One of the best experiences you will have when you are in one of Hello! Tokyo Tours is that you will not only learn the culture and love the beautiful little red dot Singapore, but you will also form a friendship with our Hello! Tokyo tour guides.

That is why we are we are excited when we heard about the newly launched book of one of our author friends Gail Holloway. Gail came on our evening History and Culture Tour in Singapore. You can see in the picture below that she had a wonderful time exploring the city and also was able to meet Hello! Tours CEO/Founder Laura Blackhall.

Gail (from left) beside Laura, all smiles after a day in Singapore.

Gail and friends Locked in a jail cell in the former Supreme Court

You can now grab a Kindle edition of her new book in Amazon and visit her website https://www.gailholloway.com/ for more information about her new book, travel blogs and to keep yourself updated on her new future projects.

Cherry Blossom Footsteps: Adventures in Japan and Hong Kong

Author: Gail Holloway
Format: Kindle Edition
Buy it here: Amazon

Twenty-something Lauren is embarking on her first-ever overseas adventure - to Japan for the cherry blossoms, Zen gardens and majestic temples, where she makes use of her uni studies. She then travels on to Hong Kong, where she traces the 1960s footsteps of her beloved nan, in more ways than one. This enchanting tale follows Lauren on a fun journey, through two vibrant Asian cultures. With ancient history, modern life, new friendships and romance, Lauren’s is a story of discovery - of new lands, and herself.

Photo and Summary Credit: Amazon

Your tour with us can be highlighted by fully embracing the sakura or cherry blossom season. In Japan, the cherry blossom signifies the start of spring and with that a new school year and fresh hires entering companies. It’s an important part of Japanese culture highlighted by hanami or cherry blossom watching events where families and friends gather around nice viewing cherry blossom spots and have a picnic. Because cherry blossoms are both famous and infamous for lasting only a week - you don’t need to worry if you’re on a tour with us - we know the spots and the time for it.

When

Planning your trip to see the cherry blossoms can be quite daunting - that is if you are going without a guide. You have to strategically use your precious vacation days to hit the right moment in Japan. To give you a better idea, it really depends on where in Japan you are going. Typically cherry blossom season is at the beginning of April. At the earliest, it will start in mid to late March and end in early to mid April. In 2020, Tokyo had an unusually early cherry blossom beginning in mid March and had its peak at the end of March. To make sure you want to hit the correct dates, you can check out websites like JNTO or Live Japan that will have that years cherry blossom forecasts.

Where

The most popular spots for cherry blossoms are at gardens and parks. Beware, it will get very busy so expect to be around large crowds! You can check out our Festivals Guide and Gardens & Parks Guide to see events and where you can catch the best spots for cherry blossoms.

#japantraveltips

Photo Credit: Jet Setter

#japantraveltips

Unless you have an international driving permit and only wish to drive around (which is not recommended), you’ll most likely be using Japan’s excellent railway systems. The Japanese transport network is clean, reliable and very convenient. It’s a lot less complicated than you think and we hope to break it down for you here.

Passes

In another article, we discuss getting the JR Pass and whether it’s effective for you. You can read about it here. Upon arrival in Japan, it’s highly recommended that you obtain a pasmo or suica card. It’s a card where you charge money into so you can ride trains easily - this is compared to buying an individual ticket each time and calculating how much you need to pay for every train ride. Trust us, get a pasmo or suica. We talk about getting one and the usefulness in detail here. Aside from these passes and cards, you can look into getting JR regional passes and other local regional passes depending on the prefecture you visit.

Breakdown of the trains

There are different railways in Japan. Aside from the shinkansen (bullet trains) there are basically no difference in them, other than the fact that they are operated by different companies and have different ticketing gates. Sometimes you wont even notice the difference between them. There are four main groups of trains that you will likely use in Japan:

Shinkansen: The famous bullet train known for its speed, comfort and reliability. You can travel across the country in a matter of hours. You will probably use this for long distance travel such as Tokyo - Osaka/Kyoto or Tokyo - Hiroshima.

JR railways: Formerly the national railway company of Japan it’s now divided into six different regions operated privately. If you’re within a single region for a couple days, it could be economical to buy a JR regional pass.

Private railways: There are so many in Japan. In Tokyo you have the Tokyu lines and in Osaka/Kyoto you have the Hankyu lines. They are often times cheaper than JR Lines too.

