The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is one of Kyoto’s top sights and for good reason: standing amid these soaring stalks of bamboo is like being in another world. The Bamboo Grove is a nationally designated Historic Site and Place of Scenic Beauty. The Minis... more
The Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is one of Kyoto’s top sights and for good reason: standing amid these soaring stalks of bamboo is like being in another world. The Bamboo Grove is a nationally designated Historic Site and Place of Scenic Beauty. The Ministry of the Environment considers it a part of the soundscape of Japan. The bamboo has been used to manufacture various products, such as baskets, cups, boxes, mats, and pieces of art at workshops in the Arashiyama area. less
Beppu Onsen is one of Japan`s most famous hot spring resorts, located in the city of Beppu, Oita, on the island of Kyushu. With the largest volume of hot spring water in the world second only to that of the Yellowstone National Park in the United Sta... more
Beppu Onsen is one of Japan`s most famous hot spring resorts, located in the city of Beppu, Oita, on the island of Kyushu. With the largest volume of hot spring water in the world second only to that of the Yellowstone National Park in the United States, Beppu contains nine geothermal hot spots, collectively referred to as the "nine hells of Beppu". Each "hell" has a unique feature, such as the "blood pond hell" known for its red water, or the "sea hell" featuring bright cobalt blue water. Besides enjoying hot springs, visitors can explore hot spring mud baths, sand baths, and steam baths. less
The Edo-Tokyo Museum is a museum of the history of Tokyo during the Edo period. It was established in 1993. The main features of the permanent exhibitions are the life-size replica of the Nihonbashi, which was the bridge leading into Edo, and scale m... more
The Edo-Tokyo Museum is a museum of the history of Tokyo during the Edo period. It was established in 1993. The main features of the permanent exhibitions are the life-size replica of the Nihonbashi, which was the bridge leading into Edo, and scale models of the city and daimyōs` (lords`) houses of the Edo, Meiji, and Shōwa periods. The museum also showcases the evolution of Tokyo from a small fishing village to one of the most populous and sophisticated cities in the world. less
Fushimi Inari Shrine, located in southern Kyoto, is famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, which straddle a network of trails behind its main buildings. The trails lead into the wooded forest of the sacred Mount Inari. Dedicated to Inari,... more
Fushimi Inari Shrine, located in southern Kyoto, is famous for its thousands of vermilion torii gates, which straddle a network of trails behind its main buildings. The trails lead into the wooded forest of the sacred Mount Inari. Dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice, the shrine has ancient origins predating the capital’s move to Kyoto in 794. It`s an important site representing Shinto`s profound connection to nature. The view of the city from the top of the mountain, along with the iconic torii gate pathway, make it a memorable and photogenic site. less
Gion, located around Shijo Avenue between Yasaka Shrine in the east and the Kamo River in the west, is Kyoto`s most famous geisha district. Filled with shops, restaurants, and teahouses, where geiko (Kyoto dialect for geisha) and maiko (geiko apprent... more
Gion, located around Shijo Avenue between Yasaka Shrine in the east and the Kamo River in the west, is Kyoto`s most famous geisha district. Filled with shops, restaurants, and teahouses, where geiko (Kyoto dialect for geisha) and maiko (geiko apprentices) entertain, Gion is a place where you can experience the high culture of Kyoto. The traditional wooden machiya houses together with the locals in kimono present a charming scene from the old world. less
Ginza is Tokyo`s most famous upmarket shopping, dining, and entertainment district. It is one of the most expensive real estate in Japan. From high-end department stores like Ginza Mitsukoshi and Matsuya to international brands like Chanel, Dior, and... more
Ginza is Tokyo`s most famous upmarket shopping, dining, and entertainment district. It is one of the most expensive real estate in Japan. From high-end department stores like Ginza Mitsukoshi and Matsuya to international brands like Chanel, Dior, and Gucci, it`s a shopper`s paradise. Ginza is also home to the famous Kabuki-za Theatre, where you can watch traditional kabuki performances. less
Located in Kotokuin Temple in Kamakura, the Great Buddha of Kamakura is a bronze statue of Amida Buddha, which stands on the grounds of Kotokuin Temple. With a height of 13.35 meters, it is the second tallest bronze Buddha statue in Japan, surpassed... more
Located in Kotokuin Temple in Kamakura, the Great Buddha of Kamakura is a bronze statue of Amida Buddha, which stands on the grounds of Kotokuin Temple. With a height of 13.35 meters, it is the second tallest bronze Buddha statue in Japan, surpassed only by the statue in Nara`s Todaiji Temple. The statue was cast in 1252 and originally located inside a large temple hall. However, the temple buildings were washed away by a tsunami tidal wave in the end of the 15th century, and since then the Buddha has been standing in the open air. less
Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is considered the finest surviving example of prototypical Japanese castle architecture. The castle is also known as the `White Heron Castle` due to its elegant, white appearance. Constructed in the 14th c... more
Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is considered the finest surviving example of prototypical Japanese castle architecture. The castle is also known as the `White Heron Castle` due to its elegant, white appearance. Constructed in the 14th century, Himeji Castle has endured the many tests of time - wars, fires, and earthquakes, yet it stands as beautifully and as sturdily as ever. It comprises 83 buildings with advanced defensive systems from the feudal period. This historical site is a marvel of ancient Japanese artistry and craftsmanship that takes visitors back in time to the era of samurais. less
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum is a museum located in Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, dedicated to documenting the atomic bombing of Hiroshima in World War II. Its purpose is not only to document the horrific event but also to educate visitors ab... more
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum is a museum located in Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, dedicated to documenting the atomic bombing of Hiroshima in World War II. Its purpose is not only to document the horrific event but also to educate visitors about the importance of world peace and the horrific destruction that nuclear weapons can cause. This sobering and moving museum is a must-visit to understand Japan`s history and its commitment to peace. less
Itsukushima Shrine is a Shinto shrine on the island of Itsukushima, also known as Miyajima, in Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan. Known for its "floating" torii gate, it`s listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. When the tide is in, the torii gate looks as... more
Itsukushima Shrine is a Shinto shrine on the island of Itsukushima, also known as Miyajima, in Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan. Known for its "floating" torii gate, it`s listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. When the tide is in, the torii gate looks as if it is floating in the water. The shrine complex itself consists of multiple buildings, including a prayer hall, a main hall, and a noh theater stage, which are connected by boardwalks. It`s a stunning example of Shinden style architecture and offers visitors an extraordinary blend of natural and architectural beauty. less
Jigokudani Monkey Park is located in Yamanouchi, Nagano Prefecture, and is famous for its large population of wild Japanese macaques (Snow Monkeys), that go to the valley during the winter when snow covers the park. The monkeys descend from the steep... more
Jigokudani Monkey Park is located in Yamanouchi, Nagano Prefecture, and is famous for its large population of wild Japanese macaques (Snow Monkeys), that go to the valley during the winter when snow covers the park. The monkeys descend from the steep cliffs and forest to sit in the warm waters of the onsen (hot springs), and return to the security of the forests in the evenings. The sight of the monkeys in the hot spring and the snow-covered valley is picturesque and attracts many photographers and tourists from around the world. less
Kabuki is a traditional Japanese form of theater with its origin in the Edo period. It is recognized as one of Japan`s three major classical theaters along with noh and bunraku, and has been named as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. A kabuki pe... more
Kabuki is a traditional Japanese form of theater with its origin in the Edo period. It is recognized as one of Japan`s three major classical theaters along with noh and bunraku, and has been named as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. A kabuki performance is a must-see when you`re in Japan. With its stylized drama and the elaborate makeup worn by some of its performers, kabuki is recognized as the art of singing and dancing. You can catch a performance in a number of theaters, including Tokyo`s Kabuki-za, the most famous kabuki theater in Tokyo. less
Kenrokuen Garden, located in the center of Kanazawa city, is considered one of the "Three Great Gardens of Japan". Developed from the 1620s to the 1840s by the Maeda clan, the ruling lords of the Kaga Domain, the garden showcases a variety of floweri... more
Kenrokuen Garden, located in the center of Kanazawa city, is considered one of the "Three Great Gardens of Japan". Developed from the 1620s to the 1840s by the Maeda clan, the ruling lords of the Kaga Domain, the garden showcases a variety of flowering trees which provide the garden with a different look for each season. Its name Kenrokuen literally means "Garden of the Six Sublimities", referring to spaciousness, seclusion, artificiality, antiquity, abundant water, and broad views, which according to Chinese landscape theory, are the six essential attributes that make up a perfect garden. less
