Truly timeless, Japan is a fusion of ancient traditions and contemporary mod-cons, and the seamless combination makes it seem as if it’s the most natural thing in the world. Welcome to our Japan travel guide.
Things to see in Japan
On the surface, Japan seems to be an exceptionally modern country. However, travelling around, you’ll find there are more opportunities to connect with traditional culture than previously thought.
Cherry blossoms
A truly unique experience in Japan, seeing the bloom of the cherry blossoms in March and April, is truly magical. A visit to Hitsujiyama Park is a must, with both the shibazakura (lawn cherry blossoms) and the Shibazakura Hill with more than 400,000 trees of nine different varieties on display. Set against the backdrop of Mount Buko, the patchwork of pink, red, white and violet is spectacular.
Itsukushima Shrine
Steeped in religious significance, the Itsukushima Shrine is one of the country’s best. The shrine was built like a pier over the water so it appears to float during high tide. Historically, commoners were not allowed to visit the island in order to maintain its purity. Now, it’s one of Japan’s leading attractions.
Scramble Crossing
Shibuya is home to the ‘Scramble Crossing’. While it may look like merely a pedestrian crossing, it has become one of the most iconic sights of Tokyo. The area is also home to Tokyo’s hippest clothing brands and cutting-edge fashion shops.
Kawachi Fuji Gardens
Kawachi Fuji Gardens will truly leave you speechless with wisteria blossoms in full bloom. There’s also the wisteria dome to walk through. Remember to get your timing right with this one, though, as the flowers bloom for only a small window of time, from the end of April to the middle of May.
Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama
Always wanted to come face to face with a monkey? Head to Arashiyama Monkey Park Iwatayama in Kyoto. You can feed the monkeys and play with them, and there are also wild birds and deer. Just remember, the animals are wild, so you need to follow the park rules. Enjoy the walk up the mountain and bask in the spectacular view.
Kabuki
If you’re up for some Japanese entertainment, the Kabuki has been registered by UNESCO as a cultural heritage art form. It’s flashy and over the top and the dramatics are sure to entertain.
Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum
Finally, a visit to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum is a must. As the only country to have an atomic bomb dropped on it, the Museum is a tribute to the tens of thousands of people who lost their lives and to those who survived. It uses personal belongings left by the victims, artefacts, testimonies and more to convey the horrors of what really happened.
Best places to visit in Japan
Of course, Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto are high on the visiting list for many tourists. However, there is much more to Japan than the main cities.
Mount Fuji
It’s one of the most well-known symbols of Japan and is a registered UNESCO World Heritage Site, so it’s definitely not one to be missed. Just looking at Mount Fuji is an experience in itself, but climbing it is truly magical. Best to go from July to the middle of September if you wish to climb. Just remember, it is exceptionally challenging and not for the faint-hearted.
Ueno Park
If you only have a couple of days to spare, Ueno Park is an excellent option. It’s a smorgasbord of attractions so you can sample the country’s unique charm and traditions all within one venue. There’s also a shopping bazaar which evokes memories of an ancient black market. Nearby is also Yanaka, which is one of the few regions in the area to survive the destruction of World War II. It’s an authentic view of Japan’s historic and cultural past.
Kenrokuen
A huge park reminiscent of the Edo era, Kenrokuen is designed to be beautiful all year round. It’s one of the three great gardens of Japan, and the scenery changes according to the time of year thanks to the different trees that are planted throughout the garden. There are walking trails throughout, and teahouses to stop and enjoy traditional Japanese sweets and tea.
Kamakura
Kamakura was once the military capital of Japan and is largely responsible for what we know as samurai culture today. It’s also one of the birthplaces of Zen Buddhism, with many temples still practising Buddha’s teachings. While it is traditionally a day trip from Tokyo, there is a lot to see and do so you can stay for a couple of nights if you wish. There are lively beaches, shopping alleys and delicious local restaurants. It’s sure to charm every visitor.
Yokohama
With a welcoming and relaxed vibe, Yokohama is filled to the brim with history and charm. Whether you’re exploring the Minato Mirai waterfront or walking through the world’s biggest Chinatown district, taking a stroll through Yokohama is a highlight of a visit to Japan.
Best time to visit Japan
Japan is stunning all year round; however, the best time to visit largely depends on what you’re planning on doing.
Cherry blossom season
If you want to catch the cherry blossoms, best to be there in late March or early April. Likewise, if you’re keen to see the colours of the autumn leaves, which is one of the most popular times to visit Japan, the best time to visit is September through to November.
For more information on seeing the cherry blossoms in Japan, read our guide on everything you need to know.
Winter
What’s great about Japan is the ability to be outdoors. The country is covered with mountains, and the hiking is incredible. Pair this with the bubbling hot springs and the snow during winter, and you won’t be disappointed, no matter what time of year you go.
Cultural celebrations
It’s also a good idea to be mindful of all the cultural celebrations that happen in Japan. Being there for cultural days such as the Birth of Buddha, which is celebrated throughout Japan on 8 April or Tanabata Matsuri, the Star Festival, on 7 July, is a lovely way to experience first-hand the traditions of the culture. However, these are busy times to visit so bear this in mind when you’re booking your dates.
Cultural experiences and festivities in Japan
Japanese culture is extraordinary. It’s interesting and charming, and most definitely unique.
Sumo wrestling
Sumo is Japan’s national sport. Originating in ancient times, the Japanese style of wrestling was used to entertain the deities, and some religious rituals are still followed today. Because there are no weight restrictions, it’s encouraged to gain weight to have an edge over the opponent. There are six tournaments held every year, and it’s a fascinating sport to watch.
Geisha culture
If you want to experience Geisha culture, you need to head to Kyoto. Less than 100 geisha remain in the city, working in the traditional teahouses. Geishas were introduced in the Edo era of Japan, when the country cut off all ties with the outside world. The role of the geisha is to entertain and charm, playing music, dancing and joining in with drinking games when necessary.
Japanese tea ceremonies
There is also the traditional Japanese tea ceremony, known as the sado. The ritual of preparing and serving Japanese tea, known as Matcha, alongside traditional Japanese sweets, puts the emphasis on the guest, becoming more like a choreographed routine rather than the simple act of pouring a cup of tea. Enjoying a traditional Japanese tea ceremony is a definite highlight.
Cultural charm meets historical tradition meets modern technology; Japan is a whirlwind of adventure, intrigue and exploration.
