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Japan has been on my travel list for as long as I can remember. So, a visit to this land in the Far East was a long-cherished dream come true! We spent 15 days travelling the length of the country, covering Osaka, Kyoto, Hiroshima and Tokyo, to make the most of the limited time available to us. Japan Itinerary 15 days: Quick Planning Tips This blog will provide you with the 15 tried and tested travel tips for Japan for you to plan the perfect 15-Day Itinerary.... Is Japan expensive? (Tip#1) This is a common question to crop up whenever there is talk of a vacation to Japan. So, let's put things in perspective! A vacation to Japan is cheaper than to most European countries, but more expensive than to Asian countries such as Vietnam or Thailand, for instance. Japan can definitely not be the first go-to choice of a budget traveller. A week-long vacation to Japan could cost you anywhere from USD 2000 to 2500, including airfare. If we were to break up the cost, accommodation would be the highest expense since hotels in all touristy cities like Kyoto and Tokyo are expensive. Airbnb options are limited and not value-for-money like in Europe. Second in terms of cost would be the JR Pass that entitles you to travel on the Shinkansen (Bullet train) within Japan. Eating out and fine dining can be expensive. If you wish to cut down on costs, then street food is a very viable option in Japan, safe and hygienic. There are plenty of family supermarts like Seven-Eleven and Lawson where one can get good quality food at reasonable prices. Watching live shows is quite expensive. Are public toilets free in Japan? (Tip#2) Japan can easily be rated as the country with the most efficient toilet system in the world! You will find toilets in the most unlikely of places, in remote towns and shrines. And they are totally free! And don't get me started on the Japanese bidet toilet seat, which is a tech gizmo! Motion-activated sensors, sound-creating machines that you can set to 'privacy mode' and so on. The good part is that although everything is written in Japanese, there are illustrations. Haha! So, take your time on your first outing to figure out all of them, and you won't have to worry about it on your entire trip! Best time to visit Japan? (Tip#3) Japan has been a coveted tourist destination for the past many years now, which obviously translates into massive crowds. If you want to stay ahead of these crowds, the only way is to plan well in advance and decide on the time of your visit based on what you wish to see. If you wish to see cherry blossoms, then springtime, i.e. March to April, is the time you're looking at. Autumn, from October to November, is great for seeing autumn colours and enjoying pleasant weather. Winter is great for seeing snow and fewer crowds. Summer can be very hot and humid, since most sightseeing is outdoors, its is ideally avoidable. Also, the country is truly multifaceted; shrines, temples, monuments, natural beauty, river cruises, bustling cities loaded with malls and shopping arenas, street food outlets, restaurants, live shows, high-tech anime areas, and more. It's a good idea to plan your trip so that you can pick and choose what you really wish to see and do. If you want a balance of good weather and fewer crowds, plan your trip during autumn or early spring. Is Japan very crowded? (Tip#4) Yes, Japan is crowded, so much so that the entire experience of visiting a destination can be compromised by the crowds and the direction of the sun. For me, personally, this was especially true for Fushimi Inari and Kiyomizu-dera temple in Kyoto. I think the experience of seeing both these amazing shrines would have been much better had we arrived early in the morning, as they are best viewed in a calm and relaxed atmosphere. We reached there by 10 am, but even that was a bit late. Ideally, one should plan to reach there by 8:30 am. The same can be said for the Arishiyama Bamboo Forest, too. The small forest was almost crammed with people by the time we reached. On the other hand, we arrived at the Itsukushima Shrine in Miyajima quite early and were rewarded with a surreal view of the torii gate, both at the low tide and the high tide, by the time we left. How to travel around Japan easily? (Tip#5) If you want to travel between cities, then Japanese trains are your best bet. You can opt for the JR Pass (Japan Railway Pass) that is valid on all Shinkansen (Bullet trains) and JR route trains. Riding on the bullet train is as much fun as seeing one zip through past stations! The only thing to note is that some fast Shinkansen trains, such as Nozomi, are not included in the JR Pass. The best part is that reservations for this pass are free, although you will need to complete the reservation online or at the booking office in person. Even if you're unable to make reservations, all trains have some compartments, mostly the first 3 or first 5, which are unreserved. The Japanese railway system is extremely well organised. However, it took us a day to fully comprehend how it works because a lot of detailed information is displayed on the signboards at all platforms. Each train, with its name and number, and the number of its unreserved compartments, is displayed on signboards. Just follow the signboards, and you will never face any issue travelling by train in Japan. What is the best way to commute locally in Japan? (Tip#6) Don't skip travelling on the buses in Japan. They are super crowded, mind you, but I always write in all my blogs that to fully understand a country and its people, travel by local transport. One has to board the bus from the centre and deboard from the front next to the driver and purchase your ticket at this point, except in Tokyo, I think, where you get in from the front. It'll be good to know that buses only accept either coins of a minimum 10 yen denomination or above, or currency notes up to 1000 yen only. Despite the crowds, this system works very efficiently. Is it true that there are no trash cans in Japan? (Tip#7) Trash is serious business in Japan, and I cannot emphasise this point enough. Trash is conspicuous by its absence in the entire country. No trash and no trash cans either. You will see people carrying a small bag with their trash in it. We even saw boards and notices outside retail stores, even restaurants, forbidding passersby from throwing their trash in their cans. We travelled to so many cities, and it's like this everywhere. If you're staying in an Airbnb, then don't be lax about the instructions regarding trash disposal displayed for you. Understanding Japanese Etiquette: Dos and Dont's for tourists (Tip#8) Japan has the undeniable reputation of being a very civil society. After having spent 15 days travelling through it, I can vouch for it. Don't ever jump queues and don't speak loudly, not on trains, on buses or even in public places. Despite massive crowds on trains and buses, I never once saw anyone losing their cool or behaving inappropriately. It was almost fun to watch how effortlessly people navigate their way through the crowd to reach the driver on buses to deboard. No pushing, no jostling, only thank you and excuse me. People keep their backpacks strapped to their front rather than on their backs to avoid any inconvenience to fellow passengers. Seats marked for the physically disabled are kept vacant at all times. In restaurants, no tips, please! Tipping is considered impolite. And asking for directions can be a lesson in basic human interaction. People will step out of their way to help you with directions, albeit in Japanese! So, it's a good idea to learn a few basic phrases to set the tone for your interaction. Most young people can understand English and can even speak a little, but older people are unlikely. But the Japanese people are a helpful lot; even if they don't understand your language, they'll help you out if you're lost or looking for some help. We've had people waiting on the street with us to help us look for our hotel, or a friendly stranger telling us where to board our bus. Which live shows can I watch on my Japan trip? (Tip#9) What is a Japanese vacation without watching its live shows like Geisha performances, Sumo Wrestling, among others? What you need to know is that all these shows sell out months in advance. We were travelling in October 2025 and started booking shows as early as the end of August, and we still had to struggle with dates and timings. For the Geisha show in Kyoto, we had to book very expensive premium tickets because the rest of the hall was all booked. Most of the Geisha shows do not let you take pictures or make videos, which is a shame, but these rules are followed very strictly. Sumo wrestling performance show, on the other hand, in Tokyo, not just allowed photos but also invited the audience to join in a mock fight with the wrestlers. I'll talk about this in a separate blog post. Do I need to carry cash in Japan? (Tip#10) A lot of places, like small street food vendors, eateries and small kiosks, accept only cash. They do not accept any credit or debit cards. So, carrying some cash is a must. And, remember, exchange of cash by hand is considered very improper; you're supposed to put it in a small dish or tray kept at most counters for this purpose, and you pick up the balance also the same way. Food guide for your Japan trip (Tip#11) I'd heard people raving about Japanese cuisine, but having tasted some of it myself, I'd say don't miss this experience. In Osaka, you'll find amazing street food around Dotonbori Street, the thought of which makes me salivate. Takayaki, a dumpling filled with octopus, served with sauce, melon bread filled with different flavours of ice cream, candied fruit like strawberries on a stick, Surimi, a kind of minced fish served on a stick, and ramen, of course. You will find many restaurants that serve Sushi on a conveyor belt...not to miss again! My favourite was the assorted blow-torched Sushi plate in Kinka, a popular cafe in Akihabara, Tokyo. A lot of towns have their own specialities. Miyajima, for instance, is known for Momiji Manju, a small maple-leaf-shaped cake filled with sweet red bean paste... ....and oyster tempura and deep-fried oysters, cooked to perfection and served in roadside kiosks. Another must-try while you're in Japan is the green-coloured matcha ice cream. You also get a variety of Sake, so know your Sake before you leave for Japan. The only thing to note is that the Japanese people do not like to eat on the go, like Europeans or Americans, where you'll often see people walking around with sandwiches or coffee in their hands. Eating on trains and other public transport is also not allowed. How to stay connected in Japan: Installation of SIM cards and Google Maps on your phone (Tip#12) The Japanese are way too organised when it comes to arranging their cities, so locating addresses can be a nightmare. Now, with hands-on GPS systems, just ensure that you have the exact address of where you are staying, with the correct name of the building, locality, etc. On our first day in Osaka, it took us a while to locate our Airbnb because there were four apartment complexes of the same company with different names within a 100-metre radius. Since our