31 Best 「japan travel」 Books of 2024| Books Explorer
- Kyoto Pocket Precincts: A Pocket Guide to the City's Best Cultural Hangouts, Shops, Bars and Eateries
- The Rough Guide to Japan (Travel Guide) (Rough Guides)
- Lonely Planet Japan (Travel Guide)
- Lonely Planet Japan (Travel Guide)
- Izakaya: The Japanese Pub Cookbook
- Fodor's Essential Japan (Full-color Travel Guide)
- National Geographic Traveler Japan 6th Edition
- Hokkaido Highway Blues: Hitchhiking Japan
- DK Eyewitness Japan (Travel Guide)
- Frommer's Japan (Frommer's Complete Guides)
Kyoto is steeped in history, tradition and beauty that reflect the changing seasons more than any other city in the world. There are 2,000 temples and shrines to visit, and the intricate culture of geisha, tea houses, Zen gardens and artisan crafts are just as important today as they were a thousand years ago. There are beautiful restaurants in centuries-old houses, but also some of the best street food in the world. In this pocket-size travel guide, seasoned travellers Steve and Michelle offer a curated list of the very best cultural, shopping, eating and drinking experiences in Kyoto, as well as a few suggested field trips in surrounding areas. With a beautiful design, vibrant images and detailed reviews, you'll easily navigate the city's ancient pathways, through to its bonsai gardens. Konnichi wa and welcome to Kyoto!
Explore Japan with the smartest and shrewdest guidebook on the market. Fully updated and expanded, this stunningly illustrated travel guide brings you superb coverage of all the country's unmissable experiences, from staying in a cosy ryokan and soaking in an onsen bath to climbing snow-capped Mount Fuji and watching a titanic bout of sumo. Get up-to-the minute tips on contemporary Japan, from Kyoto's burgeoning street-food scene to Tokyo's up-and-coming hipster hubs, and read expert background on everything from anime to Zen. Packed with advice on all the best places to eat, sleep, drink and party - on every budget - this new edition of The Rough Guide to Japan covers Japan with our trademark mix of candour, insight and practical advice. Full colour maps and Japanese characters are given throughout to help navigate this bewildering and bewitching country. Make the most of your trip with The Rough Guide to Japan.
Lonely Planet's Japan is your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. Explore over a thousand temples in old imperial capital Kyoto, relax in one of the onsens scattered across the archipelago, and sample the breadth of Japan's sublime cuisine; all with your trusted travel companion. Get to the heart of Japan and begin your journey now! Inside Lonely Planet's Japan Travel Guide: Up-to-date information - all businesses were rechecked before publication to ensure they are still open after 2020's COVID-19 outbreak NEW top experiences feature - a visually inspiring collection of Japan's best experiences and where to have them What's new feature taps into cultural trends and helps you find fresh ideas and cool new areas Pull-out, passport-size 'Just Landed' card with wi-fi, ATM and transport info - all you need for a smooth journey from airport to hotel Planning tools for family travellers - where to go, how to save money, plus fun stuff just for kids Colour maps and images throughout Highlightsand itineraries help you tailor your trip to your personal needs and interests Insider tips to save time and money and get around like a local, avoiding crowds and trouble spots Essential infoat your fingertips - hours of operation, websites, transit tips, prices Honest reviews for all budgets - eating, sleeping, sightseeing, going out, shopping, hidden gems that most guidebooks miss Cultural insights give you a richer, more rewarding travel experience - history, people, music, landscapes, wildlife, cuisine, politics Over150 maps Covers Tokyo, Mt Fuji, The Japan Alps, Honshu, Kyoto, Kansai, Hiroshima, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Shiko-ku, Kyushu and Okinawa The Perfect Choice: Lonely Planet's Japan, our most comprehensive guide to Japan, is perfect for both exploring top sights and taking roads less travelled. Looking for just the highlights? Check out Best of Japan, a handy-sized guide focused on the can't-miss sights for a quick trip. About Lonely Planet: Lonely Planet is a leading travel media company, providing both inspiring and trustworthy information for every kind of traveller since 1973. Over the past four decades, we've printed over 145 million guidebooks and phrasebooks for 120 languages, and grown a dedicated, passionate global community of travellers. You'll also find our content online, and in mobile apps, videos, 14 languages, armchair and lifestyle books, ebooks, and more, enabling you to explore every day. 'Lonely Planet guides are, quite simply, like no other.' - New York Times 'Lonely Planet. It's on everyone's bookshelves; it's in every traveller's hands. It's on mobile phones. It's on the Internet. It's everywhere, and it's telling entire generations of people how to travel the world.' - Fairfax Media (Australia)