Tokyo Metro: These are the subways and there are ALOT. They come in handy for transfers so look out for metros too!

Main Lines in Tokyo

Some of the main lines in Tokyo that hit the major cities are the JR Yamanote Line, JR Keihin Tohoku Line, JR Sobu/Chuo Line, Tokyu Toyoko Line and Tokyo Metro Ginza Line.

Photo Credit: Japan Guide

#japantraveltips

Photo-credit: Amazon

Author: Okakura Kakuzo

Year: 1906

Buy it here: Amazon, Book Depository

Summary:

In 1906 in turn-of-the-century Boston, a small, esoteric book about tea was written with the intention of being read aloud in the famous salon of Isabella Gardner, Boston's most notorious socialite. It was authored by Okakura Kakuzo, a Japanese philosopher, art expert, and curator. Little known at the time, Kakuzo would emerge as one of the great thinkers of the early 20th century, a genius who was insightful, witty—and greatly responsible for bridging Western and Eastern cultures. Okakura had been taught at a young age to speak English and was more than capable of expressing to Westerners the nuances of tea and the Japanese Tea Ceremony.

In The Book of Tea Classic Edition, he discusses such topics as Zen and Taoism, but also the secular aspects of tea and Japanese life. The book emphasizes how Teaism taught the Japanese many things; most importantly, simplicity. Kakuzo argues that tea-induced simplicity affected the culture, art and architecture of Japan.

Nearly a century later, Kakuzo's The Book of Tea Classic Edition is still beloved the world over, making it an essential part of any tea enthusiast's collection. Interwoven with a rich history of Japanese tea and its place in Japanese society is a poignant commentary on Asian culture and our ongoing fascination with it, as well as illuminating essays on art, spirituality, poetry, and more. The Book of Tea Classic Edition is a delightful cup of enlightenment from a man far ahead of his time.

Book description credit: Amazon

Hello! Tours is proud to be part of the ICM’s Virtual Banquet - streamed live on October 9, 2020 from Hong Kong. The annual banquet included a silent auction to raise funds to reach more communities in both the Philippines and Uganda that are in need.

Hello! Tours donated 2 spots on our Residents Tour which were successfully contributed to HK$4,000 to the overall of HK$13,300,000 raised in the auction. We hope this contribution will help change lives of the people in Philippines and Uganda for the better. ICM has spent the last 27 years transforming over one million lives. For more information on their work please visit: www.caremin.com

ICM’s focus is on children living in poverty at the absolute bottom of the economic ladder, providing help, inspires hope and creates change in families earning less than US$0.50 a day.

The three major cities in Japan that come to mind for people worldwide are probably Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto. You’re most likely going to be hitting at least one of the cities in your time here. So Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto don’t need much of an introduction.

But, what about the other places to visit in Japan? The countryside or the not so major cities that still have so much to offer in Japan? While this depends on how much time you have in Japan, we believe that visiting these cities in Japan still won’t disappoint you. These are the underrated cities of Japan that are till rich in history, food, culture and more. Here’s a list of other cities worth visiting:

1. Hiroshima: Hiroshima could be categorized as a major city but is often times overlooked. You can visit the Hiroshima Peace Park and see how the city has rebuilt after over 70 years since the dropping of the atomic bomb. Make sure to stop by Miyajima island as well.

2. Yokohama: Yokohama is a very easy and quick train ride from Tokyo. It’s a harbor city that’s seen a lot of development over the years to fit in great attractions.

3. Nara: Possibly most know for it’s Deer Park where you can feed dears, Nara is a historical city with lots of temples and artwork that date back thousands of year.

4. Hakone: Located in the same prefecture as Yokohama, Hakone offers beautiful sceneries of Mt. Fuji. You won’t go directly to the mountain but you can see nature and scenery unique only to Hakone. It’s definitely a must see.

5. Sapporo: If you don’t mind the cold, fly up to Hokkaido (the northern major island of Japan) and visit Sapporo. Sapporo is known for it’s beer, miso ramen, skiing and winter festivals.

6. Hakodate: Another major city in Hokkaido, Hakodate offers some of the best seafood in Japan.

7. Kanazawa: Kanazawa is a very famous tourist destination for Japanese people, but it should be no stranger to foreigners as well. A well preserved, geisha-samurai town - Kanazawa is filled with historical and cultural locations. It has some of the best quality seafood/sake and is probably most famous for Kenrokuen Garden - one of Japans three great gardens.

