Japan for Less

Lights, Streets, Costumes, Buildings, Music -- these are all Japan. I [we] had always wanted to go to this vibrant country but considered others first because of its “expensive” connotation. It wasn’t on the list of most expensive countries for nothing, they say. Well I guess we and that list were wrong after all! As long as you have a map and you read about the important information about the main cities, everything will run smoothly; you’ll even be surprised to have spent less than you expected. Lastly, expect to get a little lost when you go around huge cities like Osaka and Tokyo.

I never thought that traveling to Osaka and Tokyo would be that cheap and a bit easy. That’s why I want to share with you guys some tips to enjoy your trip as much as we did. It’s up to you if you’d consider me as reliable :).

So first, of course you need a tourist visa. Japanese Embassy only accepts processing from an accredited travel agency. We chose Reli Tours & Travel Agency in SM Mall of Asia as we read good reviews online. Just provide the complete requirements (click here) and carry good intentions (haha!), Voila there’s a good chance that your application will be approved. Plus, interview or personal appearance is not necessary, that should be easier. We got ours in one day. :)

It’s also up to you if you’d risk getting a plane ticket prior application. In our case, we did. All because of the promo :). For this trip, we had three (3) airlines. Of course Cebu Pacific is the stingy ones like us’ best friend. Next is Jetstar, also a pal. And the best, Japan Airlines (JAL) - FAs never wiped the smiles off their faces and they made sure you’re all right. I’ve to admit, I felt mayaman with JAL.

When you travel, you need a good place to stay in. This will at least give you a good rest after a loooong walk or ride. Hotel Hillarys in Osaka was awesome with their big room and free drinks, I mean all kinds of drinks! Hotel Empire in Tokyo was uhmm, not as good as the last one because of its small bathroom. It was okay though, who needs a big bathroom anyway if you’re not a fan of bathing. Of course I’m joking.

Now that everything’s set, here are some of the things/ places to do/ visit in Osaka and Tokyo.

1. Dotonbori in Osaka. Eat lots of street food, take a picture with the huge running man. See men and women in weird-in-a-good-way dresses (or are those costumes??).

2. Take the trains and never a taxi (OSA and TYO). Taxi rate starts at JPY710 (PhP310) while train fare at JPY120++ (PhP55). Take it from there.

3. See Anime everywhere (OSA and TYO)! Whenever you see drawings, go inside and be surprised with figures in all sizes. Some of these are not for kids though.

4. Tokyo Metropolitan Government Bldg., Tokyo Tower, Tokyo Skytree, HEP Ferris Wheel in Osaka. These places offer a breathtaking view of the cities, night and day. Whatever the cost to get to these sites, it’s worth every Yen.

5. Shibuya. This is my favorite place, the busiest and brightest I have seen. Green pedestrian lights simultaneously turn on making all people from all blocks cross the street at the same time. You’ll recognize this from the movie “Lost in Translation”.

6. Hachiko Statue in Shibuya. He’s the most loyal dog who waited for his master for years not knowing he’s (the master) dead. Then the “Hachiko Exit” was built.

7. The famous Harajuku in Tokyo. Another place for men and women in weird-in-a-good-way dresses. Wanna see cosplayers? Anyway, you’ll find these kinds of people pretty much everywhere in Japan.

8. Akihabara. Electronics ba kamo?? Here!

9. DRINK WITH THE LOCALS AT AKITAYA YAKITORI. The beer and pork liver were soo good. Here you’ll feel foreign as no one speaks even a little English. It was a fun challenge.

10. Drink Sake and eat Sushi! This doesn’t need a reason.

11. Pray at Meiji Shrine. We were also lucky to catch a traditional Japanese wedding here – just like the movies.

12. Tennoji Park in Osaka and Ueno Park in Tokyo. Perfect for Biking.

13. Umeda in Osaka. The ferris wheel is here.

14. There’s a lot more but I think this page isn’t enough!

Also, there’s so much to try but my time wasn’t enough. I’m not sure when, but I’m coming back for more of Japan! uku, uke, shi, etc. are now my favorite suffixes. Remember, your map and energy drink are the most important things that should be in your backpack. Til next, konichiwa!

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Trisha