Tag: Japan

Kyoto for Seniors

Kyoto captivated my imagination when two other Senior friends visited the city last year. It’s a trip to Japan’s history and an experience of its rich and unique cultural heritage.

We stayed in a Ryokan, a traditional Japanese hotel, which was an experience of Japanese hospitality. A young couple with experience in Europe owned it and welcomed us like guests in their own homes. We arrived, and as usual, they received us with tea slippers and cleaned our suitcases before bringing them to our room. It is a regular practice in Japan, as in many other Asian countries, to leave your shoes at the doorstep and use slippers. Not only do you go the dirt from outside, but it’s also an expression of respect to the homeowners.

After the check-in, we went to our room, which was quite spacious for the three of us. The bathroom was big, so it was easy to move around, and the seating area provided a perfect place for us to hang out after a busy day. 

Our first outing was to a traditional Japanese restaurant. We wanted to taste Japanese dishes that we enjoyed in our own countries. To our delight, the restaurant did not disappoint us but brought us a taste of what truly is authentically Japanese. 

Our guide picked us up the next day to explore some of Kyoto’s famous attractions. We booked a tour just for us, and it’s very affordable because we shared the expense. For Seniors, I recommend this as you could go at your own pace rather than be catching up all the time with a more extensive group tour. We had a very knowledgeable guide who brought us to these famous attractions:

  • Araashiyama Bamboo Grove: A serene bamboo forest that provides a unique atmosphere for a peaceful stroll.
Bamboo Forest. Copyright: aesta1

  • U Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion): A Zen Buddhist temple covered in gold leaf, surrounded by beautiful gardens.
  • Fushimi Inari Taisha: Famous for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates that lead to the sacred Mount Inari.
  • Kiyomizu-dera: A historic temple offering panoramic views of Kyoto, especially during cherry blossom and autumn foliage. 
  • No Gion District: Known for its traditional wooden machiya houses and being the center of the geisha culture. Our guide brought us there and left us to explore the place. Geishas are walking the streets, but visitors can no longer take pictures with them as they’ve been harassed in the past, hurting them seriously sometimes. 
Traditional House. Copyright:aesta1
  • Nijo Castle: A UNESCO World Heritage site with beautiful gardens and historic buildings, including the famous “nightingale floors.”
  • Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion): A Zen temple known for its stunning gardens and a unique dry sand garden.
  • Katsura Imperial Villa: An exquisite example of traditional Japanese architecture and gardens, often visited through guided tours.
  • Philosopher’s Path: A scenic walking path along the canal with hundreds of cherry trees, gorgeous during spring.
  • Nishiki Market: A bustling food market with various stalls offering fresh seafood, local produce, and Kyoto’s traditional snacks.

We left days to explore the city and soak in its charm. Jaded with metropolises that look exactly like each other, Kyoto, with its traditional feel, gave us an experience distinct from visits to other cities. 

So, for Seniors thinking of going to Kyoto. Drop your hesitation and go. It’s easy to explore and quite affordable. 

Enjoy your time exploring Kyoto!

Tokyo for Seniors

Tokyo, the vibrant capital city of Japan, offers a captivating blend of modernity and tradition. While it is often associated with its bustling streets, advanced technology, and youthful energy, Tokyo has much to offer senior visitors.

Tokyo.Copyright:aesta1

But before embarking on your Tokyo adventure, research attractions and activities that cater to your interests and physical capabilities. Make a list of must-visit destinations and create an itinerary accordingly.

Look for hotels or guesthouses that provide accessibility features such as ramps, elevators, and rooms designed with senior comfort in mind. Because we visited immediately after the Covid lockdown, hotels went out of their way to make our stay very comfortable. Although with the Japanese predilection for perfection, you will surely get the best treatment in any hotel.

Many hotels also offer concierge services to assist with transportation and tour bookings. I suggest you take a guided tour of the city on your first day. It is not expensive to book a tour in your language; doing this on your first day gives you an idea of where you want to spend time during your visit.

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Some of Tokyo’s attractions that are worth visiting are:

– Tokyo’s Cultural Gems like Peaceful Gardens, where you can take a stroll through exquisite gardens like Shinjuku Gyoen, Rikugien, or Hama-rikyu. These serene oases offer tranquillity amid the bustling city, perfect for unwinding and appreciating nature’s beau- Historic Temples and Shrines like Senso-ji in Asakusa or Meiji Shrine in Shibuya, where you can experience the spiritual atmosphere, admire the stunning architecture and even partake in traditional rituals like washing hands and offering prayers.

– Tokyo’s Neighborhoods, such as Asakusa, where you can glimpse old Tokyo with its narrow streets, market stalls, and historic temples. Also, explore Nakamise Shopping Street, known for its traditional snacks and souvenirs. Go to Ueno, which houses several museums, including the Tokyo National Museum. In the Spring, you can relax under the cherry blossom trees. 

For upscale shoppers, head to Ginza, famous for its luxury boutiques, department stores, and gourmet restaurants. Enjoy window shopping, savour a cup of tea at a traditional tea house, or catch a performance at the Kabuki-za theatre.

– Tokyo Skytree. Ascend the world’s tallest tower for breathtaking panoramic views of the city. The observation decks are easily accessible via elevators with facilities for wheelchair users.

– Odaiba: This futuristic island showcases architectural wonders, shopping malls, and entertainment venues. The Rainbow Bridge connects it to the mainland, and there are accessible waterfront promenades for pleasant walks.

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For relaxation and wellness, explore these places:

– Hot springs: Experience the therapeutic benefits of Japanese hot springs, or “onsen.” Odaiba Ooedo-Onsen Monogatari and Spa LaQua are popular options that offer a variety of bathing facilities, relaxation areas, and rejuvenating treatments.

-Traditional tea houses: Indulge in the tranquillity of a traditional tea ceremony. Many tea houses provide tatami mat seating and are accommodating to seniors.

For ease in moving around the city, choose accommodations near Tokyo’s subway stations with elevator access, and always ask your hotel for the closest station to your intended destinations. Taxis are widely available. Look for taxis with “Universal Design,” as these are accessible for individuals with mobility needs.

Our Japanese friend assured us that most Japanese understand and can speak English but are hesitant. However, if asked for help, they are always willing to be of service.

During our visit, we used the subway and train system in Tokyo and from Tokyo to other cities in Japan, and we found it very easy to navigate. It’s very comfortable and always on time. The stations also have stores and restaurants catering to varied food preferences. 

For ease in moving around the city, choose accommodations near Tokyo’s subway stations with elevator access, and always ask your hotel for the closest station to your intended destinations. Taxis are widely available. Look for taxis with “Universal Design,” as these are accessible for individuals with mobility needs. Our Japanese friend assured us that most Japanese understand and can speak English but are hesitant. However, if asked for help, they are always willing to be of service.During our visit, we used the subway and train system in Tokyo and from Tokyo to other cities in Japan, and we found it very easy to navigate. It’s very comfortable and always on time. The stations also have stores and restaurants catering to varied food preferences. 

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Contrary to our expectation that Tokyo is an expensive place, we found that we could find prepared meals at Family Mart, Lawson, and other convenience shops that were tasty and inexpensive. Once in a while you could splurge and enjoy a Japanese meal in one of Tokyo’s famous restaurants.

You will enjoy experiencing Tokyo’s unique flavour and culture. The city welcomes Seniors and makes it easy for them to move around. We enjoyed our visit so much that some of us are returning this year.