GO BIG IN JAPAN

Japan is hosting the 2019 Rugby World Cup. It’s famous for big and busy cities like Tokyo, and for more cultural cities like Kyoto. Urban centres like these might be overcrowded during the World Cup, which will be fun after the Springboks win, but not so fun the next day when you won’t be able to move through the crowds.

Fortunately, Japan also has lots to offer outside the touristy areas, where you can get an authentic taste of the country for less, without the crowds.

Here are 11 things we suggest you do when you’re not at a rugby match.

1 Hike up a volcano in Kirishima

The volcanic area of Kirishima-Kinkowan National Park on Kyushu Island is home to some unique hiking trails. The hike to the top of Mount Karakuni, for example, is especially spectacular. The highest point is 1 700 m above sea level, on the ridge of a volcanic crater. On a clear day you can see active