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• Trip the light fantastic

What’s the meaning of the phrase ‘Trip the light fantastic’?

To dance, especially in an imaginative or ‘fantastic’ manner.

What’s the origin of the phrase ‘Trip the light fantastic’?

This apparently obscure expression originates from the works of John Milton. In the masque  Comus , 1637, he used the lines:

Come, knit hands, and beat the ground, In a light fantastic round.

By ‘trip’, Milton didn’t mean ‘catch one’s feet and stumble’. The word had long been used to mean ‘dance nimbly’. Chaucer used it that way as early as 1386, in  The Miller’s Tale :

In twenty manere koude he trippe and daunce. (In twenty ways could he trip and dance.)

Clearly, Milton was referring to dancing. He must have liked the imagery, as he used it again in the poem  L’Allegro , 1645:

Sport that wrinkled Care derides, And Laughter holding both his sides. Come, and trip it as you go On the light fantastic toe.

The ‘light fantastic toe’ was the form that was used when the phrase first circulated, as in this extract from  The Times , November 1803:

“A splendid ball was also given; where the CONSUL himself tripped it on the light fantastic toe.”

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The Origin—and Evolution—of the Phrase 'Trip the Light Fantastic'

By v.m. braganza | aug 10, 2022.

Today, thanks to the movie Mary Poppins Returns (2018), the phrase trip a little light fantastic might conjure images of dancing chimney sweeps . But this colloquialism has strayed quite a bit from its semantic origins. While it has always referred to nimble, fleet-footed dancing, the imagery associated with trip the light fantastic is a matter of profound disagreement.

English poet John Milton (1608-1674), best known for his Biblical epic Paradise Lost, popularized the idiom in 1645 when he included it in one of his minor poems, “ L’Allegro ” (“The Happy Man”). In the poem, Milton called upon Euphrosyne , one of a trio of minor classical goddesses known as the three Graces (and fittingly, the goddess of good cheer) to dance—or, as he puts it, to “Come and trip it, as ye go / On the light, fantastic toe.”

In this early instance, the idiom isn’t an idiom at all—it’s literal. “Tripping it on the toe” was a very visual, recurring Renaissance phrase for agile dancing. It appears even earlier than Milton’s poem, in Shakespeare’s The Tempest (1610-11) when the spirit-servant Ariel promises to bring his fellow spirits to his master, Prospero, “Each one, tripping on his toe.” Milton supplies the words light and fantastic , both adjectives modifying toe and which emphasize the image of lithe, elaborate footwork. Milton’s rendering even caught the eye of Jonathan Swift, author of Gulliver’s Travels , who echoed it in one of his own poems in 1735: “See the Belle flutter with the sprightly Beau! / They trip it on the light, fantastic Toe!”

So far, so good … at least until Americans got involved. During this phase of the phrase’s life, the word toe tripped its way right out of Milton’s expression, giving us trip the light fantastic —a version of the idiom that is still familiar today.

It’s hard to determine the precise moment the transformation occurred, but some pinpoint the late-19th century song “The Sidewalks of New York”—whose lyrics included “Boys and Girls together / Me and Mamie O’Rourke / Tripped the light fantastic / On the sidewalks of New York”—as key in popularizing this version of the phrase . From there, it took off, showing up everywhere from a 1907 issue of  The United States Army and Navy Journal to writer Nella Larsen’s 1929 novel Passing (which was adapted into a film for Netflix in 2021): In a room full of Black and white people dancing, Hugh Wentworth remarks to protagonist Irene, “Not having tripped the light with any of the males, I am unable to argue the point.” The phrase frequently crops up in literature, music, and film from the ’20s onward.

But trip the light fantastic was by no means done evolving. By the 1930s , some popular songs and literature had contorted the line even further out of shape with trip the light fandango . In 1967, the British progressive rock group Procul Harum included the phrase in their hit song “A Whiter Shade of Pale”—which American Songwriter says is about a “drunken sexual escapade gone awry”—with the lyrics, “We skipped the light fandango / Turned cartwheels ’cross the floor.”

Then, in 1973’s A Little Night Music , Stephen Sondheim twisted the phrase even more drastically into the lines “trip the light fandango” and “pitch the quick fantastic” in the happy-go-lucky number “The Miller’s Son.” (Sondheim, interestingly, was unaware that Milton coined a version of the phrase he’d used, and it’s unclear whether he knew of the Procul Harum song.) The fandango is a type of lively Spanish dance with roots in the early modern period, so to “skip” or “trip” a fandango simply means to dance the fandango.

Small wonder that linguist Noam Chomsky called trip the light fantastic a “ syntactically ill-formed idiom ”: Its syntax, or sentence structure, has changed again and again, until it’s unclear just what mental picture this phrase was intended to evoke—whether dancing the fandango or, more metaphorically, skipping across a beam of light. One thing is certain: Trip the light fantastic has tripped its way from early modern England to the present day as blithely and fantastically as a nimble dancer.

Trip the Light Fantastic—From Dance Floor to Language

| Danielle McLeod

Danielle McLeod

Danielle McLeod is a highly qualified secondary English Language Arts Instructor who brings a diverse educational background to her classroom. With degrees in science, English, and literacy, she has worked to create cross-curricular materials to bridge learning gaps and help students focus on effective writing and speech techniques. Currently working as a dual credit technical writing instructor at a Career and Technical Education Center, her curriculum development surrounds student focus on effective communication for future career choices.

Trip the light fantastic is an idiom that means to dance in a graceful or lively manner . It’s like saying someone is moving with elegance and joy while dancing.

Idioms like trip the light fantastic are phrases or words with a meaning different from the literal definitions of the individual words. They add color, humor, and depth to the English language, making conversations more interesting and vibrant. Understanding idioms is essential because they help us communicate more effectively and express ideas creatively. 

This article explores the idiom’s meaning, poetic origins, and diverse applications in various contexts. It also includes the idiom’s variations and related terms and phrases for a comprehensive understanding. After reading, challenge your newfound knowledge with a quick quiz. Let’s begin this enlightening journey!

What Does the Idiom Trip the Light Fantastic Mean?

The idiom trip the light fantastic means to dance and usually refers to ballroom dancing. It is also used to help convey a sense of joyous and lively movement.

