Sayonara Nihon, Hola España

Colin and I just returned from Japan a few days ago, and boy, I wish we didn't have to come home! Japan! A country where rich cultural and historical treasures stood side by side with modern, futuristic sights. This is really a country that stimulates all your senses, and I do mean All! From the temples, shrines, castles, to the theme parks, hot springs, and shopping malls, there is just endless things to do in Japan! And what better time to do them than now, the season of Cherry Blossoms?

I had planned for us a 11-day trip, 5 days in Tokyo, 3 days each in Kyoto and Osaka. I loved Tokyo for its excitement (our favourite day was spent in Odaiba, of which we highly recommend visiting the Sega Joyopolis, which is essentially a games arcade and a theme park rolled into one!), Kyoto for its rich cultures and beauty, and not forgetting its cheap and delicious cuisine, and Osaka? Frankly, I did not think there was much to do in Osaka, apart from eating (food paradise) and shopping (shinsaibashi), but after spending the first 8 days sight-seeing, Osaka was the perfect end to our Japan trip.

During the trip, we slept all we could, ate all we wanted, and generally just let ourselves do everything our hearts desired (as all vacations should be), and surprisingly, our total expenses added up to $200 less than our budget! Japan need not necessary blow your bank account as long as you do some planning. Of course, I ain't complaining that Colin had enough reward points to redeem our flights as well as a few nights of accommodation for free!

As the saying goes, a pictures speaks a thousand words, so if you would like to share our Japan experience, lean back in your seat, take a deep breath, and click on!
http://sg.pg.photos.yahoo.com/ph/colin_ellen_album/album?.dir=/7786scd&urlhint=actn,del%3as,2%3af,0

We'll be leaving for Barcelona tomorrow, and won't be back till 10 days later, so, for now, its Farewell Japan, Hello Spain!