booking was with the company, it took us some time to figure out our location. This brings me to a very important point. Most hotels and Airbnb are self-check-in, so ensure that you have all the check-in details, like key card details, passwords, etc., in place beforehand. Handling climate contingencies in Japan (Tip#13) Japan is a country that is very prone to natural disasters like typhoons and earthquakes. Before we set out on our journey, we had seen some videos about how to handle emergencies like sudden typhoons, tsunamis and earthquakes. For any tourist to be caught in such a situation in a foreign land can be very disconcerting since language is also a barrier. There is little one can do about such contingencies, except be vigilant about where you are staying. Whether you're staying in an apartment or a hotel, knowing about emergency exits and evacuation plans during contingencies can be a good idea. Temperatures in Japan can vary dramatically from region to region since Japan lies lengthwise along many latitudes. The same applies from east to west Japan. It wouldn't be an exaggeration to say that you could experience a very cold climate in the north and a subtropical climate in the south of the country at the same time. So, research the region you're visiting. Experiencing local customs in Japan (Tip#14) Japan is an intriguing country. Their culture, traditions and customs, everything about them has always evoked a lot of curiosity. So, try as many authentic experiences as possible. We watched a Geisha show, a sumo wrestling performance, and saw a show at the famous non-verbal theatre in Japan, called GEAR Theatre. I'll discuss more about these shows in a separate blog. Another interesting cultural activity that many tourists, especially women, undertake is renting a kimono. One can spot many women strutting around in Kimonos at popular spots like the Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, Tokyo and around many temples in Kyoto. Most rental agencies rent them for 6 to 8 hours, which includes make-up and photography. Chinese tourists dressed in Kimonos at the Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyoto Another fun thing to do is to stay in a Ryokan, the traditional Japanese inn, to experience the traditional lifestyle and hospitality, with Tatami mats and Futon beds. Most of them would also include a bath in the Onsen, the famous hot spring baths in Japan. Noteworthy is that all these cultural experiences have to be done with a lot of sensitivity and respect for local customs. Best way to see Mount Fuji in Japan (Tip#15) No discussion about Japan can be complete without a mention of its famous mountain peak, the mesmerising Mount Fuji. There are many tour options to see this mountain, from both near and far. The simplest and most tourist-friendly option is to do a trip to Hakone on the Hakone Loop. This Loop can be done on a day trip from Tokyo, which includes a ride on the Hakone Ropeway with beautiful views of Mount Fuji en route, a short stop at the volcanic landscape of Owakudani and a boat ride on Lake Ashinoko. I'll discuss more about Hakone in a separate blog later. I can say from experience that all such places around the earth, which are bestowed with such jaw-dropping beauty, are always elusive. But call it sheer luck, we got to see glorious views of Mount Fuji on our train journey from Osaka to Kyoto. My only tip here is to sit on the left side of the train and keep a lookout about one hour into the journey. If the day is clear, you will see magnificent views like this one... However, on our day trip to Hakone, although we saw the mountain very clearly from the viewing platform in Owakudani, its iconic snow-covered tip was partially covered by clouds, although we had picked a sunny day for this day trip.. So, that's Japan for you in a nutshell. I can say with a certain amount of certainty that there are no tourist traps anywhere in Japan. The people are courteous and honest, and you will not find any touts anywhere in touristy places, trying to scam or cheat tourists. There is very little haggling in markets, maybe only in some flea markets around Osaka, but not in Tokyo. The country is safe, clean and welcoming. For more detailed blogs on our 15-day holiday in Japan, keep watching this space!

No country tests your itinerary-making skills quite like Japan. It can feel exciting and overwhelming at the same time. There is simply too much to see - neon cities, ancient temples and shrines, cherry blossoms, Mount Fuji, live sumo shows, geisha shows, anime districts, castles, markets, breathtaking scenery....and suddenly 15 days feels far too short!! This 15-day Japan itinerary covers Osaka, Himeji, Hiroshima, Miyajima, Kyoto, Nara, Hakone, and Tokyo, with practical travel tips and the best experiences for first-time travellers. Why this 15-Day Japan Itinerary Works I've created this first-time Japan itinerary, all in one place, to help you see the best of Japan without feeling overwhelmed. My husband and I spent hours mulling over our travel plans before our visit in October 2025, trying to include as many attractions as possible within a 15-day window, all under a stipulated budget. The decision to leave out some attractions was tough, but we finally arrived at an itinerary that fit our budget and taste. So, if you're in a similar dilemma, wondering what to see, where to go, and, more importantly, how to do it, you're in the right place. As a first-time traveller to Japan, you should ideally stick to the Golden Triangle, Osaka, Kyoto and Tokyo. There is a lot to do beyond these cities, of course, but for first-timers, these 3 cities will cover all the major landmarks that make Japan so alluring: modern cities, shrines, temples, cultural heritage and iconic sights like Mount Fuji. Your itinerary can vary from 10 to 14 days, and you can start in Osaka and sightsee your way to Tokyo, or do it in reverse, depending on your port of entry and exit. In this blog, I'll share the sequence of the destinations we covered, along with our firsthand travel stories and detailed information, in separate links. We tried to optimise the days available to us quite judiciously, which obviously made our itinerary quite jam-packed and, needless to say, exhausting. But it lent variety to our days, temples and shrines on one day, followed by nature trails on the next and so on. Japan Travel Tips Before You Go Before we talk about what we did and where in our 15 days in Japan, I have compiled a list of 15 tried-and-tested tips for a perfect Japan itinerary that any first-time traveller to Japan should know. This blog will answer most of your queries about travel to Japan. 15-Day Japan Itinerary Overview Here's a quick look at this 15-day Japan route before we dive into the day-by-day details. We spent 3 days in Osaka, 4 in Kyoto and 5 in Tokyo, with lots of day trips thrown in. Day 1: Arrive in Osaka We arrived at Osaka Itami Airport and took a shuttle into the city. We stayed in an Airbnb in Tengachaya, a 10-minute walk from the Tengachaya Train Station and very close to Namba, the City Centre. In the evening, we explored the lively city of Osaka, famous for bright lights, street food and nightlife. Day 2: Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine + Osaka Castle + Kaiyukan We started our day 2 in Osaka at Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine, one of Osaka's oldest shrines. After spending about 2 hours at the shrine, we came to the Osaka Castle, one of the most famous landmarks in Japan. Later, in the afternoon, we visited Kaiyukan, the famous Osaka Aquarium and spent the entire evening there. Day 3: Shitennoji Temple + Shinsekai District After a very hectic Day Two, we had a slow start in the morning with a visit to the Shitennoji Temple and spent a leisurely afternoon in this serene temple complex. We spent our last evening in Osaka in the vibrant Shinsekai District. Day 4: Trip to Himeji Castle from Osaka The stunning Himeji Castle is easily accessible for a day trip from Osaka. We started early and boarded the Shinsankan Sakura to Himeji and began using our 7-Day JR Pass from this sector. Himeji Castle to Hiroshima After spending the first half of Day 4 at Himeji Castle, we headed to Hiroshima by taking the Shinkansen Sakura using the JR Pass. We checked into our Hotel Gran Via, located right next to the Hiroshima Train Station, thereby saving precious transit time, since buses for the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park started right next to the hotel. In the evening, we visited the Atomic Bomb Memorial Park in Hiroshima and other sights within the memorial complex. Day 5: Hiroshima to Miyajima Island Apart from the Memorial Park, Hiroshima is also famous for the stunning Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island, which lies very close to it. We took the early morning JR Train to Miyajimaguchi from Hiroshima, then transferred to the JR Ferry to Miyajima, all included in the JR Pass. Daisho-in Temple, Miyajima Island A lesser-known gem on Miyajima Island is the beautiful temple of Daisho-in. We spent close to 2 hours in this temple before heading back to the ferry point. In the evening, we came back to Hiroshima, collected our luggage from the hotel and took the JR Line (Shinsanken Sakura 552) to Kyoto. Reached Kyoto and checked into Hotel Sakura Terrace, very conveniently located only 500m from the Kyoto Station. Day 6: 4 days in Kyoto We had reached Kyoto on the previous evening from Hiroshima, so we decided to take the evening free and rejuvenate ourselves for the next day. On our first day in Kyoto, we decided to explore the east side of the city, starting with Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine. The long winding path of hundreds of torii gates leading up the mountain is one of the most recognisable pictures of Japan. That is Fushimi Inari for you. After spending close to 2 hours at the Fushimi Inari, we headed to the Kiyomizu-dera Temple. We took the Keihan Main Line from Inari Station to Kiyomizu-Gojo. From there, we walked to the temple through a slightly uphill route. The Sanjūsangendō Temple is only a 1.5 km walk from the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and it takes about 20 minutes. If you're not keen on walking all the way, then walk downhill from Kiyomizu-dera temple and take Bus number 206 from the bus stop Gojozaka. It will take about 5 minutes to reach the Sanjūsangendō area. The temple is right there. Three temples in a day...wow! and each one more riveting than the other. It was exhausting and exhilarating at the same time, and I certainly wouldn't give any of them a miss! We had tickets to the famous Geisha Show in the Gion District, located about 2 km from the temple. But we were too tired to walk, so we took Bus number 206 from the bus stop in front of the temple. It's the old-world charm of the Gion District in Kyoto that draws visitors in droves. Day 7: Day Trip from Kyoto to Nara The Historic City of Nara is located about 46 kilometres from Kyoto, and it takes about 45 minutes to reach by the JR Nara Line. We got off at the Kintetsu Nara Station, from there the Todai-ji Temple is only a 20-minute walk through the beautiful city of Nara and Nara Park, but we wanted to conserve our