8. Okayama: Often times just a layover stop before heading to Hiroshima, Okayama is an underrated former Castle town with lots of tradition and culture. It also possesses Korakuen - another one of Japans three great gardens.

9. Izu Peninsula: Most people pass through Izu without knowing it. By the bullet train, you pass through this area from Tokyo to Kyoto. It’s a beautiful place with history and culture. It’s also known for it’s good food, good scenery and hot springs.

10. Okinawa: While it’s not a city, it’s an island a bit far from the mainland. It’s basically the Hawaii of Japan - what more do you need to hear? There tropical climate, broad beaches and World War II sites makes it an interesting place for scenery and history.

Photo Credit: Japan Starts Here

#placestovisitinjapan #underratedcities

Travelling internationally can be hectic and complicated especially if you are new to the country. Here are some useful things to know and do before coming to Japan. This is our Japan travel tip:

1. Wifi: Get pocket wifi or arrange for a wifi pick up.

2. JR Pass: Decide on whether you want a Japan Rail Pass or not. Sometimes it’s not worth it. Read our Japan Rail Pass tips here.

3. Cash: Have cash (yen) ready to go. While most places will accept major cards, Japan is still a cash based society. A unique mom and pop shop that has your favorite tea cup might not accept card. You can use ATMs that accept foreign cards at post offices and Seven Elevens.

4. Know Japanese: Basic English is understood, but know your basic Japanese too. Lots of signs and menus will be in English, but it wont hurt to learn some basic Japanese to communicate - who knows maybe you’ll make a friend!

5. Train manners: Know some basic train manners as you’ll probably use this as your main mode of transportation. You can get a breakdown here.

6. Stand on the left: In Japan you walk on the left and stand on the escalator on left. It’s a basic pedestrian rule to know. Osaka is an exception as people stand on the right on the escalator.

7. Don’t tip: Tipping is not normal in Japan.

8. Beware, no trashcans: It’s so clean in Japan…but there are no trashcans? If you buy a drink or a snack on the go, just beware that trashcans are not plentiful so have a backpack or eat/drink where you bought it from to dispos the trash.

9. Have a general itinerary: There is so much to do and see in Japan. In fact, depending on your time, you might not be able to finish everything on your list. Have an idea of what you want to do and see in each city. Don’t rush! It’s better take time and focus on the beautiful things Japan has to offer.

Photo Credit: Live Japan

#japantraveltips

This 2.5-3 hour class with our cooking school partners will teach you how to make either sushi or okonomiyaki, the choice is yours. This hands-on experience is the perfect way to experience the culture of Japan through food.

*Note for Hello! Tokyo Tour Guests: If you would like to book the cooking class on the same day as your Private Customised Tour with us your guide can drop you off at the cooking studio at the end of your tour. If you are booking this on a different day to your tour we will provide easy-to-follow directions on how to get to the studio.

Photo Credit: Cooking Sun

Duration: 2.5-3 hours

Level: Beginner

Menu options for small groups (1-8 people)

Kaiseki Class (9:30am - 12:30pm)

•   Accordion Cucumber Salad (蛇腹きゅうりの酢の物)

• Gomamiso-ae potate - Sesame & Miso sauce (じゃがいものごま味噌和え)

•  Dashimaki tamago - Rolled Egg- (だし巻玉子)

• Bamboo shoot Kimpira (たけのこのきんぴら)

• Dashi based clear soup (お吸い物)

• Wagyu Sukiyaki (和牛すき焼き)

• Wakame & Umeboshi rice (わかめと梅干しのご飯)

• Daifuku mochi with Fruit (フルーツ大福)

  *Please note that the Kaiseki menu is subject to change depending on season

Sushi class (1:30pm - 4:30pm)

• Rolled Egg (卵焼き)

• Sushi Rice (酢飯）

• Inari Sushi (いなり寿司)

• Tuna Roll (鉄火巻き)

• Cucumber Roll (かっぱ巻き)

• California Roll (カリフォルニアロール)

• Nigiri Sushi (握り寿司)

• Miso Soup (みそ汁)

Okonomiyaki Class (5:30pm - 8pm)

• Smashed cucumber pickles (たたき梅きゅうり)

