Epic Japan Journey: North to South by Subway and Bus
This article details an incredible journey across Japan, traveling from the northernmost point to the southernmost point entirely by subway and bus. The traveler embarks on this adventure with no set plan, embracing the potential for unexpected challenges and discoveries along the way. The goal is to experience the diverse landscapes and climates of Japan, spanning over 3,000 kilometers.
Preparing for the Northern Start
The journey begins with a flight to the northernmost city in Japan. The traveler expresses both excitement and apprehension, acknowledging the potential difficulties and uncertainties of the ambitious undertaking. The initial questions are: Can this be done? How long will it take? How much will it cost?
Arrival in the North and Initial Impressions
Upon arriving in the northernmost city, the traveler notes it's not as cold as expected. After settling in and having dinner, they explore the city, highlighting its geographical significance and proximity to Russia, with a view of Kuya Island. The fresh air and scenic beauty spark anticipation for what the southernmost part of Japan holds.
The Journey Begins: Train to Mingji
The next day marks the official start of the journey. The traveler immediately encounters a minor setback with worsening cold symptoms. The distance between the northern and southern stations is emphasized as 3,099 kilometers. They utilize the "Youth 18" ticket, a cost-effective option allowing unlimited travel on many subway, electric car, and bus systems in Japan for a limited time.
The first leg involves a four-hour train ride to Mingji, the first transfer station. The scenery of Beihai Road passes by the window. They notice the air has a distinctly Russian smell.
Continuing South: Train Transfers and Unexpected Delays
The journey continues with multiple train transfers. The traveler notes the increasing comfort of each subsequent train. After five transfers and 53 stations, they finally reach Zha Huang, the first major city on Beihai Island, after nine hours on the train.
Zha Huang: Rest and Culinary Delights
Exhausted from the long travel day, the traveler arrives at the hotel. The cost of accommodation is significantly lower than in Tokyo. Despite their fatigue, they venture out to try Beihai Dao's special soup curry, which provides instant relaxation and satisfaction.
Coastal Scenery and Slowing Down the Pace
The third morning brings a new day of travel. Encountering a beautiful coastal road, the traveler decides to deviate from a purely linear journey. They resolve to travel more slowly, savoring local cuisine and exploring at a more relaxed pace. This shift in plan reflects a desire for a richer, more immersive experience.
Xiaozun: Chocolate and Train Travel
Arriving in Xiaozun, the first train station of the day, they stop to sample local chocolates, describing the unique and delicious flavors. Due to the early hour, many shops are closed, so they board the train again.
Changwanbu: A Small Village and Crab Meat Rice
The journey continues to Changwanbu, a small, quiet village. The traveler seizes the opportunity to explore the area during a two-hour wait for the next train. They discover a restaurant by the sea, enjoying a delicious and affordable crab meat rice dish that they likely wouldn't have found otherwise.
Hanguan: A Tourist Destination and Culinary Exploration
After 12 hours and 54 stations, they reach Hanguan, the terminal station for the day. Weary from the continuous travel, they decide to store their luggage and explore the city. They visit a morning market, sampling grilled seafood, and a local burger shop. They also visit the scenic Wulingguo area.
Leaving Hokkaido: The Shinkansen and Kinsen
Boarding the train again, the traveler journeys for an hour, covering 12 stations, until they reach Mugu, the last stop in Hokkaido. They take the Shinkansen, a bullet train, to the main island of Japan. The next stop is Kinsen, where they discover the region's famous apples.
Kinsen: Apple Paradise and Digestive Distress
Kinsen's famous apples become the focus. The traveler encounters an "automatic harvest machine" dispensing apple juice. They visit a shop with an overwhelming variety of apple products, sampling numerous apple juices and tarts. However, this indulgence leads to stomach discomfort later in the day. The excess of apple juice results in a day spent close to restrooms.
Red Front Station: A Restful Day and a Third of the Way
Due to digestive issues, the traveler spends the afternoon resting at the Red Front Station. The next morning, they note they've completed about one-third of their journey, with two-thirds remaining.
Cheap Noodles and the Autumn Dog
The traveler eats cheap noodles near a train station. As the journey continues, they pass by the home of autumn dogs at a train station.
Oya Koton and Xinxie
The weather continues to get hotter. The traveler samples Oya Koton. After another change of city, they arrive at Xinxie.
A Special Bar and a Messed Up Train
The traveler arrives at a special bar with over 100 kinds of wine. The next day, the plan is messed up due to a missed train.
Minggu House and a Restful Day
After arriving at Huancheng Station, they continue to take the train to the final station of the day, Minggu House. Arriving during the daytime, they decide to rest all day.
New City
On the eighth day, they arrive at New City in the daytime and settle in.
Jingdai Bridge and Ice Cream
The traveler visits Jingdai Bridge and tries different ice creams.
Xia Guan and Jiuzhou Island
The traveler continues through Xia Guan, taking the train to Fung Gang, then arriving in Jiuzhou Island.
Bodo Ramen and the Final Stop
The traveler eats Bodo Ramen at the main store. They take a tourist train to Luer Island. Arriving at Luer Island, they are close to the southernmost point of Japan. Since they arrived at 4 p.m., they decide to rent a car, making their way to the southernmost station.
Reaching the Southernmost Point
The traveler finally arrives at the southernmost station in Japan, completing their journey using public transportation. They acknowledge the difficulty of the trip but emphasize the unforgettable experience. The surrounding landscape is described with coconut trees and an empty city feel. The trees are all coconut trees and the city is relatively empty.