energy for a whole day of walking ahead, so we took a bus to Nara Park. Todai-ji Temple, with its 15-metre-high Buddha idol and the Kasuga Taisha Shrine, with its thousands of stone lanterns, are the must-see attractions in Nara. Day 8: Day Trip to Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and Iwatayama Monkey Park from Kyoto We started early to catch the JR Sagano Line to Arashiyama Bamboo Forest and Iwatayama Monkey Park. This is easily a day trip since there are lots of attractions to see in one place. Day 9: Kinkaku-ji Temple, Nishiki Marketplace and GEAR Theatre This was a much-needed, relaxed day after three days of intense activity. We visited the beautiful Kinkaku-ji Temple, also called the Golden Pavilion. This was our Last Evening in Kyoto, we spent it loitering around its vibrant marketplaces and saw the not-to-miss GEAR Theatre, a non-verbal Japanese art form that has to be seen to be believed! Day 10: Visiting Mount Fuji with the Hakone Loop Pass Mount Fuji is undisputedly one of the top attractions of a vacation to Japan, and the most touristy way to see it is by opting for a Hakone Loop Pass. We started early from Kyoto to catch the JR train to Odawara. Upon reaching Odawara, we quickly checked into a hotel and proceeded to buy the Hakone Loop Pass to see the coveted Mount Fuji. Day 11: Re-visited Hakone and cruised on Lake Ashinoko We had taken the 2-Day Hakone Loop Pass, so we started early to go to Hakone and the Owakudani Valley again, and if possible, see the mesmerising Mount Fuji, since it was extremely windy on day one and visibility was quite poor. Could we see the coveted peak? After spending half a day in Hakone, we took the evening train to Tokyo. Day 12: Arrive in Tokyo and spend the last 4 Days in Tokyo After two hectic days in Hakone and Owakudani, we had a slow start in Tokyo. In the morning, we visited the Senso-ji Temple in the Asakusa District, a very happening part of Tokyo. Sumo Wrestling Show Watching a sumo wrestling show in Japan was at the top of our list. So, we did this on day one of our Tokyo trip, and it turned out to be one of the highlights of our Japan trip, indeed! Day 13: Meiji Jingu Shrine The Meiji Jingu Shrine is a Shinto shrine, built in 1920 to commemorate Japan's first modern emperor, Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. It's a haven of peace right in the heart of the busy metropolis of Tokyo and is totally worth a visit. In the evening, we visited TeamLab Planets, an art museum that uses digital technology to create stunning optical illusions. Day 14: Kiyoso Suspension Bridge and Akihabara Electric Town Tokyo seems to come alive around the River Sumida that flows through the heart of central Tokyo, and the best way to see the river is from the many bridges across it. We decided to spend a peaceful evening around the Kiyoso Suspension Bridge, from where you can get stunning views of the Tokyo skyline. In the evening, we visited Akihabara Electric Town, the hub of all anime and gadgetry that Tokyo is so well known for. Day 15: Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Observatory at the Tokyo Metropolitan Office, Shibuya Crossing and Kinka Sushi Bar One can never have enough of Tokyo! So, on our last day, of the 4 days in Tokyo, we ventured to soak in some more of that famous Tokyo vibe! In the morning, we visited the famous Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. From there, we went to the Tokyo Metropolitan Office and visited the Observatory on the topmost floor to get stunning views of the Tokyo skyline and the scenic locales outside of it. We spent the evening at the famous Shibuya Crossing and had dinner at Kinka Sushi Cafe. Everything about our trip to Japan was memorable: the scenery, the temples and shrines, the electrifying ambience of Tokyo's anime districts, the live shows and, of course, the mesmerising view of Mount Fuji that we managed to capture on our train journey from Kyoto to Odawara. There are a lot of things that could've been better planned, but flawless vacations are unheard of. If you found these blogs useful, do let me know. I'll be happy to hear from you!

Osaka can be a great starting point for your trip to Japan. The thrilling Dotonbori Street and canal will set the perfect pace for your trip! In this blog, I'll give you a detailed insight into exploring Osaka in 3 days, the must-see attractions and valuable travel tips. Osaka is lively but not as crowded as Tokyo; it has many shrines but not as many as in Kyoto; it's less expensive and more friendly, making it an ideal option to ease into your Japanese vacation. When I say ease, I mean that visiting Kyoto and Tokyo literally sent our senses reeling...in a good way, of course! There is so much to do in these cities that, despite having 4 and 5 days respectively in each of them, we were running from point to point to see it all. But Osaka can be more relaxed, for sure! You can spend an evening loitering around the Dotonbori Street and Canal and savour its many yummy treats! We had 3 days in Osaka, so our itinerary featured most of the not-to-miss sights that Osaka has to offer. Exploring Osaka in 3 days: Day One Namba District: Exploring Osaka's vibrant nightlife and street food We reached Osaka by midday, so on Day One, we decided to spend the evening at the famous Namba District of Osaka, known for its vibrant nightlife and street food outlets. Namba lies in the Minami area, where you will also find the famous Dotonbori Riverside Promenade that runs along the Dotonbori Canal. Dotonbori Canal and Tombori Riverfront Dotonbori is a man-made canal, bori meaning canal in Japanese. This canal is also nicknamed the Tombori Riverfront, where you can step onto a canal cruise and see the sights from the water. You will see neon-lit signs on both sides of the canal and the streets leading up to the Dotonbori area. Osaka has earned the nickname 'Japan's kitchen', owing to its rocking street food culture. The areas of Namba and Dotonbori are laden with shops serving authentic Japanese fare like Takoyaki and Okonomiyaki at reasonable prices. Another speciality is a slice of melon bread filled with an ice cream slice of your choice. Shinsaibashi-suji Shopping Arcade One of the popular tourist attractions in Namba is the 600-metre-long covered shopping arcade, Shinsaibashi-suji. You will find an interesting mix of street food outlets, local tailors, and small boutiques lining the street. Visiting the Hozen-ji Temple in Namba Just a few meters away from the Dotonbori area is a small Buddhist Temple called Hozen-ji Temple. A small cobblestone pathway will lead you to this charming temple, where you will see a moss-covered statue of Mizikake Fudo, a revered deity believed to dispel ignorance and evil. It's considered sacred to splash water on the deity to bring good luck. Namba is a must-visit place in Osaka; you will get an instant taste of Japan, its cuisine and culture on your visit. Plan to visit it in the evening when it's fully lit and lively. Namba feels best at this time. Also, must try the amazing street food, especially the melon bread filled with ice cream! Exploring Osaka in 3 days: Day Two Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine Sumiyoshi Taisha is one of Osaka's oldest shrines and the head shrine of all Shinto shrines in Japan. After a relaxed Day One that we had spent sauntering around the streets of Osaka, we decided to cover major ground on Day Two. We started our day early with a visit to the Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine, a haven of peace and beauty in the midst of a busy city. https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/sumiyoshi-taisha-shrine-osaka Osaka Castle Osaka Castle is the most distinguishable landmark in Osaka, Japan, and a visit to this stunning castle will give you an interesting insight into the history of Japan. https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/a-day-at-the-osaka-castle Tempozan Giant Wheel How does it feel to sit atop the world's largest giant wheel? That's Tempozan for you! The Tempozan is a whopping 369 feet high and 330 feet in diameter. 60 closed cabins take about 15 minutes to go around in one rotation, and when you reach the top, you get stunning views of the Osaka skyline and the Osaka Bay with Rokko Mountains to the north and Mount Ikoma to the east. Pro Tip The Tempozan is a must-visit attraction; you will find a massive queue leading to the wheel, so try to reach early. The wheel goes around very slowly owing to its mammoth size, but the thrill of watching great scenic views from the top is worth the wait. Tempozan is very close to the Osaka Aquarium; if you plan to do both, then keep aside at least 3 to 4 hours. The aquarium is a very busy place; one is required to buy a ticket, and then you are allocated a slot to enter. So, you should buy your aquarium tickets first and then go to the Tempozan. We did not know about this and had to wait for almost 2 hours to enter the aquarium after finishing our ride on the Tempozan. Osaka Aquarium - Kaiyukan Kaiyukan is one of the largest aquariums in the world, and its spectacular Pacific Tank with its massive whale sharks will blow your mind. Learn everything you wish to know about Kaiyukan so that you don't miss out non anything worth seeing on your visit https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/a-day-at-kaiyukan-one-of-the-world-s-largest-aquariums-in-osaka Exploring Osaka in 3 days: Day 3 Shitennoji Temple This was our last day in Osaka. We set out to visit the Shitennoji Temple, which is claimed to be the oldest Buddhist temple in Japan, founded in 593 by Prince Shotoku, a revered figure who dedicated his life to spreading Buddhism in Japan. The most notable feature of the temple is its symmetrical layout, serene park and the beautiful five-storey pagoda. The temple was burnt and destroyed multiple times throughout history, so what we see now are fairly new constructions built as early as the 1960s and 70s. The temple is a 15-minute walk from the Tenno-ji Station. The area around the temple is very serene, and we spent a quiet morning there. The most notable feature is that the temple is located right in the middle of a very densely populated urban residential area and still looks like an oasis of calm. The park around the temple is free to visit; it's a great place to take photos. Photography inside the temple is strictly prohibited. If you wish to see the pagoda from inside, then the entry ticket is 500 yen. Shinsekai District and Tsutenkaku Tower with its Tower Slider The Shinsekai District is Osaka's vibrant, old-fashioned district popular for bars and eateries and the iconic Tsutenkaku Tower. This rocking Osaka neighbourhood is worth a visit before you leave Osaka https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/shinsekai-osaka-exploring-the-retro-heart-of-the-city Last evening at Dotonbori District After spending the early part of the evening at Shinsekai, we headed to the Dotonbori District again. One can never tire of seeing this vibrant part of Osaka. Besides, it was raining on the first day we came here, so we wanted to spend our last evening in Osaka wandering around this charming district. Early next morning, we set out to see Himeji Castle. Coming up next...

