Japan is like the two faces of one coin, both connected but starkly different. On one side you have the futuristic cities like Tokyo and Osaka with their neon lights, flashy buildings, and hi-tech appliances. On the other, is traditional Japan with centuries of culture, delicately handed down from one generation to the next. The beauty of Japan is that these two sides complement each other perfectly, where Shinto and Samurai are as much a part of everyday life as the next big gadget.
A top thing to do in Japan to experience this ancient side is to spend a night at a traditional Japanese inn or an old farmhouse. Experience what it is like to sleep on a futon on a tatami floor, rather than a bed, after you’ve had one of the most exquisite meals. There is much more to Japanese food than sushi which you’ll soon discover as you travel the country.
Another very traditional thing that the Japanese pride themselves on is the bath which is fed by water from the onsen. There are thousands of these hot springs scattered across the major islands, created by the high volume of volcanoes. Traditional inns (ryokan) are generally built near or over these onsens.
The archipelago has 6,852 islands stretching along the Pacific coast with a large mountainous area and forest cover. A must-see in Japan is its highest peak is Mt Fuji, a breathtaking sight even from afar. The sacred mountain attracts thousands of climbers every year, as do the other surrounding mountains. Skiing is big during the winter with the snow pulling in the crowds.
Getting around Japan is fairly simple with its fantastic public transport system. You can whizz in from the southernmost island to any of its gleaming cities in the comfort of a bullet train within no time. While most people have heard of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, Kyoto is where you should head to experience Japan’s rich past. With over 2000 temples and shrines, a delectable platter of gastronomic delights and age-old traditions, Kyoto will have your soul.
Are you dreaming of a magical escape to Disney World but with an extra touch of elegance and indulgence? Well, look no further than the most expensive hotels in Disney World! Whether it’s one in California, Florida, Japan, France, Hong Kong, or China, there’s always a luxurious stay that can make your wish come true.…
From enchanting Christmas card-esque villages in winter to cherry blossom canopies in spring, the Japanese capital of Tokyo is gorgeous throughout the year. This unique and energetic metropolis has countless subcultures to explore and gorgeous sights to see. Throw in delectable cuisine, and it’s easy to see why it’s such a popular travel destination. What’s more, luxury…
Not our first time in Japan but we’re now in one of the best cities and one of our favorites! It’s Chiba, this city that stretches along the coast owning breathtaking beaches and lovely natural sights. We love destinations where we can go sightseeing, but we love the mix between nature and amusement more. So,…
Our first-hand business trip to Kyoto was a remarkable blend of efficiency and cultural immersion. Kyoto’s allure lies in its seamless fusion of modernity and tradition. We found a plethora of business hotels in Kyoto, each offering a unique charm and impeccable service. The city’s public transportation, including buses and trains, was a revelation, whisking…
Besides the ever-popular cherry blossom season, fall in Japan is easily one of the best times to explore this gorgeous country. The best places to visit in Japan during fall span across the country, but what’s interesting is the nature of the entire season. Autumn here spans from September to November, but two distinct waves of foliage…
Trust us; Tokyo is one of those cities that you absolutely have to visit at least once (or maybe twice) in your life. It has so many iconic landmarks and attractions to visit, and we’re not surprised if you don’t want to go back home after spending a few days here. But we’re here not…
With its traditional culture and passion for everything new and zany, Tokyo yokes the past and the future rather superbly. Japan’s capital city indeed has everything, from entertainment and mouthwatering dining to ancient sights, temples, palaces, and even a lush forest within city limits. However, the region has a lot to offer, more than Tokyo. The…
The ancient capital of Japan, Kyoto, is a captivating city in its own right. From a world-famous bamboo grove to a sprawling Japanese shrine right in the heart of the suburbs, Kyoto offers many things to see and do. What’s more, its location at the heart of the Kansai region in the middle of the island of…
When you think of Fukuoka, Hakata Ramen should come to mind. The dish and the city’s culinary scene are indeed what make Fukuoka so popular. But this beautiful city won’t only please your belly. This is where you can carve out the most beautiful memories of your life. Fukuoka boasts unique culture, diversity, and world-class…
