Japan is a modern country with its skyscapers, fast trains and new technology but what is fascinating about Japan is that it co exists with its history, culture and traditions. If you have the time combine a city visit with a trip to the countyside where you can visit temples, shrines, hot springs and mountains. The scenery is amazing but the people friendly and welcoming!
Of course Japan is more than its main island Honshu but it contains a great introduction to the beauty and culture of Japan. Tokyo is a bustling city but it is here that you can also visit the Meiji shrine, arguable Tokyo’s finest shrine. Kyoto is a must see destination and a contrast to the modernity of Tokyo. Here you can experience Japan’s famous temples and see Geisha girls walking the streets in their traditional clothes. Walking along the streets, you can’t help but be fascinated with the beautiful gardens – no matter what season!
As you move further away from the cities and travel to the countryside, the scenery is varied from Hakone and the legendary Mount Fuji , the beautiful lakes, the towns of Nikko and Tsumago, the stunning Kiso mountain range and on to the smaller villages. You will experience the traditional Japan with its shrines, temples and gardens. You can experience sleeping in a ryokan (traditional Japanese Inn), a traditional Japanese tea ceremony and maybe even some Ikebana. Take the time to experience the onsens but be aware, there is a certain etiquette that you must observe!
Of course another major highlight of Japan is its food! From the traditional Japanese meal with its many courses, each beautifully presented to the modern Japanese cuisine blending the best of Japanese ingredients with a modern twist. Don’t forget to set your alarms early while in Tokyo to experience the Tsukiji Markets – the biggest fish markets in the world.
Japan is an all year round destination depending on your interests.
Spring – Cherry Blossom Season ( Sakura). The full bloom season is only about one to two weeks but after this the trees gradually shed their flowers and this is a beautiful time to visit. The season varies in each area of Japan but it is generally March April. Temperatures vary but it is certainly the time to travel with a coat and layers.
Summer – festivals and fireworks. Summer is the season when Japan has numerous festivals and what better way to celebrate than with fireworks! Temperatures can easily reach 28 C and can be hot and humid.
Autumn – The forests give a beautiful display of yellow, browns and reds whle the chrysanthemums give a glorious display of flowers. Autumn is the time for exhibitions, concerts and tournaments in Japan.
Winter – Depending on the are you are visiting , winter can be a skiers paradise with powder snow that is the envy of many world ski resorts. The mountains covered in snow proved a beautiful backdrop for a dip in an Onsen!
Tokyo Japan’s capital is a vibrant city. There is so much to see here - Ginza and its boutiques, Shinjuku and its skyscrapers and of course you shouldn't miss Harajuku on the weekend when Tokyo's teenagers flock here dressed in their unique outfits.
On the other face of Tokyo, there is the Imperial Palace and its beautiful gardens, the Meiji Shrine and the beautifulShinjuku Gyoen National Gardens - a visual delight during cherry blossom season!
If you have the time, go to the Tsukiji Fish Markets - here you will see the fish auctions for Tokyo's Central Wholesale Market but be early as it is all over by 9am!
A great view of Tokyo can be seen from the Mori Tower and you can also visit the Mori Art Museum while you are there.
For those with more time, get out of Tokyo.
You can get a great view of Mt Fuji from Lake Kawaguchi. There are many ryokans here.
For the more vigorous, there are many walks and a great Kimono museum. Take the time to experience the onsens but be aware, there is a certain etiquette that you must observe!
Kyoto is a must see in Japan. Geisha girls, beautiful walks, serene shrines and temples and of course the gardens! The list is endless and if you can devote a few days to this wonderful city, you won't be disappointed. A visit to the Miho Museum is a must! The architecture alone makes the one hour bus trip most worthwhile!
Outside the cities, there are wonderful villages - The Kiso Valley, Nara Basin, the Yamanobe Road (a delightful walk through rice paddies and bamboo groves) Asuka (a great historical region with an incredible museum, Yoshino (UNESCO World Heritage status) and Dorogawa (there’s a great coffee shop here!). All these provide a picture of traditional Japan where you can meet the local people, who will have to be amongst the most hospitable people you will ever meet.
Of course there is always the skiing in Hokkaido!!
