Re: When (and where) to go to Japan?

[Gerry Scott-Moore]

In article >, Thomas F. Unke
> wrote:

> > So it is possible to run into foreigners here and there -maybe even
> > other backpackers? It seems Japan isn't a place where most backpackers
>
> Few backpackers. Most foriegners are english teachers or doing
> some semi-legal business there.

One of the big bonuses, especially outside Tokyo, is that one rarely
bumps into non-asians.

> >
> > How do I find those cheap places to stay?
>
> LP, Rough Guide.
>
> > I know about the Youth hostels, and that I should sign up for a
> > membership back home first -are these the cheapest and best places to
> > stay if you don't have unlimited funds?
>
> Yes. If you don't mind the rules (normally curfew at 9 pm) they are
> often quite nice. Especially those located at temples/shrines.

We had never done these places, mostly because of the curfew. Despite
the fact that we were collapsing from over-touring by 9 pm. But one
place we did stay with a curfew made a point of asking us if we'd need
a key. If we stayed out past 9 we could get back in. That made it
very easy.

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[Gerry Scott-Moore]

In article >, Hallvard
Tangeraas > wrote:

> > We had never done these places, mostly because of the curfew.
> > Despite the fact that we were collapsing from over-touring by 9 pm.
> > But one place we did stay with a curfew made a point of asking us
> > if we'd need a key. If we stayed out past 9 we could get back in.
> > That made it very easy.
>
> Curfew at 9pm? I haven't seen anything about that at the Japan
> youth-hostel websites, but perhaps they don't announce it until you
> get there.

Most books and websites state their curfew time.

> Bummer :-( Is this for youth-hostels that have dorms, or
> do you have to be in by 9 even if you rent a single room?

I've never been in a youth hostel. Once, in Italy in the 60's I slept
on a park-bench. Does that count?

> It seems to me that Youth hostels are the cheapest places to stay
> when in Japan. Everything else isn't suited for budget backpackers at
> all, and that's what I am.

If you say so. I've seen so many cheap places in the travel guides
that surprises me. Mostly "business hotels". You're really in a
situation where you need to have a room for $14 dollars and dining for
the day at $6 or something? Damn!

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