Japan is a part of Asia, but yet a world apart. Being an island that was closed for visitors for many years, it is like a cultural Galapagos with a unique cultural with lovely contrast of traditional and modern Japan. From the splendor of a Geisha dance to the spare beautify of a Zen rock gardens, Japan will fascinate even the most traveled traveler.
The traditional Japan is one thing, but once you step out into the streets of Tokyo around Shibuya Station, it is like stepping out into the future! It is neon-flash-maniac! Staying in a traditional Ryokan (Japanese Inn), sitting in a robe on the floor eating raw fish and getting naked with a bunch of strangers to soak in a Onsen (hot spring)are all things that are truly unique for Japan.
Savoring the delicious Japanese cuisine is half the reason why you should visit Japan! Their attention to details and flavors can literally change your idea of what is possible when it comes to food. And last but not least, Japan is a great country for outdoors activities with it`s Alps and islands. In the Japan Alps you can go hiking in the summer and skiing/ snowboarding in the winter at some of the wolds top notch skiing resorts. Down south the coral reefs of Okinawa will have you wondering if you have come to Thailand.
Japan is considered to be a relatively expensive country, but you can save a lot of money and make your Japan travel cheaper by following our tips.
When To Visit Japan
The high season for visiting Japan is during April, May, and August (cherry blossom and autumn foliage). The shoulder season is June, July, and September – December, while the low season is January – March (cold and lots of snow). We visited in July/August and had nice warm weather, but a little rain in between.
Our Journey Through Japan
We spent six weeks in Japan and visited these places: 1. Tokyo – 2. Nikko – 3. Matsumoto – 4. Japanese Alps – 5. Kanazawa – 6. Takayama – 7. Shirakawa-go 8. Kyoto – 9. Hiroshima – 10. Miyajima Island – 11. Nara
Check out our recommended Japan Itinerary – The Best Of Japan In Two Weeks
Travel Guides
We used Lonely Planet`s Japan Travel Guide on our trip. You can get that and other great books by clicking on the pictures below which will take you to Amazon.com (affiliate links):
Articles About Japan
Facts
- Population: 127 million
- Capital: Tokyo
- Land Area: 77 944 km²
- Language: Japanese
- Religion: Buddhist/ Shinto
- Currency: Yen (JPY)
- Time zone: UTC+9
- Drives on: Left
Recent Japan Comments
Rick Weber
on What To Do In Miyajima – A 1-Day Miyajima Itinerary
I'm really glad you loved your visit to Miyajima. I have lived in Hiroshima for 33 years and teach how to guide on Miyajima to adults and university students. While...
Zuzanna Lumanisha
on What To Do In Tokyo – A 5 Day Tokyo Itinerary
Excellent guide. Thx guys. Japan from what I've seen online and heard from people... Seems like a place on a different planet.
Art Ryden
on The Amazing And True Story Of Hachiko The Dog
Amazing to say the least; what a great DOG!! A real tear jersey. There should be more movies like this.
RIP Hachi
photographer in India
on Glover Garden – A European Hillside Garden & Open-Air Museum In Nagasaki
Good read.
Interesting stuff
Keep up writing.