Travel
8 issues to know earlier than touring to Tokyo
From the welcoming hospitality and unimaginable tradition to the world-class eating scene, visiting Tokyo is an unforgettable expertise.
I’ve lived right here for 20 years and nonetheless can’t think about being bored by the Japanese capital. But regardless of town routinely and justifiably showing on lists of the most secure and greatest locations, a visit right here can current challenges. How lengthy to remain? What to put on? What about earthquakes? Will you encounter discrimination? Are there any tricks to make journey simpler?
To reply these questions and extra, listed here are a number of the important issues you need to know earlier than packing your luggage and heading to Tokyo.
1. Prep your drugstore necessities
You should purchase nearly something in Tokyo, but it surely typically received’t be the identical model you have got at residence and the packaging is unlikely to be printed in English. Fairly than occurring a wild goose chase right here, it’s loads simpler to deliver child merchandise, over-the-counter drugs, prescribed drugs, and some other necessities from residence.
Simply double examine that your meds are authorized in Japan. Something containing Adderall, for instance, isn’t. There are additionally limits on the quantity of medicines you’ll be able to deliver. The US Embassy in Japan has a useful page detailing what’s and is not permitted.
2. Obtain some important apps earlier than you arrive
For getting around on public transport obtain Japan Travel by Navitime. It has a journey route planning perform, plus data on renting automobiles, exchanging foreign money, and climate forecasts.
For peace of thoughts, Safety Tips is one other useful, free app. It sends emergency alerts and has data on all the things you could know within the occasion of a quake, storm, or tsunami, in addition to find out how to discover an English-speaking physician.
3. Keep at the very least every week
You possibly can have an incredible 48 hours, however scheduling every week means you’ll be able to decelerate for a extra immersive expertise and add aspect journeys. From big-ticket sights to hands-on experiences, there’s no scarcity of things to do in Tokyo earlier than heading off on day trips to the historic temples and shrines of Kamakura, the World Heritage websites of Nikkō or the trails of Mt. Takao.
4. Trend-wise nearly something goes, however examine the forecast
On the threat of sounding boring, realizing what to put on in Tokyo is usually extra about being smart than following vogue – pack for the climate. The summer season warmth and humidity are particularly draining, and also you’ll see plenty of locals in hats, shorts and t-shirts, although it’s very unusual to see anybody exhibiting a lot pores and skin on their higher physique. Within the pre-summer wet season, an umbrella is healthier than a rain jacket, because the humidity can flip even Gore-Tex right into a sauna go well with.
When it comes to vogue, exterior of a piece surroundings, something goes in Tokyo – simply have a look at the colourful fashions of Harajuku or the cosplayers of Akihabara. That mentioned, there are some exceptions you would possibly encounter. If you’ll a high-end restaurant, costume well. If you happen to’re consuming sushi, don’t put on any fragrance or cologne as that may intervene with the delicate flavors and is taken into account unhealthy manners. In case you are going for a tea ceremony, ensure you are carrying one thing unfastened sufficient for kneeling on the tatami, then slip off any rings or bracelets simply beforehand to keep away from damaging the teacups.
5. Drink and medicines
Let’s begin with the excellent news. If you happen to like beer within the park, ingesting exterior is authorized – so long as you’re at the very least 20 years outdated (the authorized age for ingesting and shopping for alcohol). Simply concentrate on manners when doing it: don’t make an excessive amount of noise and all the time clear up after your self.
Leisure medicine, nonetheless, are a distinct matter. Japan has a zero-tolerance policy on marijuana and different medicine. One exception is CBD (cannabidiol) merchandise, that are stylish proper now. Nevertheless, they legally can’t include any THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) in Japan, the part that provides marijuana its excessive.
6. Beware the intercourse commerce and touts
For a rustic that’s in some ways very conservative, it may be a shock to see how public intercourse work is in Tokyo. It is available in many types, from hostess and host golf equipment the place shoppers go to drink and flirt (and lay our a fortune) to bathhouse brothels known as soaplands. Whereas pornography is censored to a level (with genitalia blurred out), mushy porn continues to be on show at little one peak in lots of shops, and animated variations typically cowl distressing fantasies. Intercourse work additionally has robust ties to the yakuza, Japan’s organized crime teams.
