If it's your first visit to Japan, you might be put off visiting an onsen because you are not sure of the correct practices or etiquette. Don't be. Onsens are casual places for Japanese people, and once you have a grasp of the basics you'll fit in perfectly. what to bring Bring your towels with you: … Continue reading onsen etiquette
First thing I realise is that I'm going to get the footwear thing wrong. We arrive at our beautiful little ryokan on the main drag of this little hot springs resort town, and immediately our sturdy, Gore-Tex lined walking shoes are spirited away in favour of some plain brown guest house slippers. When we reach our … Continue reading onsen town
It's a source of real irritation to me that, no matter how much you spend in an Australian shop, no matter how high-end, the likely greeting by the shop assistant at the till will be "Just these today?". Once I was shopping for a whole new work wardrobe, assisted by a personal shopper. Even with … Continue reading a valued customer
The Japan Rail officer on the opposite platform performs a brief balletic ritual as the Shinkansen pulls away exactly on time. In precise and well-practised gestures, he ostentatiously points at his shining silver watch and then at the departing train with a white-gloved hand, signifying its timely departure. Apparently, all of the officers' watches are … Continue reading tokyo to osaka
Máiréad Doyle 