This bad boy will be in my bag everywhere I go in Japan, and we will defeat the evil of the tricky chopsticks. A fork and spoon duo would rattle, so I went for this. 
Next Stop Japan
For the last 15 years I have an average amount of travel for a middle-aged Aussie, but it has always been with family, visiting family or with friends.
It’s time to get a bit more adventurous again, like in the 90s when I backpacked for 5 years.
Japan! Went to Tokyo with a friend a few years back, and it is time to see some of the rest of the country.
Apart from Shinjuku, I have never been to any of these places. The choices revolve around my loves of ancient history, wild & dangerous places, and rugby. And getting some value from the JR Rail Pass.
Itinerary for Autumn 2018:
Kuala Lumpur (2 nights)
My flight was going there anyway, I’ve never been before, they speak English, and it’s a Muslim country that likes a drink.
Osaka (2)
Was much cheaper to fly into than Tokyo. Kofun are nearby. And the Usaka National Monument Government Park.
Kagoshima (1)
Half a country away, but only 4.5 hours on a fast train. Active volcano that you can taste!
Beppu (2)
The most thermal part of Japan, and not very many foreign tourists go there. Plus a monkey park. And stone buddhas and a samurai district in nearby Usuki. Or perhaps climb a volcano, Mt Yufu.
Alternatively I might go to Aso instead, if there’s no gas warnings.
Magome (1)
Takayama (2)
Historic village. Autumn colours, might actually genuinely try to take nice photos for once.
Shinjuku (7)
Golden Gai is my favourite drinking spot in the world. And the All Blacks are playing in Yokohama. And my friends will be here for that reason. 3x Kiwi/Aussies + 1x Jap/Kiwi/Aussie
Cairns (1)
Never been, and I’m changing flights here anyway, so I’ll spend a day and night looking around.