Lonely Planet's Japanis our most comprehensive guide that extensively covers all the country has to offer, with recommendations for both popular and lesser-known experiences. Summit Mount Fuji, pay your respects at Buddhist temples in Kyoto, and have your fill of sushi and sake; all with your trusted travel companion. Inside Lonely Planet's Japan Travel Guide: Lonely Planet's Top Picks- a visually inspiring collection of the destination's best experiences and where to have them Itinerarieshelp you build the ultimate trip based on your personal needs and interests Local insightsgive you a richer, more rewarding travel experience - whether it's history, people, music, landscapes, wildlife, politics Eating and drinking- get the most out of your gastronomic experience as we reveal the regional dishes and drinks you have to try Toolkit- all of the planning tools for solo travellers, LGBTQIA+ travellers, family travellers and accessible travel Onsen Planning Feature Colour mapsand images throughout Language - essential phrases and language tips Insider tipsto save time and money and get around like a local, avoiding crowds and trouble spots CoversTokyo, Mt Fuji, The Japan Alps, Honshu, Kyoto, Kansai, Hiroshima, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Shiko-ku, Kyushu and Okinawa About Lonely Planet: Lonely Planet, a Red Ventures Company, is the world's number one travel guidebook brand. Providing both inspiring and trustworthy information for every kind of traveller since 1973, Lonely Planet reaches hundreds of millions of travellers each year online and in print and helps them unlock amazing experiences. Visit us at lonelyplanet.com and join our community of followers on Facebook (facebook.com/lonelyplanet), Twitter (@lonelyplanet), Instagram (instagram.com/lonelyplanet), and TikTok (@lonelyplanet). 'Lonely Planet. It's on everyone's bookshelves; it's in every traveller's hands. It's on mobile phones. It's on the Internet. It's everywhere, and it's telling entire generations of people how to travel the world.' Fairfax Media (Australia)
Japanese pubs, called izakaya, are attracting growing attention in Japan and overseas. As a matter of fact, a recent article in The New York Times claimed that the izakaya is "starting to shove the sushi bar off its pedestal." While Japan has many guidebooks and cookbooks, this is the first publication in English to delve into every aspect of a unique and vital cornerstone of Japanese food culture.A venue for socializing and an increasingly innovative culinary influence, the izakaya serves mouth-watering and inexpensive small-plate cooking, along with free-flowing drinks. Readers of this essential book will be guided through the different styles of establishments and recipes that make izakaya such relaxing and appealing destinations. At the same time, they will learn to cook many delicious standards and specialties, and discover how to "design" a meal as the evening progresses.Eight Tokyo pubs are introduced, ranging from those that serve the traditional Japanese "comfort foods" such as yakitori (barbequed chicken), to those offering highly innovative creations. Some of them have long histories; some are more recent players on the scene. All are quite familiar to the author, who has chosen them for the variety they represent: from the most venerated downtown pub to the new-style standing bar with French-influenced menu. Mark Robinson includes knowledgeable text on the social and cultural etiquette of visiting izakaya, so the book can used as a guide to entering the potentially daunting world of the pub. Besides the 60 detailed recipes, he also offers descriptions of Japanese ingredients and spices, a guide to the wide varieties of sake and other alcoholic drinks that are served, "how-to" advice on menu ordering, and much more.For the home chef, the hungry gourmet, the food professional, this is more than a cookbook. It is a unique peek at an important and exciting dining and cultural phenomenon.
Whether you want to have sushi in a top Tokyo restaurant, visit the shrines of historic Kyoto, or head to the beaches of Okinawa, the local Fodor’s travel experts in Japan are here to help! Fodor’s Essential Japan guidebook is packed with maps, carefully curated recommendations, and everything else you need to simplify your trip-planning process and make the most of your time. This new edition has been fully redesigned with an easy-to-read layout, fresh information, and beautiful color photos. Fodor’s “Essential” guides have been named by Booklist as the Best Travel Guide Series of 2020!\nFodor’s Essential Japan travel guide includes: AN ILLUSTRATED ULTIMATE EXPERIENCES GUIDE to the top things to see and do MULTIPLE ITINERARIES to effectively organize your days and maximize your time MORE THAN 50 DETAILED MAPS to help you navigate confidently COLOR PHOTOS throughout to spark your wanderlust! HONEST RECOMMENDATIONS FROM LOCALS on the best sights, restaurants, hotels, nightlife, shopping, performing arts, activities, side-trips, and more PHOTO-FILLED “BEST OF” FEATURES on “Tokyo's Best Quirky Souvenir Stores,” “Best Temples and Shrines,” “Best Things to Buy,” “Best Things to Eat and Drink,” and more TRIP-PLANNING TOOLS AND PRACTICAL TIPS including when to go, getting around, beating the crowds, and saving time and money HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL INSIGHTS providing rich context on the local people, politics, art, architecture, cuisine, music, geography and more SPECIAL FEATURES on “Japanese Culture Primer,” “Peerless Fuji,” and “Kyoto's Philosopher's Path” LOCAL WRITERS to help you find the under-the-radar gems Japanese LANGUAGE PRIMER with useful words and essential phrases UP-TO-DATE COVERAGE ON: Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, Osaka, Sapporo, Nikko, Hiroshima, Kobe, Okinawa, Mt. Fuji, Fukuoka, Hakone, Kamakura, Nagoya, and more.\nPlanning on visiting other destinations in Asia? Check out Fodor’s Essential Vietnam, Fodor's Essential Thailand, and Fodor's Seoul.\n*Important note for digital editions: The digital edition of this guide does not contain all the images or text included in the physical edition.\nABOUT FODOR'S AUTHORS: Each Fodor's Travel Guide is researched and written by local experts. Fodor’s has been offering expert advice for all tastes and budgets for over 80 years. For more travel inspiration, you can sign up for our travel newsletter at fodors.com/newsletter/signup, or follow us @FodorsTravel on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. We invite you to join our friendly community of travel experts at fodors.com/community to ask any other questions and share your experience with us!