Known as `Crow Castle` due to its black exterior, Matsumoto Castle is one of Japan`s premier historic castles. It is located in the city of Matsumoto, in Nagano Prefecture. The keep (donjon), which was completed in the late 16th century, maintains it... more
Known as `Crow Castle` due to its black exterior, Matsumoto Castle is one of Japan`s premier historic castles. It is located in the city of Matsumoto, in Nagano Prefecture. The keep (donjon), which was completed in the late 16th century, maintains its original wooden interiors and external stonework. It is listed as a National Treasure of Japan. Matsumoto Castle is a flatland castle (hirajiro) because it is not built on a hilltop or amid rivers, but on a plain. Its complete defences would have included an extensive system of inter-connecting walls, moats, and gatehouses. less
As Japan`s tallest peak, Mount Fuji is not only a symbol of the country, but it`s also a popular site for both locals and tourists. Standing at 3,776 meters, it is visible from Tokyo on a clear day. It`s an active volcano, with its last eruption occu... more
As Japan`s tallest peak, Mount Fuji is not only a symbol of the country, but it`s also a popular site for both locals and tourists. Standing at 3,776 meters, it is visible from Tokyo on a clear day. It`s an active volcano, with its last eruption occurring in 1707. The mountain has been a pilgrimage site for centuries and has been popularized in art and literature. In the summer, climbing Mount Fuji is a popular activity, with the ascent made easier by the fact that a road goes halfway up the mountain. The sight of the sunrise from the summit is a sight that`s truly worth the climb. less
Nara Park is a large park in central Nara, home to hundreds of freely roaming deer and some of Nara`s main attractions including Todaiji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and the Nara National Museum. The park is one of the oldest in Japan and covers a v... more
Nara Park is a large park in central Nara, home to hundreds of freely roaming deer and some of Nara`s main attractions including Todaiji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, and the Nara National Museum. The park is one of the oldest in Japan and covers a vast area of over 500 hectares. Its deer, considered messengers of the gods in Shinto, are a symbol of the park and have been designated a natural treasure. Besides deer, the park features wide lawns, ponds, and beautiful seasonal flowers, making it a favorite spot for picnics, leisurely walks, or quiet contemplation. less
Nikko Toshogu is a Shinto shrine located in Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture. It is part of the "Shrines and Temples of Nikko", a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The shrine is dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate which ruled Japan... more
Nikko Toshogu is a Shinto shrine located in Nikko, Tochigi Prefecture. It is part of the "Shrines and Temples of Nikko", a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The shrine is dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, the founder of the Tokugawa shogunate which ruled Japan for over 250 years until 1868. The shrine consists of more than a dozen buildings set in a beautiful forest. Each building is a masterpiece of Japanese craftsmanship, featuring elaborate carvings and an abundance of gold leaf. less
Noboribetsu Onsen is Hokkaido`s most famous hot spring resort. A large amount of Noboribetsu`s many types of hot spring water surfaces in the spectacular Jigokudani or "Hell Valley" just above the resort town. Noboribetsu features over a dozen differ... more
Noboribetsu Onsen is Hokkaido`s most famous hot spring resort. A large amount of Noboribetsu`s many types of hot spring water surfaces in the spectacular Jigokudani or "Hell Valley" just above the resort town. Noboribetsu features over a dozen different kinds of thermal water, providing a range of health benefits. Among the baths available, you can enjoy the rejuvenating properties of waters rich in sulphur, salt, and iron. The dramatic landscape of the surrounding valley and the diverse bathing options make Noboribetsu Onsen a top choice for relaxation and rejuvenation. less
Located within the Ocean Expo Park in Okinawa, the Churaumi Aquarium is widely considered Japan`s best aquarium. Its name `Churaumi` has been derived from "chura," which means "beautiful" in the Okinawan dialect, and "umi," which means "ocean" in Jap... more
Located within the Ocean Expo Park in Okinawa, the Churaumi Aquarium is widely considered Japan`s best aquarium. Its name `Churaumi` has been derived from "chura," which means "beautiful" in the Okinawan dialect, and "umi," which means "ocean" in Japanese. The main tank, called the Kuroshio Sea, holds 7,500 cubic meters of water and features the world`s second largest acrylic glass panel. Visitors can admire a wide variety of species, including whale sharks and manta rays. The aquarium also focuses on the reproduction and growth of corals, and is actively engaged in the preservation and propagation of sea life. less
Rikugien Garden is often considered Tokyo`s most beautiful Japanese landscape garden alongside Koishikawa Korakuen. Built around 1700 for the 5th Tokugawa Shogun, Rikugien literally means "six poems garden" and reproduces in miniature 88 scenes from... more
