Japan, where ancient temples chant legends of the past and neon lights depict pictures of the future, unfolds a unique fabric of impressions. Ranging from the peaceful depths of bamboo forests to the thrilling buzz of busy mega cities, every region enchants with its own unique charm and grace.
- Kanazawa: Step back in time in the old-fashioned and beautiful city of Kanazawa, where the Kenroku-en Garden, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers a stunning example of Japanese landscape gardening in its purest state. Walk around the atmospheric districts of Nagamachi and Geisha District where the old wooden teahouses and geiko performances hold the hidden culture of Japan.
- Nara: Have fun with local deer in Nara Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire the towering Todai-ji Temple, whose massive bronze Buddha statue is its most popular feature. Get yourself to the Kasuga Grand Shrine, a colorful complex of vermilion-lacquered structures amidst old cedar trees, and surrender yourself to the calming ambiance of this historic site.
- Kamakura: Stroll through the tranquil beauty of Kamakura, the land of former Shoguns. Explore the Great Buddha, a statue of peace standing over the city, and go to the Hasedera Temple, known for its amazing Eleven-Faced Kannon statue. Walk in the green forests and small communities, feel the historical and spiritual energies of this amazing place.
- Yakushima: Dive into the untouched wonderfulness of Yakushima Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Plunge into ancient cedar forests, the homeland of Jomon sugi, trees over 1,000 years old, and feel the healthy connection with nature. Trek your way through the Shiratani Unsuikyo Ravine to see moss-covered rocks, waterfalls, and the sun rising between the island’s sharp peaks.
- Shiretoko National Park: Experience the unspoiled wilderness of Shiretoko National Park, which is UNESCO World Heritage Site, for its biodiversity. Watch bears catching salmon in the colorful rivers, see otters playing near riversides, and take whale watching tours to see the wonderful whales of the sea.
- Japanese Alps: Hike through the amazing scenery of the Japanese Alps, a paradise for sports enthusiasts. Ascend Mount Fuji, the UNESCO World Heritage Site and Japan’s representative symbol, and watch the sunrise bathe the sky in vivid colors. Ski the unspoiled slopes of the world-class ski areas like Hakuba or visit the dramatic valleys and hidden lakes of this region.
- Shirakawa-go: Within the Japanese Alps, Shirakawa-gassho-zukuri Village brings a taste of the past. Appreciate the unique gassho-style farmhouses, whose thatched roofs resemble folded hands, and explore the village’s deep-rooted history and traditions.
- Nikko: Take a spiritual trip to Nikko, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk through the Toshogu Shrine complex, a sacred site of great Shogun Tokugawa Ieyasu, and be dazzled by its exquisite carvings and vivid colors. Explore the peacefulness of Rinnoji Temple and the beautiful Kegon Waterfall to feel the spirituality of the place.
- Okinawa: Explore the island of Okinawa, which is known for its turquoise waters, perfect white sand beaches, and colorful coral reefs. Get to know the distinctive Ryukyuan culture that differs from mainland Japan and enjoy fresh seafood and traditional dishes. Feel the relaxed island vibe and get reacquainted with nature’s wonders.
- Hiroshima: Ponder on the weight of history at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Gain knowledge of how the atomic bomb devastated the city and its path to peace. Behold the eternal flame and the heart-rending messages of hope, passing on the message of peace and reconciliation.
- Takayama: Step back in time to the legendary Takayama, known for its well-kept Edo buildings. Walk along the mysterious streets lined with traditional wooden houses and sake breweries, feeling the town’s special aura. Participate in the Takayama Festival, which is held two times a year, and enjoy the beautiful floats and traditional costumes.
- Hokkaido: Explore the different topographies of Hokkaido, the northernmost island of Japan. Trek through volcanic ranges, ski down pristine slopes in winter, or relax in the natural onsens (hot springs). Visit the vibrant Sapporo, famous for its ラーメン (ramen), and Susukino nightlife, and see the rich cultural diversity of the island.
- Miyajima Island: Get into the spiritual calmness of Miyajima Island, also called Itsukushima. Walk through the vermillion Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, seemingly floating on the water during high tide. Watch the sacred Sika deer in the wild and admire the miraculous “floating gate” in the placid waters. Hike Mount Misen for amazing panoramic views of the island and the neighboring Seto Inland Sea.
- Kenroku–en Garden: Feel the epitome of the Japanese garden at Kenroku-en Garden in Kanazawa. Discover the extensively landscaped grounds, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and admire the masterfully created ponds, bridges, and strategically placed rocks. Walk along the various sections displaying different landscapes, from a peaceful waterfall to a lively hillside full of seasonal flowers.
- Naoshima Island: The unique combination of art, architecture, and nature on Naoshima Island, often called “Art Island,” should be embraced. Plunge into contemporary art installations all over the island, from Yayoi Kusama’s iconic yellow pumpkin figurine to Ando Tadao’s minimalist Chichu Art Museum. Go off the beaten path to the Benesse House Museum, which marries architecture and art with nature.
Definitely, this is just a little part of the big and intriguing carpet that Japan offers. From the crowded streets of Tokyo and quiet temples of Kyoto to the hidden gems in the countryside, each part of this fascinating land has different attractions and memories. Thus, put on your travel boots, dive into the Japan, and let the beauty of Japan amaze you!
