Korea has quickly earned increasing global interest and attention with the rise of online cultural trends. So many people are intrigued by the experience of Korean culture, and since Korea has been continuously recuperating from COVID-19, the Incheon Tourism Organization predicts that international tourists will be able to indulge in trips to Korea very soon.
Seoul has been often regarded as the leading tourist attraction in Korea, but Incheon may triumph over Seoul modernly. Conveniently located by the sea amongst islands and numerous filming locations of Korean cultural content, tourists can now encounter trips in the area with Incheon’s smart tourist platform.
Incheon Tourism Organization suggests the following tourist locations to get to know the true essence of Incheon.
Wolmi Theme Park (Wolmi My Land) opened in 1992 and is the oldest amusement park in Wolmido. The park has become exceptionally popular as it was the filming location of Squid Game, where Deoksu meets his gang members. Fans come near and far to get photo ops at Wolmi There Park, indulging in dalgona like the characters from Squid Game and to admire the breathtaking sunsets.
Yeongjongdo Island is typically the first site that tourists encounter, as many international airlines arrive in Korea via Incheon International Airport. One of the top art and entertainment resorts in Yeongjongdo Island, Paradise City, is noteworthy for the multitude of music videos, photoshoots and fan meeting sites for K-Pop artists. Paradise City isn’t the only filming location for Korean content from TV series to reality shows in Yeongjongdo Island. Eurwangni Beach is where BTS filmed one of their music videos, and is a must-visit for those looking to appreciate a stunning sunset in Korea.
Incheon Open Port may just be the most significant historic tourist attraction that allows for an experience of the 19th century, and the present. Domestic and international visitors can take pleasure in these trips by using the Incheon Easy app. The app includes tourism suggestions, transportation reservations and a luggage keeping service. Download the Incheon Easy app if you plan on traveling to Incheon soon. (Available on Google Play and App Store).
If you’re in search of the perfect tourist destination that will submerge you in culture, entertainment and history, you’ve found exactly that in Incheon.
Wilderness Scotland Announces New Winter Itineraries for 2022
Scotland’s #1 adventure travel company is inviting eager travelers to experience stunning scenery, fresh crisp days, cozy nights, and a slower pace.
Crisp fall days and winter frost are around the corner, and travelers are already planning their seasonal getaways. Winter trips are invigorating, spacious, and wild; they awaken a true sense of discovery. Wilderness Scotland has the perfect set of new winter holidays to inspire slow winter travel to help guests disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with nature.
Boasting spectacular views of the moody Orkney Islands, breathtaking drives through the Cairngorms National Park, skiing in secret places favoured by locals, and wildlife sightings in the Abernethy National Nature Reserve; Wilderness Scotland unveils these carefully curated experiences for travelers to enjoy within the vast and expansive landscape, where fresh air and space compliment exciting adventures. Days are spent soaking in the expanse of Scotland’s natural, idyllic vistas, and evenings melt away at a dreamy pace in cozy pubs, sitting next to crackling fires with a warm drink or glass of Royal Lochnagar whisky.
Wilderness Scotland’s small group and private departures layout an unparalleled path to discovering the tranquility and beauty of a Scottish winter while being warmed by the country’s exuberant spirit and affectionate hospitality.
Here is a sampling of Wilderness Scotland’s winter departures:
While it may not be the first destination that comes to mind, you can ski in Scotland and when it’s good, it’s really good. While Scotland makes no claim to compete with the Alps, it can offer a fantastic winter experience both on and off the mountain. If you have a sense of adventure, are flexible and simply enjoy being in the mountains you will be delighted by winter skiing in Scotland.
Trip Highlights:
Ski multiple Scottish resorts
Ski the secret places favored by locals
Relax and enjoy as your hosts take care of all the details
Winter is a spectacular and invigorating time to visit Orkney. Moody skies, crashing waves against stoic cliffs and salty gusts carrying the taste of the sea through this ancient landscape. Winter is the perfect time to escape and be recharged by the unbridled power and majesty of nature. Outside the traditional tourist season, you’ll enjoy the company of locals – hardy wildlife and welcoming people.
