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. Useful Tips to Plan Your Halong Bay Cruise in Vietnam 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

A day trip to Ninh Binh, the gloriously scenic province in Northern Vietnam, from Hanoi will take you through the beautiful scenery of limestone karsts* as they seem to grow out of a verdant green landscape, earning this place the name 'Halong Bay on Land'. 5 Useful Tips for a Day Trip to Ninh Binh from Hanoi The city closest to Ninh Binh is Hanoi, about 2 hours by road. It is very well connected by both train and road from all major cities in Vietnam. The best time to visit this region is between November and April, when the weather is dry. Remember, it can be cold during the winter months, so be sure to carry warm clothing. Numerous options for day trips from Hanoi are readily available on popular travel platforms such as Klook.com or GetYourGuide.com. Most popular day tours to Ninh Binh will take you to these three must-see attractions: a boat ride on the River Trang An, the ancient capital city of Hoa Lu, and Lying Dragon Mountain. If you have an extra day to spare, you must plan to stay overnight. There is a lot of stunning scenery to explore. With more time, you could add a visit to Tam Cot, literally translating into Three Caves, to your itinerary with a boat ride on the River Ngo Dong. Another beautiful attraction is the Bich Dong Pagoda. Entry to the pagoda is free, and you can go through a system of caves to climb the steep steps to get scenic views of the landscape around. The easiest and cheapest way to explore this region is on a bike. Most day trips also include a short biking tour in their itinerary to give tourists a feel of the winding, hilly roads. Boat ride on the River Trang An A boat ride on the Trang An River will take you through an amazing system of caves, temples and pagodas, and a visit to the Trang An Landscape Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, will leave you nothing short of spellbound. Rowers at the boarding point for the boat ride on Trang An River Beautiful pagoda amid the boat route Lanterns add to the mysticism and romance of this beautiful natural cave Tips for the Trang An Boat Ride There are 3 routes that you can pick from for your boat ride, depending on your preference Route 1 - You get to see temples and learn about their history Route 2 - For seeing stunning natural cave formations and King Kong Island, the shooting location of the film Skull Island. Route 3 - You'll see the Dot Cave, the longest cave (1000m long) on this river cruise. All three of these routes take about 3 hours each and cost 150,000 VND per person. Most of the boats are operated by women rowers, and it is customary to pay a small tip at the end of the boat ride. 30,000 VND converts to about 1.00 USD. I saw many tourists paying one to two dollars as a tip. The point from where you take the boats is well developed, there are clean, free toilets and nice eating joints with lots of open areas to sit and enjoy scenic views of the river. We opted for Route 2; in fact, we weren't given much of a choice since we had opted for a conducted tour from Hanoi, and this boat ride was a part of the tour. The boat ride lasted about 2.5 hours, and we went through gloriously scenic caves, 3 in all, with stunning limestone formations and karsts. The caves are lit with lanterns, adding to the allure of their natural beauty. The Ancient Capital City of Hoa Lu After an exhilarating boat ride on the River Trang An in the morning, the tour bus drove us to the ancient capital city of Hoa Lu. Most tour operators offer tourists a bike ride to the gates of the ancient city, which can be a lot of fun. Hoa Lu was the capital of the first feudal monarchy system in Vietnam in the 10th century under the Dinh Dynasty. It is surrounded by the River Sao Khe, which connected the city to the sea via a system of other rivers, making it a trade route in the 10th century. My Tips about a visit to the Temple at Hoa Lu This is an important historic site for Vietnamese people, but honestly, it's a little underwhelming after the enthralling morning boat ride. The temple is nice, there is a small museum too, but nothing special about it. We saw it as part of our package, but going specifically to watch the ancient town is not worth the effort. Entry to the monument is free. Very close to the temple is a viewpoint with about 150 steps to the top. You could plan to do that, but remember not to combine it with the hike to the Lying Dragon Mountain on the same day, which was our next stop on the tour, so we gave this viewpoint a miss. Interestingly, you will see a buffalo tied to a staff on the side en route to the temple. We learnt from our guide that buffalo was considered to be a sign of prosperity and was often gifted by the man to his fiancée on their engagement. I couldn't resist the urge to click a picture, however embarrassing it might appear to me in hindsight...me on a buffalo!! Lying Dragon Mountain A hike up to the Lying Dragon Mountain can easily be rated as a top attraction on your day trip to Ninh Binh from Hanoi. The hike is no mean feat; there are 495 rickety stone steps to the top, but once you reach the vantage point mid-way, splendid 360-degree panoramic views of the Tam Coc Valley, limestone karsts jutting into the sky all around, and the serpentine Ngo Dong River flowing through the valley will start to unfold in front of your eyes. My Tips about a hike to the top of Lying Dragon Mountain There are 495 steps to the top, but each large stone step is easily equivalent to two regular steps, quite steep, so we're talking about 1000 steps. Phew!! The route is not one-way, so you can decide to turn around whenever you wish to. There are very few signs along the way, so keep following the crowd. You will reach a fork somewhere around the midway point, where you should turn left for the Dragon Mountain. The right trail will lead you to the viewpoint on the other side of the mountain, facing the Dragon Mountain. Wear good, sturdy shoes since the trek is uneven and rocky. And must carry water. The Viewpoint opposite the Dragon Mountain Like a Winner!! At the top of the Dragon Mountain Karsts* - When limestone is eroded by water, it leads to the formation of ridges, sinkholes, fissures, caves and springs; this landscape is collectively called karst.