It carries connotations of joy, freedom, and celebration. It suggests a sense of abandon and blissful movement, evoking imagery of dancers gliding effortlessly across the floor, illuminated by the flickering lights of a dance hall.

This idiom not only describes physical movement but also captures the exhilarating feeling of being lost in the moment, swept away by the music and the rhythm. It embodies the essence of carefree enjoyment and serves as a reminder to embrace life’s pleasures with enthusiasm and vigor.

Variations of the Idiom

Variations of expressions or idioms often arise due to regional differences, cultural influences, or changes in language over time. Here are some variants of the idiom trip the light fantastic :

• Trip the light fandango
• Skipped the light fandango
• Pitch the quick fantastic
• Trippers of the light fantastic

How Is Trip the Light Fantastic Commonly Used in Context?

The idiom trip the light fantastic evokes imagery of graceful and joyful movement, often associated with dancing. Let’s explore the various ways this idiom is used in everyday language, discover examples of its application, and learn some helpful tips for incorporating it effectively into our conversations and writing.

What Are the Different Ways to Use Trip the Light Fantastic?

Here are several different ways to use the idiom trip the light fantastic in various contexts: 

• Literal dancing: Use the idiom to describe someone dancing gracefully or energetically. “The ballroom was filled with couples tripping the light fantastic to the lively music.”
• Figurative joyous movement: Apply the idiom to describe any kind of joyful or spirited movement, not necessarily limited to dancing. “The leaves on the trees seemed to trip the light fantastic in the gentle breeze.”
• Metaphorical expression: Use the idiom metaphorically to represent a sense of joy, freedom, or celebration. “The festival was a time for people to come together, forget their worries, and trip the light fantastic .”
• Symbolic representation : Employ the idiom to represent a carefree or uninhibited attitude in life. “Octavia embraced every opportunity that came her way, always ready to trip the light fantastic. “
• Literary or poetic usage: Incorporate the idiom in a literary or poetic piece to add a touch of imagery and rhythm. “In the moonlit night, they danced hand in hand, tripping the light fantastic under the starry sky.”

Where Can You Find Examples of the Idiom Trip the Light Fantastic?

Here are a few sources where you can explore examples of the idiom being used:

• Novels and literature 
• Plays and dramatic works
• Song lyrics

Examples of the idiom’s use online can generally be found in reviews and descriptions of dance and dance competitions, like in these two examples:

“Twenty-four brave souls will trip the light fantastic as part of this event, which will raise much-needed funds for the West Limerick Parish’s community centre.” ( The Limerick Post ) “Grimsby’s Strictly Come Dancing stars headed to Blackpool to trip the light fantastic on the famous dancefloor of the world’s most prestigious ballroom.” ( The Grimsby Telegraph )

What Are Some Tips for Using the Idiom Trip the Light Fantastic?

• Context is key: Consider the context in which you are using the idiom. Adapting the idiom to the appropriate context ensures its seamless integration into your message and understanding from your audience.
• Understand the meaning: It refers to dancing or moving lively and gracefully. Being familiar with its usage will help you use it accurately and appropriately.
• Consider tone and style: Reflect on the tone and style of your writing or conversation. It can add a touch of elegance, whimsy, or poetic flair to your language.
• Vary your language: Mix it up with other expressions or synonyms for dancing or joyful movement to keep your language fresh and engaging.
• Metaphorical usage : While it traditionally refers to dancing, you can creatively adapt it to represent other forms of joyous or spirited movement or even metaphorical expressions of freedom and celebration.

What Is the Origin of the Idiom Trip the Light Fantastic?

The idiom trip the light fantastic has its roots in the poem L’Allegro written by John Milton: 

“Come, and trip it as you go / On the light fantastic toe.” 

In this case, the word trip means to dance nimbly, and the word fantastic means extremely fancy. Originally, the phrase light fantastic described the word toe , meaning a person’s footwork. The word toe was eventually dropped from the idiom, leaving only trip the light fantastic .

This phrase was popularized in an American song written at the end of the 1800s by Charles B Lawler, “ The Sidewalks of New York ”:

“Boys and Girls together, Me and Mamie O’Rourke, Tripped the light fantastic, On the sidewalks of New York.”

How Did the Idiom Evolve Over Time?

Over time, the idiom trip the light fantastic has evolved from its poetic origins to become a fanciful phrase referencing dancing.

Today, the phrase is used more broadly to refer to dancing in general, not just a specific type of nimble dance. It’s often employed in a variety of contexts, whether to recall a nostalgic memory of dancing or to describe an epic night of dance. Thus, the phrase has maintained its core significance yet expanded its contextual usage and reach. 

What Are Some Related Terms to Trip the Light Fantastic?

Despite its simple definition, trip the light fantastic is one of the more difficult idioms to understand. Its length can make it hard to integrate into sentences, but learning how to use synonyms and other related terms can help you work on its proper context. 

• Dance the night away
• Glide across the floor
• Whirl and twirl
• Sway with elegance
• Float on air
• Step with grace and joy
• Dance in ecstatic motion
• Stumble clumsily
• Shuffle awkwardly
• Move with two left feet
• Tread heavily
• Bumble and fumble
• Lurch and stagger
• Dance awkwardly

Trip the Light Fantastic: Test Your Knowledge!

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1 . Question

What does the idiom trip the light fantastic mean?

• To dance or move in a lively and graceful manner
• To walk in the dark without stumbling
• To perform a magic trick involving light

2 . Question

Who originally used the idiom trip the light fantastic in their work?

• William Shakespeare
• John Milton
• Oscar Wilde

3 . Question

Which of the following is a synonym for trip the light fantastic ?

4 . Question

Can trip the light fantastic be used metaphorically?

• Yes, it can represent any form of joyful and spirited movement
• No, it is strictly limited to dancing
• Only in formal settings

5 . Question

Which of the following is an antonym for trip the light fantastic ?

• Move with grace and joy

Let’s Review

Trip the light fantastic is an imaginative idiomatic phrase that refers to lively movement.  

It evokes a vivid image of graceful and joyful movement, often associated with dancing. Its origins can be traced back to the poem “L’Allegro” by John Milton, written in 1631. 

