15 essential Japanese phrases to help you navigate Tokyo with ease. Perfect for travelers!

• Learning basic Japanese phrases can greatly enhance your travel experience in Tokyo.
• Most signs and menus in Tokyo have English translations, but knowing some Japanese is still helpful.
• Japanese people are generally very helpful, even if they don’t speak English.
• Using polite phrases like ‘please’ and ‘thank you’ in Japanese will be appreciated.
• Familiarize yourself with phrases for common situations like ordering food, asking for directions, and shopping.

Konnichiwa

Konnichiwa (こんにちは) is the standard way to say “hello” or “good afternoon” in Japanese. It’s a versatile greeting that you can use throughout the day, especially from late morning until the evening.

When to Use Konnichiwa

• Daytime Greeting: Use “konnichiwa” to greet someone during the day, typically from late morning to early evening.
• Formal and Informal: Suitable for both formal and informal settings, making it a safe choice when meeting new people or interacting with acquaintances.

Pronunciation Tips

• Break it Down: Pronounce it as “KOHN-nee-chee-wah.”
• Practice Makes Perfect: Repeating the word several times can help you get comfortable with its pronunciation.

Cultural Context

In Japan, greetings are an important part of social etiquette. Using “konnichiwa” correctly can help you make a good impression and show respect for Japanese customs.

Remember, a simple “konnichiwa” can go a long way in making connections and showing respect in Japan.

Ohayou Gozaimasu

“Ohayou Gozaimasu” means “Good Morning” in Japanese. It’s a polite way to greet someone in the morning, typically used until around 10 AM.

• Ohayou: Informal, used among friends and family.
• Ohayou Gozaimasu: Formal, used in professional settings or with people you don’t know well.

Starting your day with a polite greeting can set a positive tone for your interactions. Don’t hesitate to use “Ohayou Gozaimasu” to show respect and friendliness.

Konbanwa

“Konbanwa” (こんばんは) is the Japanese phrase for “Good evening.” It’s used to greet someone in the evening, typically from sunset onwards. This greeting is the evening counterpart to “Konnichiwa” (Good afternoon).

When you’re out and about in Tokyo during the evening, using “Konbanwa” will help you blend in with the locals and show respect for their customs. It’s a simple yet effective way to make a good impression.

Sayounara

“Sayounara” (さようなら) is the Japanese word for “goodbye.” It’s a formal way to bid farewell and is often used when you don’t expect to see the person for a while. This term is more than just a casual goodbye; it carries a sense of finality.

In everyday situations, you might hear other, less formal ways to say goodbye, such as “ja ne” or “mata ne,” which are more like “see you later.” But when you want to be polite or formal, “sayounara” is the go-to phrase.

• **Usage Tips: **
  • Use “sayounara” when parting ways for a long time.
  • For casual goodbyes, opt for “ja ne” or “mata ne.”

Remember, using “sayounara” in the right context shows respect and understanding of Japanese culture.

Onegaishimasu

Onegaishimasu is a versatile and polite way to say “please” in Japanese. It’s often used in formal situations and can be applied in various contexts.

• When ordering food or drinks, you can say:
  • “Mizu o onegaishimasu” (水をお願いします) – I would like water, please.
  • “Kōhī o onegaishimasu” (コーヒーをお願いします) – I would like coffee, please.
• When asking for a favor or help, you might say:
  • “Tetsudatte onegaishimasu” (手伝ってお願いします) – Please help me.
  • “Mou ichido onegaishimasu” (もう一度お願いします) – Could you repeat that, please?

Onegaishimasu is more formal than “kudasai” (ください), which is used in more casual settings. For example, you might use “kudasai” when speaking with friends or peers, but “onegaishimasu” when speaking with a teacher, elder, or in a business setting.

Using “onegaishimasu” shows respect and politeness, making it a valuable phrase to know when navigating social interactions in Japan.

Arigatou Gozaimasu

When you want to say thank you in Japanese, you use Arigatou Gozaimasu (ありがとうございます). This phrase is very important in Japan, where politeness is a big part of the culture. You will probably use it a lot!

Casual vs. Formal

• Arigatou (ありがとう): This is a casual way to say thank you. You can use it with friends and family.
• Arigatou Gozaimasu (ありがとうございます): This is the formal way to say thank you. Use it in more serious situations, like when talking to a teacher, boss, or someone you don’t know well.

