regions.

12. Sleep on the Floor

This may seem like an odd thing to do in Japan, however, it is one of the first things that surprises people when travelling to Japan. The vast majority of accommodation options offer beds that roll out on the floor (on top of a tatami mat), a type of futon. While this may not be everybody’s cup of tea it’s actually very comfortable, so give it a chance!

This option is especially common if you stay in an onsen hotel or utilize Airbnb. In many of the places I stayed in, hand-drawn instructions on how to set up your bed and how to pack it away again were there to help out confused tourists.

13. Visit an Arcade

Japan is the epicenter of the video game world so naturally, this is one of the best things to do in Japan. Arcades in Japan are chaotic, intense places where young people go to hang out after school and at weekends.

Arcades in Ikebukuro and Shibuya in Tokyo are well worth checking out if you want to combine the experience with some good people watching.

14. Sleep in a Manga Cafe

The cost of Tokyo, in particular, the accommodation, can be quite expensive. So, what can you do to save a few pennies and have a great night’s sleep? Easy, stay in a manga cafe.

These cafes/libraries/guesthouses are dotted all over Tokyo and are often a resting place for business executives who would rather sleep in Tokyo than endure a long commute home after a night out.

Most of the time you will get a small cubicle that has a comfy chair or sofa with a computer set up on a desk at the other end. If you’re looking for funky budget accommodation option in Tokyo or elsewhere in Japan, then Manga Cafes are an excellent choice.

15. Explore the Constantly Erupting Volcano, Sakurajima

Volcanos have helped to shape Japan’s landscape for millennia. From the country’s most famous peak at Fuji to some of the lesser-known ones dotted all over Japan’s four main islands, volcanos are a part of Japan’s landscape that is intertwined with its history and culture.

Opposite the port city of Kaogshima in southern Japan is the very active volcano of Sakurajima, Every day it burps out ash covering visitors and the surrounding area. Spending a day exploring the peculiar natural phenomenon is a highlight of any trip to the southwestern island of Kyushu. 

16. Check Out Farm Tomita in Furano

The island of Hokkaido in Japan is the wildest, most raw and (many would say) most spectacular. Furano is a tiny town 3 hours or so from Sapporo. It’s most famous for its stunning flower farms that in spring and autumn burst into colour. The most famous of these is the gigantic Farm Tomita. Buy some lavender ice cream and spend an afternoon surrounded by more colour than you can believe.

17. Take a Day Trip to Miyajima

A short tram and ferry ride from Hiroshima is the gorgeous island of Miyajima, a highlight of any trip to Japan. It is home to one of Japan’s most famous sights; the Grand Tori Gate, part of the Itsukushima shrine. Sunset offers some spectacular photo opportunities.

Head further into the island’s interior and explore the stunning Daisho-in temple. There are plenty of other smaller temples around the Itsukushima shrine that are well worth checking out.

If you have enough time, enjoy the stunning views from Mount Misen. There is a cable car that will take you pretty close to the summit, but from there it will be a 30-45 minute walk depending on your speed.

One thing to note is the deer. Although Miyajima’s deer are not quite as well known or as notorious as the deer in Nara, they are a confident bunch who will go after your food with some gusto. Keep anything edible you have in a backpack that zips closed. If the bag is open then they will try and get in.

18. Explore the Temples of Nara

After Kyoto this may be Kansai’s most famous and popular city. More often than not Nara is visited as a day trip from Kyoto or Osaka, with excellent public transport links between them.

The city is probably as famous for its temples as for its deer. As a former imperial capital of Japan, the city was a political and religious centre. This history is represented today by incredible Nara Park. This area is home to some of the most stunning temples in Japan — particularly, the Daibutsu in the Todai-ji temple.

Take the time to fully explore the park in its entirety as there are plenty of temples that are secluded well away from the crowd.

The deer are one of the city’s star attractions and they will find you before you find them. There are numerous stalls selling ‘deer biscuits’ that once purchased will cause a conga line to form behind you. Be aware that the deer will try and get food out of your bag if it’s open. Sadly, a number of deer have gotten sick recently by eating human food.

19. Hike in Kyushu

As I mentioned, Japan is a hiker’s paradise. Hokkaido justifiably hogs a lot of the glory here, but since there’s already a Hokkaido hiking entry on this list it seems only right to include the stunning island of Kyushu. The third largest of Japan’s four main islands is home to onsens, volcanoes and epic scenery.

Whether you want to take on the peaks in the Kirishima National Park, the trails around Unzen and Hirado or check out central island highlights of Takachiho, Aso San or Yufuin, Kyushu has great hiking. Naturally, this is one of the top Japan attractions.

20. Visit an Art Island in the Seto Inland Sea

This rather lovely expanse of water is sandwiched between southern Honshu and Northern Shikoku. Over the last few years, some of the small islands here have been used by both Japanese and international artists to create some of the most forward-thinking and unique art installations and exhibitions today.

The islands of Teshima and Naoshima are most famous but there are a couple of smaller islands that are well with checking out.

21. People Watch in Tokyo

No article on things to do in Japan would be complete without a tip of the hat to the neon metropolis that is Tokyo. The world’s most populated city is breathtaking. Each district has its own culture, soul, and personality. Japan’s economic miracle rubs shoulders with Japan’s modern pop culture and traditional ways of life.

Nowhere in Tokyo has the charm and intoxication of Shibuya. This is everything you imagine Tokyo to be and more. Wandering through the narrow alleyways, checking out gigs and restaurants is all part of the Shibuya experience. Pick a spot around the Shibuya Crossing and enjoy the people watching. 

Getting To and From Japan 

Japan is very well connected if you plan on flying into Tokyo (Haneda/Narita) or Osaka (Kansai International). However, outside of these two, the international services are limited to flights from Asia, particularly from China, South Korea and Taiwan.