In Japan, spring bursts onto the scene with the splendor of blooming cherry trees (sakura), the symbol of life. This is the most popular season for visitors, who enjoy the tranquility of the Zen gardens, however, the narrow archipelago of Japan offers considerable cultural and geographical variety, with interesting attractions and places to visit throughout the seasons. Attractions range from the snowcapped volcano of Mount Fuji to tropical atolls and the frenzied metropoles of Tokyo and Kyoto--the imperative experiences of Japan could fill an entire lifetime. National Geographic brings all the aspects of the culture, history, and traditions of the best places in Japan to visit. Walking itineraries, with maps, include Shibuya-ku, Ueno, Hakodate, Hagi and the route from Magome to Tsumago. Among the excursions, there are visits to the wonderful Japanese gardens, to the Peace Park in Hiroshima and to the national parks of Akan and Kushiro-Shitsugen. It is possible to follow the pilgrim paths of Kumano Kodo or take whale-watching trips along the coasts. The travel advice for the eight main islands and regions includes the most interesting cities, towns, and regions of Japan, helping visitors discover one of the most famous and complex tourist destinations of Asia.
It had never been done before. Not in 4000 years of Japanese recorded history had anyone followed the Cherry Blossom Front from one end of the country to the other. Nor had anyone hitchhiked the length of Japan. But, heady on sakura and sake, Will Ferguson bet he could do both.\nThe resulting travelogue is one of the funniest and most illuminating books ever written about Japan. And, as Ferguson learns, it illustrates that to travel is better than to arrive.
Konnichiwa from one of the most fascinating countries on earth.Whether you want to see cherry blossoms in Kyoto, speed through the countryside aboard a shinkansen, or shop til you drop in futuristic Shibuya, your DK Eyewitness travel guide makes sure you experience all Japan has to offer.Japan is a land of contrast - think tranquil zen gardens and peaceful pagodas, neon-lit cities and robot restaurants. Our annually updated guide brings the country to life, transporting you there like no other travel guide does with expert-led insights and advice, detailed breakdowns of all the must-see sights, photographs on practically every page, and our and our hand-drawn illustrations which place you inside the country's iconic buildings and neighbourhoods.• Our pick of Japan's must-sees, top experiences, and hidden gems• The best spots to eat, drink, shop, and stay• Detailed maps and walks which make navigating the city easy• Easy-to-follow itineraries• Expert advice: get ready, get around, and stay safe• Color-coded chapters to every part of Japan, from Tokyo to Kyoto, Okinawa to Osaka• Our new lightweight format, so you can take your guide with you wherever you goPlanning a city break? Try out DK Eyewitness Tokyo or our pocket friendly DK Eyewitness Top 10 Tokyo.
Frommer's Japan is completely updated, and features gorgeous color photos of the sights and experiences that await you.Our author has written about Japan for years, so she's able to provide valuable insights and advice. She'll steer you away from the touristy and the inauthentic and show you the real heart of the Land of the Rising Sun. Insider advice on the best travel experiences, like climbing Mount Fuji, exploring Kyoto's Gion District, making a pilgrimage to Sensoji Temple, or riding the Skinkansen Bullet Train, so you're sure to have a fantastic trip. Plus tips for navigating the country's lovely but less-traveled corners, like skiing in Honshu and Hokkaido. Where to find the best ryokan to spend a night, the most beautiful kaiseki meal, the best shopping in Tokyo, or the loveliest Zen rock garden. Insightful commentary on the culture of old and new Japan to help you peel the onion of the unique synthesis of East and West that meets in the country. Opinionated reviews. No bland descriptions and lukewarm recommendations. Our expert writers are passionate about their destinations--they tell it like it is in an engaging and helpful way. Exact prices listed for every establishment and activity--no other guides offer such detailed, candid reviews of hotels and restaurants. We include the very best, but also emphasize moderately priced choices for real people. User-friendly features including star ratings and special icons to point readers to great finds, excellent values, insider tips, best bets for kids, special moments, and overrated experiences.
Discover the beauty of Okinawa and the Ryukyu islands with this stunning, detailed guide The beautiful islands of Okinawa and the Ryukyu chain contain some of the most scenic spots in the planet--including many UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Dozens of these islands are inhabited and can be easily explored. Visitors are offered opportunities to trek up active volcanoes, soak in natural hot springs, enjoy pristine white sand beaches, tour ancient castles and temples, and sample world-renowned Okinawan dishes. The silver medal award winner of the 2015 Lowell Thomas Travel Award, this is the first and only comprehensive guide to the 150-island chain that stretches 600 miles (1,000 km) from Japan to Taiwan. Author Robert Walker has explored the area for decades and tells you exactly where to go, how to get there, where to stay, and what to do and see. In addition, this new edition has been expanded with information about the recent Shuri Castle fire as well as coverage of additional sights. This detailed guide contains: Complete ferry and flight information Where to find the best beaches and surf spots Places suitable for families with children Hikes and nature walks for all ages and abilities Hotel and restaurant recommendations A large pull-out map with insets of the major towns And so much more! Lavishly illustrated with 300 color photos and 40 maps, this book has all the information you'll need to plan your stay in this gorgeous region.
