Japan Tour

11/23/2010 | Posted by Dongjin Han

As my dream journey comes to an end, I finally arrive at Pearson Airport after an enduring 14 hour flight from Tokyo. Flight back is not as exciting as the flight to Japan. Now I'm back to my normal life and must carry on with the school work....ergh.... I've only introduced a tiny bit of Japan as there are thousands of places to explore. This trip is meaningful for several reasons, I have chance to meet my grandparents and go on a romantic vacation with my girlfriend.

Now back to reality....tomorrow is the big day as the winning ticket will be announced, and I'll have my fingers crossed and hope for the miracle to happen. I'm already excited by planning my dream vacation and will keep on dreaming until I achieve it.

"Every great dream begins with a dreamer. Always remember, you have within you the strength, the patience, and the passion to reach for the stars to change the world." -Harriet Tubman

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11/23/2010 | Posted by Dongjin Han

Tokyo Disney World <Click Here for the link of image>

Tokyo Disneyland will be the final destination of this journey. The resort opened on April 15, 1983, as a single theme park, but developed into a resort with two theme parks, three (Disney) hotels and a shopping complex. Tokyo Disneyland was the first Disney theme park opened outside the United States. My girlfriend is a huge fan of Disney and she would love me if I take her to this dream theme park.

Cost: $70/person

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11/23/2010 | Posted by Dongjin Han

Takaragawa Onsen <Clike Here for the link of image>

As we come close to the end of the trip, we would like to set aside a date for ousnekaku at Takaragawa Onsen. Onsen is a term for hot springs in the Japanese language, though the term is often used to describe the bathing facilities and inns around the hot springs. It is one of the largest outdoor onsen in the world, and is a major tourist attraction for foreigners.

Cost: $200 (All Inclusive)

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11/23/2010 | Posted by Dongjin Han

Osaka Castle <Click Here for the link of image>

The Osaka Castle is one of the famous castles located in Japan and it was built in 1583 by Toyotomi Hideyoshi. The tower at Osaka’s castle is used as storeroom. The castle is constructed on a platform standing on the walls supported on a rock. The castle at the center is of five stories from outside and eight stories from inside and it was constructed on a high stone in order to safeguard from enemies.
 

Cost: $5 (Admission)

Osaka Acquarium <Click Here for the link of image>

Osaka Aquarium (Kaiyukan) is one of the largest aquariums in the world. Osaka Aquarium obtains its Japanese name from the Japanese word Kaiyukan literally means ‘Playing in the Sea Pavilion’. In this aquarium, visitors can enjoy creatures as if they are playing together in the sea.

Cost: $20 (Admission)

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11/23/2010 | Posted by Dongjin Han

Shinkansen <Clike Here for the link of the image>

After two days of stay at Tokyo, I would like to visit Kyoto. Kyoto was Japan's capital and the emperor's residence from 794 until 1868. It is now the country's seventh largest city with a population of 1.4 million and a modern face. It is also home of countless temples, shrines and other historically priceless structures.
The picture above is called Shinkansen also known as the bullet train, is a network of high speed railway lines in Japan. It links most major cities in Japan and travels at speeds up to 300km/h. This method of transportation will be used throughout my stay in Japan.

Cost: Approximately $300 (Roundtrip from Tokyo to Kyoto)

Kinkakuji <Clike Here for the link of the image>

Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) is a Zen temple in northern Kyoto whose top two floors are completely covered in gold leaf. Kinkakuji is an impressive structure built overlooking a large pond, and is the only building left of Yoshimitsu's former retirement complex. It has burned down numerous times throughout its history including twice during the Onin War, a civil war that destroyed much of Kyoto; and once again more recently in 1950 when it was set on fire by a fanatic monk. The present structure was rebuilt in 1955.