Extra Polite

If you want to be even more polite, you can say Domo Arigatou Gozaimasu (どうもありがとうございます), which means “Thank you very much.” This is useful when someone has done something really nice for you.

In Japan, showing gratitude is very important. Using the right form of “thank you” can show respect and make a good impression.

Dou Itashimashite

“Dou Itashimashite” means “You’re welcome” in Japanese. It’s a polite response when someone thanks you.

When to Use It

• After someone says “Arigatou Gozaimasu” (Thank you very much).
• In formal settings, like business meetings or when speaking to elders.

Pronunciation

• Dou Itashimashite: doh-ee-tah-shee-mah-she-teh

Cultural Note

In Japan, showing gratitude and acknowledging it politely is very important. Using “Dou Itashimashite” correctly can leave a positive impression.

Sumimasen

Sumimasen is a versatile Japanese term that you’ll find incredibly useful in Tokyo. It can mean “excuse me,” “I’m sorry,” or even “thank you” in certain contexts. This phrase is essential for getting someone’s attention politely, apologizing for a minor inconvenience, or expressing gratitude for a small favor.

When to Use Sumimasen

• Getting Attention: Use sumimasen to politely get someone’s attention, like when you need to ask for directions or get a waiter’s attention in a restaurant.
• Apologizing: It’s also used to apologize for minor inconveniences, such as bumping into someone accidentally.
• Expressing Gratitude: In some cases, sumimasen can be used to thank someone for a small favor, like holding the door open for you.

Examples

• In a Restaurant: If you need to call the waiter, you can say, “Sumimasen!” to get their attention.
• On the Street: If you accidentally bump into someone, a quick “Sumimasen” will suffice as an apology.
• Asking for Help: When you need assistance, starting with “Sumimasen” makes your request sound more polite.

Sumimasen is one of those words that can make your interactions smoother and more respectful. It’s a small word with a big impact on how you’re perceived by others.

Hai

In Japanese, “hai” (はい) means “yes.” It’s a simple yet powerful word that you’ll find yourself using often in Tokyo. Whether you’re agreeing with someone, acknowledging that you understand, or simply responding to a question, “hai” is your go-to word.

When to Use “Hai”

• Agreeing: If someone asks if you want something or if you understand, you can simply say “hai.”
• Acknowledging: When someone gives you instructions or information, saying “hai” shows that you are paying attention.
• Confirming: Use “hai” to confirm reservations, orders, or any other arrangements.

Examples

• Waiter: “Would you like some water?”
  You: “Hai.”
• Friend: “Do you understand the directions?”
  You: “Hai.”
• Hotel Staff: “Your room is ready.”
  You: “Hai.”

Mastering “hai” will make your interactions smoother and show that you are engaged and respectful. It’s a small word with a big impact.

Iie

In Japanese, “Iie” means “no.” It’s a simple but essential word to know when you need to decline something or disagree politely.

• Usage: You can use “Iie” in various situations, from turning down an offer to correcting someone.
• Politeness: While “Iie” is straightforward, adding “sumimasen” (excuse me) can make it more polite.

Knowing how to say “no” is just as important as knowing how to say “yes.” It helps you navigate social situations with ease.

Itadakimasu

When dining in Japan, you’ll often hear the phrase “Itadakimasu” before a meal begins. This expression is a way to show gratitude for the food and the effort that went into preparing it. It’s similar to saying “bon appétit” in French.

When to Use It

• Before Eating: Always say “Itadakimasu” before you start eating, whether you’re at a restaurant or someone’s home.
• Expressing Thanks: This phrase shows your appreciation for the meal and the people who made it possible.

Cultural Significance

• Humility and Respect: Saying “Itadakimasu” reflects humility and respect for the food and those who prepared it.
• Common Practice: It’s a common practice in Japan and is considered good manners.

Using “Itadakimasu” is a simple yet powerful way to connect with Japanese culture and show respect for the meal you’re about to enjoy.

Gochisousama Deshita

When you finish a meal in Japan, it’s customary to say “Gochisousama Deshita”. This phrase means “Thank you for the meal” and shows your appreciation for the food and the effort put into preparing it.

When to Use It

• After finishing your meal at a restaurant.
• When leaving someone’s home after being served food.
• Even after a casual meal with friends.

Why It’s Important

Using “Gochisousama Deshita” is a way to express gratitude and respect. It reflects good manners and is appreciated by hosts and restaurant staff alike.

Pronunciation Guide

• Gochisousama Deshita: goh-chee-soh-sah-mah deh-shee-tah

Remembering to say this phrase will make your dining experiences in Japan more enjoyable and respectful.

