By the 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 sharply, hitting a historic low. With the same budget, you can exchange for more yen than before, giving travelers a major wallet upgrade. In addition, Japan will implement new tax exemption rules for foreigners in October. Foreign visitors 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—this is definitely a great time to go on a shopping spree in Japan！Hotels.com is also offering an enhanced guide to hotels in Japan, paired with the ongoing Hotels.com Romantic Autumn promotion, Love ‘Fū’ Go. It selects high-quality hotel accommodations to help travelers enjoy all that Japan has to offer in food, fun, and activities, saving even more money while enjoying a relaxing trip to Japan！
[Beauty & Pharmacy Shopping Guide] Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu - Tokyo
Hotels.com accommodation recommendation: The Shibuya Excel Hotel Tokyu in the heart of Tokyo 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 exemption rules is definitely great news for travelers who love browsing Japanese pharmacies！Common consumable items that travelers often buy in Japan—such as painkillers, eye drops, vitamins, face masks, and mascara—are all included in this tax-free benefit. Well-known Japanese pharmacies include Matsumoto Kiyoshi, @cosme store, and ranKing ranQueen, each with their own unique features. Matsumoto Kiyoshi has an easily recognizable yellow signboard and carries both famous Japanese department store brands and over-the-counter products. @cosme store offers Japan’s most credible rankings, samples, and consultation services. ranKing ranQueen sells not only beauty products but also daily necessities and snacks.
[Gourmet Feast Guide] Ohara no Sato (Ryokan) – Kyoto
Hotels.com accommodation recommendation: The traditional townhouse-style Ohara no Sato offers a taste of old Japan and the beauty of Japanese architecture. (Image provided by Hotels.com）
Everywhere in Japan offers unique local specialties and popular “omiyage” that are perfect gifts for family and friends or as cherished reminders of your journey. Hotels.com especially recommends that travelers heading to Kansai pick up the iconic “Matsutake Manjū” from Kyoto’s famous “Mangetsu” shop. Resembling a straw rain hat with a refreshing, not overly sweet red bean paste filling, it’s said to offer a surprisingly delightful taste despite its humble appearance. Beyond souvenirs, when in Kyoto, be sure to try the local specialty, yudofu (tofu hot pot). Okutan Main Store is Japan’s oldest yudofu restaurant, where you can enjoy hand-made tofu dishes with over 300 years of history and take in the Zen-like elegance of a traditional Japanese garden.
[Fantasy World Guide] The Westin Osaka – Osaka
Hotels.com accommodation recommendation: Located in the heart of Osaka with convenient transportation, The Westin Osaka lets you explore the Kansai region with ease. (Image provided by Hotels.com）
In Osaka, besides visiting the famous Shinsaibashi, Dotonbori, and the Guinness Storehouse, the grand opening of “The Wizarding World of Harry Potter” at Universal Studios Japan in July is definitely this year’s biggest highlight. 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 for delicious butterbeer and shepherd’s pie.
[Romantic Autumn Maple Guide] Hotel Nord Otaru – Hokkaido
Hotels.com accommodation recommendation: Situated 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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