日本NipponPlan

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Travel notes for Japan
Guides5 min readShibuya for a first night: the crossing, the views and restA first night in Shibuya: see the famous crossing, look down on it from a higher point, eat near the station and walk to a quiet street before you rest.Guides5 min readShibuya and Harajuku: a youth-culture afternoonWalk from a quiet forest shrine to the fashion streets of Harajuku, then on to Shibuya's shops and anime goods. A relaxed plan for a first afternoon.Guides5 min readShimokitazawa in the evening: music and small streetsHow an evening in Shimokitazawa unfolds: the shops close, the cafes and live houses open, and the side lanes turn quiet. Plan it with care.Guides5 min readShimokitazawa and Nakano: a Tokyo day off the listShimokitazawa and Nakano offer vintage shops, small theatres and collectible shops away from the main sights. Plan a relaxed day in Tokyo.Guides5 min readShimokitazawa for vintage shoppingShimokitazawa has dozens of small second-hand shops in narrow lanes. Here is how to shop them well, from sizes and cash to bags and manners.Practical5 min readShinjuku station without the stress: a first-timer's mapShinjuku station has many lines and many exits. Learn how to read its signs, pick the right exit and keep your luggage and family calm on the way out.Practical5 min readTax-free shopping: check the latest refund rulesVisitors can sometimes get back consumption tax on purchases. The refund process has changed, so learn how to check your eligibility and keep the right papers.Practical5 min readTemple and shrine manners on a first visitShrines and temples are working places of worship. Learn the simple steps for purification, prayer, photos and shoes so you visit with respect.Guides6 min readTen days across Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto and OsakaA ten-day first trip through Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto and Osaka: the order, the nights, the food and the train days that need a check.Guides5 min readTenjin and Hakata: a Fukuoka base for food and shopsTenjin and Hakata are the two halves of central Fukuoka. Here is how to choose between them as a base, and where to find food stalls and shops.Practical5 min readTokyo Station area: how to keep a train day simpleA train day around Tokyo Station is simple if you plan the exit, the bags and the meal before you board. Practical steps for families and solo travellers.Guides5 min readTwo bases in Tokyo: how to split your stayTwo hotels in Tokyo can cut travel time and save you from long rides. Learn how to split your nights between the east and west sides.