u/Loose-Tadpole-970

Hi everyone!
I’ll be visiting Japan soon (landing in Tokyo), and I’ve been wondering whether it’s worth getting a small dedicated camera instead of relying entirely on my phone.
I’m a complete beginner and fairly budget conscious, so I’m not looking for professional gear. I’d just love something compact, easy to use, and capable of taking beautiful travel photos without much of a learning curve. I know camera technology moves quickly, but is there a model you’d recommend that still feels like a great value today?
One admittedly superficial question: are there any cameras that also have a nice design? If I’m carrying it around every day, I’d love something that looks as good as it performs.
Would you recommend buying before my trip, or are there better deals in Japan?
Thanks so much!

Hi everyone,

I am a solo traveler visiting Daisetsuzan in early August, staying at Asahidake Onsen for two nights (Aug 6 to 9). I would love to summit Mt. Asahidake, the highest point in Hokkaido, and I am trying to figure out the best way to do it.

A bit about me: I have solid hiking fitness (I did the Lares trek in Peru), so the physical side does not worry me. What I am less sure about is doing it alone for the first time in Japan, mainly around navigation in fog, the mostly-Japanese signage near the summit, and bear awareness. I plan to use the ropeway up to Sugatami and take the summit trail from there.

My questions:
1. Has anyone summited Asahidake solo? How was the route-finding near the top, especially if the weather turned?
2. Are there any groups or fellow hikers who tend to go up around the same time in early August, or ways to link up with others for the summit day?
3. I looked into a guided summit tour, but the solo private rate is high. Did anyone find a more affordable guided option, or a group they could join?
4. Any tips on timing, gear, or which of Aug 7 or 8 to aim for based on weather?

I have only those two days before I head to Sapporo, so I want to make the most of it. Any advice or experiences would be hugely appreciated.

Thank you.