Japan
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
High season for visiting Japan is April, May and August (cherry blossom and autumn foliage). Shoulder season is June, July and September – December, while 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 the 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):
Blog posts from Japan
Nagasaki may be best known for the atomic bomb hit that destroyed the city at the end of World War II, but as this Nagasaki itinerary will show you, Nagasaki today is much more than its tragic World War II history. In addition to the Nagasaki atomic bomb museum, memorial monuments, and peace park, you will be surprised by all this charming and vibrant city has to offer. Nagasaki has a fascinating centuries-old history, beautiful European colonial areas, churches, parks, lovely canals with atmospheric bridges, colorful shrines, and temples, and a vibrant China Town.
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 Comments on Japan
Ashley - Abroad with Ash on Gion & Pontocho – A Night Stroll Through Kyoto’s Geisha DistrictWe were supposed to go to Japan in May...and then Coronavirus happened. Hopefully we can go next year! I'm saving...
Rebecca on Hozugawa River Boat Ride – Experience The Scenic Nature Of KyotoHi Maria, I really enjoy your site; it is very interesting and helpful for planning my own trip to Japan....
Edna Lewis on When Is The Best Time To Visit Japan? Seasons, Festivals & WeatherThank you for the detailed and very helpful information, will probably go in the summer. The heat n humidity won’t...
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Glover Garden is a lovely hillside landscaped garden and open-air museum with a breathtaking view overlooking Nagasaki harbor. The green and lush garden house the former homes of the European tradesmen and their families who lived in Nagasaki during the...
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Right in the heart of the Kansai region and surrounded in every direction by some of Japan's most famous sights lies the modern metropolitan city of Osaka. But as Japan's third-largest city deciding where to stay in Osaka can easily...
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The sacred mountain Mount Misen on Miyajima Island is an excellent day-trip from Hiroshima. No matter whether you choose to take the Miyajima Ropeway or walk up to the mountain top, the amazing view, fantastic landscape, and beautiful temples are...
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Shukkeien Garden is a fantastic 400 years old Japanese landscape garden in Hiroshima. It is one of the finest gardens in Japan, especially stunning during autumn and spring when the autumn leaves colors and cherry blossoms are on.
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Osaka, Japan’s third-largest city after Tokyo and Yokohama, may not be regarded as the prettiest city in Japan, lacking those big beautiful parks, Japanese gardens, and grand temples that we all love. But give Osaka a chance and you will...
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Osaka Castle, or Osaka-jo, as it is called in Japanese, is one of Japan’s most famous attractions and well worth a visit! More than 2,5 million people visit Osaka Castle every year. It is the biggest attraction in Osaka and...
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The Geisha districts Gion and Pontocho are a must-visit if you are planning a trip to Kyoto. Here we give you the ultimate walking route of Gion & Pontocho, with all the sights and highlights.
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The Hozugawa River Boat Tour is a fantastic way to experience Kyoto's nature. While Kyoto is most famous for its beautiful temples and well preserved historic neighborhoods, surrounding it is some truly spectacular nature with mountains, rivers, and forests. One...
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Kiyomizu-dera Temple is Kyoto's most popular and famous temple, surrounded by a vast forest. It is particularly beautiful during the Cherry Blossom season (March/ April) and Autumn Leaves season (November) when it is illuminated in the evenings. It is one...