Alex Kerr is the author of "Another Kyoto," "Finding the Heart Sutra" and "Another Bangkok: Reflections on the City."
Even with cheap yen, few willing to put up with extra travel hassles


An unusually deserted street in Kyoto in April 2021: Many have rejoiced to see their towns and temples cleared of noisy and chaotic tourists. © Getty Images
Alex Kerr is the author of "Another Kyoto," "Finding the Heart Sutra" and "Another Bangkok: Reflections on the City."