Understanding how it is used is the first step in mastering its inclusion in your own material and enhancing your own understanding of various figurative phrases in English. Review the information provided above in relation to its definition, use, and multiple variations to help you better understand where it belongs. 

If you enjoy learning about idiomatic phrases and how you can put them to use, read the many other idiom guides we have on our site and enhance your writing skills.

Check out some others we covered:

• To bite the bullet
• A black sheep
• Blackball meaning
• Blaze a trail definition

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Definition of trip

 (Entry 1 of 2)

intransitive verb

transitive verb

Definition of trip  (Entry 2 of 2)

• peregrination

Examples of trip in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'trip.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Middle English trippen , from Anglo-French treper, triper , of Germanic origin; akin to Old English treppan to tread — more at trap

14th century, in the meaning defined at intransitive sense 3a

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 5

Phrases Containing trip

• business trip
• lay / put a guilt trip on
• on a power trip
• roll / trip off the tongue
• round - trip ticket
• trip - hammer
• trip the light fantastic

Dictionary Entries Near trip

trioxymethylene

Cite this Entry

“Trip.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/trip. Accessed 15 May. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of trip.

Kids Definition of trip  (Entry 2 of 2)

More from Merriam-Webster on trip

Nglish: Translation of trip for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of trip for Arabic Speakers

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trip the light fantastic

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Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

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Trip the light fantastic

Origin of: trip the light fantastic.

Although the expression is used less and less these days, it was once a popular expression when ballroom was the principal form of dancing. 'Trip the light fantastic' means to dance nimbly and gracefully. Strictly speaking, it represents an adaptation of a poetical concept that was coined by Milton in L’Allegro (1632): "Come, and trip it, as you go, on the light fantastick toe." In Milton's day, 'trip' meant to dance nimbly, almost the complete opposite of what it means today, as in stumble. It was not until the late 19th century, however, when the Miltonic concept was put into its modern form, in a song written by an American, Charles Lawler, in 1894 for the musical comedy 'Sidewalks of New York'. Lawler's lyrics were, "Me and Mamie O'Rourke tripped the light fantastic on the sidewalks of New York."

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Why do we say "To trip the light fantastic"?

Well-known expressions, to trip the light fantastic.

To dance, usually in the context of ballroom dancing

Background:

In these days of Covid-19, to go out ballroom dancing, that is to say "to trip the light fantastic" seems a distant fantasy (but for those of us born with two left feet, it always was a stretch).

The phrase has its origins in a relatively short 1645 poem by John Milton titled L'Allegro ("The Happy Man") about Euphrosyne, the Goddess of Mirth who Milton describes as dancing (triping) with footwork (toe) that is light and fantastic (fantastic has its roots in the Greek phantastikos meaning able to imagine or make visible.) ... Come, and trip it as ye go On the light fantastic toe, And in thy right hand lead with thee, The mountain-nymph, sweet Liberty; And if I give thee honour due, Mirth, admit me of thy crew To live with her, and live with thee, In unreproved pleasures free; ... At some point, toe got dropped leaving us with the expression we know today, which was popularized by vaudeville impressario Tony Pastor around the mid 19th century in The Ballet Girl , the chorus of which goes as follows: While she danced on her light fantastic toe, Round the stage she used to go; Had it not been for a man named Joe, She might have belonged to me. Some years later, in 1894, song writers Charles B. Lawler and James W. Blake released The Sidewalks of New York , the chorus of which goes as follows: East Side, West Side, all around the town The tots sang "ring-a-rosie, " "London Bridge is falling down" Boys and girls together, me and Mamie O'Rourke Tripped the light fantastic on the sidewalks of New York. The expression, tripping the light fandango came later. It was in use during World War II and memorably included in the lyrics of English rock band Procol Harum's 1967 hit, A Whiter Shade of Pale . Incidentally, there is no deep meaning behind the group naming themselves Procol Harum, despite it bearing some similarity to the Latin expression procul his (meaning beyond these things). Instead, they borrowed the name from a friend's Siamese cat.

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Trip the Light Fantastic

Meaning of idiom ‘trip the light fantastic’.

To  trip the light fantastic  means to dance.

If you use this idiom, chances are, nobody will know what you are talking about. It is only referenced in printed works and not used as a common verbal expression, except, perhaps, in a humorous way.

Examples Of Use

“Maybe after dinner we could trip the light fantastic. Or, if you’d rather, we could just dance.”

This quite opaque idiom may seem completely senseless, but some meaning can be gleaned from the word  trip to mean a light step or form of tripping. The expression originated from John Milton’s  L’Allegro  (1632):

“Come and trip it as ye go, On the light fantastic toe.”

It was later used in the popular song by James W Blake,  The Sidewalks of New York , from 1894:

“Boys and girls together, me and Mamie O’Rourke We tripped the light fantastic on the sidewalks of New York”  1 Ayto, John.  Oxford Dictionary of English Idioms . Oxford: Oxford U, 2010. , 2 Ammer, Christine.  American Heritage Dictionary of Idioms . Boston: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt, 2013.

The song  Whiter Shade of Pale  (1967) by Procul Harum uses a clever re-rendering of the idiom:

“We skipped the light fandango Turned cartwheels ‘cross the floor”

Here,  fandango  refers to an energetic Spanish couples dance and  skip  is a stand-in for the word trip, meaning to step lightly from one foot to another with a hop or a bounce.

More Idioms Starting with T

• Two Can Play at that Game
• Thankful for Small Mercies, be
• Turkey Shoot
• Thick As Pea Soup, as

More Dance Idioms

• Shake a Leg
• It Takes Two to Tango

More Light Idioms

• Light On Your Feet
• Travel Light
• Green Light

More  Trip Idioms

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Sources [ + ]

trip the light fantastic

English [ edit ], alternative forms [ edit ].

• trip the light fantastic toe ( obsolete )

Verb [ edit ]

trip the light fantastic ( third-person singular simple present trips the light fantastic , present participle tripping the light fantastic , simple past and past participle tripped the light fantastic )

• 1978 May 31, " Movies ", in the St. Petersburg Independent , page 11-B: "Swing Time:" Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers trip the light fantastic in this yarn about a dancer with a yen for gambling.
• 2005 June 1, Kevin Kittredge, “ Royal Ballet ”, in Roanoke Times , retrieved 4 October 2008 : In the fairy tale by the Grimm brothers, they each wear out a pair of dancing shoes nightly, tripping the light fantastic in a magic forest.