Outside of flying, it’s possible to take a ferry from China or South Korea. This is certainly not the most efficient way of getting to Japan, however, it has the potential to be cheaper than flying.

Getting around Japan

The JR pass is the mainstay for many and as wonderful as it is there are plenty of other passes that may be cheaper and better value for you to take advantage of during your trip.

Another excellent way to get around this vast country is with internal flights. Both ANA and JAL offer internal flights for around $100, this goes up or down depending on where you are heading to and where you leave from. 

However, for me, the best way to get around Japan is by rental car. I explored Hokkaido, Kyushu and Shikoku with a car and it is the best way to explore these rarely visited areas of Japan. In these areas, rail passes are in operation, but to really access the most spectacular and off the beaten track locations, having your own set of wheels is the only way to go.

That being said, the region between Hiroshima and Tokyo and further north towards Nikko is very easily explored by train, boat, and bus. Since this is the most densely populated area of the country, hiring a car would probably be more of a hindrance than a help. 

Enjoy all the amazing things to do in Japan and leave a comment down below to let me know anything I missed!

Note: Images in this article provided by Shutterstock.

The post 21 Things To Do in Japan: An Insider’s Guide appeared first on Goats On The Road.

21 Things To Do in Japan: An Insider’s Guide published first on https://travelaspire.weebly.com/

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JAPÓN: 50 POSTS QUE AYUDAN PARA VIAJAR [6]

Planifica tu viaje a Japón por libre | Viviendo de Viaje

20 Consejos para viajar a Japón por primera vez | Viviendo de Viaje

JAPÓN 2018 - De Asturias a Kioto. Comienza la aventura | Somos2dviaje

Kawaguchiko, la vista del Monte Fuji | Callejeando por el mundo

Cómo llegar a la pagoda Chureito y ver el Monte Fuji [+ Mapa] | Con billete de vuelta

The Best Japan Day Trips From Every City | NOMADasaurus

El reloj Ghibli en Shiodome | Viajando por Japón

Furin — un símbolo del verano japonés | Viajando por Japón

5 Things You Have To See In Japan | Everyday Wanderer

Best 8 Capsule Hotels in Tokyo and Osaka 2018 | Japan Rail Pass Blog

Monte Fuji desde Kawaguchiko | Callejeando por el mundo

O-Bon, festividad japonesa de los difuntos – お盆 | Una japonesa en Japón - ある帰国子女のブログ

VIAJAR CODE: Verónica: Jigokudani Monkey Park y Nagano

Japan Food Tour: What to Expect | Intrepid Travel Blog

¿Cuál es la mejor época para viajar a Japón? | Los Traveleros

Visiting Niigata with the JR Pass | Japan Rail Pass Blog

Introducción del viaje a Francia, China y Japón: información, planning y presupuesto | ViajerosAlBlog.com

Japanese Fireworks: the Best 8 Hanabi Festivals 2018 | JRailPass

10 cosas que debes de saber antes de viajar a Japón | La Cosmopolilla

La artesanía de laca en Murakami, Niigata | VOYAPON

Culinary Trip of a Lifetime to Kochi, Shikoku Island | Travel With Nano B.

A Kaleidoscope of Perpetual Motion: Fuchu’s Kurayami festival, Tokyo | Adventures in Wonderland

Jardines Kairakuen en Mito – 偕楽園 | Kirai

Experiencing the samurai history of Japan at Aizu-Wakamatsu | Time Travel Turtle

Tapas de alcantarillas de la prefectura de Okinawa – 沖縄県のマンホール  | Una japonesa en Japón - ある帰国子女のブログ

Koyasan en un día desde Osaka o Kioto. ¡Imprescindible! | A bordo del mundo

Japoneses durmiendo 31 | Kirai

Flores silvestres en Koshimizu Gensei Kaen en el este de Hokkaido | VOYAPON

Senderismo en Hokkaido: el monte. Mokoto con una vista maravillosa | VOYAPON

Alójate en las montañas de Niigata en Goushikan Inn | VOYAPON

"Yôkai, iconografía de lo fantástico", los fantasmas japoneses | Japonko

The Hokuriku Shinkansen line with the Japan Rail Pass | JapanRailPass blog

Cómo viajar por Japón sin pagar alojamiento | A bordo del mundo

Subir al Fuji: la montaña más sagrada de Japón (Yoshida Trail) | Diario de a bordo

Descubre la cultura japonesa del té en Murakami | VOYAPON

VIAJAR CODE: Verónica: Takayama, visitando el casco antiguo y acabando en un onsen.

Dormir en un templo en Japón, experiencia y consejos | Viviendo de Viaje

The Top Ten Okinawa Beaches! | The One Hit Wander

Té japonés, conoce sus tipos | Conoce Japón

Visiter Kyushu au Japon: découverte de Fukuoka | Voyages et vagabondages

Qué ver en Wakayama, el corazón espiritual de Japón | La Cosmopolilla

Osaka y Tokyo entre las ciudades más habitables del 2018 | Conoce Japón

The 5 Most Romantic Ryokans in Japan | Travel Magazine

Discovering my Inner Samurai in Aizuwakamatsu, Japan's Samurai City | Emily Luxton

16 Curiosidades de Japón que (quizás) no conocías | Viviendo de Viaje

Japan Travel Guide: Best Ryokans in Japan | Japan Rail Pass

Viajar a Shikoku: La garganta Kankakei de Shodoshima | Japonismo

Climbing Mount Fuji - Despite Typhoons, Lightning, and Dire Unfitness | Emily Luxton

El maneki-neko o gato japonés de la buena suerte | Japonismo

Ultimate Guide to Climbing Mount Fuji - Packing List and Hiking Tips | Emily Luxton

Kamakura Buddha. Foto: Pixabay

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The 12 Travel Destinations That Will Take Over Your Instagram Feeds in 2019

In our Winter issue, FASHION editors rounded up the 100 people, products and experiences we think will blow up in 2019. It’s our inaugural Hot 100 Fuse List. From the workouts you’ll be doing, to the new designers and artists you’ll see on your feed, this is your guide to being in the know this year. It’s time to go big, not home. Here are our top 12 on-the-cusp-of-greatness destinations that will be taking over your Discover feed.