Planning your first trip to Kyoto? This 4-day Kyoto itinerary is designed to help you explore the city's most iconic temples, cultural districts, and nearby day trips without feeling overwhelmed. From walking through the thousands of torii gates at Fushimi Inari Taisha to visiting the stunning Kiyomizu-dera Temple, seeing the thousands of statues at Sanjūsangendō Temple, exploring the historic streets of Gion, planning a day trip to Nara, plus some more attractions that make Kyoto special, this itinerary covers the best of Kyoto in a practical, day-by-day plan. Essential Kyoto Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors Before diving into the detailed itinerary, here are a few practical tips to help you plan your time in Kyoto Plan a tight itinerary There's a lot to do and see in Kyoto. If you're the kind of tourist who loves to tick all the boxes, then have a plan for each day. Arrive early Kyoto sees a massive influx of tourists. You will see crowds everywhere, in buses, in shrines and temples, and in marketplaces. The only way to beat the crowds is to arrive early. The whole experience of seeing the shrines and temples early in the morning is altogether different from seeing them once the crowds hit. This holds especially true for shrines like Fushimi Inari and Kiyomizu-Dera. Wear comfortable shoes, carry a water bottle and a road map with directions for the day Visiting the shrines and temples can be a very exhilarating yet exhausting experience, involving a lot of walking. I mean it, literally! A route map with all the transport connections to the place in question can help you save a lot of hassle. Explore day passes if you plan to see many temples and shrines Most of the shrines and temples are spread throughout the city, but are well connected by buses, trains, and subways. You can opt for a day pass, called an IC Card, which works on all kinds of transport within the city. You could also purchase a 'Kyoto City Bus and Subway 1-Day Pass' for city travel. If you have the JR Pass, it is valid on the train routes to locations such as Fushimi Inari and Arashiyama. We also had the JR Pass, so we decided to pay cash for all other travel within the city. The bus fare within the city is a flat 230 yen; all you need to do is drop cash into the fare box at the front of the bus upon de-boarding. Stay close to the stations, if possible Since there is so much walking involved at the shrines, I'm sure you would want to cut down your walking time between the bus and train stations. We were staying in Hotel Sakura Terrace, which was barely 500 meters from the Kyoto Main Station. This made life so simple. Day trips from Kyoto Kyoto also serves as a great base for day trips to cities like Osaka, Nara, Himeji, Kobe and Hiroshima, among others. If you have the JR Pass, you can plan these day trips yourself or opt for guided tours. Make a list of not-to-miss attractions in Kyoto You must keep aside one evening to visit the famous Gion District. You can explore local cafes, see the famous Geisha show, or, if you're lucky, spot some geishas, too. I'll talk about the Geisha Show later in my blogs. If you have a spare evening, then do not miss the Non Verbal show at Gear THEATRE. The show is spectacular and one-of-a-kind. It incorporates technology, mime, set design and lighting effects to create a stellar show that you will remember whenever you think of Kyoto. The 4-Day Kyoto Itinerary at a Glance Kyoto is a city with a lot to do and see. Temples, shrines, live shows, throw in a day trip too, and your itinerary will be choc-a-block. .. This is a very detailed memoir about the things we did in Kyoto in 4 days. I've broken down the memoir into many segments for easy reading, day-wise and activity-wise too. Day One Fushimi Inari Taisha Fushimi Inari Taisha is the head of all Inari shrines in Japan. It's also one of the most recognisable landmarks, with its eye-catching, brightly painted vermilion gates leading up to the summit of Mount Inari! From Kyoto Station, take the JR Line to Inari Station. The temple is right in front of the station. https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/walking-through-a-thousand-gates-a-soulful-visit-to-fushimi-inari-taisha Kiyomizu-dera Temple After spending close to 3 hours in Fushimi Inari, we took the Keihan Line to Kiyomizu- Gojo Station. From there, it's a 10-minute walk uphill to the temple. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kiyomizu-dera Temple is a popular tourist attraction, known for the iconic Kiyomizu stage. What is the Kiyomizu Stage, and what makes it special? https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/what-makes-kiyomizu-dera-temple-special Sanjūsangendō Temple The Sanjūsangendō Temple is only a 1.5 km walk from the Kiyomizu-dera Temple, and it takes about 20 minutes. If you're not keen on walking all the way, then walk downhill from Kiyomizu-dera temple and take Bus number 206 from the bus stop Gojozaka. It will take about 5 minutes to reach the Sanjūsangendō area. The temple is right there. https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/visiting-the-sanjūsangendō-temple-in-kyoto Geisha Show, Gion District After visiting 3 amazing temples on our first day in Kyoto, we had plans to see the famous Geisha Show in the Gion District of Kyoto. The show is one of the most visited attractions in Japan. Does it live up to the hype? https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/watching-a-geisha-show-in-the-gion-district-of-kyoto Day Two On the second day, we decided to do a day trip to Nara. This is one of the most popular day trips from Kyoto. Nara is a historic city known for its many UNESCO World Heritage Sites and its free-roaming wild deer. https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/a-day-trip-to-the-historic-city-of-nara Day Three Two days of intense temple-visiting in Kyoto and Nara, today, on the third day, we were desperate to explore some natural beauty around Kyoto. And nothing promises to be more beautiful than the natural paradise of Arashiyama on the western edge of Kyoto. Visiting the Arashiyama region is a complete package; you can see the beautiful Tenryu-ji Temple, the stunning Arashiyama Bamboo Forest, the Katsura Riverfront and the Arashiyama Monkey Forest. https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/exploring-the-arashiyama-bamboo-forest-and-monkey-park-on-a-day-trip-from-kyoto Day Four This was our last day in Kyoto. After having spent 3 very tiring days exploring the wonders of the city, we decided to start late and start with the one last shrine that was still left, the famous Kinkaku-ji Temple, also known as the Golden Pavilion. In the evening, we had pre-booked tickets to the Gear Theatre, the famous non-verbal show in Kyoto. The show turned out to be an absolute delight. Since this was our last evening in Kyoto, we spent it loitering around the famous Nishiki Marketplace in Kyoto Downtown, savouring local delights and doing some shopping. https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/our-last-day-in-kyoto-at-kinkaku-ji-temple-and-gear-theatre Our 4 days in Kyoto were intense but exhilarating. From Kyoto, we were headed to the most coveted destination in Japan, the famous Hakone Loop, to see the iconic Mount Fuji!

Witnessing the iconic Mount Fuji is on every tourist's wishlist who travels to Japan. We were no different. Visiting Mount Fuji from Odawara with the Hakone Loop Pass is the most touristy way to see Mount Fuji and the breathtakingly beautiful Owakudani Volcanic Valley. If you are also planning to visit Japan and see Mount Fuji, then you've come to the right place. In this blog, you'll get all the tips that could help you plan your Mount Fuji trip seamlessly. Let me start by saying that you don't always get lucky with views of Mount Fuji. Stunning natural sights such as this are always elusive, since the peak can remain hidden even on clear days. We got lucky with spotting this beauty on our train journey from Kyoto to Odawara. The majestic mountain stood imposingly above a bed of clouds, and its peak was visible in all its glory in the morning sun! How to Visit Mount Fuji from Odawara using the Hakone Loop Pass The Hakone Loop Pass will take you through the following route - - Odawara to Hakone Yumoto Station by train - Hakone Yumoto Station to Gora by train - Gora to Sounzan by funicular railway - Sounzan to Owakudani Volcanic Valley by cable car - Owakudani to Togendai by cable car - Togendai to Moto-Hakone by Pirate Ship on Lake Ashi - Lake Ashi to Hakone by boat or back to Hakone Yumoto or Odawara by bus The Hakone Loop Pass can be bought for 2 or 3 days online, at the Odawara station or at the Hakone Tozan Line station vending machines. The pass gives access to unlimited travel on all modes of transport in the region, train, bus, funicular, ropeway and ship. A 2-day pass from Odawara costs 6000 yen, and a 3-day pass costs 6400 yen. As I've mentioned, the pass will lead you seamlessly from one point to another by just following the queues. Mount Fuji from Odawara: Our Experience using the Hakone Loop Pass We had plans to stay overnight in Odawara, very close to the railway station, buy the Hakone Loop pass, and see the entire Hakone region at leisure. We had the option to take the Hakone Tozan Line or Hakone Tozan Bus since the pass is valid on both. We opted for the train, which is known for its scenic ride through the Hakone region. 8 modes of transport connect the route all the way up to the Owakudani valley, and the pass gives access to all of them, which can save a lot of time and make navigating the massive crowds easier. You just have to follow the queues and line up for the next mode of transport. Before I go any further to discuss what we saw and did in Hakone, this short video clip will give you a quick peek into our journey from Odawara to Mount Fuji... Odawara to Hakone-Yumoto by train We opted for the train since it is known to go through a very scenic route lasting about 15 minutes. Hakone Yumoto is a small, charming, touristy town that is the gateway to the Hakone region, known for its Onsen that cater to day-trippers. Apart from Onsen , you will find many typical Japanese experiences like staying in a Ryokan (traditional Japanese inn), Geisha Shows and restaurants offering local specialities like Onsen Manju (hot spring buns). We decided to keep travelling further and see Mount Fuji first and then come back to Hakone Yumoto later in the evening, if time permits. Hakone-Yumoto to Gora by train We saw massive crowds at the Hakone Yumoto station and long queues to get into the train to Gora. This historic train zigzags its way through the mountainside and switches direction twice on its scenic route. The train is also called the 'Hydrangea Train' since it chugs past tracks laden with hydrangea blooms from June to July. Gora to Sounzan by Funicular Once you reach Gora Station, you will be led into a long serpentine queue to take the funicular to Sounzan. The queue was so long when we reached that one couldn't see where it started or where it ended. A person was standing with a placard announcing the end of the queue. The point I'm trying to make is to try to start early to beat the crowds. Sounzan to Owakudani Volcanic Valley by ropeway This is one of the most exciting modes of transport in this region. On a clear day, one can see Mount Fuji very clearly from the cable car on the right and the breathtaking Owakudani Volcanic Valley on the left. The day we reached, it was extremely windy and overcast, so we couldn't see Mount Fuji. On Day 2, on our second ride on the cable car, we spotted Mount Fuji, although its famous snow-clad peak was hidden under a thick cloud cover, we saw this beautiful mountain rising majestically above the valley. Stunning views of the Owakudani Volcanic Valley and Mount Fuji from the cable car View of Mount Fuji from the Owakudani Valley Owakudani to Togendai by ropeway After spending about an hour taking in the mesmerising beauty of Owakudani Valley and Mount Fuji, we came back to the cable car point for a further trip to Togendai, from where we boarded the boat, a pirate ship, to cruise on Lake Ashinoko. Togendai to Moto-Hakone by Pirate Ship on Lake Ashi Lake Ashi to Hakone-Yumoto by bus The cruise on Lake Ashi lasts about 35 minutes. Once you reach the other end, you can visit the Hakone Shrine, and after that, you have the option to either take a bus back to Hakone-Yumoto or take the cruise back to Togendai. The bus goes through the vibrant town of Hakone-Yumoto. On the way, you will come across the Hakone Open Air Museum. The museum is not included in the Hakone Loop Pass, and the entry ticket costs 2000 yen. Please check their official website for more details. You can also make a stopover in the town of Hakone Yumoto, visit an Onsen for day-trippers or shop at the local market. A lot of people also plan to stay in Hakone-Yumoto for easy access to train stations and to enjoy the vibe of this town. Last view of the Hakone Shrine and Mount Fuji as our trip came to an end...