Cost: $5 (Admission)

Kiyomizudera <Clike Here for the link of the image>

One of Japan's most popular temples, Kiyomizudera also called "Pure Water Temple" was founded in 780 AD and still functions as a temple associated with Hosso sect of Japanese Buddhism. The temple was also added to the list of UNESCO world heritage sites 

The Otowa Waterfall <Clike Here for the link of the image>

The Otowa Waterfall is located at the base of Kiyomizudera's main hall. Its waters are divided into three separate streams, and visitors use cups attached to long poles to drink from them. Each stream's water is said to have a different benefit, namely to cause longevity, success at school and a fortunate love life. However, drinking from all three streams is considered greedy.

Cost: $5 (Admission)

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11/22/2010 | Posted by Dongjin Han

Tsukiji Market wholesalers

Auction area <Click Here for the link of image>

A centre of Japanese cuisine and the world's best fish market, Tsukiji Market, is located next to Ginza, Tokyo's famous downtown area. The sight of the many kinds of fresh fish and other seafood and the busy atmosphere of scooters, trucks, sellers and buyers hurrying around, make Tsukiji Market a major tourist attraction. This is a heaven for Sushi lovers as fish shops and restaurants serve the freshest fish available.

Cost: Free

Tokyo Imperial Palace

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Tokyo Imperial Palace is the home of the Emperor of Japan. It is surrounded by a moat and a high wall and occupies the most expensive square kilometer in the World. This would be the perfect place to visit with my grandparents and take some shots of this beautiful architect.

Cost: Free

Nightview of Shinjuku <Click Here for the link of image>

Next up is Shinjuku, which literally means shopping, eating and partying. It has several huge department stores, music stores, electronic stores, and hundreds and hundreds of bars and restaurants catering to every taste imaginable. This is the perfect place to enjoy the nightlife of Tokyo!!! 

Cost: $$$



The Peninsula Tokyo <Click Here for the link of image>



After a lengthy tour of beautiful Tokyo, I would love to just relax and recharge myself at the one of the most luxurious hotels in the world. The Peninsula Hotel was rated highest in Michelin Guide 2008's Tokyo luxury hotel category. The interior designs are luxurious, romantic, warm and inviting. The standards in service are impeccable and the hotel's restaurants and catering services are five star quality and will surely satisfy even the most sensitive palettes.

Cost: $500/night

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11/22/2010 | Posted by Dongjin Han

Downtown Tokyo

<Click Here for the link of image>

My dream tour starts with arrival at the Haneda International Airport in Tokyo. The capital city of Japan is a metropolis of neon lights, face-paced shopping, lively districts and a confluence of global influences. Fortunately, I had a privilege to take Japanese course at Western, so I think I can do just fine. Visiting Japan has significance to me as my grandparents reside in Japan; I haven't visited them in years so this would be the perfect time to visit them.

Outside view of Capsule Hotel

Capsule hotel

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This is the infamous capsule hotel located in Tokyo; its design was inspired by the pursuit of efficiency of space and functional comfort, originating from adaptive, creative spirit of the Japanese mind. I've only heard of this unique style of accommodation and thought it would be a great experience, but only for one night!

 Cost: $25-30/night

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11/22/2010 | Posted by Dongjin Han

Hi my name is Dongjin Han, I am an ordinary student attending University of Western Ontario located in London, Ontario. Last week, I bought a couple of Super 7 lottery tickets hoping for miracle to happen so I can finally go on my dream vacation. Although I haven’t won anything yet, I would like to introduce you to my dream vacation plan. I was born and raised in South Korea until my family immigrated to Canada when I was 15. When I was in Korea, I had chance to visit neighboring countries like China, Honking, and Thailand. The one missing puzzle of my journey was a trip to Japan, which is located right next to my home country Korea. Ever since I came to Canada, I made a promise to myself, when I grow up and have enough money to go on a vacation, I will plan a visit to Japan and enjoy a week of stay in a beautiful country.

Why? To fulfill my dream of visiting Japan
When? Reading week of 2011
Who? I would like to take my lovely girlfriend with me along the journey
How? By winning the lottery^^
Where? Japan (Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka)



<Click Here for the link of the movie>

<Click Here for the link of image>

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