Written by locals, Fodor's travel guides have been offering expert advice for all tastes and budgets for 80 years.Over a million Americans visit Japan each year to experience this land of exquisite beauty, and recent fluctuations in the yen have made it more of an affordable destination than ever. In stunning full color, Fodor's Japan illustrates the country's eternal draws, from ancient temples and gardens and the deliberate pace of the tea ceremony, to the dizzying, frenetic pulse of its high-tech cities.This travel guide includes:· Dozens of full-color maps· Hundreds of hotel and restaurant recommendations, with Fodor's Choice designating our top picks· Multiple itineraries to explore the top attractions and what’s off the beaten path· In-depth breakout features on the intricacies of Japanese cuisine, traditional Japanese crafts, and Mount Fuji· Major sights such as Tsukiji Fish Market, Senso-ji, Tokyo Sky Tree, Mt. Fuji, The Daibutsu, Sanjusangen-do, Ginkaku-ji, Fushimi-inari Taisha, Kinkaku-ji and Osaka-jo· Side Trips from Tokyo including Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, Nikko, Kamakura and Yokohama· Coverage of Tokyo; Nagoya, Ise-Shima, and the Kii Peninsula; The Japan Alps and the North Chubu Coast; Kyoto; The Kansai Region; Western Honshu; Shikoku; Kyushu; Okinawa; Tohoku; HokkaidoPlanning to focus on Tokyo? Check out Fodor's travel guide to Tokyo.
Traveling to Japan has never been so much fun—visit the land of anime, manga, cosplay, hot springs and sushi!This graphic Japan travel guide is the first of its kind exploring Japanese culture from a cartoonist's perspective. Cool Japan Guide takes you on a fun tour from the high-energy urban streets of Tokyo to the peaceful Zen gardens and Shinto shrines of Kyoto and introduces you to: the exciting world of Japanese food—from bento to sushi and everything in between. the otaku (geek) culture of Japan, including a manga market in Tokyo where artists display and sell their original artwork. the complete Japanese shopping experience, from combini (not your run-of-the-mill convenience stores!) to depato (department stores with everything). the world's biggest manga, anime and cosplay festivals. lots of other exciting places to go and things to do—like zen gardens, traditional Japanese arts, and a ride on a Japanese bullet train.Whether you're ready to hop a plane and travel to Japan tomorrow, or interested in Japanese culture, this fun and colorful travelogue by noted comic book artist and food blogger Abby Denson, husband Matt, friend Yuuko, and sidekick, Kitty Sweet Tooth, will present Japan in a unique and fascinating way.
Tokyo is a city of complementary contrasts – a truly modern metropolis where futuristic architecture and cutting-edge technology stand shoulder-to-shoulder with ancient temples and centuries-old art and craft traditions. Your DK Eyewitness Top 10 travel guide ensures you’ll find your way around Tokyo with absolute ease.Our newly updated Top 10 travel guide breaks down the best of Tokyo into helpful lists of ten — from our own selected highlights to the best museums and art galleries, places to eat, shops and events. You'll discover: • Nine easy-to-follow itineraries, perfect for a day-trip, a weekend, or a week • Detailed Top 10 lists of Tokyo’s must-sees, including detailed breakdowns of the Imperial Palace Grounds, Senso-ji Temple, the Sumida River, the Edo-Tokyo Museum, Ueno Park, the Tokyo National Museum, Koishikawa Korakuen Garden, the Meiji Shrine, Yanaka and Odaiba Island • Tokyo’s most interesting areas, with the best places for shopping, going out, and sightseeing • Inspiration for different things to enjoy during your trip – including children’s activities, things to do for free and unmissable experiences off the beaten path • A free laminated pull-out map of Tokyo featuring a subway map, plus seven color neighborhood maps • Streetsmart advice: get ready, get around, and stay safe • A lightweight format perfect for your pocket or bag when you’re on the move DK Eyewitness Top 10s have been helping travellers to make the most of their breaks since 2002. Staying for longer and looking for a more comprehensive guide? Try our DK Eyewitness Tokyo or DK Eyewitness Japan.
The ideal travel companion, full of insider advice on what to see and do, plus detailed itineraries and comprehensive maps for exploring this cultured and unique nation.Take a guided Tokyo walking tour, bathe in hot springs, hike Japan's mountainous interior or visit peaceful temples: everything you need to know is clearly laid out within color-coded chapters. Discover the best of Japan with this indispensable travel guide.Inside DK Eyewitness Travel Guide Japan:- Over 30 color maps, plus a Tokyo subway guide, help you navigate with ease - Simple layout makes it easy to find the information you need - Comprehensive tours and itineraries of Japan, designed for every interest and budget- Illustrations and floorplans depict Tokyo National Museum, Senso-ji Temple, Nijo Castle, Himeji Castle, Taiyuin-byo Shrine and more - Color photographs of Japan's stunning landscape, temples and shrines, impressive castles and more- Detailed chapters, with area maps, cover Tokyo, Honshu, Kyoto, Shikoku, Kyushu, Okinawa and Hokkaido- Historical and cultural context gives you a richer travel experience: learn about history, festivals, rituals, values, beliefs and traditions- Experience the culture with features on Japanese houses, sumo and the martial arts, Japanese traditional theatre, the samurai and Japanese traditional dress- Essential travel tips - our expert choices of where to stay, eat, shop and sightsee, plus useful phrases, visa and health informationDK Eyewitness Travel Guide Japan is a detailed, easy-to-use guide designed to help you get the most from your visit to Japan.DK Eyewitness: winner of the Top Guidebook Series in the Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards 2017."No other guide whets your appetite quite like this one" - The IndependentOn a shorter break? Try our DK Eyewitness Top 10 Tokyo guide.About DK Eyewitness Travel: DK's highly visual Eyewitness guides show you what others only tell you, with easy-to-read maps, tips, and tours to inform and enrich your holiday. DK is the world's leading illustrated reference publisher, producing beautifully designed books for adults and children in over 120 countries.