Trip Highlights:
Invigorating wild weather walks with sweeping coastal views
Experience the natural and cultural heritage of these special islands
Enjoy Orcadian hospitality and fresh local produce
Imagine snuggling up together with a warming dram, the crackling fire chasing the last of the icy outdoor air away. After a day outside exploring the charms of a Highland winter, you have definitely earned this. Embrace the stillness of the winter landscapes, the rich smell of the evergreen pine forests, the sparkle of ice crystals, and cracking of frozen puddles under your feet. As you explore the Cairngorms National Park you may catch rewarding glimpses of the local wildlife wearing their winter coats and see the star-strewn skies that seem to go on forever.
Trip Highlights:
Hiking in the beautiful Cairngorms National Park with an expert guide
Relax in luxurious 5-star hotels
Gaze at the endless stars in the clear winter night skies
Enjoy rejuvenating treatments in the spa
Customize the itinerary to create your perfect trip
For information on price, inclusions, and available dates, click here.
For more information on Wilderness Scotland’s reopening, experiences, and booking policies, please visit wildernessscotland.com or call 1-844-235-6240.
For details on Wilderness Scotland’s Travel Planning and Advice in response to Covid-19, please click here
Patrick must admit – he has not mastered the perfect selfie. However, he thinks that Seattle in September could be the remedy for any travel woes as we pardon summer and welcome the fall. Considering that social media isn’t losing momentum, it is becoming increasingly evident that one must embrace society’s online culture. Time stamping oneself at destinations as proof of global citizenship is a necessity.
Seattle is a phenomenal location to let the eye wander. Ignite a bit of envy in ]coworkers, family, and friends with selfies in this majestic Northwestern city. Discovering the United States is paramount, especially when considering the effects of the pandemic. To that end, he is authoring this easy guide to exploring this travel destination gem.
Dismiss any stereotypes about this region being inundated with rain and overcast skies – Seattle is sizzling! Unseasonably warm and record high temperatures are paired with the city’s cultural heat. Seattle’s thriving art scene, architecture and delicious cuisine options make this city a must-visit. Hopefully Patrick’s article will prompt readers to shed their COVID-19 concerns and explore the world with care and caution.
The World of Hyatt
Selfie #1! The obligatory hotel check-in selfie challenge. Hyatt has the block sewn up in downtown Seattle! Everywhere one looks from the corner of 8th and Pine Street, they can find either The Grand Hyatt, The Hyatt Regency, or the Hyatt Olive 8. All of these destinations will make a stay in Seattle sweet. Each facility has discerning characteristics for the global citizen, with The Grand Hyatt being the mothership of sophistication and elegance. The Hyatt Regency is the true gift to the business traveler with its convenient positioning near the city’s new convention center. Finally, The Hyatt Olive 8, possesses a swanky, eclectic boutique feel. Hyatt’s CEO’s, Mark Hoplamazian’s, philosophy of growing with intent is clearly visible in the hospitality that is delivered by the staff and the entire team.
Patrick bit into TIDAL+ Burger as the first capture on his journey! The mind-blowing seasoning of this burger makes for a mouthful. Trust Patrick, foodies and travelers alike will want to share their initial bite with the world. Promise him to dip the corner of the sandwich in the signature black garlic aioli prior to indulgence. Hold up – thats not all! One must indulge in a proper night cap. March over to Andare Kitchen & Bar to sip the Triveri Blanc de Blancs Brut as a welcome to Seattle.
The Space Needle
Selfie # 2! What was once a man’s doodle became a defining destination and central figure for the 1962 World’s Fair. Still standing today is synonymous with the Seattle skyline, and remains a staple that never disappoints. To visit, take a brisk elevator ride towards heaven. Regardless of the day’s weather, the view from the space needle is astonishing! Dare to step out on The Loupe – the world’s first, and only, revolving glass floor. Ready for the perfect selfie above Seattle? Honestly, Patrick was mortified about standing on the glass flooring. Thankfully, he conquered my fear and embraced a wonderful experience.