Okaikei wo Onegaishimasu

When you’re ready to pay the bill at a restaurant, you can say “Okaikei wo Onegaishimasu” (お会計お願いします). This phrase means “Check, please!” and is essential for wrapping up your dining experience.

How to Use It

1. Get the Waiter’s Attention: Politely say “Sumimasen” (すみません) to get the waiter’s attention.
2. Request the Bill: Once you have their attention, say “Okaikei wo Onegaishimasu”.
3. Wait for the Bill: The waiter will bring the bill to your table.

Splitting the Bill

If you need to split the bill, you can ask: “Betsu betsu dekimasu ka?” (別々できますか), which means “Can we split the check?”

Knowing how to ask for the bill in Japanese can make your dining experience smoother and more enjoyable. Don’t forget to thank the staff with an “Arigatou Gozaimasu” (ありがとうございます) as you leave!

Ikura Desu Ka

When you’re out shopping or dining in Tokyo, you’ll often need to ask, “How much is it?” In Japanese, you say, “Ikura desu ka?” (いくらですか). This phrase is essential for navigating prices, whether you’re at a market, a restaurant, or a souvenir shop.

Here’s a simple example:

• Hiroshima e no kaeri no kippu o onegai shimasu, ikura desu ka? (広島への帰りの切符をお願いします、いくらですか) – “I would like a return ticket to Hiroshima, how much is it?”

Remember, the pronunciation is “I-ku-ra dess ka,” with the “u” in “desu” being silent. This small phrase can make your shopping experience much smoother and more enjoyable.

Knowing how to ask for prices in Japanese can save you a lot of confusion and help you budget your trip better.

Tasukete

When you’re in a situation where you need help, the word “Tasukete” (助けて) is essential. This term means “Help!” and can be used in emergencies or when you need immediate assistance.

When to Use “Tasukete”

• Emergencies: If you find yourself in danger or in need of urgent help, shout “Tasukete!” to alert those around you.
• Lost or Confused: If you’re lost or can’t find your way, saying “Tasukete” can prompt someone to assist you.

How to Ask for Specific Help

If you need help with something specific, you can combine “Tasukete” with other phrases:

• Tasukete, onegaishimasu! (助けて、お願いします！) – Help, please!
• Tasukete kudasai! (助けてください！) – Please help me!

In a foreign country, knowing how to ask for help can make a big difference. Don’t hesitate to use “Tasukete” if you need assistance. It’s a simple word, but it can be a lifesaver.

Conclusion

Traveling to Tokyo can be an amazing adventure, and knowing a few key Japanese phrases can make your experience even better. While many people in Tokyo understand basic English, using Japanese words shows respect and can help you connect with locals. From greetings to ordering food, these phrases will help you navigate the city with more confidence. So, take some time to practice these terms before your trip. You’ll find that a little effort goes a long way in making your journey smoother and more enjoyable. Safe travels!

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to know Japanese to visit Tokyo?

No, you don’t need to be fluent in Japanese to visit Tokyo. Many signs are in English, and people are generally very helpful. However, knowing a few basic phrases can enhance your experience.

How do you say ‘hello’ in Japanese?

You say ‘hello’ in Japanese by saying ‘Konnichiwa’ (こんにちは).

What is the Japanese phrase for ‘thank you’?

The Japanese phrase for ‘thank you’ is ‘Arigatou Gozaimasu’ (ありがとうございます).

How do you ask for help in Japanese?

To ask for help in Japanese, you can say ‘Tasukete’ (助けて), which means ‘Help!’.

What should I say before eating a meal in Japan?

Before eating a meal in Japan, it’s customary to say ‘Itadakimasu’ (いただきます), which means ‘I gratefully receive’.

How do you ask for the check in a Japanese restaurant?

To ask for the check in a Japanese restaurant, you can say ‘Okaikei wo Onegaishimasu’ (お会計をお願いします).

What is the polite way to say ‘goodbye’ in Japanese?

The polite way to say ‘goodbye’ in Japanese is ‘Sayounara’ (さようなら).

How do you apologize or get someone’s attention in Japanese?

To apologize or get someone’s attention in Japanese, you can say ‘Sumimasen’ (すみません), which means ‘Excuse me’ or ‘Sorry’.