• Japanese chicken meatball wrapped with Shiso leaf(つくねのシソ巻き)

• Lotus roots salad (レンコンサラダ)

• Grilled Rice Ball (焼きおにぎり)

• Okonomiyaki (お好み焼き)

• Fluffy Egg Soup(かきたま汁)

• Evening class is bookable with 2 guests at minimum. Optional Sake tasting: 1 tokkuri bottle@500 yen

Menu options for private groups (1-8 people)

Same as the classes above

Menu options for large groups including study tours and corporate groups (9-40 people)

Sushi Menu 1

• Egg Roll （たまご焼き)

• Nigiri Sushi（握り寿司）

• Tuna Roll（鉄火巻き）

• Cucumber Roll (かっぱ巻き）

• California Roll (カリフォルニアロール）

Sushi Menu 2

• Egg Roll（たまご焼き）

• Tofu Salad（豆腐サラダ）

• Tuna Roll（鉄火巻き）

• Cucumber Roll（かっぱ巻き）

• California Roll(カリフォルニアロール)

• Miso soup (みそ汁)

LENGTH: 2.5-3 hours

WHEN: Everyday

GROUP SIZE:

• Small and private groups: Minimum 1, Maximum 8

• Large groups: 9-40 people

STARTING TIME: 

• Small Groups: 9:30am - 12:30pm (kaiseki), 1:30pm - 4:30 pm (sushi), 5:30pm - 8pm (okonomiyaki)

• Private Groups: 9:30am -12:30pm (kaiseki), 1:30pm -4:30pm (sushi), 5:30 - 8:00 pm (Okonomiyaki)

• Large Groups: Anytime Upon request

LOCATION: Shinanomachi 18, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo (Maya Shinanomachi 2nd building, Room 314)

（新宿区信濃町１８ マヤ信濃町２番館 ３１４号室

*Note for large groups: Any group over 12 will be held in a rental kitchen elsewhere. Place depends on availability of studios.

DIETARY REQUIREMENTS: Please let us know if you have any dietary requirements in advance. Arrangements may be made. There is also a vegetarian option.

CANCELLATION POLICY:

For small and private groups

• More than 7 days before – 100% refund

• 2-6 days before – 80% refund

• 1 day before – 50% refund

• No show and ‘on the day’ cancellation – Non-refundable

For Large Groups:

• More than 21 days before - 100% refund

• 8-20 days before - 50% refund

• 3-7 days before - 20% refund

• 0-2 days before - No refund

PRICE:

Small Groups:

Adults (13&over): US$85 person for 1 person, US$80 person for 2-3 people, US$75 person for 4-8 people

Children (6-12): US$50 per child. 6& under free.

Private Groups(Price is total, not per person):

Groups of 1-2: US$310

Group of 3: US$400

Group of 4: US$480

Group of 5: US$550

Group of 6: US$600

Group of 7: US$650

Group of 8: US$700

*Availability is limited for private classes. Please try to book 1 or more months in advance.

Large Groups (9-40):

US$70 per person

For over 12 people, a rental studio is required. No extra cost is required.

*All prices are tax-inclusive

WEATHER CONDITIONS: All classes take place as scheduled (including in heavy rain) except under a Red Warning or Purple Emergency Warning issued by the Japan Meteorological Agency. For up-to-date information see the Japan Meteorological Agency website.

 

Published on August 18th 2020

Every country has their own alcohol that they're known for - Italy for their wine, Russia for their Vodka and Scotland for their whiskey. In Japan, sake is the go-to traditional alcoholic drink. Sake is made from fermented rice, water, yeast and koji (a type of mold). It boasts a history of over a thousand years and there are hundreds of different types of sake.

Over the course of this 45-minute sake class you’ll do a quick deep dive into all things sake. Our sake experts will present to you 6 different sakes - all from small family-owned businesses.

Availability: 3:30 pm every day.

Duration: approx. 45 minutes

Participants: 2 minimum, 8 maximum

Age: You must be at least 20 years of age to join this experience.

Price: 35 USD/person (minimum charge of 70 USD)

Inclusions: 6 sakes

Location: This experience is in the Shinjuku district of Tokyo. If you include this experience in your tour we will also show you around Shinjuku. More information on Shinjuku can be found here.

This can be booked as an add-on (extra) to a private customized tour. Please select this ‘extra’ during the check-out when booking your tour.