The Public Market
Selfie #3! Catch some live fish throwing at the Public Market! This is an invigorating opportunity, to say the least. The Public Market is always jumping with a slew of activities, so one will never be bored. Fresh seafood or a brief coffee break are manifestations of Seattle’s cultural tapestry – and also make for gorgeous selfie backgrounds. Dusk is the best time to catch the neon glow of the Public Market signage. Bring a camera and become a part of the Seattle skyline.
The Nest Rooftop Bar
Selfie #4! Cocktails and bites are why everyone travels, correct? At least, that is part of Patrick’s ministry. The Nest Rooftop Bar is elegantly perched above the Thompson Seattle Hotel. This bar makes for a splendid city view, whether it’s day or night. Additionally, the restaurant’s lush, green garden wall creates an outstanding optic opportunity.
Heads up! The Seattle Great Wheel illuminates the night sky from the restaurant’s vantage point.
The Seattle Museum of Art
Selfie#5! Refined yet welcoming, visiting the Seattle Museum of Art (SAM) is a moment to adore. Spend the day absorbing cultural education while viewing works of art from around the world. The Seattle Asian Art Museum is the SAM’s original home, and without a doubt the 1933 art-deco elements will be pleasing to viewer’s eyes. There are countless locations within the walls of this building for picturesque selfies.
Chihuly Garden and Glass
Selfie #6! Glamour behind glass at the Seattle Center. Upon visiting, one should expect nothing less than phenomenal from the native Washingtonian Dale Chihuly. Chihuly Garden and Glass presents spectacular landscapes for viewing, including the atrium’s ceiling art. One’s eyes will marvel at the plethora of hand-blown glass sculptures. Chihuly’s colorful artwork makes for an excellent back drop in his selfie repertoire.
Say cheese!
About Patrick T. Cooper
From wardrobe stylist to CEO, Patrick T. Cooper’s career encompasses over 20 years in design. His prowess for defining creative strategies to fuel brands is what continually ignites Patrick. Innate artistic aptitude makes him a highly sought-after partner for Fortune 500 companies looking to garner consumer brand loyalty. Patrick’s diverse body of work includes corporate partners like Masonite as well as entertainment clients American Idol season 3 winner Fantasia Barrino, rock band 3 Doors Down, and legendary mogul Sean Combs. Patrick T. Cooper’s cutting-edge sense of style and genius allows him to envision beyond the predictable to create thought-provoking content that positively impacts diverse audiences globally.
As an African American man and LGBTQ advocate, Patrick is the epitome of the convergence of eclectic style, art, culture and people. As the official Chief Encouragement Officer, he’s committed to living authentically and celebrating originality. Patrick’s mantra, “Being a trailblazer isn’t enough if we don’t encourage others to find and live in their purpose!”
After a year of lockdowns, Americans are ready to hit the road for their summer vacations—and memories of vacations past are fueling their wanderlust. That’s actually been recorded in surveys, including one by Carinsurance.com. According to results, 79% of Americans have taken a family road trip in the last five years and 70% of those families report having the time of their lives during those vacations.
They’ve also tested which method of transportation people use for travelling. The majority of Americans (68%) prefer road trips for summer travel, compared to 15% of respondents in the annual survey of 1,000 drivers who say they would rather fly, and 17% who only favor car travel now because of the pandemic and expect to resume flying eventually.
The research also highlights what family road trip experiences are like and how drivers feel when on the road, how they cope with traffic, and what types of mishaps they’ve experienced due to poor road conditions.
As a result of peoples’ gravitation towards driving, there have been adverse effects. According to the Department of Transportation, the conditions of roads around the country are getting worse. This results in many drivers sustaining major (30%) or minor (30%) car damage because of poor road conditions, 15% hit objects, and 14% get into an accident with another car. Just one accident can raise your yearly car insurance rate by 32%, or $450 a year, on average.
24% of people planned to take a road trip last year, but their driving plans were wrecked by COVID. Another top reason for skipping a family road trip is work: 20% of respondents say they can’t get time off, though that’s down from last year’s 23% percent. Other common reasons for avoiding road trips include high gas prices (20%) and difficulty with hotels (10%). Another 11% percent of people complain about spending so much time trapped in the car with family members.
