From UNESCO World Heritage sites to bustling cities like Tokyo and Osaka, Japan is a fascinating experience. Witness buildings with tea-cup-shaped balconies next to traditional ryokans and immerse yourself in the incredible festivals held all year round, celebrating gods and nature with art and delicious food. With sakura blooming and autumn foliage, this country is an extraordinary destination that offers something for everyone.
Planning your next unforgettable vacay? Here’s a list of seven reasons Japan should [always] be on your travel list:
1. Rich Culture
Japan offers an astonishing blend of old and new, tradition and innovation, where ancient customs seamlessly coexist with cutting-edge technology. There are over 80,000 shrines and temples nestled amidst a sea of neon skyscrapers. Then, there are Geishas in kimonos strolling the cobbled streets of Kyoto’s Gion, die-hard Otaku (anime) lovers in vibrant Cosplay costumes in Tokyo’s Harajuku blazing the next fashion trend, and the countless remnants of samurai history that dates back 1,000 years lining the old town of Takayama.
Discover the Otaku cultures in Tokyo’s Akihabara or experience a Tea Ceremony in Kyoto after a visit to the vermilion Torii gates of Fushima Inari Shrine. Few places on early rival’s Japan’s distinctive and fascinating culture.
2. Culinary Heavens
Sushi, ramen, Kobe steak… Japan’s cuisine is to die for! From authentic tea ceremony and sake tasting to hip street food markets, you’ll find yourself surrounded by mouthwatering delights around every corner. When staying in a ryokan (traditional Japanese Inn), be sure to try a kaiseki dinner, a traditional and highly refined multi-course meal often considered the pinnacle of Japanese dining. It is a culinary art form consisting of several small, exquisitely prepared dishes, showcasing a variety of cooking techniques and ingredients.
Did you know that Tokyo’s the city with the most Michelin-starred restaurants? What a place to celebrate!
3. Unique Worlds
If you’re still with us, you’re probably realizing by now Japan is a pretty cool place to visit. Yes, every country has its culture, whether it be traditional or modern day – but what makes Japan truly unique is the array of fascinating experiences it offers. Upside-down houses, fruit in different shapes, full-size scale robots, and trees made of Lego: here’s where fantasy and reality merge to create something incredible! There are just so many cool things in Japan that absolutely overload the senses. Attend a Sumo wrestling tournament where you’re guaranteed to be at the edge of your seat; visit the awe-inspiring Teamlab Digital Arts Museum that takes digital art museum to a whole new level; or take a cute break at one of the many animal cafés in Tokyo. Japan never ceases to amaze.
4. Beautiful Sceneries
Japan’s landscapes are a breathtaking tapestry of natural wonders. Japan really has it all — beautiful bamboo forests, stunning waterfalls, white sandy beaches, and snow-capped volcanoes. Cherry blossoms paint spring with ethereal beauty, while fiery maple leaves ignite autumn. Iconic Mount Fuji stands as a symbol of grace and power. Lush forests, tranquil lakes, and pristine beaches provide a serene escape.
Japan’s diverse terrains offer endless exploration, making it a nature lover’s paradise. From snowboarding in Hokkaido to wind surfing in while Okinawa and everything in between. For something unique, try sandboarding in Tottori, scaling Mount Fuji or island hopping on a bicycle in the Setouchi Inland Sea.
5. Romantic Getaways
Japan’s Capsule Hotels are well known but, when celebrating love in all its forms, there’s nothing more romantic than staying in a traditional ryokan next to an onsen (natural hot spring). Better yet, splurge on a room with a private open-air onsen set in a Japanese garden.
How about spending a night or two in one of Japan’s many rustic onsen towns? Serving as tranquil retreats for the locals, these tiny towns are nestled amidst picturesque natural surroundings where visitors can soak in mineral-rich open air onsens (hotspring baths), while enjoying serene mountain or coastal views. Check out Shibu Onsen in Nagano Prefecture where you can dip your toes in the onsen culture and observe adorable snow monkeys at play.
6. Family Friendly Adventures
Traveling with kids? Japan is one of the world’s safest — and most efficient — countries! You can safely travel by public transport at every hour of the day and never worry about delays. For the curious minded, there is no cooler place than Japan. There is so much to do and fun is always around the corner. Watch a Yomiuri Giants game at the Tokyo Dome, say hello to Kawaii in Hello Kitty Land, try canyoning and glamping in Hakuba, or spend a culturally-inspiring day with local farmers in Lake Biwa. Families absolutely LOVE Japan.
7. The Yen is Cheap!
Although Japan may not be the most affordable travel destination, now is the best time to plan a visit. With the US Dollar at historic highs against the Japanese Yen, your money will go a long way when it comes to on-the-ground spending. Here’s another bonus: there’s no tipping in Japan. So play, eat and shop away to your heart’s content. But remember these exchange rates won’t last forever!
Hope you enjoyed our list, now it’s your turn to book your next adventure! Whether you’re looking for a romantic honeymoon, an unforgettable family vacation or a grand tour of Japan, we have you covered. As all our Japan trips are private, each itinerary is fully customizable and can be expertly tailored to cater to your every whim. Reach out to us today to start planning your dream getaway.
For travel ideas and inspirations, visit our Japan page or simply give us a call to chat.
Thanks for reading and happy traveling!