The Thang Long Water Puppet Show in Hanoi is a unique art form where puppeteers create magic in a knee-deep water pond from behind the curtain, accompanied by a lilting traditional live music band and singers. The Theatre is located on the shore of Hoan Kiem Lake and can be easily spotted from a distance. The show is woven around legends and folklore of Vietnam; the play creates vivid and colourful images of Vietnamese country life with puppet animals and fields, fishermen on boats, fighting dragons and wedding processions, and fighters in traditional attire. The auditorium with the small water pool used for the show Puppeteers greeting the audience at the end of the show What you should know before you visit the Water Puppet Show in Hanoi The auditorium is packed to capacity, so please make your bookings in advance. You will be issued an online voucher that you must exchange for a ticket at least 10 minutes before the show begins, and the exchange counter is about a 5-minute walk away from the theatre. The show lasts for 50 minutes, and there are many shows throughout the day. There are 3 categories of prices. We were seated in the second row from the front, and the view was great. It was worth paying that extra amount of money. Don't forget to take the audio guide if you wish to dig deeper into the storyline behind the show. You can get some great souvenirs from the souvenir shop in the theatre. If, for some reason, you're unable to watch the water puppet show in Hanoi, you can always catch one in Ho Chi Minh City at the Golden Dragon Water Puppet Theatre. The show was very entertaining and unique, and should not be missed on your Hanoi itinerary.

The air is charged with excitement and euphoria as we approach the Temple of Literature in the heart of Hanoi. Hordes of children in all age groups, most of them in colourful academic regalia, are flocking around the courtyards and gardens of Vietnam's 1000-year-old university to celebrate their academic achievements and milestones or pray before their exams. The temple is a historic relic, also known as Vietnam's oldest university, also called the Imperial Academy, which was built in 1070. It is dedicated to the famous Chinese philosopher, teacher, and politician Confucius, considered a paragon of all Chinese sages. It's not a religious place of worship, but rather a place of learning and knowledge. The temple is steeped in history. As you enter, you will be led through a series of courtyards and pavilions featuring statues and plaques with extensive information about the education system followed in Vietnam. Enter through the Great Middle Gate to reach the Pavilion of Constellation. Fun fact - This pavilion is the symbol of Vietnam; you will find it printed on the 100,000 VND banknote. In front of the Pavilion is a small pond called the Well of Heavenly Clarity. On the side, you will see big stone stelae on turtle-backs with inscriptions. You will also see many such placards all over the temple with detailed information about the temple and the philosophy behind its construction... Keep walking to reach the fourth courtyard and the Gate to Great Success. Keep walking through this gate to reach the fifth courtyard and the Grounds of the Imperial Academy. This is a popular point for students to take group photos. Spend some time reading the various plaques with information to fully appreciate what you are witnessing in the temple. The most adorable part was that we, as tourists, were also invited to be a part of this group picture of tiny tots. Inside, you will see an ornate temple with statues of kings who contributed to and supported the foundation of this academy. Basic Tips for Your Visit to the Temple of Literature in Hanoi Vietnam If possible, read some basic information about the temple before your visit to fully appreciate what you see there. Keep aside at least 2 to 3 hours to see the temple. The temple is within walking distance of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, about 15 to 20 minutes away, so you can easily combine the two sights. Wear modest clothes, with shoulders and knees covered. Carry cash since tickets can be purchased only in cash. The same applies to the toilets on the premises that are paid for in cash only. The entry fee is 70,000 VND for foreign nationals. The temple is in the open, and it can get very hot and humid in summer. Carry a water bottle and an umbrella as per your requirements. I'd rate the Temple of Literature as a must-see attraction in Hanoi since it will give you a unique insight into Vietnam's academic history and its rich cultural past.

The Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Hanoi is the final resting place of President Hồ Chí Minh, a revered Vietnamese leader and revolutionary, affectionately known as Uncle Ho. He was the first president of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam. As a tourist, you might wonder what could be so special about a mausoleum. But a visit to this mausoleum could turn out to be a memorable part of your Hanoi trip, let me tell you why... The mausoleum is located in the heart of Hanoi in Ba Dinh Square, a renowned landmark in Vietnam with significant historical significance. This is the place where Ho Chi Minh read the Proclamation of Independence of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam on September 2, 1945. The square features many important buildings, including the Presidential Palace and the National Assembly. We reached there and were taken aback to see such massive queues starting at the entrance itself. The mood is celebratory as tourists, both domestic and international, flock to the venue early in the morning to pay their respects to Vietnam's revered leader. I'm not exaggerating when I say that at least a few thousand people were waiting to enter. It felt as if we'd have to spend an entire day at the mausoleum. But the moment we stepped into the queue, we knew this was going to be a different kind of experience. We saw soldiers and guards stationed along the entire length of the long covered maze of corridors that run around the mausoleum. The corridors run past the Ho Chi Minh Museum and the famous Ba Dinh Square, and the exquisitely manicured green spaces. This entire exercise was done seamlessly without any fuss under the strict watchful eyes of the guards on duty. As we approached the mausoleum, the atmosphere became solemn. Photography inside the mausoleum is strictly prohibited. The embalmed body of President Ho Chi Minh is preserved in a glass sarcophagus, kept elevated on a massive stone plinth, and visitors go around the plinth in a semicircle to pay their respects. The visit inside the mausoleum barely lasts a couple of minutes since no one is allowed to stop or slow the queue down. What stayed with us after the visit was not just the impressive infrastructure, the modern design of the monument with traditional Vietnamese elements, but the unmistakable air of reverence and discipline with which this tour is conducted, reflecting the deep love and respect the Vietnamese people have for their beloved leader. Things to know about visiting the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Hanoi Don't get deterred by the massive queues. You'll be in and out in less than an hour, as I've mentioned above. The trick is to reach as early as possible in the morning. Entry to the mausoleum is free, and the last free entry is at 10:15 am. After that, entry to the mausoleum is closed. You can still enter the premises to see the Presidential Palace gardens for a ticket and walk around Ba Dinh Square. The most important thing to remember is that the embalmed body of the president is sent for re-balming, and during that time, the mausoleum remains closed. Kindly check the official website before your visit. The mausoleum is located about 3 km from the Old Quarter, and you can easily walk to it. You will find a lot of rickshaw pullers in the Old Quarter who will entice you to get on their rickshaws. Please ensure that you fix the fare amount in advance. We hired one such rickshaw and paid in VND at the end of the ride, only to realise that what we paid converted to roughly 10 USD, which is a lot for such a short ride. A very strict decorum and code of conduct are followed inside the premises. Caps, hats, shorts, exposed shoulders and knees are not allowed. You can carry a small handbag, though, and mobile phones are allowed. After leaving the Mausoleum, you can see the Ba Dinh Square, where there is a flag hoisting ceremony that takes place every day at 6:00 am. Timings can vary depending on the season. Very close to the Square is the famous Presidential Palace. This beautiful, bright yellow building was the first official residence of Ho Chi Minh. Now, it's used for political gatherings and official functions. There is a ticket counter right outside the square. You can buy tickets to see the beautifully landscaped gardens around the palace, a serene water body and the famous stilt house that President Ho Chi Minh used as his office. The entire area offers insight into his simple and dedicated lifestyle. Very close to Ba Dinh Square is the Ho Chi Minh Museum. As the name suggests, the museum is dedicated to the life of Ho Chi Minh. It is one of the largest museums in Vietnam, spread over 18,000 square metres. Entry ticket costs VND 40,000 for foreign nationals. The museum has 3 storeys with a wide range of artefacts and documents showing the early life of Ho Chi Minh and his rise as the prominent leader of Vietnam. About 350 metres from Ba Dinh Square is one of the most famous Buddhist temples in Vietnam, called the One Pillar Pagoda. One Pillar Pagoda is an important historical landmark that lies barely 300 meters from the Mausoleum. Built in the 11th century, the pagoda is called Nhat Tru Thap in Vietnamese which roughly translates to happiness and prosperity. The pagoda is designed as a giant lotus flower and is placed in the centre of a lotus pond. My Tip - The pagoda is beautiful and offers a very serene and calm atmosphere. There are lots of benches under the shade to sit around the pagoda in case you wish to relax after the hectic activity of the mausoleum in the morning. As a mark of respect, one should be very modestly dressed, with covered knees and shoulders, to see the pagoda from the inside. The entry fee is included in the ticket you purchase for visiting the Presidential Palace and gardens.

Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City? This is a pertinent question that crops up for most travellers planning to visit Vietnam, as the entry point into Vietnam for their Vietnamese vacation. So, what makes both these bustling cities of Vietnam different and yet so similar? We came to HCMC from Da Nang and earlier Hanoi, hence a comparison between these two Vietnamese cities is inevitable. Where should you start your Vietnam vacation, Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City? Let's find out... Location Hanoi is the capital city of Vietnam. Like most capital cities, it is the political and cultural hub of Vietnam. It is located in the northern part of Vietnam and serves as an important gateway to the world-famous natural landscape of Halong Bay and Sapa. Ho Chi Minh was the former capital of Vietnam and is its largest city. It also has the distinction of being Vietnam's main economic hub. HCMC lies in southern Vietnam and is close to the famous Mekong Delta, which can be done on a day trip from here. Weather Hanoi is best visited during the springtime from February to April or from September to November. Winter in Hanoi can be very chilly, with temperatures dipping to as low as 10 degrees Celsius. HCMC enjoys a warm, tropical climate throughout the year. So, the best time to come is between the dry months from December to April. Culture: Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City Hanoi is warm and vibrant. You'll get hooked on the city if you spend a weekend in the Old Quarter. Live concerts, lakeside, people sitting around in open-air eateries... sounds like everything distinctly European? No, you'll be surprised to learn that it's very Vietnamese and that's what makes it even more intriguing! The French colonial influence is unmistakable, which is not just present but celebrated. The air is vibrant as dusk falls in Hanoi HCMC is the commercial hub; the city boasts a glittering skyline, a vibrant culinary scene, and a lively nightlife. I felt it exhibits a more distinct American influence than its northern counterpart, Hanoi. HCMC is more modern; it's like any other metropolis, with a very fast-paced city life. HCMC has the Saigon Theatre, famous for its Bamboo dance. Attractions Hanoi has the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. It's an experience that could leave you in awe of the pride the Vietnamese people have in their nationality and the love they have for their beloved leader. Hanoi's proximity to the Ninh Binh region is also a big plus. And not to forget, the world-famous Halong Bay is closer to Hanoi, and can be done on a day cruise. The famous art form of Vietnam, water puppetry, is at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre in Hanoi, in the Old Quarter. HCMC has the riveting War Remnants Museum and the famous Cu Chi Tunnels. HCMC also serves as a gateway to the famous Mekong Delta. Accommodation Hanoi is touristy, so there's a price tag for being one! The hotels in the city are expensive, and many of them are boutique hotels for visitors. And why not? Visitors are willing to pay more for an overnight stay in the Old Quarter to get the typical Vietnamese feel. HCMC, like any other capital city, offers a large variety of hotels, from corporate ones to touristy ones, fitting every budget and taste. Culinary Scene/Shopping/Nightlife Hanoi is known for its street food. Anyone visiting Vietnam who wishes to experience typical Vietnamese cuisine should first head to Hanoi to savour the traditional Vietnamese dish, especially 'Pho', pronounced ph. Shopping in Hanoi is more of a touristy experience; you'll find small shops selling souvenirs in the Night Market, shoes, scarves and more. The day we arrived in Hanoi, we were taken aback by the cold and decided to buy a jacket each. We were surprised to see jackets of every possible international brand being sold in these shops at very reasonable prices. We were quite amused to see that all these jackets were fakes and were being proudly sold as one! Hanoi has a regular party setting in the Old Quarter. You will find hundreds of low plastic stools scattered along the pavements, with youngsters squatting on them, chatting and munching on roadside snacks and draft beer. Our hotel manager told us that this roadside party place is called Bia Hoi Corner. HCMC, like any other World-class city, has all kinds of restaurants with all levels of pricing. They have food courts with all kinds of cuisines, upscale restaurants and swanky nightclubs, too. I didn't experience the nightlife, but going by the look of it, it would be like any other cosmopolitan city. HCMC is a shopper's paradise. You will find many upscale boutiques and lots of shopping options in places like Saigon Square, Saigon Centre (Takashimaya), Vincom Centre Dong Khoi, among many others. The good thing about both Hanoi and HCMC is that both are almost equidistant from Danang, which is a city you should not miss. It's close to the lantern city of Hoi An, the stunning Marble Mountain and the famous Ba Na Hills. To sum up, I'd say that Hanoi offers a more authentic Vietnamese experience, the kind that tourists crave; it's Vietnam on a platter for you, with culture and cuisine in abundance. HCMC is a beautiful city with good infrastructure for as a convenient entry point into Vietnam.

The Southeast Asian country of Vietnam is rapidly becoming one of the most sought-after tourist destinations in the world, thanks to the numerous experiences it offers to its visitors. From vibrant cultural hotspots like Danang and Hoi An to the scenic UNESCO World Heritage Site of Halong Bay, Vietnam has it all. What makes this eclectic mix of attractions even more attractive is that Vietnam offers all of this and more at very competitive prices compared to other popular tourist destinations in Europe or elsewhere. If you're planning to visit Vietnam, my top ten tips for your Vietnam trip will give you all the relevant information that could help you plan the perfect trip! Top Ten Tips Before You Plan Your Vietnam Trip Weather patterns in Vietnam can be very diverse. Hanoi is located in Northern Vietnam, so winters can be cold. The best time to visit Hanoi is from August to October, when the days are pleasant and dry. Ho Chi Minh, on the other hand, lies in the south and enjoys a tropical climate. It's either hot and dry or hot and