Dealing with traffic woes
During their trips, 53% of drivers say they are relaxed and content, up from 37% who felt this way last year. How do Americans cope when they experience traffic delays?
69% listen to music
30% listen to news
25% talk on the phone
23% listen to audiobooks or podcasts
21% check social media on the phone
18% listen to sports radio
17% text on their phone
11% get out of the car and walked around if in stopped traffic for extended time
10% eat an entire meal
9% talk with strangers in other cars to pass the time
Conclusion
People love to travel and that’s only expected to increase as the pandemic begins to come to a close. Despite everything, people still love to travel, and now more than ever people love being on the open road, even if it comes with complications.
With many starting to travel again, there are new safety precautions people should take given COVID.
Here are 11 tips to ensure your long-awaited travel plans aren’t interrupted.
COVID Enforcement Isn’t Your Responsibility
If you find someone not following the mask rules, inform someone who is in charge. Don’t risk being detained or removed due to an altercation with a stranger.
Don’t Rely On Technology For Your Itinerary
We are dependent on our smart phones for almost everything. Low batteries, lost phones or no signal can disrupt your plans. Before you leave home, print your dates, times, confirmation numbers, locations, and contact information for all your travel. Rental cars, airlines, hotels, and tourist attractions can help you recover lost information. Share this information with friends and family.
Don’t Risk Your Safety For The Perfect Photo
Selfies have resulted in unnecessary injuries.
Don’t Make Your Vacation Public Until You Return Home
Posting on social media announcing a trip informs people your home is vulnerable, since no one is around.
Let Your Financial Institution Know You Are Traveling
Monitoring charges on credit cards is common today. If your credit card company/financial institution doesn’t know you are traveling, it could result in extra scrutiny on your account due to out of state charges. If your financial institution can’t contact you about out of state charges, it might result in charges being declined while you’re away.
Back Pockets Are Horrible Place For Valuables
Wallets, passports and valuables should be kept in secure spots, such as cargo or in front pockets. Minimize your wallet or have an alternate wallet just for travel.
Travel With A First Aid Kit
A small one for air travel or a larger one for road trips. Don’t rely on emergency services in the short term. Secure wraps, tourniquets, bandages, and hemostatic agents, which can all save lives. This is a must for any cross-country travel.
Be Aware of State Laws
If you are driving through a state, make sure you know the state laws for securing your weapon or speaking to an officer if you are stopped. Violations can be met with fines, confiscation of the weapon or even arrest.
Have Cash On Hand For Emergencies
Don’t use unfamiliar ATMs. Many travelers have been scammed by recording devices or card readers. When possible, use credit cards to minimize the amount of cash on your person.
Secure Your Items In The Hotel Room Safe
Too many people hide belongings in suitcases. This is a known practice that is easily thwarted. Instead, secure your treasured items in the hotel room safe to be extra safe.
Be Aware Of Your Surroundings
Situational awareness is critical when traveling. Be aware of cars or people who may be following you. Trust your instincts when you start to feel unsafe.
Amtrak customers can take advantage of this limited-time summer sale
Great deals are now available for summer travel on Amtrak with someone special. For a limited time, a customer booking a private Roomette for travel this summer can bring a companion for free. Roomettes offer meals included in the price of the ticket, scenic views by day, and comfortable beds at night. Available on Amtrak’s website, this sale is valid between Apr. 6-16, 2021, for travel between June 1 and Sept. 30, 2021.
“We want to offer our customers a truly unique way to see the country this summer,” said Amtrak Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing and Revenue Officer Roger Harris. “With our nationwide Roomette sale, customers can share the experience with a travel companion while taking advantage of some of the best sightseeing opportunities this country has to offer.”
For those seeking both space and privacy, Roomettes include a big picture window, fresh towels and linens and access to a restroom and shower. A dedicated attendant provides turndown service, assists with meals, helps with luggage and shares great stories of life on the rails. All customers in private rooms receive complimentary lounge access at major stations, priority boarding and complimentary meals onboard.