Photography courtesy of tourism santa fe

52: Santa Fe, New Mexico

Visit in: Summer

Eat: For a cozy and casual vibe, check out the “good energy” and comfort food at Teahouse, tucked away from the Plaza, on Canyon Road’s gallery row. Sitting on its patio will make you feel like you’re in a tree house under the stars.

Judging from the gift shops in Albuquerque, N.M., you’d think Breaking Bad was the biggest thing to happen here—ever. But head 90 minutes northeast to Santa Fe and you’ll find wide open spaces, Georgia O’Keeffe-famous skies and deep Indigenous traditions. The town appears like a mirage in the desert, with its low-rise terracotta-coloured buildings made of adobe bricks. Coach’s Stuart Vevers referenced Santa Fe in his Spring 2019 collection. Tom Ford keeps a ranch (nearly one-and-a-half times the size of Manhattan) nearby.

Visit in August, when the city of 80,000 pulls out all the stops for the Santa Fe Indian Market, where more than 1,200 Indigenous artisans from across North America set up shop in the city’s historic Plaza. Play “spot the local,” searching for collectors clad in elaborate turquoise necklaces and rings in the Native American style. Fashion design is a growing draw at the market, with tickets to the fashion show consistently selling out. But our favourite event was the Native American Clothing Contest, which showcases bygone traditional dress from various Indigenous communities. It’s a fascinating visual reminder of the multitude of tribes that today’s Indigenous people descend from. –Jacquelyn Francis

Photography courtesy of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

53: Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Visit in: Winter

Drink: Since 1937, The Million Dollar Cowboy Bar has been propping up the town square with its Vegas-style neon, local craft beer and big steaks.

Wyoming is fast becoming the new Colorado, as Jackson Hole Mountain Resort lures visitors with its 1,010 hectares of skiing and record-breaking powder. (Last year’s snowfall exceeded 1,270 centimetres.) Aerial tram Big Red has become an icon, able to hoist 100 people to the top of Rendezvous Mountain in just 12 minutes. –Doug Wallace

Photography via iStock

54: Munich, Germany

Visit in: Winter

Drink: Head to the legendary beer gardens at the Chinesischer Turm Restaurant & Biergarten, a must-visit spot in the massive Englischer Garten Park.

Berlin may steal the show as Europe’s edgiest city, but Munich has its own charm. There’s the famously raucous Oktoberfest, a massive annual party where revellers guzzle about 6.9 million litres of beer. Things are a little more refined in late November, when it transforms into a winter wonderland for its Christmas market (Weihnachtsmärkten). –Caitlin Agnew

Photography via iStock

55: Nagano, Japan

Visit in: Winter

Eat: When you’re done shredding the slopes, warm up with a cup of heated sake and a hearty bowl of hotpot at Sumo Nabe.

In the winter, if you take a nap on the 80-minute train ride from Tokyo to Nagano, you’ll wake up, look out the window and think you’ve travelled into a snow globe. But don’t stop here. Grab a ride 50 kilometres north to Nozawa Onsen, a sleepy Japanese ski village famous for its hot springs and premium powder. –Meghan McKenna

Photography courtesy of Silversands Grenada

56: Grenada, West Indies

Visit in: Winter

Stay: Silversands Grenada on Grand Anse beach offers unhurried luxury, lots of blond wood and, at 100 metres, the longest swimming pool in the Caribbean.

The southern Caribbean tri-island destination of Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique is trending for its off-the-radar peace and quiet. Known as the “Spice Island”—nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves, ginger and turmeric can be found here—Grenada has 49 white-sand beaches and more than 30 scuba diving sites (including an underwater sculpture park) plus the best organic tree-to-bar chocolate. –Doug Wallace

Photography courtesy Kochi Biennale Foundation

57: Kochi, India

Visit in: Winter

Eat: Try the Taj Malabar Resort & Spa’s Rice Boat restaurant for your choice of Karimeen fish, crab, squid or langouste—all grilled to order.

The Kochi-Muziris Biennale, an international contemporary art exhibition held every two years in the southwestern Indian city of Kochi, attracts, on average, over 600,000 people for installations and performances by more than 80 national and international artists. Follow its map on foot or by auto rickshaw to explore this former Portuguese trading outpost. –Shalini Roy

Photography via Istock

58: Wales, United Kingdom

Visit in: Spring

Stay: The Harbourmaster Hotel in the sleepy coastal town of Aberaeron oozes comfort from every corner of its 13 seaside-chic rooms.

If a U.K. road-trip piques your interest, consider visiting Wales, where the highways are less crowded (good if you’re new to driving on the “wrong” side of the road). The window for sighting bottlenose dolphins, harbour porpoises and Atlantic grey seals in Cardigan Bay is at its best between June and October. There are also about 600 castles. –Doug Wallace

Photography courtesy of visitnorway.com

59: Tromsø, Norway

Visit in: Spring

Try: If you’re craving darkness, catch historical or contemporary flicks at Verdensteatret Cinematek, Norway’s oldest municipal cinema, while fuelling up on coffee and modern art at its funky in-house café bar.