rainy. We visited in April, Hanoi was cold, Danang in Central Vietnam was pleasant, and Ho Chi Minh City in Southern Vietnam was hot and dry. Most of us perceive Vietnam as a warm, tropical country, but when planning your trip, it's essential to consider the diverse weather patterns. Upon landing in Hanoi, we discovered that the temperature was 15 degrees Celsius. And we were not alone; there were hordes of tourists buying jackets from local shops to beat the cold. Carry cash wherever possible. One day into our visit to Vietnam, we discovered that the best mode of payment is through the local currency, VND (Vietnamese Dong), especially in local markets and for purchasing small items. You will see numerous exchange counters, but these are primarily found in big cities. This brings us to another crucial point. If you're carrying USD, then remember to carry only the relatively new currency notes. Coming from India, we were holding the older notes of USD, and many exchange counters refused to accept them. Ultimately, we had to exchange them at a lower price than the current rate. Be mindful of the exchange rate from your currency to VND The exchange rate of 1.00 USD mostly hovers close to 25,000.00 VND. This can make conversion a bit tricky at times. We took a very short rickshaw ride on our first day in Hanoi and paid in VND. However, due to a lack of clarity in the conversion rate, we ended up paying over $10 for such a short trip. So, working out the conversion math beforehand is a good idea. Haggling in the local market. There is a lot of haggling in the local markets. The quoted price of the jackets we bought in Hanoi was double what we paid in the end. A lot of back-and-forth and haggling was involved. The people are friendly towards tourists, despite the haggling and all. Also, when you opt for guided tours, the outlets and factories they take you to charge higher prices than the regular shops, mostly. We opted for a day trip to the Mekong Delta. En route, we were taken to a factory outlet selling souvenirs. The prices of souvenirs were way higher than similar ones elsewhere. Use your discretion before you make any purchases from thick touristy spots. Vietnam offers various types of visas to individuals from different nationalities. Be sure of what the visa requirements of your country are. The E-Visa option is available for most nationalities; just be sure that you pick the right one. Indians need a visa to enter Vietnam; they can opt for an e-visa or a visa on arrival. For travelling within the country, flights are the best option, although at times, they tend to get delayed or rescheduled. You should be prepared for such eventualities. We were lucky we did not face any such inconvenience, but I have heard accounts of people who were stranded at airports with flight delays. As I've mentioned earlier, Vietnam is a busy tourist destination. If you wish to join any specific tour or do any activity, please make bookings in advance for it. There are day trips from Hanoi to Ninh Binh, from Ho Chi Minh City to the Mekong Delta, overnight cruises for Halong Bay, and the famous Water Puppet Show, among many others. All these bookings should be made beforehand. The most popular outing from Danang is a day trip to Ba Na Hills. While it's not mandatory to make any pre-booking for that, it's better to book in advance so that you can avoid the long queues upon arrival and also ensure that you get entry on the day of your choice. At times, especially on weekends, tickets might get sold out owing to massive crowds. Unlike Europe, running tap water is not suitable for drinking. Do not drink water from bathroom taps. Only drink bottled water. The same rule applies to street food. Vietnam is a haven for street food, but look for hygienic outlets. Additionally, if you prefer your coffee and tea with milk, be aware that milk sachets are often unavailable in hotels in many locations. You will have to buy milk packs or sachets. The official language of Vietnam is Vietnamese; however, English is spoken and understood quite well. You will not have any problem communicating in big cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh, although we did come across cab drivers who couldn't speak English. For that, they typically rely on Google Translate. Big cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh are crowded. Traffic and pollution can be bad, especially on the weekends, leading to congestion. While planning any outing, keep extra time in hand and a face mask too. We spent 12 days in Vietnam, travelling the length of the country from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City. I'll be sharing my experiences with you of this beautiful, diverse country in the links attached below. Fly to Hanoi - 3 Nights in Hanoi Explore Vietnam's vibrant capital, including a memorable day trip to Ninh Binh. Read our detailed guide to 3 Days in Hanoi https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/3-days-in-hanoi-the-capital-of-vietnam Read about our Ninh Binh day trip from Hanoi https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/day-trip-to-ninh-binh-from-hanoi Hanoi to Halong Bay - Overnight Cruise One of the highlights of our Vietnam trip was an overnight cruise in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Halong Bay. Read more about our Halong Bay Cruise experience https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/cruise-on-halong-bay-vietnam Fly to Da Nang - 2 nights in Da Nang, Central Vietnam From the cruise terminal, we drove to the Hanoi Airport to take a flight to Da Nang. Read more about our trip to Da Nang, the amazing city in Central Vietnam https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/3-days-in-charming-da-nang-vietnam Da Nang to Hoi An - Overnight at Hoi An The lantern city of Hoi An is a traveller's delight. From Hoi An, we returned to Da Nang and spent an evening there before flying to Ho Chi Minh City. Read more about our amazing experience in Hoi An. https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/hoi-an-the-lantern-city-in-vietnam Da Nang to Ho Chi Minh City - 3 nights in Ho Chi Minh Ho Chi Minh City in Southern Vietnam is a great point to do a day trip to the Mekong Delta, and see the famous Cu Chi Tunnels. Read all about our 3 exciting days in Ho Chi Minh City here https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/the-perfect-3-day-itinerary-in-ho-chi-minh-city

Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, is a city that offers an interesting insight into the Vietnamese way of life and proudly showcases its historical architectural landmarks. It's situated in Northern Vietnam on the banks of the Red River, which owes its name to the reddish-brown colour of its silt-laden water. There's a lot to do and see, so it's ideal to keep aside at least 3 days for this beautiful city. Before I elaborate on what we did and my personal experiences in Hanoi, here are the Top 5 common dos and don'ts that all visitors to Hanoi should be aware of ... The capital city of Vietnam is vibrant, so even if you stay in the Old Quarter in Hanoi, don't confine yourself to it. Venture out into the city and explore its beautiful architecture and vibe. Hanoi can be quite cold in winter and extremely hot and humid in summer. Plan your trip keeping the weather in mind. We travelled to Hanoi at the end of March. It was the tail-end of winter and very cold. We had to buy thick jackets the very evening we landed, like the hundreds of other fellow tourists who came with the misconception that Vietnam is always warm. For more tips about Vietnam, click on the link below https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/my-top-ten-tips-for-your-vietnam-trip Since we're discussing buying jackets, let me give you an important tip. Don't forget to bargain while shopping in the local market. Yes, you heard it right! Vietnamese people love to haggle over prices, so indulge them and walk away with a better deal. The city has a rich culinary culture with an unmistakable Chinese and French influence. Don't miss the amazing French cuisine in the French Quarter alongside the traditional Vietnamese cuisine comprising the famous Pho and Banh Mi. You will also find most of the popular American fast food outlets like McDonald's, KFC and Domino's in Hanoi, in case you wish to eat on the go. Download the Grab App. The best way to travel around Vietnam is by hiring a cab through the Grab App. Please note that your local SIM card will not allow you to download the App. Of course, you could also hire a cab without the Grab app, but that would involve two challenges: one, explaining the location of your destination to the driver who does not understand your language at all, and two, haggling over the price to be paid. So, Grab App!! We had three nights and two full days in Hanoi, and we packed a lot into our itinerary, which I've broken down day-wise, rather than attraction-wise, so that you can plan your time accordingly. Day One - Arrival in Hanoi in the evening Old Quarter We reached Hanoi at about 6:00 pm and headed straight to the Old Quarter, where we were staying. The distance between the airport and the Old Quarter is 25 km, and it took us a good 45 minutes to reach. The temperature in Hanoi was a cold 16 degrees, which was unexpected. It happened to be a weekend, and the Old Quarter seemed to be bursting at the seams with so many people all around. My Tip Plan to stay in the Old Quarter to get the real touristy vibe of the city and, better still, plan on a weekend stay. As you can see, the Old Quarter comes alive on weekends in the evening with live shows and street concerts. Day Two in Hanoi Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum We started early in the morning to see the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, a deeply revered Vietnamese National Monument that must feature on your Hanoi itinerary. You will also see the famous Ba Dinh Square, the Presidential Palace, and the One Pillar Pagoda on this trip since they are all right next to each other. Learn more about the Mausoleum by clicking on the link below https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/ho-chi-minh-mausoleum-hanoi Temple of Literature After spending about 2.5 hours at the Mausoleum, we headed to this historical site that is about 2 km from the Mausoleum. This is a true specimen of the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam and a must-see sight. Click on the link below to read more about this amazing attraction https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/temple-of-literature-in-hanoi-vietnam Hoa Lo Prison Hoa Lo Prison is about 2 km from the Temple of Literature, and it takes 8 to 10 minutes on foot. The Hoa Lo Prison in Hanoi was built by French colonists in 1896 to detain Vietnamese political prisoners and revolutionaries with all the trappings of a regular prison of the early 20th century. It has heart-rending torture chambers and dungeons used by the French, even a real guillotine from that era. After the establishment of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam in 1945, this prison was converted into an education centre. Ironically, once America got involved in the Vietnam War in 1965, this prison came to be used again by the North Vietnamese forces to detain the American POWs, earning the prison the infamous nickname 'Hanoi Hilton', and the torture chambers were back in violation of the Geneva Convention. My Tip There's a lot to see at the Hoa Lo Prison, which has now been turned into a museum, so allow at least 2 hours for your visit. Don't forget to take the audio guide; it's very informative. Your tour of the prison will start with the torture chambers and dungeons of the French colonists, with informative displays of maps, uniforms and their sub-human living conditions, like the dingy and narrow corridors that led to the living quarters of prisoners with not a shred of sunlight. Visitors are then led into an exhaustive exhibit featuring memorabilia from the Vietnam War, including a handwritten letter from President Ho Chi Minh. Overall, this museum is an evocative experience, the same torture chambers and the same inhuman living conditions that many of us have seen at so many other museums in the world. Avoid going in the afternoon; it gets very crowded as most people plan to spend the hot day inside the museum. There's a small cafe on the premises and some interesting souvenir shops to buy trinkets. Water Puppet Show in Hanoi This unique puppet theatre will leave you spellbound. Read more about this interesting art form by clicking on the link below https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/water-puppet-show-in-hanoi Day Three - Day Trip from Hanoi to Ninh Binh Ninh Binh, also known as 'Halong Bay on Land', offers scenic views of the Vietnamese countryside, beautiful ancient temples, and stunning landscapes. Click on the link below to read more https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/day-trip-to-ninh-binh-from-hanoi

