Around The World- Far East

Japan and China are both popular destinations Americans travel too. From their fascinating cultures, exciting dishes, and mesmerizing beauty; it’s easy to see why this is the case. There are various tips to pack with you though, so let’s explore these!

Yen and What?!

The currency used in Japan is the Japanese Yen. Although Japan comes with the stigma of being too expensive, if you do your conversions correctly and spend only when you need to, you can go far with what you have to spend.

http://gojapan.about.com/cs/japantravelhelp/a/japanesemoney.htm

The RMB and the Hong Kong Dollar is the currency used in mainland China. Sounds difficult to figure out already, doesn’t it? It gets even more difficult as there are other currencies as well with different parts you may travel to (Taiwan). It is very important for you to read and understand all about the money before you leave!

A Good Time to Burn Calories!

Driving in both Japan and China is extremely difficult. First of all, an American cannot drive in Japan and China with a U.S. Drivers License. You must obtain an International Driving Permit in Japan. It’s better to just learn the ins and outs of Tokyo, and the train stations to get you to the other various locations throughout Japan. You must have a Chinese License to drive in China. They do not recognize an International Driving Permit. The rules for driving in China are completely different than anything we would be used to also. Consider this a good thing for your own safety!

Driving Rules For Japan and China

Transportation in Japan and China

Japan Basics

The Japanese are very helpful and friendly people. If you are lost, chances are someone will help you out in the best English they can possibly speak. Knowing a few simple Japanese phrases is helpful. Outside of major cities in Japan however, you might find some difficulties. Not everyone in Japan can speak bits of English, so just be friendly and smile.

Baseball is massive in Japan! For all you baseball fans out there that may know someone in Japan, try to book a ticket to go see a game!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baseball_in_Japan

There are Nine Regions in Japan

Hokkaido

Tohoku- Fukushima

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fukushima_Daiichi_nuclear_disaster

Kanto- Tokyo

http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2164.html

Kansai- Kyoto, Osaka, Kobe

Chugoku- Hiroshima

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Atomic_bombings_of_Hiroshima_and_Nagasaki

Chubu- Considered the mountainous region of Japan.

Shikoku- Tiny island but wonderful for outdoor activities.

Kyushu- Nagasaki

Okinawa- International exchange students are everywhere in Okinawa, and there is certainly reasons for this!

http://okinawa.com/

The big cities of each region are listed and all have their own unique aspect about them!

The eating in Japan is fabulous. There is no shortage on excellent food and a great atmosphere. The etiquette link below is also handy to read!

http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2005.html

Festivals are a big part of the Japanese culture in the spring. Enjoying time outdoors with the Cherry Blossoms and greenery is something every American would love immensely! In the summer, you can also expect fireworks and festivals.

China

You must have a visa when traveling to China! Read the information on the link below to understand the process.

http://www.china-embassy.org/eng/hzqz/zgqz/t84246.htm

It was surprising to read the things that the Chinese are prone to doing that we’re not used to.

Outside of the bigger cities in China, do not be surprised to hear calls directed at you. This is basically their way of spotting that you are an outsider. Even in the bigger cities, this isn’t uncommon.
Smoking is everywhere in China! In Non Smoking establishments, smoking will occur. If you are allergic to smoke, the best advice seen is to wear a mask when enclosed. It is said the Chinese disregard the laws of the city frequently, so if a sign says “No Smoking” do not be shocked to find someone doing so.
Staring is an issue and also not covering the mouth when sneezing.

Although some customs would seem strange, it’s something different and something you would get used to after a couple of days.

The food in Chinese restaurants is generally safe, but regulation with food isn’t really enforced. Be careful when eating from vendors. Be careful to also not drink water from the tap. When the locals themselves choose not to drink from the tap, you should definitely follow! It’s essential to practice the etiquette in China when it comes to eating. There are some foods such as fish heads that will possibly be offered and not eating would be considered “rude”. It’s important to keep these tips in mind when traveling to this country. It’s helpful to know about medical care in China. Although the majority of the hospitals do not speak English, you will have a very minimal wait time to get treatment. Medicine is also available without prescription. It's safe to go through a checklist of what to bring on your trip though. Also note that it is advised for travelers from the West to get vaccinations before entering China.

Knowing phrases of Chinese is just as important as in Japan.