Sumiyoshi Taisha, one of Japan's oldest shrines and the head of all Sumiyoshi shrines, will leave you spellbound by its picturesque gardens and tranquil ambience. About Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine This is one of Japan's oldest shrines, dating back to the 3rd century, before the advent of Buddhism. There are over 2000 Sumiyoshi shrines across Japan, and they worship Kami, the gods who protect fishermen and sailors. Sumiyoshi Taisha is considered to be the protective shrine of the Port of Osaka. ope This is the shrine of celebration for the people of Osaka...around 2 million people come to visit the shrine each year in January, a ritual called Hatsumode, meaning the traditional first shrine visit of the year! This is the time when tens of thousands of people throng this shrine to pray for good luck and draw their paper fortunes, called Omikuji , a practice that is prevalent throughout Japan across all shrines. Sumiyoshi Taisha is a Shinto shrine. Shinto religion embodies a belief in the Animistic religion that is centred on the worship of Kami, the supernatural entities or gods, believed to inhabit all animate and inanimate objects. These supernatural entities inhabit all living and non-living objects, including trees, rocks, sacred animal messengers, and landscapes. We were drawn to this shrine owing to the amazing similarity it shares with Hinduism in its belief in Kami. Interestingly, you will see many colourful statues of rabbits and cats, believed to be divine messengers. Cats are believed to bring good fortune. Visiting Sumiyoshi Taisha Shrine in Osaka Sumiyoshi Taisha is very easily accessible by local trains. You can take the Nankai Line from Namba Station. The shrine is located very close to the Sumiyoshi Taisha Station; from there, it's barely a 5-minute walk to the shrine. The shrine is open from 6:00 am to 5:00 pm daily. Entry is free. As you enter the shrine, you will be greeted by the beautiful vermillion-coloured bridge, the Sorihashi Bridge. From there, you can walk into the main pavilion of the shrine. Plan to spend about an hour at the shrine and soak in its calm vibrance. The shrine is very close to Tempozan, the giant Ferris wheel and the Osaka Aquarium. https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/a-day-at-kaiyukan-one-of-the-world-s-largest-aquariums-in-osaka This was a bright, sunny day, and we had plans to visit the Osaka Castle after this. Coming up next...

A day trip from Munich to the fairytale castle of Neuschwanstein will take you through the stunning countryside around the village of Hohenschwangau in the foothills of the Alps. In this blog, I'll give you all the practical tips that could come in handy for you to plan a day trip to this imposing castle. This is one of the most visited castles in the World with a footfall of over 6000 visitors on some days....and understandably so, because this castle, with its mighty towers and turrets reaching far into the sky, evokes romanticism like no other piece of architecture ever can! Neuschwanstein is the inspiration behind the famous Castle in Disney's Sleeping Beauty. And now the same castle serves as the emblem of Disneyland amusement parks across the world. But this romanticism is laced with sadness and irony in the life of its creator, King Ludwig II of Bavaria, also known as Mad King Ludwig. Was he really a victim of circumstances or just another spoilt royal who couldn't get enough of what he already had? Let's find out.... About King Ludwig II Ludwig II, the eldest son of King Maximilian II and Queen Marie of Prussia was brought up as a staunch Roman Catholic. He believed in the ideology of a holy kingdom, that royals were ordained by God and they were born to rule. In, 1864, he was crowned the king of Bavaria at the tender age of 18. Barely two years into his reign, Bavaria lost miserably in the German War in 1866. He had to relinquish the Kingdom of Bavaria to Prussia. The young king could not accept that he was no longer the sovereign but just a titular head with no ruling powers. He withdrew himself into a world of fantasy, surrounding himself with opulent palaces, expensive works of art and elaborate horse-driven carriages in which he would venture into the mountains in traditional costumes so that he could live like a king in his make-believe utopian kingdom. His inability to realize his duties as a king forced the government to declare him insane in 1886. The moniker Mad King got stuck with his name forever. He was sent to a manor house in Bavaria where he was found dead in mysterious circumstances the very next day. The irony is that Ludwig II died at the young age of 41 years, after having lived in his dream castle for 172 days only! Getting to Hohenschwangau from Munich The castle is situated high up on a hill and the quaint village of Hohenschwangau is the starting point of the hike to the castle. If you're travelling by train - Take a 2-hour train journey from Munich Hauptbahnhof (Munich Main train station) directly to the town of Fuessen. - There are connecting buses easily available every 30 minutes from Fuessen that will take you directly to Hohenschwangau. If you're travelling by road - Munich is known for serving as a top destination for day trips to Neu Schwanstein. - The bus plies through the scenic countryside and takes you directly to the village of Hohenschwangau within 2 hours. - Self-driven cars also need to follow the same route and can park their vehicles in Hohenschwangau for the hike ahead. Once you reach Hohenschwangau - The scenic village has a beautiful lake called Alpsee and the Castle Hohenschwangau. This was home to its famous resident King Ludwig II where he spent his childhood. - Some day trips offer combo tickets for visiting both castles. The hike up to Neu Schwanstein involves quite a bit of walking. Take the combo ticket only if you're up to walking again around the Hohenschangau Castle. - There is a shuttle bus ride from Hohenschwangau to Mary's Bridge. Even if you are part of a conducted tour, you will still need to buy tickets for the shuttle, one-way or return. From there, a walk of 15 minutes will take you to the entrance to the castle. I will recommend buying tickets only one-way uphill. - It takes about 40 minutes to walk up the paved road to the castle if you decide to walk on foot. And remember, the walk is quite steep. - Horse-drawn carriages are also available to go uphill to complete the fairytale experience. But honestly, they didn't look very inviting. And remember, you will still have to walk those last 10 to 15 minutes up to the castle. A few things to remember for your trip to Neuschwanstein Castle 1. Reach early Owing to the massive surge of visitors throughout the day, entry to the castle is allowed only for conducted tours. Each tour group has an allocated time. Please ensure that you reach the premises on time allocated to you. Late arrival means no entry. Period. 2. Must have pre-booked tickets If you are travelling on your own, then remember to pre-book your tickets for the tour of the castle beforehand. Although there is a ticket counter in the village of Hohenschwangau, looking at the crowds, I seriously doubt that you could get same-day tickets. If you're part of a conducted tour, then your tour manager will ensure that your group enters together and does the tour of the castle together. My Tip - Most conducted tours do not include entry to the castle in the package. Please check the details of your tour before making bookings. However, you can pay them, and they will buy tickets for you. 3. Photography is strictly prohibited inside the castle Sad but true! I wish I could capture the stunning interiors of the castle with my camera. 4. Each time of the year will give you a different feel of the castle Summer is the preferred time to visit. The Alps are welcoming with their sun-kissed rolling hills and lush waterfalls. You can have a very clear view of the castle on a clear day. But the crowds are a bane. In winter, the castle will look surreal, straight out of some fantasyland. I have not experienced it myself, but can surely visualise it. Mary's Bridge would be closed. Autumn, I think, could be the winner. The crowds would have dissipated, and the autumn hues would add colour to the white facade of the castle. 5. Stop at Mary's Bridge Viewpoint Your first point of halt in the hike to the castle is the Marienbrücke or Mary's Bridge Viewpoint. This is the point where the shuttle bus or the horse carriage will drop you. It's a steep climb of 15 minutes to the castle from here. This picture was taken from the bridge... My Tip - The bridge is super crowded at all times. Getting a picture with the castle in the backdrop without heads popping everywhere is tough! The annoying part is that visitors get stuck at the entrance to the bridge and start clicking pictures. My advice to you would be to walk across the bridge to the other end. Believe me, the castle will still be there when you reach the other end! The bridge is suspended across a gorge. If you're scared of heights, then avoid it. Some trails lead to higher vantage points. We did not go on the trail, though, the hike to the castle looked steep enough without adding more hikes to it! About the castle - 10 quick points King Ludwig was a patron of the famous German composer Richard Wagner . The name Neu Schwanstein, literally translating into New Swan Stone Castle is inspired by Wagner's opera The Swan Knight . The swan is the central motif on many of the castle's artefacts. The facade of the castle is made of limestone, which needs regular upkeep because of the damage caused by harsh Bavarian weather. Even the cliffs around the castle need to be periodically secured to keep parts of the structure from sliding down the cliffs. The castle tour lasts 40 minutes, and it will take you through the exquisite