Farewell to faux pas! Minding your manners is an acquired skill, but what serves you well elsewhere could trip you up in Japan. Save yourself possible embarrassment with Etiquette Guide to Japan. An inside look at Japanese social graces, it answers all the questions of the thoughtful traveler. Extensive, specific information on Japanese business etiquette assists readers traveling to Japan for business.Although often overshadowed by a modern facade, long-standing traditional aspects of Japan's culture still influence the country and almost everyone in it. Concrete evidence of this traditional culture can be seen everywhere—in the ancient arts and crafts that are still essentiasl parts of everyday life, in the many shrines and temples that dot the nation, and in the recent comeback of traditional fashions such as kimono and yakata robes. To many Western visitors, however, the most obvious example of this traditional culture's strength is the unique etiquette of the Japanese. Like many nations, Japan has experienced vast political, social, and economic change over the past century. But enough of Japan's traditional etiquette remains to set the Japanese apart socially and psychologically and to make success in socializing and doing business with them a unique challenge for Westerners. About this new version:This updated and expanded edition of the best-selling Japanese etiquette guide addresses not just the puzzling protocols relating to name cards, bowing or shaking hands, bathrooms and public baths—but also what to do when entertaining Japanese dinner guests, attending a Japanese tea ceremony, taking the subway, and much more! It also provides the latest etiquette in mobile phone manners, texting, social media and other forms of digital communication. The glossary at the back of the book has been revised to include the latest technology-related words and expressions used by Japanese today. Two new chapters address the changing role of foreigners in the workplace and the contemporary business style and etiquette used by the younger generation of Japanese who are now increasingly cosmopolitan—but still very Japanese!
Tokyo is a city like no other, a looming contemporary metropolis where every turn is a new adventure. There are bright lights and neon signs, bars under railway bridges, Michelin ramen and sushi, tech, toys and vintage shopping. The crazy, the cute, the chic and the traditional are all flourishing in this city's broad thoroughfares and narrow lanes. Tokyo Pocket Precincts is crammed with all the tips you'll need to shop, eat, drink and explore this truly surprising city, from your morning coffee to your evening on the town. Also included is a selection of 'field trips' to encourage you to explore outside the city, including Nikko, Hakone, Mount Takao, and the cute 'Eno-den' train from Kamakura to Enoshima and Fujisawa.
Originally written in Japanese, this passionate, vividly personal book draws on the author's experiences in Japan over 30 years. Alex Kerr brings to life the ritualized world of Kabuki, retraces his initiation into Tokyo's boardrooms during the heady Bubble Years, and tells the story of the hidden valley that became his home. But the book is not just a love letter. Haunted throughout by nostalgia for the Japan of old, Kerr's book is part paean to that great country and culture, part epitaph in the face of contemporary Japan's environmental and cultural destruction.
A sprawling metropolis where the past and future collide.Whether you want to watch traditional Japanese theatre, sample Michelin-starred cuisine or take an unforgettable trip to Mount Fuji, your DK Eyewitness travel guide makes sure you experience all that Tokyo has to offer.A city that blends tradition seamlessly with the ultra-modern, visitors to Tokyo can be strolling amidst serene shrines and peaceful zen gardens one minute and surrounded by futuristic skyscrapers, rowdy karaoke bars and neon-lit arcades the next.Our newly updated guide brings Tokyo to life, transporting you there like no other travel guide does with expert-led insights and advice, detailed information on all the must-see sights, inspiring photography and our trademark illustrations.You'll discover: • our pick of Tokyo’s must-sees, top experiences and hidden gems • the best spots to eat, drink, shop and stay • detailed maps and walks which make navigating the city easy • easy-to-follow itineraries • expert advice: get ready, get around and stay safe • color-coded chapters to every part of Tokyo, from Western Tokyo to Northern Tokyo, Central Tokyo to further afield • our new lightweight format, so you can take it with you wherever you go Want the best of Tokyo in your pocket? Try our DK Eyewitness Top 10 Tokyo.
"Fascinating...clearly stated, interesting and provoking.... A plainspoken account of living in Asia." --San Francisco ChronicleAnyone who has heard his weekly commentary on NPR knows that T. R. Reid is trenchant, funny, and deeply knowledgeable reporter and now he brings this erudition and humor to the five years he spent in Japan--where he served as The Washington Post's Tokyo bureau chief. He provides unique insights into the country and its 2,500-year-old Confucian tradition, a powerful ethical system that has played an integral role in the continent's "postwar miracle."Whether describing his neighbor calmly asserting that his son's loud bass playing brings disrepute on the neighborhood, or the Japanese custom of having students clean the schools, Reid inspires us to consider the many benefits of the Asian Way--as well as its drawbacks--and to use this to come to a greater understanding of both Japanese culture and America.
Tokyo Maze – 42 Walks is no ordinary travel guide. The author is no stranger to Japan either, having spent over 25 years visiting the country as a student, on work assignments and as a writer. He even lived in Tokyo for five years. Alongside all the main attractions, this guide takes you to places which don’t get a mention elsewhere. The information included in the guide is fully up to date. He returned from his most recent in-depth research trip in November 2019.Inside the guide:• 42 complete walking tours to 500 sights in and around Tokyo.• Each itinerary begins and ends at a railway or subway station.• Recommend lunch-break and coffee-stop for each walk.• 48 area maps reliably steer the visitor through the maze of Tokyo streets. • 108 photos offer first impressions.• Over 100 insider tips aid readers in their pre-trip preparations and during their stay. • 350 bookmarks enable travellers to access additional information on the Internet.• A calendar shows at a glance which festivals are taking place at any given time. • Personal Top 10 tips on architecture, observation points, parks and gardens, shopping streets and malls, boutiques, hotels, restaurants, fine arts and other museums, showrooms, theatres, temples and shrines. • Online maps are available for half of the tours, featuring additional tips on accommodation, shopping, and food and drink. Regardless of whether you come to Japan on a package holiday or under your own steam or if you’re even planning to live in Tokyo for a while, this guide will enrich your stay. Please note: a conscious decision was made to print this guide in black and white in order to provide you with a wealth of detailed and up-to-the-minute information at a low price. If colour photographs are a priority, you should opt for the e-book version.
