Weekend Argus (Saturday Edition)
How to travel japan like hirayama lalla
Explore the vibrant country and immerse yourself in the amazing cultural experience, writes
“DELVING deep into my Japanese heritage over the past few weeks has been cathartic, exhilarating and soul-stirring, during this interesting time in life,” said South African media personality Lalla Hirayama, on Instagram.
“Hard to believe so much culture can come from one place,” she added.
Hirayama, who is of Japanese descent, travelled to Japan for the Rugby World Cup, which ends on November 2.
On the trip, the 31-year-old beauty said: “This trip to Japan has been a blessing in so many different ways. I’m learning about my culture more and more each day.”
Here’s how you can travel to Japan like Lalla Hirayama:
Visit Kagoshima
This Japanese city will always have a special place in Hirayama’s heart. She said on Instagram: “Kagoshima will always be home away from home.”
The seaside city on Japan’s Kyushu Island boasts many attractions that will keep travellers occupied for hours.
Get your camera ready to capture Sakurajima, an active volcano that faces Kinko Bay. According to Japanguide.com, Sakurajima used to be an island in the bay, until a mighty eruption in 1914.
You can then explore the Sengan-en gardens, where you will find the reverberation furnace ruins, Tin gate and Gangnam bamboo forest. Don’t leave the city without a visit to Kagoshima Bay.
Snap a picture at Shibuya Crossing
Shibuya Crossing is one of the busiest intersections in the world, so snapping a picture may be trickier than you think.
According to Lonely Planet, Mag’s Park, on the roof of the Shibuya 109-2 department store, offers some of the best views and makes the perfect place to capture a few images.
Enjoy a night out at Shinjuku
If you’re in the mood to paint the town red, your first stop should be Shinjuku. Here you’ll find a string of clubs, hotel bars, restaurants and karaoke rooms. There are bar hopping tours for travellers hoping to navigate the bar and food scene.
Before you let your hair down, watch the sunset at Shinjuku Central Park, in western Shinjuku.
Take a Top Deck tour at the Tokyo Tower
Tokyo Tower, which features in many of Hiryama’s images, is a landmark in Tokyo. The observation tower is estimated to be around 332.9m high. The tour offers insight into the tower, and there are many photo opportunities.
Kaminarimon Gate
The Kaminarimon (“Thunder Gate”) leads to the Sens-ji, an ancient Buddhist temple in Asakusa.
Tourists love to visit here to immerse themselves in Japanese culture, and for the Kaminarimon picture-perfect lanterns and statues at the entrance.
Hirayama posted: “Flanking the lantern are two statues that give the gate its name; Japanese people pay homage to these figures for peace, tranquillity and abundant crops.
“The figure on the left is the God of Thunder, on the right, the Wind God. Guarding Sensoji from storm, flood and fire.” (sic).