rooms, there are 200 in all, and 14 are open to visitors. The highlight of the tour is the Throne Room, a stunning church-like hall with a 4-meter-high golden chandelier with unmistakable Byzantine influence. This integration of a church with a throne room reflects Ludwig's interpretation of kingship, that the king was a mediator between God and his subjects. Sadly, the throne room has no throne since Ludwig died before a throne could be placed here. Other interesting parts of the castle are the cave-like grotto and Singer's Hall. The castle is very well equipped for its time. There is a running hot and cold water supply, an electric bell system installed in the king's bedroom for him to summon his servants at will, a central heating system, a Western-style toilet and an efficient ventilation system. The unusual piece in his bedroom is a washstand with a water fountain made in the form of a swan. The King's bedroom and dressing room have ornate interiors. There are rich tapestries made of silk with gold embroidery. The king was an avid reader, so his study chair occupied a place of prominence in his bedroom. Don't miss the famous castle balcony, which offers scenic views of the Alpsee. At the end of the tour, don't miss a short movie about the original layout of the palace that King Ludwig II wanted to build. The layout included grand porticos and courtyards overlooking the Alpine scenery that never came to pass. This blog would be incomplete without mentioning our tour operator, Radius Tours, Munich, which we had booked through Viator. Our tour guides Stevo and Charlie gave a heart-rending narration of our boy Ludwig II with just the right amount of chutzpah. They also kept us hooked to the narrative and in stitches with their tongue-in-cheek humour. By the time we arrived in Hohenschwangau, we felt as if we knew King Ludwig and all his eccentricities. This certainly added to the allure of the castle. Before we visited Neuschwanstein, I had read some mixed reviews about the castle tour. A lot of visitors feel that the castle is over-hyped. I wouldn't say so. I found the castle magnificent and absolutely worth a visit. There is history, intrigue and romanticism with loads of stunning natural scenery all around. I would be thrilled to hear from you should you go visit this fantasy castle! For some useful travel tips, click here

Planning 3 days in Munich? This itinerary will give you an overview of the vibrant Bavarian capital, considered one of Germany's most touristy cities! The name Munich is synonymous with Oktoberfest, which, interestingly, is celebrated towards the end of September. Some things to know about Munich Munich is a big city. To travel around the city, the Munich Day Ticket is the best option. It covers all modes of transport, such as the U-Bahn (underground Metro line) and the S-Bahn (suburban rail network), connecting the main city with the broader metropolitan region. Munich is a melting pool of cultures, so to speak. Different places in the city can give you an entirely different feel. The same applies to the city's architecture, too. You will see a mix of Roman, Baroque and Gothic architecture in its many old buildings. I'd read on some forums about Bavarian Germans being very rude to foreigners. This is not true at all. We came across a whole lot of nice locals, friendly and helpful. The same cannot be said for the city, though. It's crowded, over-crowded at some places and dirty too in places like the Old Town. We reached Munich from Innsbruck, which is also very touristy and yet squeaky clean, hence the comparison. Munich is safe for tourists and locals alike. Little wonder, then, that the city boasts of a vibrant nightlife. Munich has some of the best breweries in Germany. While in Munich, a visit to a brewery and the famous beer halls must be on your to-do list. The fairy tale Disney Castle of Neuschwanstein is quite close to the Bavarian Capital. If you have an extra day in Munich, then this castle is a must-see attraction. 3 Days in Munich: Overview We had 3 days in Munich. Our itinerary included architecture in the form of churches and a palace, shopping streets, nature and gardens, and the city's famous cultural hotspots, Beer halls. Day One in Munich: Old Town Highlights Marienplatz This is the name of a busy Old Town Square in the heart of Munich in the Altstadt. There are hordes of people jostling with each other to get from one end of the square to the other. The square is lined with shops, big departmental stores, eateries, ice cream parlours, and much more. The main attraction of this 12th-century square is the Gothic-style Rathaus or Town Hall with its Clock Tower or Glockenspiel. In front of the Rathaus is a tall column with a statue of the Virgin Mary at the top. Quick Tip Try to hang around the Clock Tower at 11 am, 12 pm and 5 pm. This is when this old medieval Clock Tower comes alive with its bells and chimes. It's amazing to see this architectural marvel still with its working mechanism intact. Rathaus, New Town Hall The New Town Hall is a massive complex that sits imposingly in the centre of Marienplatz. It is the seat of the government in Munich. The Town Hall with its Glockenspiel is impressive from the outside. Quick Tip We did not have time to see the interiors, although the hallways are free to enter and explore. But mind you, if you take a tour of the complex, then it's 20 euros per person. If you've done such town hall tours earlier, give this one a miss! Munich Residenz This is the former Royal Palace of the Kingdom of Bavaria. Just walk about 1 kilometre from Marienplatz, and you will reach the Royal Palace. The opulent palace is the largest palace in Germany with...how many rooms? Can you guess? 130 rooms! At any given time, most visitors can see about 60 or 70 of them, depending on what is open on the day of your visit. Quick Tip The Residenz is a stunning piece of architecture. If you have limited time, go only for the Residenz since a lot of ticket options are available. You can buy separate tickets for the Residenz, the Museum and the Treasury. Day Two in Munich: Palaces and Culture English Garden The concept of an English country garden generally includes small garden patches connected by beautiful pathways, a lake, some small covered porticos and rows of trees. Quick Tip The garden took us by surprise. This is one of the largest urban parks in Munich. If you have time, this can be a great outing. There is a Japanese Tea Garden, a Pagoda and a beautiful Greek Temple. But you will need at least 2 to 3 hours to see this garden, which runs along the River Isar and is almost 5.5 kilometres in length. Asam Church A 7 to 8-minute walk from Marienplatz will take you to this catholic church in Munich. The church is small but every bit lavish with elaborate interiors swathed in gold. Beautiful frescoes adorn the ceiling and the heavily embellished walls. Must-see. The baroque facade of the church is very different from anything I've ever seen. St. Peter's Church Right across Marienplatz is this 11th-century cathedral that has very beautiful interiors. This is the oldest church in Munich; it is free to enter and, if you decide to go to the top of the tower, you get spectacular views of the Bavarian Alps.   The inside of the church is simply stunning; we simply sat and marvelled at the interiors for about half an hour. Frauenkirche Frauenkirche stands out in Marienplatz with its distinct onion-shaped domes. The church is the seat of the Archbishop of Munich. I learnt that no other building around the church is allowed to be built higher than the church's domes. There is a Devil's Footprint at the entrance of the church. A lot of legends and beliefs surround this footprint. The area around the church is called Frauenplatz, with nice places to sit or stroll. Since it's so close to Marienplatz, you will just have to spend 20-odd minutes to reach it and see it. Viktualienmarkt This colossal food market lies in the heart of the Altstadt, very close to Marienplatz. This is a daily market except on Sundays and public holidays. Viktualienmarkt is like a very chic version of a farmer's market. A lot of gourmet dining options, apart from a vast array of meats, cheese, fruits, vegetables and flowers are available. Don't miss this one while you're in Munich. Maximilian Strasse This street is the most happening street in Munich. There are elegant stores and uber-luxurious shopping avenues. The street extends from Maximilaneum near the Bavarian Parliament to Max-Joseph Platz with beautiful buildings lining the street. Not everyone can afford to shop here, but it's surely worth spending an evening along the beautiful boulevards. BMW Museum I have put this under the Top 10 things to do in Munich, although I did not visit this museum myself since we had just one evening left in Munich and we wanted to spend it in a brewery. But we had read some rave reviews about this museum, so if you have time, then try to fit this into your itinerary. The museum is about 7 km away from the city, but it is easily accessible by the S-Bahn or U-Bahn. Directly opposite the BMW Museum is the BMW Welt. The iconic building of BMW Welt is known for its unique architecture. Entry to BMW Welt is free. Beer Halls of Munich We spent our last evening in Munich in the Augustiner Brewery, one of the popular beer halls in Munich. It was an experience worth remembering https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/a-visit-to-the-famous-beer-halls-of-munich-the-land-of-the-oktoberfest   Day Three in Munich: Neuschwanstein Castle Day trip to Neuschwanstein Neu Schwanstein has been on my bucket list for many years. The easiest way to see this fairy tale castle is from Munich. In all honesty, we planned a trip to Munich so we could see this castle on a day trip, and that's exactly what we did. https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/day-trip-from-munich-to-neu-schwanstein-the-fairytale-castle-in-the-bavarian-alps The attractions in Munich do not end here. About 30 km away from Munich is the little town of Starnberg on the banks of the Starnberger Lake. There are loads of fun water activities to indulge in. If you have extra time, you can also visit the Nymphenberg Palace. It features on the Hop on Hop off bus tour of Munich. I would love to hear about your experience in the capital city of Bavaria! Do write back to me.... For more useful travel tips, click here