During this promotion, two customers can travel together in a Roomette for as low as:
Private rooms are available on 15 routes across the national network: Auto Train, California Zephyr, Capitol Limited, Cardinal, City of New Orleans, Coast Starlight, Crescent, Empire Builder, Lake Shore Limited, Northeast Regional, Silver Star, Silver Meteor, Southwest Chief, Sunset Limited and Texas Eagle.
To apply this discount, visit Amtrak’s website, or enter code C645 when booking a trip on the Amtrak app. The paying adult and free companion must travel in the same room and reserve in the same reservation. This offer is valid for Roomettes only; no upgrades permitted. This offer is not combinable with any other discount offer. Other terms and conditions apply.
The iconic, Swiss countryside resort in Lausanne reopens for the second time following COVID-19 lockdowns.
Located on the banks of Lake Geneva at the foot of the Swiss Alps, the Beau-Rivage Palace announced it is reopening its doors today–just in time for spring.
As the property marks its 160th anniversary, the hotel has taken advantage of the temporary closure and is debuting several upgrades. The Beau-Rivage wing is undergoing a glorious renovation, and the new Cinq Mondes Spa boasts a fresh space and innovative wellness concepts.
With its ten acres of lakeside private gardens and five restaurants and bars, the Beau-Rivage Palace is committed to the highest level of cleanliness and hygiene measures throughout every touch point of the guest experience. This protocol guarantees the safety and well-being of guests and staff members, ensuring a successful summer for the Swiss destination hotel. The property is planning enhanced programming for the coming months, starting with a festive Easter weekend.
For more information on the Beau-Rivage Palace, visit their website.
ABOUT THE BEAU-RIVAGE PALACE:
The Beau-Rivage Palace is situated on ten acres of private gardens, adjacent to Lake Geneva with spectacular views of the Swiss Alps. The property’s two Michelin starred restaurant, Anne-Sophie Pic at the Beau-Rivage Palace, features France’s only female chef with three Michelin stars. Other amenities include two bars and terraces, two tennis courts and a special program for children.
As the World Rushes to Develop a Travel Passport, Jamaica’s International Airport is Already Using TPT MedTech’s Mobile QuikLAB(TM) End-to-End Testing, Monitoring, Vaccination App and QuikPASS(TM) Check and Verify Passport Platform to Screen.
We believe this Partnership is the first fully operational, comprehensive advanced testing platform in effort to keep travel open.
As the world searches for a complete testing solution regarding travel during Covid, Jamaica’s International Airport has already partnered with TPT Global Tech, Inc. (OTCQB:TPTW) and its subsidiary, TPT MedTech. The company is looking to deploy its QuikLAB™ and QuikPASS™ technology platforms as the “Check and Verify” Passport system for travelers. Already, Jamaica is checking travelers daily in and out of the country by the thousands.
The TPT/Jamaica Airport partnership allows tourists in the country to obtain the completely private and HIPPA compliant QuikPASS App from the TPT MedTech website and get tested at the Baywest Hospital and Clinics or another QuikLAB testing site on the island in order to receive their results electronically via the QuikPASS app. Once cleared to travel, a tourist is free to enter the airport, show or scan their QuikPASS QR code, which displays their HIPPA compliant testing records, in order to verify that they have been tested in the past 72 hours and are free and safe to travel home.
“While the world itches to get back to safe travel, we have been helping Jamaica’s airports achieve that for an entire month. From the UK to the US and beyond, our test and verify platform provides complete, safe and fully secure testing that is already being used to get travel back to normal in Jamaica and we look forward to working with airlines, cruise lines, hotels and entire countries to help them do the same,” said TPT Global Tech CEO Stephen J. Thomas III.
TPT MedTech developed its QuikPASS™ Check and Verify passport system and Covid 19/vaccination monitoring platform for corporations, governmental organizations, schools, airlines, hospitals, sports venues & arenas, restaurants, hotels, and nightclubs. The all-in-one mobile system checks and verifies that an individual has been tested for Covid-19 or vaccinated, providing proof individuals are able to travel or gain access to venues with the idea that everyone inside that venue would be Covid-free. The QuikPASS Check and Verify passport-style platform works with third-party testing labs and organizations that participate on the QuikPASS Network and will be offered for free to US domestic and international business commerce and governmental organizations around the world.
