5 years after my first visit to Mount Takao I returned to Japan eager to climb this beautiful mountain once again. There is something so remarkable about this place that I am having trouble putting it into words. I feel like it is something you can only experience for yourself. I often think I would like to live much closer to Mount Takao and visit frequently but maybe that would take some of the magic away.

Mount Takao (高尾山 - Takaosan) is located in Hachioji, a city on the outskirts of Tokyo. The nearest station is Takaosanguchi and is accessible by the Keio Takao line. It's easiest to hop on the train at Shinjuku Station. This train ride takes about 45 minutes - 1 hour.

There are a number of ways to reach the summit of Mount Takao. I recommend starting the climb with a path or a hiking trail. As you hike Mount Takao you are able to take in big, crisp breaths of air while immersing yourself in nature. Who would have thought this would be possible in Tokyo?

If you take path No. 1 you are rewarded with stunning views of Tokyo. From the lookout on Mount Takao you can really appreciate just how tall Tokyo Skytree is as you look back towards the city.

This path also makes sure you pass by all the best attractions that Mount Takao has to offer. Make sure to stop at the observation deck, the monkey park (if you have time), the Octopus Cedar (a natural treasure mentioned in folk stories) and the octopus statue. (Make sure you rub it for luck!)

As you continue walking you will reach Yakuo-In Yuki-ji - a Buddhist Temple that is considered a symbol of Mount Takao. This is where I met an elderly couple and because I was alone they decided to accompany me to the summit. I had the loveliest walk and chat with this couple. They were so warm and welcoming and had visited Australia so we had something in common to talk about. When we reached the top they even bought me an ice cream! I'm so thankful to this couple for giving me a wonderful day and I regret not knowing their names.

The summit is a wonderful place to sit and take in your surroundings. From the observation deck you can get a glimpse of Mount Fuji.

When it is time to head back home you can a choose different path to take. This is a great opportunity to take the cable car or chair lift when you are feeling a bit tired at the end of the day. You can pay for these by using your pasmo/suica card or in cash.

I have climbed Mt Takao in late November twice. Autumn is the most popular time to visit when the leaves change colour. I have heard from friends who live in Japan that the plum blossom season in February and night time visits in Summer (June-August) are also very beautiful opportunities to take a trip to Mount Takao.

In the distance you can see Mt Fuji

For more information on Mount Takao you can visit the Japan National Tourism Organisation's website here: JNTO

kirsten

Ra.a.g.f is a Rabbit Café in Harajuku. It takes about 5 minutes to walk from Meiji-jingumae Station and roughly 8 minutes from Harajuku Station. Accessible by the Chiyoda Line, Fukutoshin Line and Yamanote Line. 

Harajuku is one of the most famous districts in Japan known exclusively for its unique fashion and culture. With the opportunity to visit a rabbit café that is one more reason why you should spend time in Harajuku while visiting Japan. 

So you might be thinking what exactly is a Rabbit Café? Well its a small café where you can have a drink while feeding and petting rabbits. The rabbits live in cages and come out to play when there are visitors. There are lots of different rabbits and the staff let them out according to you. So if a rabbit catches your eye be sure to ask if you can hold it. 

This rabbit café is located on the third floor. There will be a sign outside of the building so just make sure you follow the same picture up the stairs to the café. On a busy day you may have to make a reservation and come back at your allocated time. My friend and I spent this time eating at a lovely restaurant just down the road. 

You can choose how long you want to spend with the rabbits. We chose 30 minutes which costs ¥600 (roughly $6AUD).

If you can't speak Japanese that's no problem the staff are extremely helpful and have guidelines and little contracts printed in English.

Below is a video from my experience at the café. At the beginning if you look closely you can see the rabbit eat. Unfortunately this rabbit wasn't very interested in carrot so when he did decide to take a bite you can see the surprise on my face. 

For the address and a map you can visit the official Ra.a.g.f website here: http://raagf.com/shop/harajuku/

kirsten

The Rockefeller Center is a must-see destination for everyone - not just 30 Rock fans. (Unfortunately the NBC Studio Tour has been suspended for 2014).

However, The Rockefeller Center has so much more to offer from shopping and dining to history and tours.

I highly recommend visiting the Top of the Rock Observation Deck because its one experience you will never forget!

The 360º views of NYC are absolutely breathtaking. It's not until you are 250 metres above Manhattan that you can truly appreciate how spectacular the city really is. The beautiful greenery of Central Park contrasts with the endless skyscrapers that stretch as far as the eye can see.

You may have to wait a while in line and to pass through security but do not let that stop you from visiting this wonderful observation deck. 