Tokyo is ground zero for Japan's famous "geek" or otaku culture—a phenomenon that has now swept across the globe. This is the most comprehensive Japan travel guide ever produced which features Tokyo's geeky underworld. It provides a comprehensive run-down of each major Tokyo district where geeks congregate, shop, play and hang out—from hi-tech Akihabara and trendy Harajuku to newer and lesser-known haunts like chic Shimo-Kita and working-class Ikebukuro. Dozens of iconic shops, restaurants, cafes and clubs in each area are described in loving detail with precise directions to get to each location. Maps, URLs, opening hours and over 400 fascinating color photographs bring you around Tokyo on an unforgettable trip to the centers of Japanese manga, anime and geek culture. Interviews with local otaku experts and people on the street let you see the world from their perspective and provide insights into Tokyo and Japanese culture, which will only continue to spread around the globe. Japanese pop culture, in its myriad forms, is more widespread today than ever before—with J-Pop artists playing through speakers everywhere, Japanese manga filling every bookstore; anime cartoons on TV; and toys and video games, like Pokemon Go, played by tens of millions of people. Swarms of visitors come to Tokyo each year on a personal quest to soak in all the otaku-related sights and enjoy Japanese manga, anime, gaming and idol culture at its very source. This is the go-to resource for those planning a trip, or simply dreaming of visiting one day!
Created specifically for fans of Japanese "cool culture," A Geek in Japan is one of the most iconic, hip, and concise cultural guides available. Reinvented for the internet age, it is packed with personal essays and hundreds of photographs and presents all the touchstones of traditional and contemporary culture in an entirely new way. A Geek in Japan decodes the mysteries of the Japanese language, Japanese social values and daily habits, business and technology, the arts, and symbols and practices that are peculiarly Japanese. This revised and expanded edition contains many new pages of materials on all sorts of topics including Kyoto, Japanese architecture, and Japanese video games. It also features a guide to author Hector Garcia's favorite Tokyo hangouts and tips on visiting many "secret" places around Japan. Highlighting the originality and creativity of the Japanese, debunking myths, and answering nagging questions such as why the Japanese are so fond of wearing face masks, Garcia has written an irreverent, insightful, and highly informative guide for the growing ranks of Japanophiles around the world.
Lonely Planet: The world's leading travel guide publisher \nLonely Planet Tokyo is your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. Spend all-night in a karaoke parlour in Shinjuku, walk the forest path to Tokyo's largest Shinto shrine, Meiji-jingu, or sample the delights of Mitsukoshi's food hall -all with your trusted travel companion. Get to the heart of Tokyo and begin your journey now! \nInside Lonely Planet's Tokyo Travel Guide: \n\n\nColour maps and images throughout \n\nHighlights and itineraries help you tailor your trip to your personal needs and interests \n\nInsider tips to save time and money and get around like a local, avoiding crowds and trouble spots \n\nEssential info at your fingertips - hours of operation, phone numbers, websites, transit tips, prices \n\nHonest reviews for all budgets - eating, sleeping, sight-seeing, going out, shopping, hidden gems that most guidebooks miss \n\nCultural insights give you a richer, more rewarding travel experience - history, pop culture, performing arts, visual arts, tea ceremonies, cinema, literature, architecture, onsen, festivals, cuisine\n\nCovers Marunouchi, Nihombashi, Tsukiji, Ginza, Roppongi, Ebisu, Meguro, Shibuya, Harajuku, Aoyama, Shinjuku, Akihabara, Ueno, Asakusa, Odaiba, Shimo-Kitazawa, Korakuen, Yanaka, Nikko, Hakone, Hamakura, Mt Fujiand more \n\nThe Perfect Choice: Lonely Planet Tokyo, our most comprehensive guide to Tokyo, is perfect for both exploring top sights and taking roads less travelled.\nAbout Lonely Planet: Since 1973, Lonely Planet has become the world's leading travel media company with guidebooks to every destination, an award-winning website, mobile and digital travel products, and a dedicated traveller community. Lonely Planet covers must-see spots but also enables curious travellers to get off beaten paths to understand more of the culture of the places in which they find themselves. The world awaits! \n'Lonely Planet. It's on everyone's bookshelves, it's in every traveller's hands. It's on mobile phones. It's on the Internet. It's everywhere, and it's telling entire generations of people how to travel the world.' - Fairfax Media \n'Lonely Planet guides are, quite simply, like no other.' - New York Times
As a country blessed with natural geothermal energy, no trip to Japan is complete without an authentic onsen (hot spring) experience. Yet this world has remained a mystery to many western travellers, who are keen to take advantage of the onsen's relaxing qualities and healing properties. Onsen of Japan is your entry into art of Japanese communal bathing. Featuring listings for more 2500 onsens across the country, authors Steve Wide and Michelle Mackintosh have selected out the very best places to enjoy this quintessential Japanese experience – including traditional 7th-century baths, historic wooden buildings, open-air mountain springs, rustic neighbourhood baths, and big city super santos (aquatic centres). Alongside vivid descriptions and beautiful images, each listing includes a checklist with important travel information, such as price range, whether same-sex or mixed bathing is available, whether English is spoken, and if tattoos are accepted. A detailed introduction at the front of the book includes a guide to etiquette, onsen rules, customs and quirks, as well as information on different water types and their healing benefits. The authors also offer tips on how to take a bath like a local, bathing in different seasons, the best places to take a foot bath (ashiyu) or hand bath (teyu), and where you can cook your own onsen egg. Slip off your clothes and ease yourself into the world of the Japanese onsen. One thing is for sure, taking a bath will never be the same again.