Thanks to its location (roughly 400 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle and a short two-hour flight from Oslo) and the midnight sun, midsummer is when this cool island city shines. Twenty-four hours of sunlight means late nights don’t seem that late, which works out perfectly if you’re at Bukta, a three-day (and all-night) rock-music festival. Bang out to the best bands from Norway while sipping craft beer from Mack Microbrewery. –Emma Yardley

Photography via Instagram/@SweetandTastyTV

60: Boryeong, South Korea

Visit in: Summer

Stay: Enter recovery and rest mode at the aptly named Hotel Mudrin, where spacious rooms offer sprawling views of Daecheon Beach and respite from its muddy action.

More than 50 shades of grey are flung around at the Boryeong Mud Festival every July on Daecheon Beach in Boryeong. When it launched in 1998, it was to celebrate the health benefits of its mud, but it has transformed into one of the most outrageous bucket-list festivals in the world. Participants slide, wrestle and swim in mud while others party at performances by K-pop acts. –Tiffany Leigh

Photography courtesy of singapore tourism board

61: Singapore

Visit in: Fall

Drink: At Tippling Club, each item on the drink menu includes a picture of the gummy bear that inspired it; before ordering, you can taste-test actual gummy bears to help you make your decision.

On your way to Hong Kong, Tokyo or Sydney? Consider adding Singapore to your itinerary—even if it’s just for the cinema-tourism factor, trending thanks to Crazy Rich Asians. This island-city-state is unique for its melting-pot culture and Modern Singaporean cuisine. Bonus: Six bars made the 2017 World’s 50 Best Bars list. –Doug Wallace

Photography via Istock

62: Ucluelet, B.C.

Visit in: Fall

Stay: Wya Point Resort is a Ucluelet First Nation-owned property that offers camping, yurts or luxury lodges across 240 hectares of private beaches and old-growth rainforest.

If B.C. towns planted along the Pacific Ocean were characters from The Brady Bunch, Ucluelet might be Jan. She’s long been overlooked for sister city Tofino 35 minutes down the road, but that could be changing. Less busy but blessed with similar good looks, Ucluelet has her own surf spots nearby (Florencia Bay, Wickaninnish Beach) and picture-postcard trails. –Joy Pecknold

Photography via Istock

63: Sighișoara, Romania

Visit in: Fall

Stay: Hotel Sighișoara, which housed nobility for centuries, is now a comfortable inn where no two rooms are the same.

You’d think that the birthplace of Count Dracula (or at least Vlad the Impaler, the man he’s thought to be based on) would be full of creepy alleyways and dark corners. Instead, Sighișoara is colourful and utterly charming. Not much has changed since the 1100s, when the Saxons built Sighișoara Citadel. –Emma Yardley

[jessicakehoe]

The 12 Travel Destinations That Will Take Over Your Instagram Feeds in 2019

In our Winter issue, FASHION editors rounded up the 100 people, products and experiences we think will blow up in 2019. It’s our inaugural Hot 100 Fuse List. From the workouts you’ll be doing, to the new designers and artists you’ll see on your feed, this is your guide to being in the know this year. It’s time to go big, not home. Here are our top 12 on-the-cusp-of-greatness destinations that will be taking over your Discover feed.

Photography courtesy of tourism santa fe

52: Santa Fe, New Mexico

Visit in: Summer

Eat: For a cozy and casual vibe, check out the “good energy” and comfort food at Teahouse, tucked away from the Plaza, on Canyon Road’s gallery row. Sitting on its patio will make you feel like you’re in a tree house under the stars.

Judging from the gift shops in Albuquerque, N.M., you’d think Breaking Bad was the biggest thing to happen here—ever. But head 90 minutes northeast to Santa Fe and you’ll find wide open spaces, Georgia O’Keeffe-famous skies and deep Indigenous traditions. The town appears like a mirage in the desert, with its low-rise terracotta-coloured buildings made of adobe bricks. Coach’s Stuart Vevers referenced Santa Fe in his Spring 2019 collection. Tom Ford keeps a ranch (nearly one-and-a-half times the size of Manhattan) nearby.

Visit in August, when the city of 80,000 pulls out all the stops for the Santa Fe Indian Market, where more than 1,200 Indigenous artisans from across North America set up shop in the city’s historic Plaza. Play “spot the local,” searching for collectors clad in elaborate turquoise necklaces and rings in the Native American style. Fashion design is a growing draw at the market, with tickets to the fashion show consistently selling out. But our favourite event was the Native American Clothing Contest, which showcases bygone traditional dress from various Indigenous communities. It’s a fascinating visual reminder of the multitude of tribes that today’s Indigenous people descend from. –Jacquelyn Francis

Photography courtesy of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort

53: Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Visit in: Winter

Drink: Since 1937, The Million Dollar Cowboy Bar has been propping up the town square with its Vegas-style neon, local craft beer and big steaks.

Wyoming is fast becoming the new Colorado, as Jackson Hole Mountain Resort lures visitors with its 1,010 hectares of skiing and record-breaking powder. (Last year’s snowfall exceeded 1,270 centimetres.) Aerial tram Big Red has become an icon, able to hoist 100 people to the top of Rendezvous Mountain in just 12 minutes. –Doug Wallace

Photography via iStock

54: Munich, Germany

Visit in: Winter

Drink: Head to the legendary beer gardens at the Chinesischer Turm Restaurant & Biergarten, a must-visit spot in the massive Englischer Garten Park.

Berlin may steal the show as Europe’s edgiest city, but Munich has its own charm. There’s the famously raucous Oktoberfest, a massive annual party where revellers guzzle about 6.9 million litres of beer. Things are a little more refined in late November, when it transforms into a winter wonderland for its Christmas market (Weihnachtsmärkten). –Caitlin Agnew

Photography via iStock

55: Nagano, Japan

Visit in: Winter

Eat: When you’re done shredding the slopes, warm up with a cup of heated sake and a hearty bowl of hotpot at Sumo Nabe.