When you can safely stroll previous “grownup” venues in red-light areas like Shinjuku’s Kabukicho (additionally residence to plenty of common bars and eating places), keep away from getting into any bar or membership with touts exterior providing feminine firm or something that feels too good to be true. In addition to the exploitation of the ladies working in these locations, you possibly can simply find yourself with a spiked drink, cloned bank cards, or an exorbitant invoice.
7. Be able to wobble
With near 2000 feelable tremors in Japan yearly, the locals are used to quakes. Fortunately, round 90% of structures in Tokyo are earthquake resistant, together with all the things constructed after stricter legal guidelines have been enacted in 1982.
You additionally would possibly encounter a storm or two, if visiting between Could and October. The south and west of Japan sometimes bear the worst of the typhoons as they initially hit land, with Tokyo typically receiving the much less highly effective dying throes.
Nonetheless, typhoons are disruptive. Count on public transport to be badly affected for a day and companies and sights to shut. Do as locals do and wait it out inside. With any pure catastrophe, hold updated by turning on public broadcaster NHK or checking the Security Ideas app.
8. Sadly discrimination is not unparalleled
Japan tends to each settle for and discriminate quietly. As a traveler, it’s unlikely you may be turned away from a bar or restaurant for being international until it’s in a red-light space, however it may well occur, particularly in case you are a gaijin (foreigner) from Southeast Asia or Africa.
There aren’t any legal guidelines in opposition to same-sex relationships and, with Shinjuku-nichome, Tokyo has one of many largest and most vibrant LGBTIQ+ districts in Asia. There’s additionally an annual Tokyo Satisfaction competition. One space the place Japan continues to be lagging, nonetheless, is gender equality, rating 125 out of 146 international locations on the World Financial Discussion board’s Gender Hole Report. Trains and subways have women-only carriages within the morning rush hour – one thing that highlights how frequent sexual harassment and abuse in the direction of girls is.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe primary go to of Hawaiian royals to London two centuries in the past will characteristic in a brand new exhibit on the British Museum.
Hawai’i: A Kingdom Crossing Oceans is a “dazzling celebration of the wealthy artistry of Hawaiian makers, previous current and future”, based on the museum.
The exhibition, which opens in January, will commemorate greater than 200 years for the reason that go to of Hawaiian King Liholiho and Queen Kamāmalu to London in 1824 when the royal delegation have been searching for an alliance and safety from the Crown.
This journey to the capital included a go to to the British Museum – the primary file of Native Hawaiian royals on the museum.
Royal Assortment Enterprises LtdThe exhibition will characteristic round 150 objects and artworks together with many by no means seen within the UK.
Among the many highlights is an ahu ʻula, a feathered cloak despatched in 1810 by the primary king of unified Hawaiʻi, Kamehameha I, to King George III.
Lent by King Charles III from the Royal Assortment, the cloak will probably be on show for the primary time in over 100 years, alongside the Hawaiian king’s authentic letter requesting assist and safety from the British Crown.
Trustees of the British MuseumGuests to the museum will probably be greeted on the steps of the Nice Courtroom by a nine-foot (2.7m) picture of the god Kū, the god of warfare and governance, dressed with a recent loincloth and standing atop a pole rediscovered inside a historic plinth.
A finely carved drum accompanied by an historic chant recounting early Polynesian migrations to Hawaii will characteristic alongside a bowl with determine, not too long ago returned from mortgage to Hawaii’s Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, that represents actions of individuals and objects between the Pacific and the UK.
The Anglo-Franco proclamation of 1843, on mortgage from The Nationwide Archives, highlights the UK and France’s formal recognition of Hawaii’s independence and emphasises diplomatic bonds between the nations.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe creation of the exhibition concerned “the meticulous conservation of ancestral treasures and the inclusion of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language) all through the area”, the British Museum mentioned.
Dr Alice Christophe, head of Oceania on the museum, mentioned the exhibit is a tribute to Native Hawaiian makers, previous and current.
She added: “It tells the story of the deep and layered relationship between Hawaii and the UK, reflecting on care, sovereignty and the complexity of allyship.
“We hope this present will spark conversations and uplift folks within the archipelago and past.”
The exhibition will run from 15 January to 25 May 2026.
France is a rustic steeped in historical past, and nowhere is that this extra evident than its fantastically preserved medieval cities.
From Alsace’s timber-framed homes to Provence’s dramatic hilltop villages.
