Train Travel in Japan
by kiwigal_1
The Shinkansen is by far the most convenient way to travel around Japan. Unfortunately it isn't very cheap! Luckily there is a Japan JR Rail Pass available to foreign travellers. See the JR East website for details:
It must be bought abroad and stamped in Japan before you can use it. There are several options including one week (unlimited JR travel except for the super fast Nozomi service), two week, JR East and JR West passes. Check with your local travel agent for the best option or click on the link to see for yourself!
Here is a link to a very cool page that lets you see the routing between cities/stations/ports within Japan. It will tell you the route and includes the cost and time. http://www.jorudan.co.jp/english/norikae/.
I have also found this website which is extremely useful, in English with details of timetables all over Japan.
http://japanrail.com/index.html
Pay a visit to the TOKUGAWA...
by flyingkiwi
Pay a visit to the TOKUGAWA MUSEUM. The museum is on the site of the residence of the Tokugawa's chief retainer and it features one of the best art collections in the country. You'll find all sorts of treasures belonging to the Okugawa family including samurai armour, documents, lacquer ware, noh masks, elegant kimono, and paintings.
Nagoya
by o00o
The Nagoya Castle, famous for the golden dolphins adorning its rooftop, was constructed in 1612 and a new castle town formed. Nagoya is located at the heart of central Japan, which is blessed with a rich natural environment. Some of the scenic areas of the region include Ise Bay. Nobi Plane, and Kiso River. As the nucleus of this central area, Nagoya, with its population of more than 2.15 million, is one of Japan's major cities, and an important industrial and cultural center. Nagoya is actively preparing for a future in which lifestyle, technology, and culture work together to create a harmonious environment.