In the winter, if you take a nap on the 80-minute train ride from Tokyo to Nagano, you’ll wake up, look out the window and think you’ve travelled into a snow globe. But don’t stop here. Grab a ride 50 kilometres north to Nozawa Onsen, a sleepy Japanese ski village famous for its hot springs and premium powder. –Meghan McKenna

Photography courtesy of Silversands Grenada

56: Grenada, West Indies

Visit in: Winter

Stay: Silversands Grenada on Grand Anse beach offers unhurried luxury, lots of blond wood and, at 100 metres, the longest swimming pool in the Caribbean.

The southern Caribbean tri-island destination of Grenada, Carriacou and Petite Martinique is trending for its off-the-radar peace and quiet. Known as the “Spice Island”—nutmeg, cinnamon, cloves, ginger and turmeric can be found here—Grenada has 49 white-sand beaches and more than 30 scuba diving sites (including an underwater sculpture park) plus the best organic tree-to-bar chocolate. –Doug Wallace

Photography courtesy Kochi Biennale Foundation

57: Kochi, India

Visit in: Winter

Eat: Try the Taj Malabar Resort & Spa’s Rice Boat restaurant for your choice of Karimeen fish, crab, squid or langouste—all grilled to order.

The Kochi-Muziris Biennale, an international contemporary art exhibition held every two years in the southwestern Indian city of Kochi, attracts, on average, over 600,000 people for installations and performances by more than 80 national and international artists. Follow its map on foot or by auto rickshaw to explore this former Portuguese trading outpost. –Shalini Roy

Photography via Istock

58: Wales, United Kingdom

Visit in: Spring

Stay: The Harbourmaster Hotel in the sleepy coastal town of Aberaeron oozes comfort from every corner of its 13 seaside-chic rooms.

If a U.K. road-trip piques your interest, consider visiting Wales, where the highways are less crowded (good if you’re new to driving on the “wrong” side of the road). The window for sighting bottlenose dolphins, harbour porpoises and Atlantic grey seals in Cardigan Bay is at its best between June and October. There are also about 600 castles. –Doug Wallace

Photography courtesy of visitnorway.com

59: Tromsø, Norway

Visit in: Spring

Try: If you’re craving darkness, catch historical or contemporary flicks at Verdensteatret Cinematek, Norway’s oldest municipal cinema, while fuelling up on coffee and modern art at its funky in-house café bar.

Thanks to its location (roughly 400 kilometres north of the Arctic Circle and a short two-hour flight from Oslo) and the midnight sun, midsummer is when this cool island city shines. Twenty-four hours of sunlight means late nights don’t seem that late, which works out perfectly if you’re at Bukta, a three-day (and all-night) rock-music festival. Bang out to the best bands from Norway while sipping craft beer from Mack Microbrewery. –Emma Yardley

Photography via Instagram/@SweetandTastyTV

60: Boryeong, South Korea

Visit in: Summer

Stay: Enter recovery and rest mode at the aptly named Hotel Mudrin, where spacious rooms offer sprawling views of Daecheon Beach and respite from its muddy action.

More than 50 shades of grey are flung around at the Boryeong Mud Festival every July on Daecheon Beach in Boryeong. When it launched in 1998, it was to celebrate the health benefits of its mud, but it has transformed into one of the most outrageous bucket-list festivals in the world. Participants slide, wrestle and swim in mud while others party at performances by K-pop acts. –Tiffany Leigh

Photography courtesy of singapore tourism board

61: Singapore

Visit in: Fall

Drink: At Tippling Club, each item on the drink menu includes a picture of the gummy bear that inspired it; before ordering, you can taste-test actual gummy bears to help you make your decision.

On your way to Hong Kong, Tokyo or Sydney? Consider adding Singapore to your itinerary—even if it’s just for the cinema-tourism factor, trending thanks to Crazy Rich Asians. This island-city-state is unique for its melting-pot culture and Modern Singaporean cuisine. Bonus: Six bars made the 2017 World’s 50 Best Bars list. –Doug Wallace

Photography via Istock

62: Ucluelet, B.C.

Visit in: Fall

Stay: Wya Point Resort is a Ucluelet First Nation-owned property that offers camping, yurts or luxury lodges across 240 hectares of private beaches and old-growth rainforest.

If B.C. towns planted along the Pacific Ocean were characters from The Brady Bunch, Ucluelet might be Jan. She’s long been overlooked for sister city Tofino 35 minutes down the road, but that could be changing. Less busy but blessed with similar good looks, Ucluelet has her own surf spots nearby (Florencia Bay, Wickaninnish Beach) and picture-postcard trails. –Joy Pecknold

Photography via Istock

63: Sighișoara, Romania

Visit in: Fall

Stay: Hotel Sighișoara, which housed nobility for centuries, is now a comfortable inn where no two rooms are the same.

You’d think that the birthplace of Count Dracula (or at least Vlad the Impaler, the man he’s thought to be based on) would be full of creepy alleyways and dark corners. Instead, Sighișoara is colourful and utterly charming. Not much has changed since the 1100s, when the Saxons built Sighișoara Citadel. –Emma Yardley

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[freelylazykingdom]

