Japan Off The Beaten Path Travel Articles | Page 5 Of 5

Japan: A Beginner’s Guide to Sumo Wrestling Rules

Sumo wrestling rules: A sumo wrestling tournament in Japan and gives some tips on how to get tickets and how to enjoy this ancient sport, sumo etiquette.

Japan: The Sapporo Snow Festival

Sapporo Japan: Hokkaido’s amazing snow sculptures and other attractions of the Sapporo Snow Festival. Food, activities and more at the festival.

Tokyo on a Budget

Tips for enjoying the world’s most expensive city, Tokyo on a budget. the cheapest way to stay in Tokyo, inexpensive restaurants, and lodging.

Hokkaido: Crystal Clear Lakes and Smoldering Volcanoes

Hokkaido, Japan: The author describes a somewhat rowdy road trip to Hokkaido Japan.

Ise: Japan’s Holiest Shrine

Ryan Cole describes a visit to Ise, Japan’s holiest Shinto shrine. where he visits the temples, meets holy men, and enjoys Japan’s fresh food

Bicyling the Kibi Plain in Japan

Japan: Rick and Chris Millikan describe their bike trip on the Kibi Plain in Japan on sturdy one-speed Japanese bicycles.

Kyoto, Japan: A Mixture of Ancient and Modern

A guide Kyoto, Japan: Where to stay, where to eat, useful websites and not to miss attractions, on GoNOMAD.com

The Fascinating Geisha District of Gion

The author takes a tour of the geisha district in Tokyo and explores the world of geisha including their expensive kimonos, how much they earn etc.

Teach English in Japan with JET

Teach English in Japan: The JET program, and a guide to the pitfalls and what you need to know to get a TEFL certificate and set out to live in another country teaching English.

Shikoku Island, Japan Destination Guide

Shikoku Island in Japan: destination guide. The island off the coast of Northern Japan offers an 88 temple hike and a phallus museum, and its own noodles.

GoNOMAD Travel Podcast

Take a few minutes to travel the world with The GoNOMAD Travel Podcast. Brought to you by the long-running GoNOMAD travel website, The GoNOMAD Travel Podcast brings you audio stories from destinations around the globe. It’s short-form… 3-7 minute long episodes. No jarring AM radio-style theme songs, no ads, just an interesting short travel story and some food for thought, from editor Max Hartshorne. Fun!
While you’re planning your next trip or travel adventure, download and listen to The GoNOMAD Travel Podcast.

GoNomad is part of the Voyascape Travel Network & you can find more of our travel podcasts from around the world at https://voyascape.com/
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The New Year celebration in Chiang Mai, Thailand, is a rich tapestry of sights, sounds, and traditions that provides a unique experience for all who partake. The city is alive with energy as it transforms into a vibrant hub for festivities.

January 1 is not just a day but the beginning of a week-long holiday where locals and visitors alike engage in a variety of celebratory activities. The streets are bustling with life, illuminated by lanterns that glow softly against the backdrop of the night sky, while the scent of street food tantalizes the senses. This journey through Chiang Mai reveals the many layers of its New Year festivities, from its breathtaking natural beauty to the deep-rooted cultural practices that make this time of year so special. Among the most striking sights during this season is the blooming of the Himalayan cherry blossoms.

A short trip to Kun Chang Hian allows visitors to witness these stunning flowers in full bloom, creating a magical setting for exploration. Here, one can engage with local traditions, such as listening to the kyan, the traditional bamboo mouth organ played by village children, or trying one’s hand at archery using bamboo bows.

The culinary scene is equally delightful, featuring local delicacies, including the famous grilled pork sausage, which embodies the rich flavors of Thai cuisine. As the celebrations culminate on New Year’s Eve, a profound sense of spirituality envelops the city. Temples become sanctuaries for nighttime prayer, and the flickering lights of candles enhance the tranquil atmosphere. Participants gather to release floating lanterns, a symbolic gesture of releasing past burdens and inviting new fortunes into their lives.

This ritual not only enhances the visual splendor of the night sky but also fosters a deep connection among participants, creating a moment of shared hope and renewal. The New Year in Chiang Mai is more than just a celebration; it is a heartfelt embrace of tradition, community, and the promise of new beginnings.