The origins of Houtouwan can be traced back to the 1980s when fishermen started settling on Shengshan Island. The area quickly grew into a vibrant fishing community with a population of over 2,000 people. But all that changed in the early 1990s when most of its inhabitants left for greener pastures, leaving behind their homes and lives in search of better opportunities elsewhere.

Today, Houtouwan has become a popular tourist destination due to its unique beauty and atmosphere. With no one living in the village anymore, it’s been taken over by nature with lush foliage growing over old buildings and cobbled streets. Despite its abandonment, visitors are still drawn to this isolated spot as they explore its unique history and uncover stories from times gone by.

The isolation of Houtouwan has led to many of its structures being perfectly preserved despite the passage of time. This makes it a great spot for photographers looking to capture breathtaking shots of the surrounding landscape or explore what life was like in this once bustling fishing village. There’s also plenty of wildlife in and around Houtouwan, including migratory birds that come each year to nest on the island’s cliffs and other wildlife such as foxes, rabbits and even deer at times. All of these things make Houtouwan an unforgettable place to visit.

Geography And Climate of Houtouwan

Houtouwan is a small fishing village located on Shengshan Island in the Shengsi Archipelago of China’s Zhejiang Province. It’s surrounded by mountains on three sides and faces the East China Sea. The isolated area is known for its rocky terrain and lush vegetation, making it an attractive destination for tourists who are looking to explore unique landscapes.

The climate in Houtouwan is subtropical, with temperatures ranging from 4°C in winter to around 30°C in summer. Rainfall is abundant throughout the year, with an average annual precipitation of 1,600 mm. This makes it an ideal spot for agricultural activities such as raising crops and livestock. In addition, the surrounding waters are rich in marine life, providing locals with ample amounts of seafood.

Houtouwan has been abandoned since the late 1990s when many of its residents moved away to look for better job opportunities elsewhere. Despite being deserted for decades now, it still retains its rustic charm which draws visitors from all over the world each year. Its picturesque scenery and laid-back atmosphere make it well worth a visit if you’re ever nearby.

Accessibility And Transportation of Houtouwan

Houtouwan is a remote fishing village, and it can be difficult to access. The only way to get to the village is by boat, as there are no roads that lead directly to the abandoned settlement. Visitors must take a ferry from Shengsi County and make their way up the winding coast of Shengshan Island.

The journey takes around 2-3 hours depending on sea conditions, and visitors should bring supplies with them since there are no stores or restaurants in Houtouwan. It’s also important to check the weather forecast before making the trip, as strong winds and rain can make it impossible to travel by boat.

Visitors should also be aware that there may be limited space on ferries during peak times, so it’s best to book tickets in advance if possible. Additionally, those travelling with large groups or carrying heavy luggage may need to rent a private boat in order to reach Houtouwan. As such, planning ahead is key for anyone who wishes to visit this fascinating abandoned fishing village.

A video that speaks of the village without words

The Zoji La is situated on National Highway 1, connecting the Kashmir Valley to Ladakh. It has an elevation of about 11,500 feet (3,500 m) above sea level and is known for its steep inclines, sharp turns and slippery surfaces. Many travelers have been captivated by its alluring beauty and spectacular views of snow-capped mountains, lush green valleys and majestic glaciers. However, it still remains one of the most daunting drives due to its extreme terrain.

The road passes through several rivers such as Dras River and Suru River which add to the difficulty of driving on this route due to their high levels during monsoon season. The road stretches for nine kilometers and winds through some of India’s highest mountains. Furthermore, there are numerous blind curves that can cause cars to skid off the road if caution is not taken while driving. The lack of guardrails along certain sections add to driver’s anxiety when navigating these tricky spots.

Despite its harrowing nature, thousands of brave souls attempt this journey every year in spite of the risks involved. Undoubtedly, traversing Zoji La requires immense courage as well as skillful driving from those who embark on this challenging endeavor. Without a doubt, it’s a feat that should be respected – even if you choose not to take it yourself!

The zigzagging roads, steep slopes and sharp turns make Zoji La a challenge to even the most experienced drivers. The challenge of tackling this formidable mountain pass requires patience, focus and quick reflexes that can only be acquired through practice and determination. Although the risks are high, the rewards are even higher – a once in a lifetime experience that will leave lasting memories with anyone brave enough to take it on.

Construction of the Bailong Elevator took three years and started in 1999. The lift officially opened in 2002 and cost an impressive 20 million dollars to build. The elevator attracts many visitors each year due to its magnificent views and offers an alternative to hiking up the mountain, which can take almost two and a half hours.