In this completely revised edition of a long-time favorite, Robb Satterwhite offers readers an insider’s tour of the vibrant and constantly-changing contemporary restaurant scene in Japan. Sure, just about everyone knows and loves sushi, but there’s so much more to the cuisine; and with the help of this easy-to-use guide, diners everywhere can learn to appreciate the Japanese restaurant experience in all its variety -- and enjoy it with confidence.This third edition of What’s What in Japanese Restaurants includes many favorite features, completely updated, such as an explanation of different kinds of restaurants, how to read menus (with examples), phrases for ordering, and a glossary and food vocabulary. Many new features have been added as well: an overview of the changing restaurant scene; sections on fish, Japanese beef, and premium pork brands; expanded sections on different types of restaurants and kinds of foods; and Japanese beverages including sake and shochu. Satterwhite also explains various cooking styles and ingredients, and offers insights into culinary traditions, history, and the finer points of food preparation. He even has a section on drinking customs and etiquette.Robb Satterwhite has lived in Tokyo for many years and eaten at thousands of restaurants, doing research for his hugely popular web- and mobile-based site, Bento.com. Incorporating this extensive research and the author’s deep knowledge of Japanese culture and cuisine, What’s What in Japanese Restaurants will be an entertaining and invaluable resource for travelers, foodies, and restaurant- goers, both in Japan and at home.
Richly illustrated and exhaustively researched, Japanese Inns & Hot Springs is the definitive guide to Japanese spas and hot springs known as ryokans. It presents the finest ryokans in Japan, from historic properties like Hiiragiya in Kyoto and Kikkaso in Hakone to luxury retreats like Zaborin in Hokkaido and Tenku-no-Mori in Kyushu. In this Japan travel guide you will find:\n The 40 best Japanese ryokan and onsens for English-speaking visitors (including 13 in the Tokyo area and 11 in and around Kyoto and Nara)\n A description of the special features of each ryokan and what is included in your stay\n Tips on how to choose the right ryokan for you\n Practical advice on how to book a stay and a detailed etiquette guide\nAbove all else this ryokan guide reveals the enduring traditions of Japanese hospitality, a rich heritage reaching back a thousand years to the time when Japan's hot spring bathing culture took root. The beautiful properties in this book also illustrate the unique design sensibility for which Japan is so justly renowned. Indispensable tips on booking a Japanese ryokan that is right for you along with a detailed etiquette guide to staying at a ryokan and bathing in an onsen, as well as descriptions of the special features of each of the inns featured.
Super Cheap Tokyo is all you'll need for a budget holiday in Tokyo or the surrounding Kanto region. With a large choice of discount passes, tax-free shopping and an unbelievable exchange rate, now is the time to come Unlike other Tokyo guides, this book shows you exactly how, where and when you can save money. Grab a traditional Japanese meal for $3, buy clothes in fashion heaven Harajuku for under $10, spend next to nothing on a day's hiking or relax in a free Japanese garden; it's all here in this easy-to-use travel guide.Inside the Super Cheap Tokyo guide book: Budget food - comprehensive listings of low-cost restaurants, take-outs, supermarkets, so you'll never be lost for a cheap meal Budget shopping - 100 yen ($1) shops, free sample hotspots, how and where to go tax-free shopping, all the best attraction discounts and freebies Color maps for budget travelers, making it easy and stress-free to get around Highlights and itineraries based on discount subway and train passes, so you can keep costs down while exploring all across the region Tokyo's hidden treasures - walking routes via historic neighborhoods to cut down on train fares, inexpensive side trips and free alternatives to busy, overpriced spots Essential help for budget travelers - free tours, simple to understand directions, simplified transportation maps, translations for places that don't have English support and basic Japanese phrases to help you get better prices on your trip Cheap accommodation - the best and cheapest hostels, family-friendly hotels, capsule hotels, net cafes, overnight spas, campsites and more Guides to central Tokyo and the Imperial Palace, Harajuku, Shibuya, Akihabara, Asakusa, the Skytree, Odaiba, Shinjuku, Shin-Okubo, Ueno, Mount Fuji, Kamakura, Yokohama, Nikko, Hakone, Mount Takao, Mount Mitake, as well as many other highlights and off-the-beaten-track spots nearby Based on the top-selling Super Cheap Japan guidebook (ISBN 978-1-9998100-0-9), this book is perfect for backpackers, budget travelers, families on a tight budget, students and those who are new to Tokyo. You'll have an amazing time, without blowing all your money away Also consider Super Cheap Japan (ISBN 978-1-9998100-0-9) for a guide to Japan's highlights on the main island of Honshu and Super Cheap Hokkaido (ISBN 978-1-9131140-0-8) for Sapporo and the Hokkaido prefecture. Editorial Reviews: "In the book you will find museums with no entrance charges, places to get the cheapest train fares, cheap eats (sometimes the only economical choices are convenience stores or BYO foods), shopping (including many 100 yen stores) and even the occasional out-of-the-blue freebies like Tokyo Tower tickets being free on your birthday." - Japan Visitor " .... this book is so detailed It provides the best cheap restaurants around each area (Shinjuku, Harajuku etc). I find this to be a plus point because as a foreigner who can't read Japanese, it kinda difficult finding places to eat at sometimes." - Ann, social media influencer at Petite Diaries "Why I really like this book? It is compact and easy to use with all the information and tips at your fingertips...... Tokyo offers countless tourist attractions to visitors, and this bookgives you plenty of great travel options to explore without breaking the bank." - Japan Australia