For more information on visiting the Rockefeller Center, tours, and passes you can visit their website:

Rockefeller Center

I'd love to hear about your favourite spots in NYC below. 

kirsten

Have you ever experienced a road trip? Driving along with the windows down, the breeze flowing through the car and the sun warming your cheeks.

Travelling by car is one of my favourite ways of sightseeing. The East Coast of Australia is a perfect destination for a road trip. 98% of Australia's population live on the coast so there are many wonderful cities and beautiful towns to visit on this drive.

If you ever find yourself taking a drive along the East Coast I highly recommend making a stop in Port Macquarie, NSW. Only a 4 hour drive from Sydney and a 6 hour drive from Brisbane.

What was my favourite thing to do in Port Macquarie? The camel rides at Lighthouse Beach, of course!

Lighthouse beach is 8km (or 4mi) south of Port Macquarie's Town Green. There are plenty of signs so it is easy to find whether you are driving in from the north or south.

I would like you to meet Obama (pictured above) the cheeky 14 year old camel who doesn't like flies. The camel safari was such an unbelievable experience. The ride was a 20 minute scenic roundtrip and as we were meandering down the beach we spotted dolphins riding the waves close to shore. What a sight! Dolphins are often seen playing in the water and if you are visiting Lighthouse Beach in the winter months you may even get the chance to see whales as they pass by!

Camel Safaris operate from Sunday to Friday every week - 930am - 1pm (weather permitting). To ride the camels it costs an adult $30AUD and a child $25AUD.

For more information like extended hours during summer holidays and a map I found their website helpful.

http://www.portmacquariecamels.com.au/

kirsten

FIND OUT MORE ON MY NEW WEBSITE: kirstendetours.com

I visited LUXIS Aqua Restaurant and Bar on my first night in Tokyo. I had a wonderful experience that I just couldn't wait to share!

LUXIS is just a short walk from Ebisu Station. Accessible by the JR Yamonote Line, JR Saikyo Line, JR Shonan Shinjuku Line and the Hibiya Subway Line.

Ebisu a very trendy area of Shibuya-ku where every night the streets come alive when people get together to visit the many animated restaurants and bars.

LUXIS formed its name by combining the two English words luxury and oasis. I do agree with the restaurant's name that these two words aptly describe the atmosphere and experience. The dim lighting, the large chairs as well as the delicious food make for a wonderful night. And I haven't even mentioned the best part yet!

LUXIS is home to an impressive aquarium filled with marine life and is the focal point of customer's luxury dining experience. I spent more time at this restaurant than one should because I was in awe. I loved chatting with friends and eating good quality food all while watching the turtles and fish swim around from where I was sitting. I must admit even though I am not a vegetarian, I could not bring myself to eat any meat or seafood.

The enjoyment continues with a trip to the restrooms. I've only ever been recommended by others to visit two restrooms in my life. One being in Harry Potter world and the other at a night club in Surfer's Paradise, Australia where there are ladies employed to do your hair and makeup and also a vanity cabinet filled with everything a girl may need on a night out from designer perfumes down to Band-Aids.

This restroom isn't quite as outrageous but it is definitely worth seeing! Although most people have heard of the hi-tech Japanese toilets there is more to discover in this restroom. When you walk in you are greeted by a beautiful Hollywood inspired powder room. Further along the hallway you reach the restroom which has its very own fish tank!

Dinner at LUXIS can range from ¥3,500 - ¥6,500pp (roughly $40AUD - $70AUD). For a map of the location and a look at the menu and packages available I found their website extremely helpful (and it's in English!)

http://www.luxis.co.jp/

Have you ever visited LUXIS? Or a similar restaurant? I would love to know about it.

kirsten

An Introduction to Kirsten Leigh

Do you remember when you first finished your education and it was time to make the transition into the next stage of your life? 

Well that's where I am right now. After three intense years at Wollongong University I have graduated with a BA degree. While studying at university my major was Japanese and my minors were Spanish and Linguistics. Throughout my degree I have learnt about the origins, the uses and the debates over the English, Japanese and Spanish languages. I've also had the opportunity to learn about the history, culture and traditions of many different countries. 

I must admit I am scared to leave the comfort and safety of educational institutions. However, I am ready to move on. At the moment I don't know what I am going to do or where I want to end up. But I think not knowing is the most exciting part! The world is such a big place and I can't imagine all the possibilities that could be out there. All I know is that I can't wait to find out about them!

As a result of my love for learning new languages I developed a passion for travelling. So I have created this blog to share my experiences, to inspire others and to find similar blogs to learn from. 

I hope that you will follow me on this new journey. Until next post. 

kirsten