The lift is separated into a 505 feet long lower section embedded inside the mountain wall and an upper section consisting of 565 feet of exposed steel derrick that is outside of the mountain and visible to all. It boasts three cars that can take visitors all the way to the top in just one minute and 32 seconds, each car capable of carrying 10,800 pounds or 50 passengers.

While the Bailong Elevator is indeed an engineering masterpiece, its construction also stirred some controversy. Some felt it was not right to build an elevator on a UNESCO World Heritage site and protected national park, and environmentalists argued that it was dangerous and unwise to build on the protected site because the elevator would attract even more tourists to an already overpopulated area.

However, supporters of the elevator claim that the construction protects the mountain trails by allowing tourists to bypass them when taking the lift, and it also greatly reduces travel times to the area. Previously, visitors had to drive for almost three hours and often book rooms at hotels and guesthouses on the site in order to stay longer. With the elevator, they could travel the same distance in a minute and a half, reducing the need to stay overnight at the forest park. This has resulted in a reduced number of hotels and guesthouses, creating less strain on the UNESCO site.

The elevator’s management has been very careful with safety. The lift was shut down for 10 months in 2002 and 2003 due to earthquake concerns, but to deal with this potential danger, the elevator’s cars are now equipped with earthquake detectors that allow for a quick evacuation in case of a quake alert.

The Bailong Elevator and its surrounding scenery are believed to have been the inspiration behind the fictional jungle in James Cameron’s movie, Avatar.

The site has remained a popular tourist destination even 18 years after its construction and before COVID-19, the elevator carried up to 18,000 tourists each day and has continued to be visited after the pandemic.

The Zhangjiajie National Forest Park also hosts the world’s tallest bungee jump and the Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon Glass Bridge, the world’s highest and longest glass bridge. With so many record-breaking attractions, it’s no wonder why the park continues to be a popular destination for tourists from around the world.

Design and Layout

The Floating Retreat will host up to 10 canopies suspended from the mountainside, each serving as a floating hotel room complete with room service, entertainment, and WiFi access through headsets and tablets. The resort tents will feature fabric sides and clear material facades to offer panoramic mountain views. Privacy has been considered as well, with the floating rooms positioned to avoid close proximity to each other.

Each floating hotel room will have a private bathroom, access to a five-star spa located at the top of the mountains, and a main reception area on the ground floor with concierge service and a restaurant. The resort will offer different floating tent layout options and cater to different guest booking purposes including business retreats, spiritual escapes, and yoga sessions.

Accessibility and Availability

Guests will have 24-hour access to the tents in winter and daytime access only from May to September. The launch date has not yet been announced and the production of the Floating Retreat is currently pending.

Safety Considerations

The Floating Retreat raises questions about the safety of its design. However, hotel staff and engineers will always be on-site and trained to address any safety concerns, including fire hazards, stuck tents, or intense wind. The tents will also be equipped with double suspended cables for added safety measures. In the event of a stuck tent, the cables will allow the pod to swing to the side of the mountain where guests can be safely retrieved by a mountain climbing team.

The Floating Retreat offers a new level of luxury hospitality in the mountains of Sharjah, UAE. With its suspended canopies offering panoramic mountain views and luxury amenities, the resort is poised to attract adventurous travelers seeking an extreme experience. With safety measures in place, guests can enjoy the unique experience of floating above the ground while enjoying the comfort and convenience of a five-star hotel.

Below is a listing of the “Top 10″ most-visited places in Thailand as reported by the Tourism Authority of Thailand.

1. Bangkok

As the political, economic, cultural, culinary, and spiritual capital of Thailand, Bangkok features both old-world charm and modern convenience. Invariably, every Thailand holiday includes a visit to the kingdom’s capital city, Bangkok, or Krung Thep, “the city of angels” as it’s known to the locals. Many first-time visitors to the city are overwhelmed by its sheer size; others by the vast number of attractions scattered about the city, the result of more than two centuries of rapid development following the city’s founding in 1782. Today Bangkok is a cosmopolitan, 21st century city of more than ten million inhabitants.

2. Chiang Mai

Thailand’s “Rose of the North” contains both cultural and natural diversity, a multitude of attractions, and welcoming hospitality. Chiang Mai literally means “new city” and has retained the name despite celebrating its 700th anniversary in 1996. King Meng Rai the Great, a very religious leader who founded many of the city’s temples, created the city as the capital of the Lanna Kingdom around the same time as the establishment of the Sukhothai Kingdom. Chiang Mai not only became the capital and cultural core of the Lanna Kingdom, but also the center of Buddhism in northern Thailand.