Miyajima is full of surprises - two famous shrines, both so different, both equally mesmerising. On the one hand is the tourist hotspot of Itsukushima Shrine...long vermilion-painted corridors that spell grandeur with the majestic views of the Torii gate that demand instant attention right from the moment you disembark from the ferry on Miyajima; on the other hand, is Daishō-in Temple, a hidden gem, quietly tucked away from the bustle of the touristy glare and yet so enchanting that you thank your stars that you could come so far into the island to see it and did not give it a miss! Believe it or not, this was the first thought that came to my mind upon visiting Daishō-in. Established as early as 806 CE, Daishō-in is Miyajima's oldest temple and one of the 3 great temples in Japan. The temple is believed to be what the Japanese call a 'Power Spot', implying it has miraculous abilities to ward off evil and bring good luck! Getting to and around Daishō-in Temple As you exit from the Itsukushima Shrine, walk for about 10 minutes uphill through the quaint town of Miyajima. Follow the road signs along the scenic route. Daishō-in is located at the foot of Mount Misen across a bridge. Don't miss the stunning wooden sculptures at the entrance of the temple The main gate of the temple is called the Niomon Gate, which is guarded by two fierce-looking statues, called Agyo and Ungyo. Once you enter, you will be led up a broad staircase of about 200 steps. In the middle is a wide railing; underneath are small, elongated gold pipes, spinning metal wheels inscribed with Buddhist Sutras. Spinning the pipes gently as you go up the steps is considered very auspicious. On your left, you will see a massive bell called the Century Bell. Strike the bell with the heavy gong just once and wait to hear its echo piercing the silence of the temple. Keep walking up the stairs to reach the main courtyard of the temple, which houses the Kannondo Hall. This splendid hall is a riot of colour with elaborate Mandalas (a colourful geometric design of great symbolic significance in both Buddhism and Hinduism), stunning statues and motifs. The most eye-catching statue is that of the 11-headed Kannon (considered to be the Bodhisattva of Mercy). Photography inside the Kannondo Hall is not forbidden, but I did not take a picture of this statue out of respect for the locals who were worshipping there at the time. In front of the Kannondo Hall is a life-size statue of Binzurusonjya, popularly known as the Touch and Cure Buddha. He is considered to be one of the best disciples of Buddha with miraculous powers to heal anyone who touches this statue on any part of the body that is in pain. We were tired from all the walking around the island, my legs were hurting, so I touched the knees and legs of this statue. I cannot say for sure that the pain was gone instantly, but it sure felt good! Another interesting statue that is sure to catch your attention is the statue of Enma Daio, the ruler of hell, as per Japanese belief. He maintains a scroll of all the good and bad deeds of human beings in this lifetime and the past, and rewards or punishes people accordingly. I found this statue especially intriguing since we have his counterpart in Hinduism too, called Yama, the God of Death and his assistant, called Chitragupt, responsible for maintaining an impartial account of all the good and bad deeds of humans and dealing with them accordingly after they leave their material bodies. At the rear of the temple is the beautiful Henjokutsu Cave. Visiting this cave can be a spiritually uplifting experience. It is dimly lit with hundreds of glowing lanterns and 88 Buddhist statues, each representing a temple from the Shikoku Pilgrimage. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shikoku_Pilgrimage) After exploring the temple grounds of Daishō-in, you can take a hiking trail up to the summit of Mount Misen, where more temple halls are located. The hike should take about 2 hours. We had to skip the hike owing to a lack of time and thereby also skip the chance to see Reikado, Hall of the Spiritual Flame and its famous Kiezu-no-hi, the Eternal Flame, which has been burning for over 1200 years! This flame is used to light the flame at the Cenotaph in the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park. But the real surprise was waiting for us as we headed back when we were treated to this amazing sight... As you walk back towards the entrance to the temple, a small path on your right, lined with 500 Rakyan, will lead you out towards the Niomon Gate. Rakyans are disciples of Buddha, each with a unique, distinct expression on their face. Their heads are adorned with small red caps, which are donated by visitors as an offering to protect them from the cold. This path creates an other-worldly charm that is hard to express in plain words...the calm of the temple grounds with the echo of the bell chiming now and then, and these Rakyans guiding your way out back into the real world! How to Spend a Day at the Daishō-in Temple Miyajima The temple is a treasure trove of wonders, one more enchanting than the other. We had allocated a good 2 hours to see it, but upon reaching there, I realised that we should've kept one hour more. If you wish to hike to the summit of Mount Misen, then you will need this extra time. It is an active temple, so be mindful of your conduct and what you wear. Preferably, cover your knees and shoulders. You will also see a lot of people worshipping and praying. Maintain decorum accordingly. Wear comfortable shoes. There is a lot of walking involved, plus one needs to remove their shoes at some places in the temple. Moving around the temple grounds can be tough for people with limited mobility. The temple is free to enter from 8 am to 5 pm on all days. The temple hosts many festivals throughout the year, when it can get very crowded. Please refer to the official website before your visit https://deep-miyajima.daisho-in.com/english/ That's Miyajima for you....in the evening, we boarded the JR Line to our next destination...Kyoto. Coming up next!

