In the furthest throes of Asia - and very much in a world of its own - sits Japan. Once a hermit kingdom, Japan is now visited by over 25 million visitors every year. The attraction? Simply how unique, quirky, fascinating, and utterly other-worldly the land of the Shogun is.
Modern Japan has come a long way since Sakoku, when its borders were closed to the outside world for over 200 years. Today, the country is currently undergoing something of a tourism renaissance, with people drawn to Japan’s breathtaking landscapes, electrifying nightlife, and interconnected transport systems that would make even the most avid car enthusiast take the train. In the buzzing major cities, you’ll find vending machines serving cans of hot coffee and cold matcha, cat cafes, pachinko arcades with every seat filled on a Tuesday afternoon, and a general sense of chaotic order throughout.
Japan’s natural beauty is unique in of itself. Mount Fuji is so much more than a mountain, and the red cherry blossoms blooming in early Spring are something that can only be seen on Japanese soil. Serene hot springs, also known as onsens, are also carved into Japanese culture and way of life. Its beauty is in no small part thanks to the Mekubari philosophy - meticulous attention to detail.
Foodie tourists should look no further than Japan for the ultimate food adventure. Sushi and ramen are two Japanese staple foods, but there’s so much more to enjoy. Yakitori – meat and vegetable skewers cooked over coals - are a popular post-work stomach liner for locals, and okonomiyaki – an egg and noodle pancake drizzled with teriyaki sauce and sprinkled spring onions - have their own variations in Osaka and Hiroshima. Even heading to your local ‘konbini’ of 7/11, Lawson’s or Family Mart will leave you fascinated by the quality of grab-and-go food.
The capital city of Tokyo is electrifying, sprawling across over 2,000 square kilometres and connected by a maze of public transportation that keeps 3 billion people moving every year. In cities like Kyoto, visitors can experience traditional tea ceremonies, kimono dress-up sessions, and geisha performances. Away from Tokyo and Kyoto, you’ll find snowy mountains in Hokkaido, food heaven in Osaka, and incredible islands to the south of the country.
Japanese people are known for their politeness, respect, and hospitality, often going out of their way to assist visitors. This cultural ethos of omotenashi ensures travellers feel welcomed and well cared for. Shinto and Buddhism are the major religions and influence many customs, festivals, and daily practices. Traditional arts such as Sado, ikebana (flower arranging), calligraphy, and martial arts are still widely practiced and respected.
In August 1945, the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki were devastated by two atomic bombs, ultimately bringing an end to World War II. While a sense of sadness can be felt throughout the cities, what has been built over the years has become a global symbol of regeneration and hope. Despite the desolation caused, Japan transformed Hiroshima and Nagasaki into symbols of what they want their future to be – forward-thinking, respectful of its past, and, above all, pacifist.
Building for the future while respecting the past is an art form mastered by the Japanese. Across its major cities to small towns, streets are lined with striking temples dating back hundreds – and in some cases thousands – of years. The ultimate paradox comes when you spot an ultra-modern skyscraper or block of apartment buildings next to one.
Visitors to Japan will experience one of the most unique and enriching travel experiences on the planet. And with dnata Travel by your side, your once-in-a-lifetime trip to Japan will be planned to perfection.