These cities permit guests to step again in time, wander cobblestone streets, marvel at historical structure, and expertise the appeal of bygone eras.
On this listing, we’ve gathered 20 of the best-preserved medieval cities in France that you simply completely should see.
20 Greatest Medieval Cities in France To Go to
Scroll down to find the 20 finest medieval cities in France that needs to be on each historical past buff and tradition fanatic’s bucket listing!
1. Riquewihr, Alsace
Riquewihr is a picturesque village in Alsace typically described as some of the lovely in France.
Its well-preserved Sixteenth-century structure, with colourful half-timbered homes lining slender cobblestone streets, makes it really feel like stepping right into a fairy story.
Guests ought to come right here to expertise the distinctive Alsatian tradition, discover the encircling vineyards, and style the area’s well-known wines.
Don’t miss the Dolder Tower, a Thirteenth-century defensive gate, or wine cellars providing tastings. The Alsace villages are among the most picturesque places in France.
2. Eguisheim, Alsace
Eguisheim, a cute fairytale town in France, is thought for its concentric round format and vibrant floral shows.
The city’s magnificence lies in its colourful medieval homes, charming central sq., and surrounding vineyards.
Guests will take pleasure in strolling by the slender streets, visiting the Chapel of St. Leo IX, and mountain climbing the close by Three Castles path.
The city can also be well-known for its storks, which nest on rooftops throughout summer time.
3. Rocamadour, Occitanie
One in all France’s most unique towns is Rocamadour, a vertical village dramatically constructed into the face of a cliff. Its beautiful location and spiritual significance make it a must-visit place that needs to be in your France bucket list.
The city is dwelling to a number of vital spiritual websites, together with the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Guests can climb the Grand Escalier (Nice Staircase) to the château on the prime, which gives breathtaking views of the Alzou Canyon.
4. Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dordogne
Sarlat is without doubt one of the best-preserved medieval cities in France, well-known for its golden stone buildings and gastronomic delights.
Guests ought to come right here to wander the labyrinthine streets, discover the bustling market, and take pleasure in native specialties like foie gras and truffles.
Don’t miss the panoramic view from the highest of the Sainte-Marie church tower or a go to to the Manoir de Gisson.
5. Dinan, Brittany
Dinan is a walled city recognized for its spectacular ramparts, half-timbered homes, and picturesque port.
Guests will love strolling alongside the previous metropolis partitions, exploring the quaint Rue du Jerzual, and having fun with a meal at one of many cafes alongside the previous port.
The city’s magnificence is enhanced by its location overlooking the Rance River. Go to the Château de Dinan and climb the Tour de l’Horloge for panoramic views.
6. Honfleur, Normandy
Honfleur, with its picturesque previous harbor and slate-covered home facades, has lengthy been a favourite topic for artists.
Guests come for the charming ambiance, maritime historical past, and glorious seafood eating places.
Key points of interest embody the wood Church of Saint Catherine, the Eugene Boudin Museum, and the gorgeous Jardin des Personnalités.
7. Perouges, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Perouges is a superbly preserved medieval walled city that appears frozen in time. Its cobbled streets and stone homes make it a preferred movie location.
Guests ought to expertise life in a Fifteenth-century city, style the native specialty “galette de Pérouges,” and benefit from the peaceable ambiance. Don’t miss the central Place du Tilleul or the Eglise-Forteresse.
8. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie
Perched excessive above the Lot River, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a shocking medieval village that has impressed many artists. Its magnificence lies in its dramatic setting, Gothic facades, and slender alleyways.
Guests can discover quite a few artisan outlets, hike within the surrounding space, or take a ship journey on the Lot River. The village is especially magical within the night when the day-trippers have left.
9. Gordes, Provence
Gordes is a placing hilltop village within the Luberon area, well-known for its stone buildings cascading down the hillside.
Guests come for the breathtaking views, particularly at sundown, and to discover the encircling lavender fields and olive groves.
Key points of interest embody the Sixteenth-century château, the close by Sénanque Abbey, and the standard Tuesday market.
10. Locronan, Brittany
Locronan is a small city that has maintained its Renaissance appeal, with granite homes and an exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the dearth of seen trendy infrastructure, making it really feel actually timeless. The city is thought for its spiritual heritage, conventional Breton festivals, and as a filming location.