Day six update

It's the morning of day six in Japan, I'm in Imabari City which is on the northern coast of the island of Kochi, up early, staying at a “business hotel”. When I first started out six days ago I was concerned about not knowing how to do the simplest things, get gas, find a place to stay, riding on the left-hand side of the road, etc., all of which I feel very comfortable with now. Japan is such an interesting place, the roads and infrastructure are first class, and really a marvel to behold. Most of the country is comprised of jagged hills, which means a lot of the time your’re riding through tunnels. The first tunnel I went through was a thrill, until I later discovered, maybe 25% of the time I'm riding through tunnels! One nice thing about them in this cool weather on a motorcycle is that they're relatively warmer than the outside & there are no crosswinds! Some other observations about riding: I've never been honked at, or had to use my horn! Just riding one round trip to work at home around Boston, I need to use my horn at least a few times to alert drivers switching lanes, who are on their phones or just don't see me at all! Japanese drivers are far far more alert. It was explained to me that it's much more difficult to get a license here, and the physical driving portion of the test is extensive. When people park here they always back-in, and the cars are aligned perfectly like domino's. Also, all tractor trailers, large trucks, tankers, etc. have metal cages (bumpers) around the bottoms of the trailers. At night these cages are lit up with bright yellow-green LED bulbs. Unlike at home, if a car hit a trailer from the side, it would not slide under the trailer slicing the windshield-roof and parts of the occupants off the top of the car, which likely saves a lot of lives. While the countryside here is breathtakingly beautiful, I don't find any of the city's particularly nice from an asthetic standpoint, and wonder why people choose to concentrate in them? Jobs and convenience I guess. Zoning doesn’t seem to be a thing as much as it is at home, there are commercial signs & chain convenience stores everywhere, in every neighborhood, which is probably more pragmatic? This is your early Monday morning Japan time update, signing out.

[newbisskey]

Global International On AsiaSat.5 100.5E Global International New TP

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[richexclusive]

. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . • Great City! We Love Tokyo! | We’re going to cruise from Japan to Taiwan and China with the Costa NEO Romantica again. We went with this ship before, to Madagascar and Mauritius. Now we will visit Tokyo, Osaka, Kochi, Kagoshima, Naha, Ishigaki, Hualien, Keelung and HongKong ! . . . Follow also my YouTube Channel for cruise video’s! Click link in my IG bio ! . Follow @rich.exclusive.cars for a lot images of Amazing cars as Aston Martin, Ferrari, Bentley, Porsche ! And many more. . . Go to my Other IG @rich.exclusive.architecture to see photos of breathtaking residences, castles, villa’s etc ! . . I made a lot of photo’s of astonishing monumental buildings and fabulous luxury villa’s. Go check them out! at www.richexclusive.com and @rich.exclusive.photography and Follow @rich.exclusive.kopi.luwak for the most exclusive coffee in the World ! . . FOLLOW @rich.exclusive.trading for CFD trading signals💰🇳🇱📈📊📉💶 . Visit my website for travel-photos which I made and follow @rich.exclusive.destinations for destinations which I visited, as: . * Mauritius / Seychelles / Madagascar / Reuníon Island * Cuba ! * Italy * Canada * Lanzarote * LONDON UK * Dubai / Bali * Poland * Now: Japan / Taiwan / China ! * And many more ! . • 🌍 Enjoying life, inspire the world! • @Rich.Exclusive.Trading • @Rich.Exclusive.Architecture • @Rich.Exclusive.Destinations • @Rich.Exclusive.Cars • @Rich.Exclusive.Kopi.Luwak • @Rich.Exclusive.Photography ______________________________________________ . . • • • • WWW.RICHEXCLUSIVE.COM • • • • . . --------- www.richexclusive.com -------- **click link in Instagram biography** . . . #travelphotography #wanderlust #travel #travelblog #richexclusive #worldcaptures #travelgram #luxurytravel #travelawesome #tokyo #japan #cruise #costacruises #cruiseship #jetset #jetsetter #jetsetlife #jetsetbrand #exclusivelifestyle #poshestyle #Osaka #Kochi #Kagoshima #Naha #Ishigaki #Hualien #Keelung #HongKong #architecturephotography #architecture ! . . . (bij 品川プリンスホテル / Shinagawa Prince Hotel)

[shwashomeskochi]

Shwas Homes

Shwas Homes Pvt Ltd is trusted and major builder in kochi,hq in vyittila, they have 25 projects and 1400 happy customers, shwas project value is more than 1100 Crores.shwas homes founded Mr.Sreeni Parameswaran and Mr.Shaji Ayyappan

shwas homes focusing on real-estate, villas, apartments, studio complex etc.

  major projects :

Mystic Bells An affordable and aesthetic program designed on international standards,delivering a set of 14 villas, just 700 mts from Vyttila Junction, the most sought after address in cochin

MYSTIC HEIGHTS PHASE – I Mystic Heights Phase – I the realm of tranquility offers you 54 super luxury three bedroom apartments in the heart of Cochin City, is part of a Township just 750 mtrs off Vyttila Jn. and is coming up in 4 acres of lush green, serene landscape.

Mystic Heights Phase – II Mystic Heights, Phase – II ,Set amidst pristine greenery, Mystic Heights Phase – II the realm of tranquility offers you 72 super luxury three bedroom apartments in the heart of Cochin City, is part of a Township just 750 mtrs off Vyttila Jn. and is coming up in 4 acres of lush green, serene landscape.

Mystic Heights Phase – III Mystic Heights, Phase – III, with 108 three bedroom apartments is part of a Township just 750 mtrs off Vytilla Jn. and is coming up in 4 acres of lush green, serene landscape. This vast township can boast of major amenities than any other Heights spell an excellent possibility for rentals as company guesthouses for major corporates.

Mystic Heights IV Mystic Heights, Phase – IV, with 06 Luxurious three bedroom apartments is part of a Township just 750 metres off Vytilla Jn. and is coming up in 4 acres of lush green, serene landscape. This vast township can boast of major amenities than any other Heights spell an excellent possibility for rentals as company guesthouses for major corporates.

Mystic Winds As Kochi city is transforming itself into an international destination with huge investments pouring into roads, bridges, waterways, IT Parks, shipping terminals, gas and power projects – A GREAT OPPORTUNITY opens up for investors in houses. Several thousands of houses are needed every year with rent and value appreciating at a phenomenal pace.