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Trip the light fantastic

Q From Lois Culver : To trip the light fantastic . I know what it means, but why the light fantastic part?

A You’re probably that much ahead of some readers, so let me nod in the direction of all those who do know, while telling everyone else that to trip the light fantastic is an extravagant way of referring to dancing, a phrase rather more common years ago than it is now.

Just for once, it is possible to point the finger at the author of a saying. The phrase is from the mind and pen of John Milton and appeared in his lyric poem L’Allegro , published in 1645. The Italian title can be translated as “the cheerful man”, and the poem is directed to the goddess Mirth:

Haste thee, Nymph, and bring with thee Jest, and youthful Jollity, Quips and cranks and wanton wiles, Nods and becks and wreathed smiles Such as hang on Hebe’s cheek, And love to live in dimple sleek; Sport that wrinkled Care derides, And Laughter holding both his sides. Come, and trip it, as you go, On the light fantastic toe; And in thy right hand lead with thee The mountain-nymph, sweet Liberty; And, if I give thee honour due, Mirth, admit me of thy crew, To live with her, and live with thee, In unreproved pleasures free ...

We’ve lost the sense now, because to trip here doesn’t mean to catch one’s foot and stumble or fall, but rather to move lightly and nimbly, to dance. This was what the word meant when it appeared in the language in the fourteenth century. And fantastic (or fantastick , as Milton originally spelled it) has here a sense of something marked by extravagant fancy, perhaps capricious or impulsive.

Milton’s lines were borrowed as an elevated or humorous way to refer to dancing, first as the phrase trip the light fantastic toe . William Makepeace Thackeray included it in one of his lesser-known works, Men’s Wives of 1843: “Mrs. Crump sat in a little bar, profusely ornamented with pictures of the dancers of all ages, from Hillisberg, Rose, Parisot, who plied the light fantastic toe in 1805, down to the Sylphides of our day”. Later it was used in a truncated form without the final word. Losing that — as well as the ancient meaning of the first word and the original sense of fantastic — makes the whole saying more than a little obscure to us moderns.

That it has survived so long, at least in the United States, is probably due to a song of 1894, words by Charles B Lawler, which appeared in a musical comedy called The Sidewalks of New York (a title that was presumably borrowed for that of the recent film starring Ed Burns, as well as two previous ones). The relevant bit goes:

Boys and Girls together, Me and Mamie O'Rourke, Tripped the light fantastic, On the sidewalks of New York.

Just to reinforce how mysterious the phrase now is to some people, one online site renders the relevant line as “We dance life’s fantastics”.

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Song Meanings and Facts

Greta Van Fleet

“trip the light fantastic” by greta van fleet.

by Amanda London · April 22, 2021

Concurrent with the release of Greta Van Fleet’s “Trip The Light Fantastic”, the full first names of the four members of Greta Van Fleet are as follows:

• Daniel (aka Danny)
• Jacob (Jake)
• Joshua (Josh)
• Samuel (Sam)

You may recognize all of those names as actually being sourced from the Old Testament. However, this is not a religious musical act. Or more specifically, they aren’t Christian nor apparently adhere to any type of belief system directly associated with the Bible. But yes, their personal beliefs do commonly come through in their lyrics. 

And all things considered, perhaps the easiest way to classify them in that regard is as being New Agers.

Or at least that is how we would usually define musicians in modern times who drop a song based on Hindu mysticism, as with this one. 

“Trip The Light Fantastic”

“Trip the light fantastic” is a phrase you’ve probably heard before. Traditionally it points to the idea of fancy, light-footed dancing. But Josh Kiszka and the boys aren’t utilizing it in such a manner. Rather the “light fantastic” would be more akin to achieving some type of elevated state – traveling the cosmos as a beam of light, so to speak. Or as the vocalist himself puts it, one “comet(ing) across the blistering hue”.

And  under Greta Van Fleet’s estimation , such a state can be achieved via the practice of what is referred to as the  Ah Sri Rmaa Jayam Ram  mantra. 

So such statements featured throughout, i.e. the repeating of the word “ram”, are actually based on the vocalist practicing the related chants. And by extension we can also say he is encouraging the listener to do so also.

So the Song is Religious?

But again, actually calling this song religious would be stretch. It’s more like philosophical than anything else. And it is based on that type of philosophy, which apparently goes by different names, which states that all of nature are related, or that we are actually “the land, the sea and the sky”. 

And the reason the vocalist is putting such forth is not in any type of environmental sense. Instead it is to illustrate that we actually have the ability to harness these powers for our own spiritual edification.

Or something like that. For at the end of the day, it’s almost like lyrics of this nature aren’t even really meant to be understood in detail anyway. After all, how do you logically explain a statement like “we’re tied to all things as one”?

But one thing we do know is this. The singer idealizes being up in the heavens as opposed to down here on earth. And the reason he apparently does is because down below, our world is dealing with a number of disheartening issues. 

So he perceives the practice of this belief system and mantra as a way of presumably sending his spirit up there. Perhaps, considering that this is in fact new ageism, he is alluding to transcendental meditation or astral projection. And at the same time, he is also passing on this discovery to the listener.

Facts about “Trip The Light Fantastic”

As is convention all four of the members of Greta Van Fleet are credited as writers of the track at hand. And they are:

• Danny Wagner
• Jake Kiszka
• Josh Kiszka

Meanwhile the producer of the song is Greg Kurstin, who at the time is one of the top and most widely-utilized musicians in the industry.

This song is from Greta Van Fleet’s full-length second album. The band titled the album “The Battle at Garden’s Gate”. And this project is the product of two labels, Republic Records and a lesser-known entity, Lava Records.

Greta Van Fleet has been around for some time, since 2012. However, it appears they didn’t really get put on until they were signed by the aforementioned Lava Record in 2017. So 2018 is when their first full album, “Anthem of the Peaceful Army”, came out.

And the track we’re dealing with today, again being released as part of their second full-length, was dropped on 16 April 2021. So even if active for nearly a decade, at this point the band are relatively newbies.

