By / MOOK Scenic Spots Home Travel Life Network Editorial Team, compiled and reported
Good news for those who love traveling to Japan!The Japanese yen has recently depreciated significantly, hitting a record low in recent years. With the same budget, you can exchange for more yen than before, giving your travel funds a major upgrade. In addition, Japan will implement new tax refund regulations for foreigners in October. Foreign travelers who spend over 5,000 yen at the same store on the same day on eligible items such as medicine, cosmetics, food, beverages, local specialties, and tobacco/alcohol can enjoy tax-free benefits. It’s definitely a great time to go on a shopping spree and enjoy yourself in Japan!Hotels.com is also offering an enhanced guide to hotels in Japan, paired with the currently popular Hotels.com Romantic Autumn campaign, Love ‘Fū’ Go. It features carefully selected high-quality hotel accommodations to help travelers enjoy all that Japan has to offer in terms of food, fun, and activities, saving even more on their trips and making travel in Japan easier and more enjoyable!
[Beauty & Pharmacy Haul Guide] Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu - Tokyo
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Hotels.com Accommodation Recommendation: Located in the heart of Tokyo, Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu makes it easy to head out anytime for a shopping spree around the city!(Image provided by Hotels.com)
The news of Japan’s new tax-free regulations is definitely great news for travelers who love browsing Japanese pharmacies!Commonly purchased consumables in Japan such as painkillers, eye drops, vitamins, face masks, and mascara—all must-buy items for those traveling to Japan—are included in this tax-free benefit. Well-known Japanese pharmacies include Matsumoto Kiyoshi, @cosme store, and ranKing ranQueen, each with its own unique features. Matsumoto Kiyoshi is easily recognized by its large yellow signboard and stocks well-known Japanese department store and over-the-counter brands. @cosme store offers Japan’s most authoritative rankings, product trials, and consultation services. ranKing ranQueen sells not only cosmetics but also daily necessities and snacks.
[Gourmet Feast Guide] Ohara no Sato (Ryokan) – Kyoto
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Hotels.com Accommodation Recommendation: Ohara no Sato, a traditional townhouse rich in ancient capital charm, lets you experience the beauty of traditional Japanese architecture. (Image provided by Hotels.com)
Japan offers many regionally limited specialty souvenirs no matter where you go. Various super-popular “omiyage” are definitely the best choice for giving to family and friends or reliving the beautiful memories of your trip!Hotels.com especially recommends visitors traveling to Kansai to pick up the “Mangetsu” sweet shop's Amanatsu Pear Mochi in Kyoto. Shaped like a straw rain hat with a refreshing, not overly sweet red bean paste filling inside, it’s said to offer a surprisingly delightful taste that defies its simple appearance. In addition to souvenirs, when in Kyoto, be sure to try the local specialty yudofu (tofu hot pot). Okutan Honke is Japan’s oldest yudofu restaurant, where you can enjoy hand-made tofu dishes with over 300 years of history while admiring the Zen-like elegance of the Japanese garden.
[Fantasy World Guide] The Westin Osaka – Osaka
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Hotels.com Accommodation Recommendation: Conveniently located in the heart of Osaka, The Westin Osaka makes it easy to explore all around Kansai. (Image provided by Hotels.com)
When in Osaka, besides visiting the famous Shinsaibashi and Dotonbori Glico Building, the officially opened “Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey” area at Universal Studios Japan in July is definitely the biggest highlight of the year. Step into the magical world of Hogwarts Castle, where Muggles can visit Dumbledore’s office, the Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom, and even talk to the Sorting Hat. Additionally, don’t miss “The Three Broomsticks” or “The Hog’s Head” in Hogsmeade Village to enjoy famous and delicious Butterbeer and Shepherd’s Pie.
[Romantic Autumn Foliage Guide] Hotel Nord Otaru – Hokkaido
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Hotels.com Accommodation Recommendation: Located in the historical and cultural district, Hotel Nord Otaru lets you experience the romantic charm of Hokkaido. (Image provided by Hotels.com)
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