JAPAN with kids

Writer Debbie Harrison recently explored the country's famous Golden Triangle with her family. Here are her top 10 takeaways from the trip

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I've never had more interest in a holiday we've taken - it seems everyone has Japan on their bucket list! My verdict after 10 days exploring Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka with my husband and two teenagers? Japan absolutely lives up to the hype.

1 The culture shock (in the best way)

It's not just the culture - it's the way things are done. From the ultra-polite etiquette to the meticulous organisation, Japan operates on a level of efficiency that is fascinating to experience. From vending machines on every corner, bidets in all bathrooms, including public loos, 3D digital billboards, quirky cafés with pet-able pigs, cats, owls and capyneko, to the contrast between temples and contemporary cityscapes, you're left with no doubt that you're no longer in New Zealand.

2 Public transport perfection

It might seem weird to highlight a country's public transport, but in Japan, it's an experience in itself. Trains arrive the second they're scheduled and if you miss it, there's another one six minutes later. Our family of four spent just $30 each for 10 days of nonstop exploring, relying heavily on Google Maps to help us navigate the puzzle of stations, lines, levels and carts. Travelling by bullet train (shinkansen) was equally memorable.

3 Temples and shrines