About TPT Global Tech
TPT Global Tech Inc. (TPTW) based in San Diego, California, is a technology-based company with divisions providing telecommunications, medical technology and product distribution, media content for domestic and international syndication as well as technology solutions. TPT MedTech subsidiary is a provider of Covid/health testing services on a global scale, and its industry leading platforms are helping travelers get back to travel, allowing events to take place, and generally helping life get back to a new normal. TPT Global Tech offers Software as a Service (SaaS), Technology Platform as a Service (PAAS), Cloud-based Unified Communication as a Service (UCaaS). It offers carrier-grade performance and support for businesses over its private IP MPLS fiber and wireless network in the United States. TPT’s cloud-based UCaaS services allow businesses of any size to enjoy all the latest voice, data, media and collaboration features in today’s global technology markets. TPT Global Tech also operates as a Master Distributor for Nationwide Mobile Virtual Network Operators (MVNO) and Independent Sales Organization (ISO) as a master distributor for pre-paid cell phone services, mobile phones cell phone accessories and global roaming cell phones.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains “forward-looking statements” within the meaning of various provisions of the safe harbor provisions of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, commonly identified by such terms as “believes,” “looking ahead,” “anticipates,” “estimates” and other terms with similar meaning. Specifically, statements about the Company’s plans for accelerated growth, improved profitability, future business partners, M&A activity, new service offerings, and pursuit of new markets are forward-looking statements. Although the company believes that the assumptions upon which its forward-looking statements are based are reasonable, it can give no assurance that these assumptions will prove to be correct. Such forward-looking statements should not be construed as fact. The information contained in such statements is beyond the ability of the Company to control, and in many cases, the Company cannot predict what factors would cause results to differ materially from those indicated in such statements. All forward-looking statements in the press release are expressly qualified by these cautionary statements and by reference to the underlying assumptions.
Beijing’s Tourism Revenue Dropped by 53% in 2020 – Loss of Over ¥330B
The tourism industry was badly hit by the COVID-19 pandemic and the city of Beijing saw the momentum of the industry halted in 2020. Beijing had become an increasingly popular tourist destination prior to the pandemic with revenue from inbound tourism recorded at $5.16B in 2019. According to data presented by TradingPlatforms, Beijing’s total revenue from tourism decreased by over 53% in 2020 for a staggering loss of ¥330B, or $50B.
Beijing Revenue From Tourism Dropped By Over $50B After Years Of Growth
China has long moved on from its isolationist policies and has encouraged the mainland as a travel destination for tourists. Revenue from China’s tourism sector grew at a strong 13.8% CAGR from 2010-2019 to ¥5.7T, or almost $880B. In 2019, China was the fourth most visited country by foreign tourists with 65.7M arrivals for the year.
Beijing is one of the leading tourist destinations in China, and the city has been enjoying the growth of the tourism sector until the pandemic of 2020 hit. From 2016-2019, Beijing’s tourism revenue experienced a 5.53% CAGR, rising to a value of ¥622.7B in 2019. However, COVID-19 shut borders around the world, crippling global mobility and disrupting the momentum built up by Beijing’s tourism industry. Beijing’s revenue from tourism dropped over 53% in 2020 to just over ¥291.
Beijing suffered a staggering loss in revenue, specifically in inbound tourism, where revenue dropped from $5.16B in 2019 to just $480M in 2020.
COVID-19 Hit China Early – Caused Massive Disruption in H1 of 2020
China felt the effects of COVID-19 before much of the rest of the world did. A clear example of this is in the drop in weekly Airbnb bookings from the period between January 5th to March 7th. This drop occurred when the coronavirus was just becoming news to the rest of the world of what was happening in various parts of China. Beijing experienced a dizzying 96% drop in weekly Airbnb bookings compared to just 46% in Seoul and 29% in Tokyo in this time period.
