We all need a break once in a while. Whether you work, study, raise kids or volunteer, your occupation can mean that you get worn out, worn down and worn thin. You can risk burning out without a break, which is not an ideal state – believe it.
That’s why taking an overseas holiday can be just the ticket. You only have to worry about getting to your destination and winding down when you’re abroad. Sightseeing, going on tours, relaxing at the hotel and soaking up the local vibes are all perfect ways to recharge your batteries. Then, when you return, you’ll feel refreshed, rejuvenated and ready to tackle life again.
There are many overseas destinations you can visit, all offering a myriad of sights to see, cuisine to taste and culture to absorb. Japan is an excellent destination, with a rich culture and a diverse array of landscapes and wonders.
And if you’re planning a trip to Japan this December, there are a few things you need to keep in mind for your journey. In this article, we’ll share top tips, such as converting AUD to Yen, booking accommodation, and more. Read on to become fully prepared for your trip to Japan in December.
Convert Currency Before You Travel
It pays to convert your Australian dollars to Yen before departing or arriving in Japan. The exchange rates at the airport and in Japan are expensive, and you’ll pay a tidy fee to convert your cash. If you purchase Yen before you leave, even a few months prior, you can keep an eye on the exchange rate and the fees charged by currency companies. This way, you can get the best value for money and stretch your cash further on your trip.
Book Accommodation in Advance
December is one of the busiest months for travelling overseas. Everyone wants to get away for Christmas, and millions of people take their holiday over December and January. Most of the accommodation is often booked out for these months. To avoid disappointment, and having to stay in a subpar hotel or hostel, book your accommodation when you book your flights. You’ll have a much easier time booking your digs in June or July than if you wait until October or November.
It Will Be Crowded
Japan is a crowded country due to its large population. And even beyond that, there will also be a lot of other tourists, particularly in months like December. As mentioned above, these months are a popular time to visit other countries. Consider this when travelling to see sights, landmarks or popular destinations. You may want to arrive at locations early in the morning to see everything and take photos before it becomes congested with crowds.
You could consider travelling to rural or remote parts of Japan to avoid crowds. The natural sights are breathtaking around the Japanese countryside, so you’re guaranteed to soak up some of the excellent atmospheres, hopefully without too many other tourists.
How Will You Get Around?
It’s worth planning out how you will get around Japan while you’re there in December. There are a few options – a hire car, public transit or rideshare services. A hire car means you will have privacy and the comfort of your vehicle while travelling around the country. However, it will be expensive, and the daily cost will stack up if you’re there for a few weeks.
Public transport in Japan is probably the most efficient in the world, aside from some European countries. You can catch a train pretty much anywhere in the country. There are also buses. This is the cheapest option and will also allow you to get a feel for how people live in Japan, as many rely on the train to get to work and home.
Rideshare companies like Uber operate in Japan but are not very popular, so you might struggle to find a ride in some areas. This option is not the best one, but maybe okay in Tokyo, for instance.
Learn Some Basic Japanese
Although most Japanese people have a basic command of English, and most major cities’ restaurants will have English menus, it’s worth learning some basic Japanese. You might want to learn how to say hello, and goodbye, ask for directions and order food and drinks. Making this basic effort will endear the locals to you, and it’s also about showing some courtesy and respect as a visitor to Japan.
In Summary
This helpful article shares some top things to consider when travelling to Japan in December. Remember that you may want to exchange currency a few months before visiting to save on fees and get a better exchange rate. Don’t forget to book your accommodation in advance, to avoid missing out on the best hotels and hostels. Follow the other tips listed, and have a fantastic time.
