Time To Visit Japan

Above, one of Japan's many bullet trains. Photo by Armand Vaquer.

The Manila Bulletin (Philippines) online edition posted an article, "It's Time To Visit Japan" that includes five myths about the country.

Before going into the five myths, the article states:

Japan is one of those nations that continue to be shrouded in mystery—perhaps it’s the language or the seemingly odd customs—but it’s this very myth of impenetrability that continues to keep potential visitors away. Too bad, because the country often portrayed in the global press is far from the real Japan one experiences on the ground. Five myths, in particular, get in the way of wanting to visit Japan today.

The five myths are:

Japan is expensive.
Japan is unsafe.
Japan is xenophobic.
Japan is impenetrable.
Japan is Tokyo.

The article concludes with:

Japan is often misunderstood and unfairly stereotyped, but once these biases are set aside, what opens up to the traveler is a country of unparalleled grace and authenticity. Now, more than ever, is the time to visit Japan.

I couldn't agree more. Go visit Japan and bring The Monster Movie Fan's Guide To Japan (it'll tell you what you need to know) along with you.

To read the full article, go here.