However they have still managed to earn a name for themselves. For instance they were nominated for four Grammy Awards in 2019, winning in the Best Rock Album category with their 2017 project “From the Fires” (which was technically an EP). 

Also the aforementioned “Anthem of the Peaceful Army” did its job in terms of helping to put Greta Van Fleet on the map, as it ascended all the way to number 3 on the Billboard 200. 

And even prior to that their debut single, “ Highway Tune “, topped Billboard’s  Mainstream Rock  list. In fact all four of their first singles – “Highway Tune” (2017), “Safari Song” (2017), “When the Curtain Falls” (2018) and “You’re the One” (2018) – managed to accomplish that feat.

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Perhaps being spiritual is more than words or feelings. It is what we aspire to be rather than who we really are. We all fall short and need inspiration from music like they write. God Bless you Josh, Jake, Sam and Danny. You are all great!

I feel a lot of their songs are spiritual. I connect to them in a spiritual way. The lyrics are brilliant… the musical instruments are brilliant.

I found out about Greta Van Fleet late. But after discovering them I have been nothing but entranced. When I read the lyrics to trip the light fantastic I knew exactly what it was. Referencing Ram repeatedly when in India/Hindu it means God. The title itself refers to a poem done in 1637 by John Milton. that’s deep. 😁♥️

The best rock ‘n’ roll I’ve heard in so long. I simply can’t get enough of them. Made me so happy to finally hear some fantastic rock. The mystical part only makes it better.

I believe the song is in reference to the Hindu religion’s concept of Moksha (the goal of rebirth into the creator as opposed to returning back to earth via reincarnation.) Sri Ram Jaya is translated to ‘Victory for Lord Rama” who is a divination of the God Vishnu who is the protector of everything. As a Hindu, we believe that Moksha is the goal of this life, past lives, and future lives.

awesome band . sound so much like led zepplin . outstanding .

fantastic band .

I like their music. That being said, I don’t go to musicians for their brilliance in philosophy.

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The ultimate Japan itinerary for first-timers

Japan is one of the most fascinating countries you could visit but travellers often feel overwhelmed when putting together a Japan itinerary. Luckily for you I just returned from an epic trip and will share my best tips with you.

Whether you have a week, 10 days, or want to combine both into a 2 week Japan itinerary — this article has you covered. I'll share some amazing places to see , where to stay, and how to plan a road trip in Japan.

In this article

How to get to Japan?

What is the best mode of transport for your japan itinerary, best time for your japan itinerary, average budget for your japan itinerary, japan itinerary 7 days — from tokyo to the mountains, japan itinerary 10 days — kansai & beyond.

Japan has a few international airports and some you can even reach with a direct flight from the UK. A direct flight from London to Tokyo costs £978 on average (Data sourced through KAYAK comparator search tool).

When flying in or out of Tokyo you have the choice between the airports Haneda and Narita . Depending on your Japan itinerary you may want to check for a direct flight to Osaka Kansai.

Most Japan itineraries can be done by car, train, or plane , or a combination thereof. Budget and where you want to go will be deciding factors. In addition, it is important to think about how many people will be travelling. Especially if you are planning a Japan itinerary for 14 days with the whole family, it might be cheaper to rent a car.

However you will need to get an International Driving Permit to drive legally in Japan. For many visitors, the left-hand traffic system can present an issue. But visitors from the UK will feel right at home! You can find more tips on driving in Japan as well as traffic laws on the website of the Japanese Automobile Federation .

According to the data we have compiled (based on travellers's searches on KAYAK), October is the most popular season for a trip to Japan. March and April are also strong contenders due to it being Sakura , cherry blossom season. While the weather is great for exploring during these months, hotel rooms will be more expensive and popular tourist spots are even more crowded than usual.

January, February, and August are the least popular travel months in Japan. If you don’t mind heat and humidity, give August a go . For those travelling in winter, there are plenty of great ski resorts in Japan, but you must be mindful of road conditions when getting a hire car.

Before you book your flight to Japan, it's a good idea to put together your budget. If you are planning on renting a car for a road trip through Japan have a look at these average prices we have put together for you based on our data:

• Average price for a double room in Tokyo: £131 per night
• Average price of a bed in a hostel in Tokyo: £51 per night
• Average price of a rental car in Tokyo: £66 per day
• Price for a litre of petrol in Tokyo: £0.90*

*As of April 2024

For the 10-day Japan itinerary below, you will cover up to 300 miles and the total budget will be approximately £885 per person based on two people sharing (not including flights). However, you may need to add a buffer for tolls, which can be quite steep.

If you prefer to travel by train, the Japan Railpass is a great option to get around . However, it saw a recent price increase. Once you have mapped out your route it is a good idea to add up the individual trips on the Japan Railpass website and calculate whether it might be cheaper to buy single tickets.

The following Japan itineraries are planned around doing a road trip, and show distances and approximate travel times for cars.

Day 1–3: Tokyo

For most, a Japan travel itinerary starts in the country’s capital Tokyo. Chances are that jet lag means taking things a little slower but even without that, Tokyo is huge and there is so much to see . Take a few days to explore famous areas like Shibuya and Shinjuku, Ginza, and the historic Asakusa area.

Hotel in Tokyo : Hotel CEN , located a quirky yet residential area

teamLab is an international art collective that currently has two exhibitions in Tokyo. It merges technology, art, and nature and integrates the visitors in a very unique way. While difficult to describe, their current shows are absolutely magical even if you are not usually a museum fan.

Gōtokuji Temple

Cat lovers have to take a trip to Gōtokuji Temple. It is said to be the home of the maneki-neko, the beckoning cat figurines that are known to bring luck. You can see them everywhere around the temple and of course there is a gift shop. The cats from the source have become so popular that sales are limited to one figurine per person.

Day 4: Hakone

Distance from Tokyo: 50 mi — at least 1 hour

Not far from Tokyo, you find Hakone, the perfect place for a weekend getaway in nature . Over Lake Ashinoko you have a great view of Mount Fuji. After a day of exploring you can recharge in one of the town's many hot springs.