*Winner of The North American Travel Journalists Association's Excellence in Travel Journalism Award*Japan mesmerizes and bewilders the visitor in equal measure, making a top-notch travel guide essential for anyone planning a trip to the land of the rising sun.Rob Goss is an award-winning Japan travel writer who has lived in the country for years. From fast-paced Tokyo to the serene temples and gardens of Kyoto to the booming winter resort of Niseko, Goss shows visitors where to experience the country's rich culinary traditions, pop culture, Samurai heritage, and so much more. Delving beyond the scope of traditional guidebooks, Japan Traveler's Companion showcases the insider's Japan, offering detailed itineraries for each region as well as: \n Information on the country's 100 most important tourist sights, including 22 UNESCO World Heritage Sites\n Illustrated introductions to Japanese cuisine, popular culture, and Samurai history\n A map of each region with suggested walks\n Tips for getting off the beaten path and finding Japan's lesser-known treasures, such as the contemporary "art island" of Naoshim and Yakushima's breathtaking flora and fauna\n Engagingly written and richly illustrated with hundreds of color photos, this Japan travel guide is the one book visitors will keep by their side before, during, and long after they complete their journey.
This Japan travel guide presents a journey into the true heart of the Kyoto experience—one which brings you deep into the world of Kyoto's ancient Zen Buddhist culture. This is the first comprehensive guide to Kyoto's most important Zen garden and temple sites. Kyoto's Zen heritage represents one of mankind's greatest achievements—recognized by the large number which have been declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Millions of visitors travel to Kyoto yearly in search of their secrets, and here for the first time is a comprehensive overview of every major site. Over 50 Japanese temples and gardens—including all World Heritage Sites—are captured in sensitive photos by acclaimed Kyoto-based photographer John Einarsen. A detailed introduction to each temple by local expert John Dougill includes information about special opportunities for visitors to the temples—such as early morning meditation sessions, temple food offerings and special green tea sets provided to enhance the contemplative experience—along with other "insider" information that no other guide provides. The foreword by Takafumi Kawakami, the deputy head priest of the respected Shunkoin Temple in Kyoto, serves to place the book in the context of eastern and western Buddhist thought and practice. His widely viewed TED Talk "How mindfulness can help you to live in the present" has been viewed by over 100,000 people.
Super Cheap Japan is the ultimate budget travel guide to Japan, full of the most useful, up-to-date information for a cheap holiday in Japan. With extensive tax-free shopping, crazily discounted train passes and an unbelievable exchange rate, there has never been a better time to visit. Unlike other guides, this book shows you exactly how, where and when you can save money. Go shopping for $4 clothes in Tokyo, enjoy inexpensive hikes in Nikko, or visit Kyoto's beautiful shrines and gardens on the cheap; all with this super helpful guide.Inside the Super Cheap Japan guide book:\n\nBudget food - eat for only a few dollars with comprehensive listings of low-cost restaurants, takeouts, supermarkets and more \nBudget shopping - 100 yen ($1) shops, free sample hotspots, tax-free shopping, discount passes and coupons \nColor maps for budget travelers, making it super easy to get around \nHighlights and itineraries based on discount train or bus passes, so you can keep your wallet happy while still having an amazing holiday \nTrain and bus passes - local, regional and national passes, and info on how to use them for additional savings at tourist hotspots \nHidden treasures - walking and cycling routes to cut down on train fares, cheap side trips and free alternatives to crowded, overpriced spots \nEssential help for budget travelers - expert travel tips, free tours, simple to understand directions, translations for places that don't have English support \nCheap accommodation - the best and cheapest capsule hotels, net cafes, overnight spas, hostels, campsites and more Guides to Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Nara, Hiroshima, Mt Fuji, Miyajima, Himeji Castle, Kobe, Yokohama, Kamakura, Nikko, Hakone, Kansai, Kanto, as well as great off-the-beaten-track places nearby This book is perfect for backpackers, budget travelers, families on a tight budget, students and those who are new to Japan. Get the most out of this amazing country, without burning a hole in your wallet!Also consider Super Cheap Hokkaido for Sapporo and the Hokkaido prefecture and Super Cheap Tokyo for the capital and Kanto region.Editorial Reviews "In Super Cheap Japan the author fulfils his mission to keep Japan both affordable and authentically enjoyable for tourists. There is a good balance between an overview of the usual tourist spots and quirkier recommendations that allows travellers to maximise their enjoyment of a singular country while minimising their budget." - Japan Visitor "Lots of great tips and tricks for saving money on your Japan visit! The book covers many areas in great detail, and it is certainly a very useful book for anybody planning a trip to Japan" - Abby Denson, author of the bestselling Cool Japan Guide "Want to travel to Japan but on a budget? Then check out Super Cheap Japan for great money saving ideas" - Doki Doki "A must have book if you are traveling to Japan, it has all the essential information that you might need" - Hector Garciao, author of the bestselling A Geek in Japan