The Japanese Meteorological Agency has issued a Level 2 Volcano Alert for the Owakudani area of Hakone, prompting an evacuation of that area and a suspension of the Hakone Ropeway, which is one of the most popular tourist routes in the area. Be prepared for potential detours if you are planning to visit Hakone in the coming days/weeks, and consult local transit operators or local media for more information. Of course, if I have more news to share, I’ll do so!
Jose's Japan Tips 
Well adding a ‘like’ for this post is not that I want anything bad to happen. But the incredible volatility of Japan is something to enjoy- from a safe distance
Hi, I have a question. I am sorry that I am doing it on this post, but I wanted to ask if the leaves are red (turn color) in the middle of November and if it’s really cold during that time of year. My boyfriend and I are thinking about going to Japan then….maybe the Osaka/Kyoto region! Also, I read your tips on getting to your hotel/hostel in an earlier post, but what if you’re going to a house/apartment? Is it the same situation where you’d take a bunch of different trains/taxi’s/etc to get there…and are some of those signs in English for travelers?
Thanks!
Jen
Hi Jen,
Usually around November is when most of the country is showing its autumn leaves.
The transportation all depends on the location of the house or apartment. If it’s a house then it’s more likely, of course, that you’d need to take a taxi there, unless the home is located in an urban area near public transit.
Signs in English are usually common around major cities and urban areas, at major attractions, and around transit, but the further you go away from these the less likely you are to see English signs.
Please write back if you have any more questions.
Thanks for reading my blog!
Jose
Hi Jose,
Thank you for the prompt reply. I appreciate it :). I am going with my boyfriend, and am super nervous because I don’t speak the language (well, very little!), but I’ve never been more excited!
Japan is always exciting ! I hope you enjoy 🙂