JAPAN: Fremont residents Mona Shah and Joe Samagond had a stunning, two-week journey to Japan, the place they mixed energetic sightseeing with slower moments of serenity. As vegetarians, they have been pleasantly stunned by the rising variety of vegan-friendly choices.
The couple made a number of stops on their journey, and Samagond was type sufficient to go alongside the itinerary:
“In Tokyo, we took a fantastic day trip to Kawagoe, a less popular but incredibly charming town that felt like time had stood still. It’s a complete contrast to modern Tokyo, having retained its historic Edo period atmosphere. We were incredibly impressed by the Meiji Jingu Shrine, tucked within the vast Yoyogi Park. The shrine and its surrounding forest create a peaceful oasis. We hopped on the early-morning Shinkansen, Japan’s incredible bullet train. It was thrilling to catch a clear glimpse of Mount Fuji at exactly 44 minutes into our journey; we’d strategically booked seats on the right side of the train for just that reason. You see it clearly for 14 minutes, in all its majesty.”
Meals spotlight: Vegan Sushi Tokyo (right here the sushi was amazingly scrumptious; advance reservations are really helpful), and Jikasei MENSHO (wonderful noodle dishes).
“In Osaka, we absolutely loved Shitennō-ji, one of Japan’s earliest temples and the first ever built by the state. We even climbed the five-story pagoda in the inner precinct’s pebble-covered courtyard.”
Meals spotlight: Ippudo Ramen.
“We took a delightful half-day trip to Nara, Japan’s very first permanent capital. We encountered Nara’s famous bowing deer, who can be quite enthusiastic when food is involved! The highlight here was the Tōdai-ji Temple, home to the world’s largest bronze statue of Buddha.”
Fremont residents Mona Shah and Joe Samagond loved a stunning journey to Kyoto, Japan to go to Fushimi Inari Taisha (picture courtesy of Joe Samagond).
“In Kyoto, we liked the go to to Nijō Citadel, the previous Kyoto residence of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the primary shogun of the Edo interval. The citadel advanced showcases among the best surviving examples of chateau palace structure from feudal Japan. With its fortified structure — consisting of the Honmaru (foremost circle), Ninomaru (secondary circle) and fantastically landscaped gardens — Nijō-jō Citadel gave us a powerful sense of historic grandeur, all whereas sustaining the elegant minimalism so attribute of Japanese design.
“The Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine, where thousands of vermilion torii gates create a mesmerizing path that winds its way up Mount Inari, is amazing. Dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice, this sacred site predates Kyoto’s designation as the capital. Fox statues — believed to be Inari’s messengers — dot the shrine’s grounds, added an ethereal charm to the already-magical setting. We loved the walk through the towering green stalks of the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove — a truly serene walk and experience.”
Meals spotlight: Engine Ramen (vegetarian and non-vegetarian, the most effective ramen we’ve eaten).
“In Hiroshima, we spent time reflecting at the Atomic Bomb Dome and the Children’s Peace Monument. We make a trip to Miyajima Island, whose highlight was the iconic floating torii gate of Itsukushima Shrine.”
Meals spotlight: Nagataya, the most effective okonomiyaki. Get the spicy noodles and all of the toppings.
TRAVEL TIPS: Arrive early at each locations to keep away from the crowds. Each are very shut to coach stations. Be respectful of native traditions and keep hydrated.
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