Hotel in Hakone : Fujiya Hotel , a beautiful historic accommodation

Hot springs, hot rivers, and an egg-like smell: it is pretty obvious that Owakudani is an active volcanic zone! The area is located around the crater of Mount Hakone and there are various walking trails to explore. You can even buy eggs cooked in hot pools that are said to extend your life by seven years.

Lake Ashinoko

For some of the best Mount Fuji views head to the shore of Lake Ashinoko . You can take a sightseeing-boat over the lake or simply stroll along the shores. If seeing Mount Fuji in all its glory is a must, time your visit well: the cold season brings clearer skies.

Day 5: Matsumoto

Distance from Hakone: 150 mi — 3 hours

Mountain lovers have come to the right place as Matsumoto is a great spot to explore the Japanese Alps . There are plenty of trips you can take from here to see various parts of the Alps, summer and winter. The city is also home to a few interesting museums and one of Japan’s most beautiful castles.

Hotel in Matsumoto : Onyado Nono , a stunning inexpensive hotel with a hot spring

Matsumoto Castle

While some Japanese castles had to be rebuilt, Matsumoto is one of the most complete original castles. This is highlighted by the authentic wooden interior. Especially during cherry blossom season a stroll around the moat is a treat.

Daio Wasabi Farm

Some like it hot and if you do, the Daio Wasabi Farm is a place you should see. On the farm, you can visit a restaurant and many shops that sell everything from fresh wasabi root to wasabi beer and even wasabi chocolate.

Day 6+7: Shibu Onsen

Distance from Matsumoto: 60 mi — 1.5 hours

Shibu Onsen is a picturesque historic hot spring town surrounded by mountains. Beautiful ryokans, the traditional Japanese inns, line the streets and are the perfect backdrop for a wellness holiday. Ryokan Kanaguya is said to have inspired the bathhouse of the beloved Studio Ghibli movie 'Spirited Away'.

Hotel in Shibu Onsen: Kokuya , a stunning ryokan in the center of town

Visit nine public Onsen

There are nine public Onsen in town and you will need to stay overnight to get a key to visit. Visiting all nine brings good fortune! One thing to remember: tattoos are unfortunately a no-go in most Japanese Onsen. If you have some, check if your hotel has a private hot spring.

Jigokudani Monkey Park

It is best to come before March if you want to see the Japanese macaque or snow monkeys as they are called in Jigokudani. Only when it is cold do they come down to sit in a hot Onsen and chill, play, and be adorable.

After your final night in Shibu Onsen you will drive back to Tokyo for your flight home. Make sure to check which airport you are flying out from (Narita or Haneda) and leave enough time to drop your hire car off before checking in.

Day 1–3: Osaka

Osaka, Japan’s second biggest city, is known for its incredible food scene. Next to the usual staples, the city’s kitchens are best known for their Okonomiyaki, a pizza pancake-cross, and Takayaki, yummy octopus balls. Dotonburi, Osaka’s nightlife center, is one of the best places to try them both.

Hotel in Osaka : Zentis , a member of Design Hotels with light and airy rooms

Another great area to explore is Shinsekai, meaning ‘new world’ when it was built in the early 20th century. The shopping and dining area centres around the Tsutenkaku Tower, modelled after the Eiffel Tower. Today a visit feels a bit like traveling back in time — but in a good way!

Osaka Castle

Osaka Castle was built in 1583 and became the largest castle at the time. Everything about it was meant to impress and impress it did. That was until its destruction first by Tokugawa troops and then by lightning. Today’s reconstruction was built in the 1930s but it is still a sight to behold. Osaka Castle is also one of the best hanami spots where you can see the cherry blossoms.

Day 4: Nara

Distance from Osaka: 20 mi — 30 minutes

Nara was Japan’s first official capital and still holds a lot of significance thanks to its historic treasures. The Todaiji Temple is one of the most famous ones and is home to a large bronze Buddha. But admittedly most people come to meet the locals in Nara…

Hotel in Nara : Iroha Grand Hotel Kintetsu Nara Ekimae in the city centre

Nara is best known for its over 1,000 wild deer that roam the park and sometimes the surrounding streets. You can buy some deer cookies and feed them but be careful — the deer can be quite cheeky and might search your bag or nibble on your coat. The further you go into the park, the fewer people and you will have the deer all to yourself.

Nakatanidou

If you are in the mood to nibble on something, head to Nakatanidou, a shop that makes the most delicious yomogi mochis. Even more exciting: you can watch mochitsuki. This is the process of mochi-pounding. Nakatanidou has been awarded for the fastest mochi pounders and every half an hour you can watch their craft.

Day 5–7: Kyoto

Distance from Nara: 30 mi — 45 minutes

Kyoto is another former capital of Japan and thanks to some beautiful historic buildings and lots of charm, it is an absolute must-see for visitors. Highlights include Nijo Castle, the Imperial Palace, and dinner in Pontocho, an alley with traditional wooden buildings.

Hotel in Kyoto: Node , a member of Design Hotels with lovely, modern rooms

Nishiki Market

A visit to the Nishiki Market is the perfect activity even when it rains as it is covered. Left and right you will find food stalls and restaurants with the most delectable treats. Daifuku, wagyu skewers, and Taiyaki await. You can even buy special dog treats, all things matcha, and of course, Japan’s infamous white strawberries that are worth every yen.

Gion District

The Gion District is the old part of town and home of Kyoto’s Geishas. Unfortunately, some streets recently had to be closed off due to unruly tourists but many parts are still accessible. Walk past the Yasaka Shrine all the way to the Yasaka Pagoda and stop at one of the most beautiful Starbucks on the way. If you want to get a picture in front of the pagoda you will need to get up very early — crowds usually start to form around 6 am!

Day 8: Kobe

Distance from Kyoto: 50 mi — 1 hour

Kobe is probably best known for its famous beef but even if you are a vegetarian it is a pretty great city to visit. From Kobe you can also take a trip to Himeji Castle, a one-hour drive west. The White Heron Castle is one of Japan’s most beautiful and not to be missed. Alternatively, you can visit it on your way to Hiroshima.

Hotel in Kobe: La Suite Kobe Harborland, a luxury hotel with a view of the harbour

Nada Sake District

If you want to try some of Japan’s best sake there is no better place than Nada in Kobe. You can visit different breweries in the area. Some have exhibits about the art of sake brewing and many offer tastings.