The number of domestic tourists is estimated to have dropped by as much as 62% in the first half of 2020 compared to the year prior, with revenues dropping by as much as 77%. By the end of the year, China had experienced a 43% drop in domestic tourists and a 52% drop in revenue from domestic tourism.
Tourism in China Projected To Completely Recover Within 5 Years
In 2019, the absolute economic contribution of tourism in China was estimated at $1.67T. This fell sharply to just $745.5B in 2020-a decrease of more than 55%, but still the largest in Asia and the second-largest overall, after the USA. However, projections have the figure bouncing back up by over 40.5% in 2021 to $1.04T. The figure is projected to surpass pre-pandemic levels for the first time in 2023, when the absolute economic contribution of tourism is projected to be at $1.75T.
Despite the turmoil of 2020, China’s absolute economic contribution from tourism is projected to have an impressive CAGR of 20.75% from 2021-2025, reaching more than $2.67T by the end of the forecast period.
You can read more about the story with more statistics and information on TradingPlatforms’ website.
With an incredibly rich history, it’s no wonder that Japan has more than 5,700 museums across its 47 prefectures; and with so many to choose from, travelers are bound to find some unexpected surprises among them. Below are some of Japan’s most interesting museums that travelers can visit, once travel restrictions are lifted.
Cup Noodles Museum – Kanagawa Prefecture A fun destination for kids and adults, the Cup Noodles Museum in Kanagawa Prefecture is full of exciting activities. Along with interesting exhibitions, such as a replica of the shed where instant noodles were invented and a small collection of modern art pieces made from Cup Noodles, visitors can make their own personalized cup noodle at the My Cup Noodles Factory. At the My Chicken Ramen workshop, guests can make their own instant ramen noodles from scratch. The Noodles Bazaar also gives visitors a chance to try out nine different noodle dishes.
Towel Museum of Art – Ehime Prefecture
An incredibly unique institution, the Towel Museum of Art in Ehime Prefecture is the world’s first towel museum dedicated to the art of towel manufacturing. Inside, visitors can find galleries and displays showcasing intricate traditional towels, art made from towels and an exhibition on the towel-making process. The museum gift shop features a wide array of original goods and local products available for purchase.
TOTO Museum – Fukuoka Prefecture
Japan’s famous TOTO brand is best known for its bathware and in celebration of its 100th anniversary, the TOTO Museum was opened in 2017. The elegant two-story building leads visitors through the history of TOTO, especially focusing on the evolution of its toilets. From the first ceramic flush toilet seat that was developed in 1914, to modern toilets with bidets and heated seats, guests can learn about the company’s evolution, spanning more than a decade. While the museum’s signage is in Japanese, visitors can download the museum’s app for an English audio guide or to translate the signs.
Omiya Bonsai Art Museum – Saitama Prefecture
Located in the heart of the Omiya Bonsai Village, the Omiya Bonsai Art Museum is home to more than 120 bonsai masterpieces and bonsai-related artifacts, such as woodblock prints, books, bonsai pots and more. Art pieces are selected in accordance with the season and around 50 pots of bonsai are always on display in the garden and gallery. After visiting the museum, travelers can wander around the village and check out local artisans and stores. The village was originally founded in 1925 when the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923 forced bonsai nurseries and garden industry workers in central Tokyo to relocate.
Yokote Masuda Manga Museum – Akita Prefecture
The first manga-themed museum in Japan, the Yokote Masuda Manga Museum showcases the artwork from manga artists across Japan and the world. The museum houses around 400,000 original illustrations from around 100 artists in the permanent exhibitions. The museum also pays honor to the works of Takao Yaguchi, whose work helped highlight Akita Prefecture and attracted visitors. Guests can enjoy a large library of manga and read to their heart’s content for free.
For updates on travel restrictions to Japan, please visit this website.
ABOUT JAPAN NATIONAL TOURISM ORGANIZATION (JNTO)
As the official tourism board of Japan, JNTO is involved in a wide range of promotional activities to encourage international travelers to visit Japan. Through a variety of campaigns and initiatives, JNTO is inspiring more American travelers to visit Tokyo, Kyoto and beyond.