The capital of Japan Tokyo is one dazzling, kaleidoscopic experience. Centuries-old history, cherry blossoms, traditional architecture, and modern structures – Tokyo is all this, and so much more. Also, it’s Japan’s original mega-city and economic nerve center. Moreover, Tokyo is also one of the most business-friendly cities in the world. Business hotels in Tokyo have…
Tokyo is a busy capital with a wide variety of interesting things to do. The enchanting city at the head of Tokyo Bay, Japan boasts a mix of traditional and ultramodern nuances, from historic temples to neon-lit skyscrapers. Amidst all of these, you’ll find awesome yet cheap hotels in Tokyo. Tourists come in from every…
Kaleidoscopic Kyoto lies at the southern end of Lake Biwa, just 50 minutes from Osaka. The cultural and former historic capital of Japan, Kyoto reminds you of Japan’s glorious past. So, you’ll see everything from Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples to imperial palaces, gardens, and traditional houses. Also, it’s home to the geisha culture, vibrant…
Visiting the dazzling, dynamic Tokyo is a multisensory experience. The capital of Japan is famous for its striking skyline, pop culture, historic attractions, and gardens blossoming with cherry blossom trees. Tokyo is also known for its capsule hotels, which is a concept that developed in Japan but is now found everywhere. The unique accommodation originally…
Osaka is a fun-loving, vibrant sister as compared to the pricey and posh capital city of Tokyo. The city is not only famous for its gastronomy but also its historic sights and dynamic culture. Osaka’s bar/restaurant culture is legendary and it is the perfect place in the country to let your hair down and enjoy…
Age-old Kyoto is Japan’s spiritual heart and brims with a rich culture, whether it is geisha culture, zen gardens, traditional teahouses, or ancient shrines and temples. The city’s Japanese culture is a dizzying old-and-modern blend of onsens, tea ceremonies, matcha (powdered green tea), and manga! To experience the city at its best, it’s important to…
Established in 710 AD as the “Citadel of Peace” (Heijo-Kyo), Nara was Japan’s first permanent capital. It’s also the capital of the Nara Prefecture in Honshu’s Kansai region in central Japan. The city lies less than an hour’s drive from Osaka and Kyoto, and roughly 500 km (311 miles) southwest of Tokyo. There are plenty…
Sprawling, dynamic Tokyo overlooking Tokyo Bay is more than just Japan’s capital city; it’s a place where no two experiences are the same. Travelers to the enthralling city can experience the entire range of Japanese culture in one place. Jaw-dropping heritage architectural marvels, newer swanky structures, pop culture like manga and anime, sublime cuisine, and…
Good food is what defines spirited Osaka on the island of Honshu in Japan. In fact, this foodie city has an unofficial motto ‘Eat till you drop.’ Apart from this lip-smacking cuisine, Osaka is also known for the 16th-century Osaka Castle and the Sumiyoshi-Taisha, one of Japan’s oldest shrines. However, Osaka is also known for…
Nara is Japan’s 1300-year-old, deer-loving first capital centered around the incredible Nara-kōen park. Located just 45km south of Kyoto, the 7th-century AD-founded city was established as the ‘Citadel of Peace’. And while most itineraries might dismiss it as a day trip, it has so much for travelers to explore. In fact, the city houses the…
With its ancient Buddhist temples, traditional teahouses, and one of the world’s most unique forests, it’s no wonder that Kyoto is known as Japan’s spiritual heart. At the same time, the city is crazy ahead in its tech game, like the mixed-reality experience at Kenninji, Japan’s oldest Zen temple. So, it’s no wonder that the…
The island of Hokkaido is famous for its gorgeous outdoors, hot springs, skiing areas, and beer! So naturally, its buzzing hub of a capital Sapporo makes for a great starting point. The city is all about a rich, thriving culture, fabulous cuisine, neon-lit, electric nightlife, and an amazing and famous Snow Festival. In fact, Sapporo…
Kobe is perched on a hillside facing the sea, while nestled in the shadows of Mountain Rokko and overlooking the Osaka Bay. The former maritime gateway is located just 30 minutes west of Osaka and is one of the most beautiful cities in Japan. Apart from a picturesque harbor, Kobe also teems with a great…
Hiroshima is like a phoenix that has risen from the ashes of the horrors of World War II. The historic city overlooking the Hiroshima Bay and the Seto Inland Sea is a fascinating destination. Today, Hiroshima is the city of peace, with its wide, leafy boulevards dispelling any darkness that you might expect from it. Moreover,…
The capital of Japan is home to one of Asia’s biggest LGBT communities. So it’s hardly any surprise that there are plenty of gay hotels in Tokyo. Many are within easy reach of Shinjuku Ni-Chome, arguably the most popular Tokyo gay district. Lively enough by day, it’s more exuberant at night when the clubs and…