Travel to the land of the rising sun and blossoms
PC: Sora Sagano
The Japanese names for Japan are Nippon and Nihon, both written in Japanese using the kanji. They literally mean “the sun’s origin”, often translated as the Land of the Rising Sun. For modern-day tourists, Japan is also most fondly known as the land of cherry blossoms! Be it solo travel, business travel, or a tour with friends and family, Japan offers a variety of touristic options to discover for all! Enjoy the read, and make Japan your next destination of choice…
Prepare
PC: Ian Dooley
If you’re preparing to get a visa, information can be found here with the latest Covid-19 travel guidelines. Another critical element of preparing for travel to Japan is language i.e. embracing language as a part of the immersive travel experience! So do leverage tools like Google Translate during your trip, or contact us to sign-up for our basic conversations course!
Discover
PC: Koukichi Takahashi
Culture
Japan is like a melody of the old and new, when it comes to culture. On one hand you can go explore the ancient traditions through shrines, and temples. On the other hand, you can experience culture through karaoke and sake. Additionally, Japan’s culture is also somewhat shaped by its history. Several tourists want to pay homage to the Hiroshima peace memorial before they proceed on their journey. Such a wonderful gesture!
Nature
When we think of scenic beauty we may not think of Japan as a go-to destination, however that is a myth. Japan is nature’s abode with mountains, hot springs, Japanese gardens, and national parks. What is peculiar is that Japan offers trails and hikes for the adventurous kind. In addition to walking hikes, Mt. Fuji, for example, also offers cycling through nature. Treating yourself with nature’s very own shower in a hot spring bath in Onsen Ryokans! No doubt, Sakura season continues to be the top most attraction each year with blossoms all over the country and it is therefore also the best time of year to visit Japan.
Technology
Japan has always been at the forefront of technological advancement. For some of us it may very well be the reason to visit Japan. So if you’re a geeky traveller, you can take a fast ride on Shinkansen aka bullet train (slated to launch in India with Japanese collaboration soon!). Or, if you’re more of an e-geek, then electronic stores at the Akihabara Market in Tokyo are for you!
Gastronomy
There are plenty of gastronomical delights with Japanese cuisine. However, when it comes to seeing sights as a tourist, one highly recommended for a fish foodie will be to visit one of the world’s largest fish markets – Tsukiji. The market opens at 3 am on most days, to unload fresh fish from all over the world, and is popular for its’ Tuna. The bidding and auction for the fish runs from 5 am to 10 am which in itself is a unique experience. What’s more? You can enjoy delectable breakfast street food after 🙂
Reflect
PC: Kelly Sikkema
Finally, as with any other travel, reflections matter and bring them back home with you! Your once in a lifetime journey may have ended, but sharing reflections with others will be a new beginning for so many others who dream of visiting Japan, some day!
How would you like to share your experiences of being a tourist in Japan? By sharing memorable moments, pictures, travel diaries, souvenirs (many tourists choose to give good luck with Maneki Neko figurines) or something else?
