By Nattapong Yokteng
Irasshaimase is the first word that is said by Japanese when you enter their restaurants, shops or houses. It is a warm phase that welcomes you to Japan with the marvelous hospitality by Japanese. People around the world are coming to Japan because they desire to experience the cultures and understand the cultures.
Japan has a long history in the past since the Ice age period and it appeared in many history books such as in World War I and II. If you are interested in Japan’s history, these are keywords: Shogun, Samurai, Edo, Meiji, Hiroshima, and Nagasaki, etc. Another fact is Kyoto used to be the capital of Japan.
Plenty of interesting activities could be found in many places in Japan. From culinary to anything. Japanese are very open-minded, neat, respectful and helpful. If you are getting lost, just be chilled and do not panic. They will walk you to your hotel. People are also the selling point of Japan. You will love them.
Play time
Origami, is a paper folding traditional activity associated with art and culture for many hundred years. A typical type of origami is a bird then it could develop to Samurai helmets, flowers, boats, and animals, etc.
Attend Sumo events while you are in Japan. Japanese wrestling is very interesting and it is a traditional sport since 720 AD. And, the life of a wrestler is also remarkable. They are required to live in a training camp and very strict to the tradition.
Onsen is a must-try activity in Japan. Soaking and relaxing in hot spring water is the best feeling on earth. It is a natural treatment. The spring water will balance and heal your body. You will be able to find Onsen all around the country. Just do not miss it.
Eat time
Sushi and Sashimi represent the art in cutting fish and molding rice for Sushi. It looks simple to make but the original way it does not. The way of making is meticulous. So, appreciate every Sushi that you are going to eat. And of course, it is a healthy meal.
Soba, a hot noodle dipped with cold sauce or pour the hot soup over. It is different kinds of noodle soups that you might have known before for instance, Raman or Udon soup. You will not have much soup in your bowl. The noodles and soup are served separated in the dish.
Another hot dish is Sukiyaki. The combination of Protein, Carbs and Veggies in one pot. It is a dish that you would like to try when you see how it is served (All those ingredients in one pot!). It is mainly served in Winter or cold weather however you can have it all year round.
Sleep time
RyoKan is the best way to experience and learn about Japanese culture. You are required to wear a Yukata (Japanese style outfit). Usually in a Japanese’s house you will sleep on a Tatami-mat upon the floor. And of course, Food and activity in the RyoKan will be very traditional and authentic. There is no better place to stay than in RyoKan!
Japan offers a lot of authentic things to do. They are retaining their Culture without being swayed by tourism despite the demands of growing numbers of tourists. They manage to preserve their culture very well. More importantly, we should respect their cultures, people and places wherever we go. If not, we will not be able to see these anymore.
Roamers 