Tetracore 22 Tetracore 22, the epitome of Smart Space is located on the most prime part of Aquacity overlooking Luxurious Amenities and River PeriyarIdeally located beside wide 12 meter road, Tetracore 22 has easy accessibility to all part of Aquacity TownshipUnveiling, FURNISHED 2 BHK, Tetracore 22 becomes most Hottest Investment Option in Cochin

Can be used for Permanent residence Can be used as a holiday Home for NRI during their visit to cochin Can be used as a Furnished Suites that can be rented out on daily basis and earn up to Rs.3500 per day if a Home stay Licence is obtained.

Tricore 22 Aquacity situated on the Shores of Serene Periyar River at Aluva, Cochin.

It Consist of Furnished – Studio, 2Bhk & 3 Bhk Lifestyle Apartments suiting your taste and Comfort. Tricore 22 the epitome of smart space is located on the most prime part of Aquacity overlooking Luxurious Amenities and River Periyar. Ideally located beside wide 12 meter road provide easy accessibility to all part of Aquacity Township.

Fortuna Shwas Fortuna – Fully Loaded Homes is yet another Architectural wonder from Shwas HomeFortuna with unique features are meticulously planned at very cost effective prices and will be most sought out address for dwelling purpose in the Royal city of Thripunithura neverthless to say Fortuna emerges to an epitome of leisure and Dwelling experiences

Palm Bay Villas Palm Bay Villas is the Latest Project in Aqucity after the successful Launch and progressive Construction of Apartments Towers in Aquacity.Unique feature of American Landscape Principle of Infinite Greenery Makes Palm Bay different from Other villa projects.

Blue Berry Villas Blue berry Designer Villas project is unique. Here you as a client, is in control. You can own a high-value property and then decide the opportune time for us to build your designer villa. Each unique floor plan, exterior and professionally co-ordinate interior decor package can be customized to meet your exacting requirement. You can choose the materials, the style, the decor. The light fixtures, Cabinets, tiles, bath fittings… all can be decide by you. With Blueberry, Shwas Homes is giving shape to your dream home

Blueberry Designer Villas comes up at a premium location close to Kochi. The value of the property is expected to double shortly. Thanks to the various upcoming IT parks. Tourism Highway, Coach Factory, Bio-technology Park and with the commissioning of the ‘Japan Drinking Water Project’ by December 2008. Located off the Kochi-Aleppey NH47 bypass. The project gives excellent access to premier Schools, Collages and Places of Worship. With Kochi city expanding, soon this piece of verdant, tranquil enclave will become engulfed within the city.

Aqua Villa Enjoy good life for here we have every thing you expect in a metro city. Places to dine and shop, to watch new movies, throw garden parties, and to stroll along on lazy evening through waterfront walkways….Have fun with your kids in the wide open, join the heated debates with elders at the gazebo, or glide along with the silvery waves. Here the days are vibrant and the nights exciting.

1Shwas Homes Pvt Ltd

Aquacity Aquacity is the Largest Waterfront Residential Project in Cochin in 17 acres on the Banks of Serene Periyar, Aluva , Cochin. A Complete Waterfront Metrocity re-created on the Bank of Periyar , specifically Designed for NRI Final Settlement . Aquacity is 500 crores Project with 81 World Class Amenities worth 50 crores Assuring Highest Living Standard

Dualcore Here the days are vibrant and the nights exciting.

Alpine Suites join the heated debates with elders at the gazebo, or glide along with the silvery waves. Here the days are vibrant and the nights exciting.

Magic Lilly garden parties, and to stroll along on lazy evening through waterfront walkways….Have fun with your kids in the wide open, join the heated debates with elders at the gazebo, or glide along with the silvery waves. Here the days are vibrant and the nights exciting.

Moon Waters Places to dine and shop, to watch new movies, throw garden parties, and to stroll along on lazy evening through waterfront walkways….Have fun with your kids in the wide open, join the heated debates with elders at the gazebo, or glide along with the silvery waves. Here the days are vibrant and the nights exciting.

Epcot County elegant twin villa offering Luxury amenities in a peaceful surrounding befitting an ideal family life. The Project is ideally located between Cochin City and Cochin International Airport on Aluva – Munnar Road with easy accessibility of Just 50 meters to Main bus route. Aluva Railway station & Metro station is Just a cigarate distance away.

Mystic Charms The Mystic Charms is Shwas Home’s newest and most exciting city side apartment development. Perfectly located in Jawahar Nagar, Kochi, The Mystic Charms offers 1 & 2 bedroom apartments having luxury appointments and amenities, including Club house,

Cyber Hills These apartments are designed to give you a luxurious life. We’ve taken note of your need for plenty of space and privacy and it’s obvious in each plan we’ve designed. Cross ventilation and natural light are, of course, mandatory.

Guest House Guest House has thoughtfully designed 2 bedroom furnished premium suites fine tuned for the most selective home buyers especially for NRI’s who would definitely like to be in peace during their annual vacation to cochin

Horizon International Conceived as a 3 star hotel project, Horizon International stands a testimony of Shwas Homes construction elegance. Located very close to Guruvayur Temple at East Nada, Horizon International already started their Finest Hospitality to pilgrimages from out side kerala and abroad.

Shwas Homes Shwas Homes Pvt Ltd is trusted and major builder in kochi,hq in vyittila, they have 25 projects and 1400 happy customers, shwas project value is more than 1100 Crores.shwas homes founded Mr.Sreeni Parameswaran and Mr.Shaji Ayyappan…

[rollinbrigittenv8]

Japan Tourism Is Using Celebrity Chefs to Make the Country More Palatable to U.S Travelers

Chef Dale Talde, pictured here, is the face of a new campaign to introduce U.S. travelers to different aspects of Japanese cuisine. Japan National Tourism Organization

Skift Take: Japan Tourism really thinks that U.S. travelers are turning Japanese, or at least their travel wish lists are. The tourism board is more building off the momentum it already has in the U.S. But most U.S. travelers don't speak Japanese, and that will continue to be a sticking point for the country's tourism.