Kobe Earthquake Memorial Museum

Unfortunately, earthquakes are a part of life in Japan and Kobe was hit especially hard in 1995. The museum not only commemorates the 5,000 people who lost their lives but also educates about earthquakes as well as disaster prevention.

Day 9+10: Hiroshima

Distance from Kobe: 190 mi – 4 hours

Hiroshima is an absolute gem and quickly became my favourite city on my recent Japan trip. Despite its tragic history, the city today is full of life and a real stunner, especially when the sun is out. Whatever you do, don't forget to eat some local oysters and the Hiroshima-style Okonomiyaki.

Hotel in Hiroshima: Kiro , a sleek design hotel that has some traditional Japanese rooms

Peace Memorial Museum & Park

No visit to Hiroshima would be complete without learning more about the first atomic bomb that was dropped here on August 6, 1945. The museum pays tribute to the victims and survivors. Stroll through the park afterwards, which has some beautiful memorial sites and visit the A-Bomb Dome, a stark reminder of the event.

Miyajima Island

Hop on a train and catch a short ferry to visit Miyajima Island. The island is home to more holy deer and the Itsukushima Shrine that appears to be floating during high tide. I recommend you come early in the morning as the island gets very busy with day trippers. Do get a matcha ice cream decorated with a deer cookie while you stroll along the beach.

From Hiroshima, it is best if you book a flight out from Osaka Kansai airport. Alternatively you can drop off your car at Hiroshima airport and book a domestic flight to Tokyo and leave from there.

Create your own 14-day Japan itinerary

If the above is not enough for you, you can combine both routes into an epic Japan 2 week itinerary. Alternatively, you can add one of the most beautiful places in Japan or stay longer to see a haunted building in Tokyo .

Flight and hotel rates are averages based on data collected by KAYAK. These prices offer an estimate for organising your trip, but they may vary according to offers, period, destination, or your preferences. The price per litre of petrol, as of April 1st, 2024, is subject to fluctuations, and comes from numbeo.com .

The hotel recommendations included in this article are based on customer ratings and the author's personal choices, so please feel free to use our hotel search tool to find the accommodation best suited to your needs.

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Touring by train is a fantastic way to see Alaska in the spring

Alaska Railroad locomotives head northbound along the Turnagain Arm on Thursday, May 9, 2024. (Bill Roth / ADN)

The Alaska Railroad had to cancel this weekend’s trains between Anchorage and Seward because of avalanche danger.

Sure, the weather’s been crazy this year, but I didn’t have a Mother’s Day avalanche on my bingo card. Thankfully, the railroad arranged for bus transportation to and from Seward both for day-trippers and those catching a cruise ship south to Vancouver.

But the announcement served as a wake-up call that it’s time to book passage on the Alaska Railroad for travel this summer.

Already, visiting friends are calling with questions about which train to book and where to stay.

Once the avalanche risk to Seward is mitigated by the railroad’s crew, daily service on the Coastal Classic train is set to resume on May 15.

The ride from Anchorage to Seward is a beautiful one, but it calls for an early wake-up. Departing at 6:45 a.m., the train arrives in Seward at 11:20 a.m. That’s in time to take the midday glacier and wildlife cruises that leave from Seward’s small boat harbor. The train depot is close enough that it’s just a five-minute walk to check in for your boat ride.

Between now and May 31, travelers can ride the rails for $183 round-trip in Adventure Class. For an upgrade, choose Gold Star service, which includes breakfast on the way to Seward and dinner on the way back. In between meals, there’s a full-dome car to watch the scenery. Two drinks are included. The cost during the “value season” between now and May 31 is about twice as much: $376 round-trip. After June 1, the regular pricing kicks in: $211 round-trip for Adventure Class and $430 round-trip for Gold Star. Children under 12 are half-price. There’s also a military discount of 20% off published rates.

There are a few more options for traveling north from Anchorage to Talkeetna, Denali and Fairbanks.

In addition to the railroad’s own cars, there’s a collection of private cars that the railroad pulls each day.

The Denali Star train started its daily service on May 9, with “value pricing” through May 31.

Between Anchorage and Talkeetna, the value price is $95 each way ($226 one-way for Gold Star). After June 1, the price increases to $119 one-way ($263 for Gold Star). The Denali Star leaves at a more reasonable hour: 8:20 a.m., arriving in Talkeetna at 11:05 a.m.

The popular route for visitors is between Anchorage and Denali. After leaving Talkeetna, the train arrives at the Denali depot at 3:40 p.m. Between now and May 31, ride to Denali from Anchorage for $151 one-way in Adventure Class, or $320 in Gold Star. Again, meals, drinks and the full-dome car seating is included in the Gold Star package. Adventure class travelers can purchase their meals in the dining car, or bring their own food along.

It’s a 12-hour ride from Anchorage to Fairbanks, but it’s a great trip. Between now and May 31, ride in Adventure Class for $215 one-way. Starting June 1, the rate goes up to $277 one-way.

One-way is enough on the train to Fairbanks. It’s faster and cheaper to fly Alaska Airlines back home. If you plan ahead, it’s $98 one-way, or 5,000 miles (plus $6 in fees).

Princess Alaska Lodges offers packages which include rail transportation on the line’s private cars, plus accommodations in Talkeetna or Denali Park.

A two-day/one-night package from Anchorage to Talkeetna includes the train ride up to Talkeetna and a bus ride to the lodge from the depot. The Mt. McKinley Princess is not far from Talkeetna as the crow flies, but the drive takes about an hour from the depot. The lodge sits above the banks of the Chulitna River and affords a beautiful view of Denali from the deck near check-in. Cost is $274.50 per person, double occupancy.

A three-day/two-night package to Denali costs $499.50 per person, double occupancy. That includes round-trip rail, two nights of hotel accommodations and transfers to and from the hotel.

Princess offers one- to four-night packages, as well as rail-only fares which are comparable to the Alaska Railroad’s. The rail cars are full-dome on the top deck, with dining cars below (cost of meals is not included).