Don’t miss the Church of Saint Ronan or the native artisan workshops.
11. Cordes-sur-Ciel, Occitanie
Cordes-sur-Ciel, or “Cordes within the Sky,” is aptly named for its hilltop location, typically shrouded in morning mist. This bastide city is thought for its well-preserved Gothic structure and thriving arts scene.
Guests ought to come to discover the medieval homes, go to artisan workshops, and revel in panoramic views of the countryside. The city hosts a well-known medieval competition every July.
12. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy
Mont Saint-Michel is without doubt one of the most iconic landmarks in France, a medieval marvel that rises dramatically from the ocean.
This UNESCO World Heritage website is a small rocky island topped by a shocking abbey and surrounded by a picturesque village.
Guests are drawn by its distinctive structure, wealthy historical past, and the fascinating phenomenon of maximum tides that isolate and join it to the mainland.
Discover the winding streets, go to the magnificent abbey, and be taught concerning the website’s significance as a pilgrimage heart.
13. Minerve, Occitanie
Minerve is a small village with a dramatic historical past, perched on a rocky peninsula between two deep gorges. Guests come for its Cathar historical past, beautiful pure setting, and glorious native wines.
Discover the village’s slender streets, go to the Twelfth-century church, and be taught concerning the Cathar siege on the small museum.
14. Monpazier, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Monpazier is without doubt one of the best-preserved bastide cities in France, recognized for its excellent grid format and exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the well-preserved medieval and Seventeenth-century structure, the lined market corridor, and the peaceable ambiance.
15. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is nestled between two rocky cliffs, with a star suspended on a series between them.
The city is known for its advantageous porcelain and proximity to the Verdon Gorge – one of many best places in the French Riviera area.
Guests ought to discover the slender streets, go to the Notre Dame de Beauvoir chapel perched above the city, and store for native ceramics.
16. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Occitanie
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a serene medieval village tucked right into a dramatic gorge on the pilgrim path to Santiago de Compostela.
Its UNESCO-listed Gellone Abbey, with its exceptional Romanesque structure, rises above a maze of slender streets and stone homes.
Don’t miss the abbey’s lovely cloister, the Place de la Liberté with its historical elm tree, or the satan’s bridge spanning the gorge.
17. Conques, Occitanie
Conques is a jewel of Romanesque artwork nestled in a wooded gorge in Occitanie.
Its magnificent Abbey Church of Saint Foy, with its intricate tympanum and golden reliquary, has drawn pilgrims for hundreds of years alongside the Santiago de Compostela route.
Don’t miss the treasury’s medieval goldsmith assortment, the carved capitals within the cloister, or the sundown view from the Bancarel viewpoint.
18. Najac, Occitanie
Najac is a shocking medieval fortress city perched dramatically alongside a single ridge excessive above the Aveyron River.
Its majestic Thirteenth-century royal fortress stands on the highest level, whereas the village’s stone and half-timbered homes stretch alongside the ridge in a novel linear format.
Don’t miss the Gothic church of Saint-Jean with its uncommon fortified options, the panoramic views from the fortress hold, or the traditional lined market corridor the place native farmers promote their produce.
19. Vézelay, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Vézelay is a hilltop village in Burgundy topped by its magnificent Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene.
This UNESCO World Heritage website rises majestically above the Remedy Valley, its golden stone glowing within the sundown whereas its medieval streets are lined with historic homes and ramparts.
Don’t miss the spectacular views over the Burgundian countryside, or the home the place Jules Roy lived, now a literature museum.
20. Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a remarkably preserved medieval city perched on a hilltop close to Good, remodeled into an inventive haven within the twentieth century.
Its large medieval ramparts encircle slender cobblestone streets lined with elegant stone homes, whereas up to date artwork galleries and boutiques occupy historical buildings.
Remaining Ideas on The Greatest French Medieval Cities
Exploring France’s medieval cities is like stepping right into a residing historical past e-book.
Every village gives a novel glimpse into the nation’s wealthy previous, well-preserved structure, and timeless appeal.
From the long-lasting Mont Saint-Michel to the lesser-known gems like Perouges, these cities present unforgettable experiences for historical past lovers, tradition lovers, and informal vacationers alike.
Able to plan your trip in France? Use our complete France Travel Guide to make sure you don’t miss any of the unbelievable locations.
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