There are many stories of people who have dealt with their grief through travel. Travelling can be a healing experience that allows us to process and deal with our grief. Taking a trip when we’re grieving can be a way to celebrate the life of our lost loved one, to escape from daily routines and reminders of our grief, and also to gain perspective in new experiences. If you’re planning grief travel to Japan, here are some tips to help you plan your trip.
Budget
The first step is to establish your budget. Travel to Japan can be expensive both in terms of flights and accommodation and you’ll want to ensure you have some spending money leftover to make the most of your visit. If you are waiting for your inheritance you can take an inheritance loan to get some funds earlier.
Packing
It’s a good idea to pack lightly, especially if you want to explore different places in Japan and will be moving around different areas. This will save you from having to trail heavy luggage around with you.
Summer in Japan is hot and humid, so you pack loose clothing like t-shirts and trousers in breathable fabrics as well as comfortable, sturdy footwear for exploring. Also, remember to pack your refillable water bottle as the temperatures in Japan can get very high during the spring and summer months. Don’t forget your camera to preserve the special memories of your trip.
Travel
If you plan to travel around Japan, you should definitely order a Japan Rail Pass in advance, ready for your travels. These passes are designed especially for foreign travellers and enable you to travel on railways, buses and ferry boats, including ‘bullet trains’ and the Tokyo Monorail, some local bus lines and the Miyajima ferry.
Itinerary
Japan is rich in beautiful scenery, fascinating history and mindful places that can help process grief. Planning an itinerary before you go will help you make the most of your visit and prevent you from becoming overwhelmed with options on your arrival.
In Okayama, you can find the Sogen-ji Temple – a working monastery that welcomes visitors. Here you can experience Zen meditation with monks who have dedicated their lives to the practice. You might also want to visit one of the oldest Zen training monasteries in Japan, the Daihonzan Kofukusan Kencho-ji Temple, which can be found in Kamakura, not far from Tokyo. Kyoto is home to the historic Kennin-ji Temple, which was constructed in 1202, making it the oldest Zen temple in Kyoto! The beautiful island of Miyajima with the Great Torii Gate and its forests and temples is also well worth a visit during your grief travel trip to Japan.