The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Halong Bay is renowned for its stunning limestone rock formations, which span over 600 square miles of emerald-green seawater. The rocks seem to be perched atop the surface of the sea and are covered in a thick green coat of tropical rainforests as far as the eye can see! The mesmerising landscape changes colours throughout the day, from azure during the day to a dark green as dusk falls. In the evening, all the cruises light up with ferry lights casting luminous glows on the water below...    Noteworthy is that, as a measure to protect the fragile environment of the bay from the pitfalls of excessive tourism, the Halong Bay Cruises in Vietnam are permitted to operate in a small area of the bay only.   Tourists assemble at the Ferry Boarding Point, and they are then led into a smaller ferry that takes about an hour to reach the point where the cruises are parked. You can see cruises of all shapes and sizes hovering around this area, offering a multitude of options to the tourists, from day trips to overnight cruises. A lesser-known fact about this part of the world is that, apart from Halong Bay, two more bays have cruising options, Bai Tu Long Bay and Lan Ha Bay. All three bays are accessible from the same harbour, Tuan Chau Harbour. Halong Bay is the most touristy, with most luxury liners cruising on this route. If you're looking for a regular touristy experience, go for the Halong Bay Cruise. But if you're the adventurous sort and wish to explore the unexplored part of this region, then go for Lan Ha Bay. The topography is very similar to Halong Bay, but it's way less crowded. You might not get the luxury liner of your dreams, but you can go for fun activities like kayaking with bioluminescent plankton. Most excursions will include the Cat Ba National Park. Bai Tu Long Bay can be your pick if you're looking for a more authentic Vietnamese experience. You can visit some typical fishing villages with far fewer crowds. But you will need at least 2 to 3 days to be able to enjoy this far-flung locale. Here are a few handy tips that you could use to plan your trip to Halong Bay... There are many cruise options available for Halong Bay. Day cruises, overnight cruises and even cruises for 2 to 3 nights. You can take your pick depending on what you're looking for. The best way to make bookings is through the official websites of cruises or from major booking platforms like Agoda.com and Booking.com . Look out for good deals when making your booking. We opted for an overnight cruise by Peony Cruises. The cost of a couple for a night's stay, all meals excluding drinks, was Rs. 24000 or USD 285. Halong Bay lies close to Halong City, a major tourist destination for cruises. A lot of tourists who head to Halong City from Hanoi travel by road, which is about 2.5 hours. There is a good expressway connecting the two cities. The best time to visit Halong Bay is from September to November and March to May. The times that one should avoid going to Halong Bay are the local Vietnamese holidays, especially around the New Year, both by the international and lunar calendars. This region sees a surge in local tourists at this time. There are two embarkation ports for Halong Bay cruises: One, Tuan Chau Marina and two, Halong International Cruise Port, Bai Chay Ward. As a tourist, one doesn't need to worry about where to embark since most travel companies have operators who will take you directly to your port of embarkation. So, you can just sit back and enjoy the scenic locales. The ferry terminals are very organised with all facilities like restaurants and free toilets. Cruise companies have their ticket counters and also offer some basic refreshments free of cost to their patrons.   Cruising on Halong Bay was an experience like no other... these pictures speak for themselves..    From Halong Bay, we took a flight to Da Nang Read more about our Da Nang experience by clicking on the link below https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/3-days-in-charming-da-nang-vietnam

Hohensalzburg caught my fancy the moment we reached the Old Town in Salzburg. But we could visit it only on the third day of our stay, we were waiting for a clear, sunny day for a ride up to Festungsberg, the rock on which this castle stands. There is no need for me to say that this is a not-to-miss attraction since, in any case, you will not be able to miss this imposing castle with its white outer facade on the north side of Salzburg, sitting like a crown on the head of Salzburg. This 11th-century castle is one of the largest existing medieval castles in Europe and is a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the City of Salzburg. You will need about 2 to 3 hours for a ride up and back to the castle by funicular and to see the castle interiors. Getting to Fortress Hohensalzburg Fortress Hohensalzburg is unlike any other ornate B aroque palace that we have seen around Austria. The palace has a raw appeal, with its many ring walls and towers. The best way to reach it is by taking the funicular. Walk towards Festungsgasse from Kapitelplatz in the Altstadt to take the funicular to the top. You can also walk up the hill; it takes about 15 minutes of a quite steep uphill climb. This video on our way down speaks for itself .... The fortress complex has many attractions. The Basic ticket to the palace will include the funicular, ascent and descent, Bastions, Chapel, the Panorama Tour, Fortress Museum, Marionette Museum, Rainer Regimental Museum and the Armoury House. There is an All-Inclusive Ticket also that includes all of the above, plus the Prince's Chambers in the main castle and the magic theatre. There are many other ticket options available; you can refer to their official website before your visit - https://www.salzburg.info/en/sights/top10/hohensalzburg-fortress The funicular will take you right to the point where the fortress starts. There is a large open courtyard from where you will be greeted by stunning views of the baroque buildings of Salzburg all around and the Salzach River meandering its way through the city. Stunning vistas of Salzburg from the top Things to See and Do in Fortress Hohensalzburg The fortress was built by the Archbishops of Salzburg as a display of their authority and power. The construction of the original fortress began in 1077,, and many additions and improvisations took place in the years that followed. Now, this impressive fortress complex houses many museums. You can start your tour with the Fortress Museum. The museum is quite exhaustive with many interesting displays and their historical significance. How the fortress was made, how people lived in those times, the heating system of the fortress, weaponry, kitchen tools, and coins, to name a few things, are a part of the museum's collection. Followed by the Fortress Museum is the Marionette Museum. I have never seen such a vast collection of marionettes anywhere else. The Museum of the Rainer Regiment is dedicated to a celebrated regiment in Austria with the same name. There is a lot of war memorabilia like weapons, uniforms and photos on display. My Tip for You A lot of interesting information and historical trivia is written on the placards placed around the museum. Even if you're not a history buff, you can easily spend an hour reading and exploring. Apart from these 3 museums, there is a chapel open for visitors. The Armoury is a fun place for families to spend some time. There is an interactive exhibition, fortress games and quizzes. Open courtyard and the entrance to the Chapel We clicked some embarrassingly childish photos like these.....tourists can do anything for fun! The most interesting part of the fortress is the Panorama Tour, which leads through a dungeon to a winding staircase up to a viewing platform to the top of the fortress. There are 100-odd steps; we just kept climbing from one stairway to another. But once we reached the top, the views we got of the Alps were magnificent. So, it was worth the steep climb! On the way back from the top, as you plan to leave the castle, you will be led through a maze of battlements that end in the Salzburg Bull. I was pretty intrigued about the Salzburg Bull, so I'd read about it before we visited Hohensalzburg Castle. Let me tell you, it's not a bull, it is a horn work, the oldest gothic-style working mechanical musical instrument in the world. Oldest because this instrument was commissioned in 1502, and it still works! The name Bull was given to it because the sound it created resembled the roar of a bull. Every day the Salzburg Bull plays its melody at 7 a.m., 11 a.m. and 6 p.m. People say that on a quiet day, this melody can be heard as far as the Residenzplatz in Old Town. We strained our ears to hear it at 6 p.m. the same day, but sadly couldn't hear it. You can take the funicular back to the Old Town. If you have a Salzburg Card, then this entire excursion will be included in it. A model of Salzburg with the Hohensalzburg Castle in the background... made of salt! A trip to Hohensalzburg Fortress is a beautiful journey back in time, topped with the glorious views it offers of the Austrian Alps! Don't miss it during your stay in Salzburg. I would love to hear about your experience at the Hohensalzburg Fortress.

