Since Japan?s successful bid in 2013 to host the 2020 Olympics, travel to Japan has ramped up ? big time. Even before that, however, Japan was fast becoming an attractive travel destination.
It?s no surprise to anyone who?s been here. The gorgeous balance between tradition and modernity, pockets of serenity contrasting with dazzlingly frenetic activity, the cleanliness and efficiency of public transportation, the incredible food ? we could go on and on!
These are all great reasons to visit Japan. And these are the exact reasons you should reconsider any travel plans to Japan during the 2020 Summer Olympics.
Enjoying the Sound of Silence
A quiet day at Zozoji Temple (photo by Dennis Amith CC BY).
Tokyo, and indeed Japan by extension, is best enjoyed when it?s quieter and less crowded. We?d go so far as to argue that it?s probably best during off-peak seasons. This is true of most holiday destinations, but especially true of Japan. One of Japan?s most beguiling features is the peace and quiet you?ll find in both the cities and countryside ? whether it?s exploring a gorgeous temple, ducking down a small side street, or wandering through local neighborhoods.
Trust us ? it?ll be far more difficult to enjoy doing all of this when there are thousands of people at the same venues and tourist sites as you!
Overwhelming Crowds
A typical stadium sits over 50,000 people (photo by Paul Hudson CC BY).
One could argue that central Tokyo is already crowded at the best of times. Congestion ...