Hi Everyone,
I am planning to visit Japan next summer in May for a month. Can anyone give me recommendations on which area or areas to stay in - I want to learn the language while there and fully be immersed in the culture and society. Please leave comments with recommendations
thanks!!

The J-Hoppers network of hostels is both cheap and useful if you're planning to backpack around Japan. They also offer cultural experiences on certain days Had a great time in Kyoto, Osaka and Hiroshima thanks to them.

They are great. I used to do my working holiday with them and stayed at Lake Biwa and Wakayama J-Hoppers hostels. Perfect to do some "Japan-Hopping"

Following

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Ohhh following

This is in an isolated area but, https://youtu.be/WcqASloMd8g

Loved Kyoto!

Jamia I’ve heard amazing things about Kyoto! Thanks!

We spent 7 great days in Tokyo and ate a lot of great food. We stayed in the Shinjuku area right across from the government building. It’s is very convenient and close to the subway. There’s so much to see! Go to Shin Udon for the best udon. Good ramen everywhere.

Jason thanks !

Shinjuku was a great area to stay. You don't have to worry about the trains. They shut down early. And the area is packed with everything to do.

Greg thx!

Spend a night or two at Hakone can be fun. You can enjoy the hot spring and hiking trails there

Hazel thank you appreciate this recommendation!

Nara is worth visiting, and I love Hiroshima for the okonimiyaki and the history. My best experiences in Japan have always been in small places where it helps to speak a bit of Japanese first -- Ise, Yudanaka and Beppu all stand out. Check out what matsuri are happening in May and see if you want to go to any -- it can be a great excuse to explore places you hadn't considered before. https://www.japanvisitor.com/japanese-festivals/festival-may

Duolingo.com is a nice introduction to the language to learn some basics before you go to Japan

Have you ever been to Japan before? Do you speak any Japanese? Do you have an idea of where you want to visit in Japan?

Toby yes I can understand basic Japanese and have a lots of colleagues and Japanese friends who have told me where to go and what do to and where to stay etc.. but it will be my first trip to japan

Sounded like you're well looked after!
I'm not sure if any of your Japanese friend would be available to take you around and hit all the local spots. Triplelights.com has some great local guides if needed and I have had a very good experience with one of the guide there. If I were you I'd spend 50% of the time in a remote area like village and small towns where you can experience the true Japanese culture and they have the best authentic Japanese food one can have. I've once been to an island where I had a very simple dinner where the seafood there tasted so good because they were so fresh!

I really liked my stay in Kyoto last year
Not too big, easy to get around, interesting history.

Kyoto. Best place.

stay in a ryokans, rather than north american style hotels. Kyoto is the old capital and wasn't bombed during the war and rich of tradition and culture. Nara is a must and not far from Kyoto.

For sure Id stay in Kamakura...ancient samurai capital so tons of shrines and temples, beautiful beaches, outstanding cafes and restaurants , small town vibe but only an hour from Tokyo. WeBase hostel is excellent!