Most travelers ’ first contact with Japan is one of its airports . What might be some of the first indications of Japanese culture that a traveler would notice ? Robbi Jumaa Hamida : As you arrive in Japan from North America , you ’ ll likely find yourself in one of four major cities : Tokyo , Osaka , Nagoya or Sapporo . Right out of the gate , you ’ ll notice order , cleanliness and respect . Those norms are ingrained into Japanese culture . You ’ ll also notice some of the “ cuteness ” that many associate with Japan .
You mentioned cuteness , which is a visually fun and historically interesting slice of Japanese culture , also known as Kawaii . Give us your take on how Kawaii fashion , trends and cuteness are on display in everyday life in Japan . RJH : Back in the 1970s , the rise of comics and animation characters inspired a variety of products that showcased these cute , pastel designs . One of the most well-known creations during this time was Hello Kitty . Hello Kitty , created in 1974 by Yuko Shimizu , is found everywhere in Japan ( and worldwide for that matter ). Just to note as Hello Kitty celebrates her 50th birthday this year , she is not actually a cat , but rather a young British girl living in London .
One of the greatest displays of this Kawaii culture is the famous Takeshita Street in the Harajuku district in Tokyo . It ’ s pedestrian-only and lined with clothing shops , dessert shops selling items like rainbow cotton candy and crepes , and a spectacle of locals and tourists dressed as characters from famous television shows and movies .
Japan has bountiful accommodation options , many of which would feel familiar , recognizable and be within a North American traveler ’ s comfort zone . However , culture-seeking travelers may want to consider more authentic or traditional lodging . What might those options look like ? RJH : For more adventurous types , Japan is known for two distinct kinds of hotels : a capsule hotel and the ryokan . Capsule hotels are usually found around train stations and have a college dormroom feel . They appeal to travelers on a tighter budget or who are looking for a quick sleep before heading out on another adventure . And because of their size ( imagine sleeping in a cupboard ), capsules are not meant for any type of extended stay .
For those wanting a more traditional stay outside of the major cities , a ryokan offers that connection to Japanese culture . Ryokans normally usher visitors into a welcome hall where you can connect with other travelers and exchange stories . Many ryokans offer traditional Japanese meals and tea . One of the attractions at a ryokan is the common bathing areas , which are separated by gender . Guests customarily dress in a yukata , a cotton summer robe , and soak in an onsen , which is a pool fed by hot springs .
Shima , Japan
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