— Dan Peltier

Japanese culture is often close to home for Americans, whether it’s at a sushi or ramen restaurant, a karaoke bar, a karate studio, Hello Kitty items in the local toy store, anime, origami, samurais, or geishas in movies and pop cultureBut the Japanese language can cause anxiety for some American travelers who might perceive the country as a difficult place to visit.

The Japan National Tourism Organization, the country’s tourism board, however, feels Dale Talde, a Filipino-American chef with TV credits on “Top Chef” and restaurants in New York City and Miami, and other chefs are the universal language in its marketing arsenal that will speak to Americans’ growing appetites for Japanese cuisine.

Earlier this month, the tourism board launched a campaign aimed at U.S. travelers that features Talde in three short videos cooking his original recipes using Japanese ingredients. Viewers are encouraged to vote for their favorite recipe through February 28, and the grand prize winner will win a round-trip coach airfare to Japan for two.

The U.S. market is already a bright spot for Japan – some 1.2 million U.S. travelers visited Japan in 2016, a 20 percent increase over 2015. That’s up from 565,000 in 2011 when an earthquake killed nearly 16,000 people and led to the Fukushima nuclear power plant disaster.

Parts of the country are still recovering from the disaster. The combination of the global recession and earthquake took the country’s tourism industry about six years to bounce back.

In the videos, Talde features ingredients, such as matcha green tea and Wagyu beef, native to certain Japanese prefectures. The tourism board hopes the campaign will increase awareness of outlying Japanese regions beyond hubs like Tokyo and Hiroshima, for example.

Though lesser-known parts of the country are apparently starting to gain traction with U.S. tourists and others. Tourism to regions, such as Kochi and Miyazaki prefectures, that are highlighted in the videos saw a 13 percent year-over-year increase in visitors in July, for instance.

Tourism to Japanese cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka in July increased 8.5 percent year-over-year. Japan had an overall 24 million visitors last year, and hopes to have 40 million by 2020 when it will host the Summer Olympics.

With high-speed rail service throughout Japan, some of the prefectures that the tourism board is trying to promote are within a few hours’ train ride from Tokyo and make for attractive day trips.

Anaheim, California-based Contiki, a tour operator that primarily caters to 18 to 35-year-old travelers, said it’s seen sharp growth in U.S. bookings for its two Japan tours since it introduced them three years ago.

Adam Cooper, Contiki’s U.S. president, said Japan tour bookings are already up 30 percent year-over-year for 2018. “The decision to launch trips to Japan three years ago was based on market demand,” said Cooper. “We continue to see really strong growth in demand and bookings for our trips to Asia in general, in particular, Japan goes from strength to strength.”

Making Japan More Approachable

Typically, tourism boards choose chefs native to their destinations to act as brand ambassadors.

But in Japan’s case, the tourism board chose New York City-based Talde for its latest campaign and also has a partnership with Eric Ripert, chef and co-owner of Le Bernardin in New York City, for a video series to promote Japan’s culinary attractions.

The tourism board also plans to work with Japanese chefs to promote the country in the future but feels that Talde and Ripert will come across as more relatable to the U.S. market, one of Japan’s most important overseas visitor locales.

“I think having these two chefs highlight Japanese cuisine in the U.S. speaks to how Japan has naturally become a more welcoming country to foreigners,” said Ken Iwata, executive director of the tourism board’s New York office.

Iwata said that while the campaign is trying to introduce Americans to hidden gems of Japanese cuisine, the goal isn’t to completely change Japan’s food narrative. Food is the number two factor in why Americans choose to visit Japan, Iwata said, and that’s primarily because of the growing popularity of sushi and ramen in the states.

“Just look at cities like New York City where you already have many other options besides sushi and ramen if you want Japanese food,” said Iwata. “Talde also had a lot of influence with Momofuku which is also really popular.”

The campaign is one of the biggest pushes the tourism board has made toward U.S. travelers as Iwata said that the Japanese government has allotted more funding to the tourism board in recent years.

“We feel that food is a common language that cuts across all demographics and age groups that everyone will be able to identify with,” said Iwata.

Japan’s Tourism Future

Japan’s lackluster economy and political situation are also at play with this campaign.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzō Abe has prioritized tourism. Iwata said the government is relying on tourism to help boost the economy. A weaker economy has put Japan on sale for U.S. travelers as the U.S. dollar has strengthened against the Japanese yen.

“Japan was once very conservative and isolated because we are an island, but that’s been changing,” said Iwata.

The government is also working on translation mobile apps for travelers to help make the language barrier less intimidating, said Iwata. The odds of encountering a local who isn’t proficient in English remains high and that’s why the government will require all high school students to be proficient in English starting in 2020, for instance.

Language barrier notwithstanding, Japan has a lot going for it. Relations between the two countries have certainly come a long way since the end of World War II more than 70 years ago. Feelings of fear and distrust have mostly dissipated, and many Americans perceive Japan as a high-tech and forward-thinking nation, said Iwata.

“The robot hotel that we have that opened two years ago has gotten a lot of international attention,” he said. “I think that more tech will make travel cheaper and could help lower room rates at hotels, for example.”

Japan’s in a position that many other countries would dream of when it comes to tourism, although there were fears about radiation after the Fukushima accident. Japan has strong arrivals growth;  its culture is well-known in the U.S. and other top markets; the country will host the Olympics in 2020, and it has some of the world’s most advanced transportation infrastructure.

But if Japan wants to lure more U.S. travelers, it will need to assure them that they won’t have trouble communicating when they get there — despite Talde’s culinary creations.