Japan

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

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

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

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