Rikugien Garden is often considered Tokyo`s most beautiful Japanese landscape garden alongside Koishikawa Korakuen. Built around 1700 for the 5th Tokugawa Shogun, Rikugien literally means "six poems garden" and reproduces in miniature 88 scenes from famous poems. The garden is a good example of an Edo Period strolling garden and features a large central pond surrounded by manmade hills and forested areas, all connected by a network of trails. Rikugien is most famous during the cherry blossom season in late March and early April and in autumn when the numerous maple trees turn fiery red and yellow. less
Senso-ji is an ancient Buddhist temple located in Asakusa, Tokyo. It is Tokyo`s oldest temple and one of its most significant. The temple is dedicated to the bodhisattva Kannon, also known as Guan Yin or the Goddess of Mercy. According to legend, a s... more
Senso-ji is an ancient Buddhist temple located in Asakusa, Tokyo. It is Tokyo`s oldest temple and one of its most significant. The temple is dedicated to the bodhisattva Kannon, also known as Guan Yin or the Goddess of Mercy. According to legend, a statue of the Kannon was found in the Sumida River in 628 by two fishermen. Even though they put the statue back into the river, it always returned to them, so they built a temple in Asakusa for the goddess. The temple complex includes a five-story pagoda and the Asakusa Shrine, as well as many shops with traditional goods in the Nakamise-dori. less
Shiretoko National Park, located on the Shiretoko Peninsula in eastern Hokkaido, is one of Japan`s most beautiful and unspoiled national parks. Known for its wildlife, the park is home to many species including brown bears, deer, and foxes. In winter... more
Shiretoko National Park, located on the Shiretoko Peninsula in eastern Hokkaido, is one of Japan`s most beautiful and unspoiled national parks. Known for its wildlife, the park is home to many species including brown bears, deer, and foxes. In winter, the peninsula`s coastline becomes one of the northern hemisphere`s southernmost regions to see drift ice. Shiretoko is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers stunning hiking opportunities, boat tours, and hot springs. less
If you`re a sushi enthusiast, there is no better place than Sukiyabashi Jiro in Tokyo. This tiny, unassuming sushi restaurant located in the basement of an office building in Ginza, has received three Michelin stars each year since 2007. The chef Jir... more
If you`re a sushi enthusiast, there is no better place than Sukiyabashi Jiro in Tokyo. This tiny, unassuming sushi restaurant located in the basement of an office building in Ginza, has received three Michelin stars each year since 2007. The chef Jiro Ono is a living legend in the sushi world. Despite its international fame, the restaurant remains traditional, offering a chef`s selection of sushi that is a gastronomical exploration of textures, flavors, and the finest ingredients available. Please note that reservations are needed and can be very challenging to secure. less
Todaiji Temple, located in the city of Nara, is one of the most historically significant and famous Buddhist temples in Japan. The temple houses the world`s largest bronze statue of the Buddha Vairocana, known in Japanese as Daibutsu. Todaiji is also... more
Todaiji Temple, located in the city of Nara, is one of the most historically significant and famous Buddhist temples in Japan. The temple houses the world`s largest bronze statue of the Buddha Vairocana, known in Japanese as Daibutsu. Todaiji is also noteworthy for its Great South Gate, which is flanked by two fierce-looking statues representing the Nio Guardian Kings. The sheer scale of the temple complex and its architectural brilliance will leave you awe-inspired. less
Located in Ueno Park in Tokyo, the Tokyo National Museum is the oldest and largest museum in Japan. It holds over 110,000 items including more than 87 Japanese National Treasure holdings and 610 Important Cultural Property holdings (as of July 2005).... more
Located in Ueno Park in Tokyo, the Tokyo National Museum is the oldest and largest museum in Japan. It holds over 110,000 items including more than 87 Japanese National Treasure holdings and 610 Important Cultural Property holdings (as of July 2005). The museum specializes in art and antiques of Japan, and it also has important items from a number of Asian countries, including China, Korea, and Southeast Asia. The museum offers a comprehensive overview of the multifaceted beauty of Asian arts and culture. less
Kyoto, Japan`s old capital, is the best place to experience a traditional tea ceremony. The ritualistic preparation and consumption of matcha, a powdered green tea, is an art form and a meditative practice. Numerous tea houses in Kyoto offer these ce... more
Kyoto, Japan`s old capital, is the best place to experience a traditional tea ceremony. The ritualistic preparation and consumption of matcha, a powdered green tea, is an art form and a meditative practice. Numerous tea houses in Kyoto offer these ceremonies. They offer a unique opportunity to learn about Japan`s tea culture, the etiquette of serving tea, and the way of tea, known as "Chado". This immersive experience will leave you with a greater appreciation of Japanese culture. less
