Chūbu Region Dos and Don'ts

Impress the locals by uttering their greeting in natve dialect: Phonetically it is "Mow-ka-ti-ma-ka ?" The answer: "bochi-bochi de na." Osaka-ites tend to be more open than their northern counterparts in Tokyo - feel free to strike up a converstaion with anyone.

I crashed my motorcycle here on New Years Eve. It's a small cross-roads town with a few local businesses and a Pacinco parlor. Come prepared to speak Japanese and relax... because this isn't exactly a hip town.

Beautiful city about 3 hours by train from Yokosuka. Hard to change money though, no atms work with our cards, but the hotels will exchange dollars for yen. Lots of great places to eat and shrines and temples to see, and the Black Ship Festival every year is a treat. The people are friendly, and as elsewhere in Japan, if you get lost, they will help yuo find your way.

Locals tend to be reserved. Please follow the customs and be on your best behavior as word gets around fast when you don't. Bow and don't be quick to shake hands unless they extend their hand first. Making a good impression affords you a very welcomed return the next time you visit.

Find the local armourer... he will let you try an oldish Japanese armour and take pictures for free!