Miyajima Island is part of the famous '3 Most Scenic Views' of Japan, the other two being Amanohashidate, or Bridge to Heaven, a 3-kilometre-long sandbar covered with lush pine trees in Kyoto Prefecture, and Matsushima Bay, a serene bay comprising 200 small islands covered with pine trees in Miyagi Prefecture. What makes Miyajima special? A Day Trip to Miyajima Island from Hiroshima will make you realise what makes this small island so special. You will have to get on a ferry across the Seto Inland Sea and see this heavenly sight for yourself. As the ferry approaches the island, the bright 50-feet-tall vermilion-coloured Torii Gate of the Itsukushima Shrine glistening in the sun comes into view. The gate is placed on the edge of the massive water body, marking a symbolic entrance into the sacred island of Miyajima and the Shinto shrine of Itsukushima, dedicated to the gods of seas and storms. The vermillion colour is believed to ward off evil spirits. During special festivals, boats with worshippers are made to pass through the gate as if creating a transition between the material world and the realm of the sea deities. We disembark from the ferry at the pier and start walking towards the Torii Gate through massive stone gates. It is morning, the tide is low, so we walk right up to the massive pillars of the torii gate. As the day progresses, the water level in the sea rises, the torii gate begins to gradually get submerged in the seawater, and its pillars start sinking. At this time, the gate appears to be moving away and floating on the water, creating a surreal vision that visitors flock to watch... About Miyajima Island Miyajima Island lies in the Seto Inland Sea of Hiroshima Bay, only 28 kilometres from the city of Hiroshima. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the many islands of the Seto Inland Sea National Park, known for its stunning natural beauty and the famous Mount Misen. The island is home to many beautiful temples, like the Itsukushima Shrine and Daisho-in and also offers many fun activities, like taking the ropeway to the top of Mount Misen, where you can get panoramic views of the island and the sea all around. What You Need to Know Before Planning a Day Trip to Miyajima Island from Hiroshima Since Miyajima is a very popular tourist destination in Japan, it is well-connected by train from Hiroshima. The easiest way to reach Miyajima is to take the JR Sanyō Line from Hiroshima Station to Miyajima-guchi Station, which takes about 30 minutes. From there, walk for 5 minutes to reach the Miyajima Passenger Terminal. There is a ferry every 10 to 15 minutes from the pier. The ferry ride across the sea will take about 10 minutes. If you hold a JR pass, it will be valid on the ferry as well. If you're doing a day trip from Osaka or Kyoto, you'll have to take the Shinkansen to Hiroshima and follow the same route as mentioned above, but your travel time will be at least 2 to 2.5 hours one way. Like most tourists, we opted for a day trip to Miyajima. But if you have an extra day, then an overnighter would give you a chance to experience this serene island minus the crowds that throng it during the day. Also, staying overnight is a good option if you wish to experience the traditional Ryokan (Japanese inn). Many hotels also offer upscale facilities with Onsen (hot springs). There's a lot to see and do in Miyajima apart from the Itsukushima Shrine, of course. You can opt for the ropeway to the top of Mount Misen to get scenic views of the island of Miyajima and the Seto Inland Sea. If you're not up for the hike, then you can just follow the many beautiful walking trails to explore the island. If you're looking for a spiritual and calming experience, visiting the Daisho-in Temple should be at the top of your list. We opted for the Daisho-in Temple, which turned out to be another show stealer, apart from the Itsukushima Shrine, of course. Plan your Miyajima trip so you can see the Torii gate at both low and high tide, to get glorious views of the gate as shown in the pictures above. You cannot leave Miyajima without savouring Momiji Manju, a small maple-leaf-shaped cake filled with sweet red bean paste, which is super delicious and easily available at roadside kiosks. Another famous delicacy of the region is oyster tempura and deep-fried oysters...simply amazing! Itsukushima Shrine The beautiful Shinto shrine of Itsukushima on Miyajima Island was built as early as the 6th century and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1996. It is also a designated National Treasure of Japan. Shintoism is based on the principle of nature-worship, and this shrine embodies that principle as it is built facing the sea with the mountains as the backdrop, providing the perfect balance of Shinto architecture and natural beauty. This shrine has long, open corridors and 108 bays of vermilion-painted wooden pillars, which stand in striking contrast to the natural blue and green landscape all around. These walkways connect the main shrine with the surrounding structures, and visitors can walk around the corridors, soaking in the calm beauty of the shrine. The shrine is open on all days of the year from 6:30 am, closing time varies from 5:00 pm on most days to 5:30 pm sometimes. Please check the timings upon arrival to plan your visit accordingly. You can buy separate tickets for the shrine and the Treasure Hall for 300 yen each or buy a combined ticket for 500 yen. There is a lot of walking involved along the corridors of the shrine; wear comfortable shoes since the floorboards are made of wooden planks. Along the west corridor is the Tenjin Shrine, dedicated to the god of learning. You will see big groups of school students bowing their heads in reverence here to invoke the blessings of the deity. We spent almost 2 hours exploring this beautiful shrine. With just half a day left, we decided to visit the famous Daisho-in Temple.... https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/exploring-daishō-in-temple-in-miyajima-japan-s-hidden-buddhist-gem

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. Before I delve into travel tips for your Japan trip, you can get a quick peek into how our Japan itinerary looked, with details of the destinations we covered and the activities we did... https://www.journeys2memories.com/post/first-time-in-japan-perfect-15-day-japan-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-Days in 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!