Salzwelten in the picture-perfect town of Hallstatt is fun from the word go! In this blog, you will learn about everything that you need to know before going on this tour in Hallstatt. A trip to this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most unique experiences, with thrills and surprises at every turn. Before you plan a visit to Salzwelten, the oldest salt mine in the world, learn everything about planning a day trip to Hallstatt from Salzburg... https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/10-practical-tips-about-a-day-trip-to-hallstatt-the-picturesque-town-in-upper-austria Like most tourists, we also had a lot of questions on our minds before going to the salt mine. It's a good idea to go through the FAQs on the official website of Salzwelten https://www.salzwelten.at/en/hallstatt/faq All the way up the mountain.....see the elevation of the funicular! Reaching Salzwelten and Things to Know Before You Go To reach this prehistoric salt mine, one can take a funicular ride, which is really steep, at 838 meters of elevation in just a few minutes from the Valley Station in Hallstatt. Once you reach the top, you get stunning views of the Hallstätter See, the Hallstatt Lake and the Dachstein Massif all around the valley. Once you reach Hallstatt Lahn, the train station in front of Hallstatt Lake, cross the road and walk for about 3 to 4 minutes, and you will get to the point where the funicular to the Salt Mine begins. Your tour of the salt mine starts from the Valley Station, where there is a visitor centre and a shop. The shop has some intriguing salt stuff, but don't spend time looking at the shop; you can do it on the way back. You can take a funicular up to the salt mine or also hike up the mountain, which takes about an hour. There is an option to scan the bar code (included in the ticket) and download an audio guide on your phone before stepping onto the funicular. Our audio guide was not working properly, but soon we discovered that the content of the audio guide was written in print on the way up to the mine. It's more fun reading about it on the placards fixed along the way. As you step out of the funicular, you will reach the Panoramic Elevator that will take you to a walkable scenic bridge where you can get very beautiful views. The famous medieval tower, Rudolf Tower, and the viewing platform are also here. But I think one should keep the exploration of this part for later. Instead, take the staircase leading to the path at the top. One should aim to reach the salt mine at the earliest, before massive crowds hit. Walk along the path, there is a lot of interesting information written on placards, about the history of the industrial salt mines of Hallstatt that led to this small region being a very wealthy part of the Salzkammergut Region of Austria. The walking path has a slight elevation, but it's not very tedious. The path ends at Knappenhaus, the point where your conducted tour into the salt mine will start. Please note that entry to the salt mine is only by conducted tours. The tours are done on a first come first serve basis. Remember to wear very comfortable shoes and clothes. Don't forget to carry a jacket since it was pretty cold inside the mine. And now the Salt Mine Tour ... All visitors are allocated to a group with a guide. Our guide was a young, energetic girl whose name I think was Erika. Our 90-minute tour started with entry into a locker room. Erika was with us all the time, instructing and advising. She gave commentary in both German and English. All visitors are expected to wear special mining suits over the clothes they are already wearing. Erika repeatedly advised us to wear the suit over our jackets. We realised after entering the salt mine why she was so insistent. It was cold! The tour starts with an exhibition area where old tools for excavation, hand-operated machines, miners' clothes, etc., were displayed. We walked over so many winding staircases and wooden pathways to reach the entrance to the salt cave... Ready to start the tour of the salt mines... Changed into mining suits and walked through the exhibition area to reach the opening of the salt cave where our tour began... There are a lot of dos and don'ts while you are on tour. A head count of group members is done, not once but twice. You certainly don't want to get lost in the oldest salt mine in the world! There are some amazing displays throughout the tour, including the natural salt reserves of salt, types of salts in the world, excavation techniques, and the history of Salzwelten, shown to you in so many different ways. There are impressive screen projectors inside the cave, some delightful audio-visuals with excellent acoustics and even a small movie theatre to wind up the tour. I don't want to divulge too many details because it will take away the element of surprise from your tour. All I can say is that these 90 minutes are full of excitement and thrill. However, the most thrilling part of the tour is the famous slide down the ramp to reach the salt mine. There are two ramps; the second one has the distinction of being the longest ramp in Europe. Erika talked us through the experience, again some dos and don'ts, but I remember getting butterflies in my stomach on hearing this fun fact. The ramp plummets 64 meters into the salt mine, and all you can do is sit on it and go for the free fall. There is an option to take the stairs too, but most of us opted for the ramp, and it truly was fun! At the end of the tour, you can also get your picture for 8 euros, screaming your way down the ramp! The tour ends at Knappenhaus, where it started. On your way down, you can stop at the Rudolf Tower, a defence tower from medieval times in its original form. A little below the tower is the way to the viewing platform. The platform is suspended over Hallstatt Lake; we stood in the far corner to see magnificent views of the lake below. All I can say is that if you're going to Hallstatt, then don't miss a tour of this fantastic salt mine. The entire premise is extremely well organised, and the tour is a complete entertainment package with loads of information about the history and geography of the mine, put together in so many fun ways for visitors. There is not a single dull moment on this tour, including the last thrilling ride out of the mine. It's definitely worth all your time, effort and money! I would be happy to hear your feedback about your visit to Salzwelten, especially if my blog helped you plan your trip better!

Planning a day trip to Hallstatt from Salzburg? This quaint, lakeside town in Austria's Salzkammergut region is one of the most beautiful places in Europe. In this blog, you will find 10 valuable travel tips to help you make the most of your visit. Cosily nestled between the Hallstaettersee, the Hallstatt Lake and the steep slopes of Dachstein Massif, this small town is really beautiful, a traveller's paradise, so to speak! A massif is a compact part of a mountain range with one or more peaks or a series of connected masses. Before we visited Hallstatt, I didn't know what a massif is, as I'm sure many of you might not either. The word Salzkammergut in German literally translates as 'Estate of Salt Chamber,' referring to the salt deposits in Hallstatt, Bad Ischl, and Bad Aussee that were part of the Habsburg Monarchy's territory. If you have an extra day in Salzburg, then a trip to Hallstatt should ideally feature on your to-do list. These are the 10 Practical Tips that you should keep in mind for a day trip to Hallstatt from Salzburg 1. Reaching Hallstatt The best way to reach Hallstatt is from Salzburg, since that is the closest city by road. Your sightseeing begins with the road journey itself as the bus goes through stunning countryside and locales, meandering its way through narrow streets and marketplaces of small towns that dot the countryside en route. 2. Start early Hallstatt is 52 km away from Salzburg, and it takes about 2 hours to reach. Being a small touristy town, there are huge crowds to navigate in Hallstatt. You will see busloads of tourists thronging the lake and the civic amenities everywhere. Even public toilets have such long queues! We started at 7 am from Salzburg, so we were able to beat the crowds. 3. No direct bus connection between Hallstatt and Salzburg I have not been able to decipher why there is no direct bus between Salzburg and Hallstatt, considering that there are so many tourists who travel to Hallstatt each day. Since there is no direct connection, you will have to take 3 bus lines before finally reaching Hallstatt Lahn, the main bus station in front of Lake Hallstatt. There are a lot of conducted tours also available, but we are quite happy to explore the country and find our way around the city, hence the 3 buses. Your road route should be - Take Bus Route No. 150 from Main Bus Depot Hauptbahnhof F in Salzburg in the direction of Bad Ischl. Travel time - 90 minutes Disembark at Bad Ischl and take Bus no. 542 towards Hallstatt Gosaumuehle - Travel time - 20 minutes. Disembark at Gosaumuehle and take bus no. 543 to Hallstatt Lahn - Travel time - 10 minutes. There is no proper bus stand here, but you can see a connecting bus waiting for passengers. 4. Take a train to Hallstatt Alternatively, after de-boarding the bus at Bad Ischl, you can take a train that will take you directly to Hallstatt. The train station in Bad Ischl is right next to the bus stop. Please note that the train will drop you off across the lake, so you will have to take a ferry to reach the main station of Hallstatt Lahn. 5. The train connects to a ferry point A lot of people also do that if they want to experience the ferry ride. Besides, this is like killing two birds with one stone. You will reach Hallstatt and also get to do the ferry ride. Tickets are available on the ferry and can be bought only in cash. We had bus tickets through to Hallstatt, so we stuck to bus no. 543. 6. Things to do in Hallstatt Apart from its stunning natural scenery, Hallstatt is known for Saltwelten, the world's oldest salt mine and also for the Giant ice caves of Dachstein. Once you reach Hallstatt, if you wish to start your day with a tour of the Salt Mine, then get off at Hallstatt Lahn. Across the road, a 3 to 4 minutes' walk will take you to the Valley Station for the funicular to the salt mine. In case you wish to do the Ice Caves, then continue further on bus no. 543 to Dachstein Ice Caves up to the Dachstein Visitor Centre. 7. On a day trip to Hallstatt In my opinion, on a day trip from Salzburg, one should aspire to do only one attraction, either Salzwelten or the Ice Cave in Dachstein; doing both in a day will be quite a stretch unless, of course, you are staying in Hallstatt. But, in case you wish to do both in one day, then go to the ice caves first since bus number 543 will take you directly there, so you save time. I had read somewhere that there is a lot of walking involved in the ice cave, some of it quite steep uphill on slippery slopes. The same goes for the salt mine; there is a lot of walking involved, although it's not steep. Please plan your trip accordingly. We had already seen some ice grottos elsewhere, so our focus was to see the salt mine. Our trip to the spectacular salt mine at Salzwelten was an experience worth cherishing. Click on the link below to read more - https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/day-trip-to-salzwelten-hallstatt-the-oldest-salt-mine-in-the-world 8. What more to do The charming town of Hallstatt has much to offer other than the salt mine and the ice cave. Some people skip both these attractions and just gallivant around, soaking in the ethereal beauty of this town. Spend some time strolling along the beautiful Hallstattersee, going for a lake cruise and visiting the stunning Market Square with its historical charm. 9. Viewing platforms in Hallstatt There are two viewing platforms to see the stunning mountain scenery in the backdrop of Hallstaetter Lake. First is Skywalk, a viewing platform that lies on the way to the Salzwelten salt mine. One has to take the funicular from Salzwelten Valley Station to reach it. If you are going for the salt mine tour, then this funicular is included in the ticket. If not, then spending 20 euros to go up the funicular only for the Skywalk is honestly not worth it. The second is the Five Fingers viewing platform. This point offers beautiful vistas of the mountains and falls on the way to the Dachstein Ice Caves. Even if you're not doing the ice cave tour, still going for this lookout point will be worth your effort. The attraction is free to visit. This is a World Heritage View Point, built in the form of five fingers over a 400 m deep cliffside. These are massive metallic ledges jutting out over the Dachstein Mountains and offer spectacular views of Hallstatt. We have seen similar views of the Fjords on a day trip from Alesund, Norway, to the Norwegian Countryside. The way to reach Five Fingers is by cable car that starts from Obertraun Dachstein Cable car point. There are many options for exploring this region. Please check the official website for more information - https://dachstein-salzkammergut.com/sommer/oberirdisch/5fingers 10. Exotic salt-based Indigenous products Hallstatt is home to many kinds of salt-based products. There is a salt shop in the Valley Station of Salzwelten, and there are many such shops all over town. Prices across most of these shops are similar, if not the same. There is a huge variety of products to choose from. We bought some great salt scrubs, salt soaps, jars of toothpaste and some more products that turned out to be really good. You should explore these shops for these amazing natural products. My advice to anyone visiting Hallstatt is to plan to stay there overnight. We did not do this and regretted it. The town will most certainly be more expensive than Salzburg, considering its touristy vibe. So, a better option would be to stay in Bad Ischl or Obertraun, which is a small hamlet across the lake from Hallstatt. As a footnote, I would say that any overtly touristy place has to pay a price for its rampant commercialisation. So, it is the case with Hallstatt too. I was reading somewhere that the locals of the town like to keep a safe distance from tourists since there are too many tourists around, and also, many tourists in their quest to explore the town, try to barge into their gardens and private property. You will see placards like 'Photography prohibited' or 'Private Property' installed outside many homes. I feel we should all respect the privacy of the residents and confine ourselves to the touristy parts of the town only. This idyllic town is blessed with nature's bounties; all you need to do is come and explore it!