3. Phuket

When travelers to Thailand talk about sea, sun and sand, Phuket is often the first place that comes to mind. Catapulted to international attention by the James Bond movie “The Man with the Golden Gun” back in 1974, the entire area today boasts many hotels and resorts, which offer all sorts of tourism facilities for travelers.

4. Ayutthaya

Once considered the most spectacular city on Earth, the ruins of the capital of the Kingdom Ayutthaya are now a major tourist attraction easily accessible from Bangkok by car, train, or boat as either a daytrip or overnight excursion. A regional power for 417 years, the ancient city its apex in the 16th century, when the Kingdom’s territory extended into and beyond present-day Laos, Cambodia, and Myanmar. Ayutthaya had diplomatic relations with Louis XIV of France and was courted by Dutch, Portuguese, English, Chinese and Japanese merchants.

5. Kanchanaburi

Kanchanaburi has become a major tourist destination, with a focus on the outdoors due to its magnificent landscape and charming beauty. Only two hours from Bangkok, Kanchanaburi is accessible by road or rail, and is popular for fishing, rafting, canoeing, mountain biking, bird-watching, star-gazing, golfing and elephant and jungle trekking. The area boasts several well-known waterfalls, caves that were once inhabited by Neolithic man, national parks, tranquil rivers, virgin forests, and several large reservoirs.

6. Krabi

A province on southern Thailand’s Andaman coast, is an almost otherworldly region of labyrinthine archipelagos, where islands seem to erupt vertically out of the sea and secluded beaches are only accessible by colorfully adorned long tail boats. Krabi’s myriad of bays and coves have sheltered pirates, merchants, and sea gypsies for thousands of years and archaeological evidence indicates that Krabi was originally inhabited as early as 25,000 – 35,000 years ago.

7. Ratchaburi

Ratchaburi’s premier attraction is the Damnoen Saduak Floating Market, a destination visited by a large percentage of tourists who visit Bangkok. Vendors in the market sell their wares by paddling boats along Ratchaburi’s canals. Every morning, hundreds of boats crowd the market, paddled by women in straw hats. For a few hundred baht visitors can hire their own boats and explore the canals while shopping for everything from vegetables and fruits to freshly-cooked noodles and souvenirs.

8. Chon Buri

Chonburi, Bangkok’s nearest seaside town, is located on the eastern coast of the Gulf of Thailand, about 50 miles from the capital. The area boasts abundant natural resources, making it a popular coastal province among Bangkokians who seek a weekend. Particularly popular is the seaside resort of Pattaya, though Chonburi’s smaller, quieter seaside towns are also quite popular with foreigners and Thais alike.

9. Sukhothai

Founded in the 13th century, Sukhothai, which literally means “Dawn of Happiness”, was the first truly independent Thai Kingdom and enjoyed a golden age under King Ramkhamhaeng, who is credited with creating the Thai alphabet. The superb temples and monuments of this great city have been lovingly restored, and Sukhothai Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is popular with travelers, particularly on those occasional nights the park when the park remains open and the graceful Buddhas are illuminated by lights.

10. Phang nga

Phang Nga province renowned for its beautiful land, spectacular bay, amazing islands and good diving. Most famous is Phang Nga Bay National Park, a geological wonder filled with islets, sunken caverns, and startling rock formations rising vertically out of the sea. The bay is extremely sheltered and therefore ideal for expeditions on sea kayaks to explore the many fascinating caverns and islands throughout the bay.

The valley of Oymyakon in northeast Russia is known as the ‘Pole of Cold’ and with an average January temperature of -50C, it is no wonder the village is the coldest permanently inhabited settlement in the world.

This is the lowest recorded temperature for any permanently inhabited location on Earth and the lowest temperature recorded in the Northern Hemisphere.

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Most homes in Oymyakon still burn coal and wood for heat and enjoy few modern conveniences.

Nothing grows there so people eat reindeer meat and horsemeat. A single shop provides the town’s bare necessities and the locals work as reindeer-breeders, hunters and ice-fisherman.

Doctors say the reason the locals don’t suffer from malnutrition is that their animals’ milk contains a lot of micronutrients.

Unsurprisingly, locals are hardened to the weather and unlike in other countries – where a flurry of snow brings things grinding to a halt, Oymyakon’s solitary school only shuts if temperatures fall below -52C.