[ Are guests visiting you in Alaska? Here are a few easy options for quick journeys or easy day trips. ]

Premier Alaska Tours also offers full-dome cars on the route between Anchorage, Talkeetna and Denali. If you see the passenger trains on the tracks during the summer, Premier’s cars are distinctive because of the white paint job.

Premier’s “Wilderness Express” train cars offer a dining car below the full-dome viewing area. The seats are 23 inches wide with leather upholstery. All the seats recline and feature power ports.

Most of the travelers on the Wilderness Express are part of a group. For individual travelers, Premier works with Alaska Tour and Travel for reservations. Rates for the Wilderness Express are $285 one-way between Anchorage and Denali.

For a fun day-trip on the train, there are a couple of options.

1. Drive down to Portage and catch the train out to Spencer Glacier. It’s just a 20-minute ride on the train, but it’s a great way to get off the road system and into the wilderness. Once you arrive, go for a hike up to the lake for a view of Spencer Glacier. The cost for a round-trip ticket is $88. Spend about three hours exploring before the train returns to pick you up.

Chugach Adventures offers a package that includes the train ride and a guided raft trip down the Placer River from the lake in front of Spencer Glacier. Rafters get the chance to get up close to the icebergs before heading under the railroad bridge for the easy float downstream. Then, at the appointed moment, the guide beaches the raft and everyone gets out on the shore. Right on cue, the train comes by and picks you up for the return trip to Portage. The cost is $295 for adults, or $148 for children under 12.

2. Take the Hurricane Turn train from Talkeetna. This is the last “flag stop” rail service in America. It’s designed specifically for those who have camps or homes off the road system. Pack your own lunch for this special journey. You’re likely to see homesteaders and adventurers on this six-hour trip from Talkeetna up to Hurricane and back.

The train goes real slow over the Hurricane Bridge so you can appreciate the 296-foot drop from the rails to Hurricane Creek. The cost for the trip is $119 per adult.

Mahay’s Jet Boat Adventures offers a “ River, Rail and Trail ” journey which includes the train ride from Talkeetna to Curry. From there, travelers can check out what remains of a once-popular layover for train travelers. Then, get in a jet boat for an exciting trip back to Talkeetna on the Susitna River. Stop at a trapper’s cabin for a brief tour and history lesson. Cost is $185 per adult.

Now that the avalanches are out of the way, it’s time to say “all aboard” for the Alaska Railroad.

Scott McMurren

Scott McMurren is an Anchorage-based marketing consultant, serving clients in the transportation, hospitality, media and specialty destination sectors, among others. Contact him by email at [email protected]. Subscribe to his e-newsletter at alaskatravelgram.com. For more information, visit alaskatravelgram.com/about.

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Fantastic - Holiday Beach Club Hotel

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OK This is a 2 star in Africa so do not expect much ,rooms are generally shabby with basic needs met no tv ,hairdryer or other items u may be used to in European hotels. Bathrooms are the same there are issues with towels frequently not being not available . Breakfast is poor but on the whole edible most of the cups and plates are chipped or cracked take your own mug . Also take your own glass as they seem in short supply at the bar .Biting insects are also in plentiful supply so bring tropical insect spray On the upside most of the staff are great, happy to help and point you in the right direction . It is placed in a great location near bars and restaurants and on the beach Local guides at the gate have good deals on trips out, we travelled with Malcom Lamin who was excellent and I am happy to recommend him The hotel pool was also very good not one that's full with a few people in it LOOK OUT FOR HIDDEN EXTRAS do be careful its easy to send more on extras than to get a better hotel in the first place A/C is £10 a day ,fridge £15 a week ,safe £8 a week and you will need to add the cost of a couple of breakfasts as its a poor breakfast in the hotel

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Don’t expect much from the rooms but the staff are very friendly the pool and surroundings are superb coming back next year for sure, classed as 2 star but for the real Gambian experience I’ll give it a five, bars and restaurnts right outside the door👍

Thank you for your feedback and stay. We are delighted to read that you had a wonderful stay with us. Your words of appreciation has been shared with the team and this will encourage us to keep up the good work. Thank you once again and looking forward to welcome you again at Holiday Beach Club. Thanks & Regards Arnab Banerjee

Our 3rd visit in 18 months. If you love fabulous friendly staff. Beautiful gardens and wild life such as monkeys birds and lizards you will love this. Directly on beach and 2 minute walk to the strip nightlife and restaurants. It is quiet and peaceful but close to everything. Note this is 2 star accomodation. It is dated and bathroom's not great very tired. Our opinion is beds fine rooms cleaned daily and we use room to sleep and shower. All verandas have their own unique view and this is where we spent our time early evening to watch nature. Mamudou Jallow on front desk is so helpful and friendly you can approach him for anything and will help. CANNOT fault the staff fabulous and for this reason we return definitely not for the rooms.

Thank you for your feedback and patronage. We really appreciate your wise feedback. we work very hard to give all our guest a memorable stay, appreciative reviews like yours will definitely enable us to keep up the good work. Thank you once again and looking forward to welcome you again at Holiday Beach Club. Thanks & Regards Arnab Banerjee

When we arrived we was given a room in A block , sink hanging off the wall , toilet loose . We went to reception in the morning and was given the key to B3 . Slightly better room , yes dated and bed side lights hanging loose but the room was clean no mould like first room . That said the gardens are beautiful and the cleaners and gardener are lovely . The pool has broken tiles in and are covered with a bigger tile that moves about . The staff are very friendly and kind telling us they work 12 hour shifts 6 days a week for 3500 dalshi and its the worse paid hotel to work for . This hotel needs some money spending on it as very wore out . Breakfast is terrible , broken cups chipped plates and terrible food ( don't bother with it ) 2 eggs 2 tin sausage and onions , most days no bread or fruit . Would I stay here again NO booking for senegambia hotel next year .

As expected have awesome experience with the hotel on first trip. Lovely staff and playing monkeys make it more beautiful. Can't thank enough to all of them for taking care so well Best location as all best restaurant and awesome beach view.

Thank you for your feedback and patronage. We are elated to know that you had a wonderful stay with us. You words of appreciation will inspire us to keep up the level of the service. Thank you once again and looking forward to welcome you again at Holiday Beach Club. Thanks & Regards Arnab Banerjee