Japan, must-see places and visits

Japan is considering (finally) reopening its borders to independent travelers next October, so why not plan your next vacation there?

Japan can seem overwhelming at first glance, and with more than 3,000 islands that make it up, you can quickly feel lost. But that means even more possibilities are open to you, you just need to make the right choice to enjoy your dream vacation!

Traveling to Japan means discovering the land of manga and technology, visiting the new Studio Ghibli theme park, appreciating the electric atmosphere of Tokyo, the serenity of the temples on the island of Shikoku, and also savoring Japanese cuisine.

Discover these must-see spots in Japan!

Tokyo

In the capital, each neighborhood offers visitors a unique ambiance.

The Shibuya district is full of trendy shops, while Akihabara offers stores filled with video games and electronic products. If you love luxury and refined tea rooms, head over to Chuo-dori Avenue in the Ginza district. You will also find the Kabuki-za there, a theater with a traditional façade where actors convey their dramatic art.

Prefer calm? Don't hesitate to take a walk at Shinjuku Gyon National Garden to relax after a day of walking. Ueno Park is also recommended. There you can visit the rich Museum of Western Art, the National Museum, the poignant Toshogu Shrine as well as the country's oldest zoo.

Kyoto

In the former imperial capital of the country, you will find a more relaxing atmosphere at the heart of traditional Japanese culture. The city is known for its Zen gardens, as well as its Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines. In spring, a walk on the Philosopher's Path will even allow you to admire the magnificent cherry blossoms so appreciated in the country.

The city's must-sees include the Shogun's Palace and the Golden Pavilion, as well as the Zen garden of Ryoan-ji, Kinkaku Temple, and the shrines and temples of Nikko.

Mount Fuji

For sports enthusiasts, climbing Mount Fuji is a must for your trip. Peaking at 3,776 meters, this symbol of Japan is a true spiritual emblem. Every year, 300,000 people make its ascent between July 1st and August 31st. Many choose a two-day hike to rest halfway before continuing their journey early the next morning. It is indeed advised to leave very early to admire the breathtaking sunrise.

Hachinohe

Located in the north of Honshu island, Hachinohe and its region are full of hidden treasures that will let you experience Japan differently.

Their culinary art relies on agriculture and fishing. Due to spring and summer winds, rice plantations were devastated. The locals then turned to growing wheat, buckwheat, or millet and adapted their dishes to these cereals. On the sea side, this port city is renowned for the variety and quality of its fish and seafood. Travelers can discover and especially savor these local products at markets, including Tatehana Market located by the sea.

Festivals are not to be missed! The Hachinohe Enburi Festival, 800 years old, takes place every year from February 17th to 20th. It features traditional folk dances that mimic rice cultivation stages. During the first day, dancers process down city center streets for visitors' delight.

The Hachinohe Sansha Taisai or "Three Shrines Festival" takes place from July 31st to August 4th. You can then admire its folk art performances and float parade for a few days, listed as UNESCO intangible cultural heritage.

Studio Ghibli Theme Park

And yes! You are not dreaming; a theme park from Studio Ghibli will open this fall in Japan! This event was highly anticipated, and you'll be able to discover "Ghibli Park" starting November 1st in Aichi Prefectural Park, 300 km from Tokyo.

Of the five areas of the park, three will be accessible at opening, including Totoro's character house! The remaining two areas will be inspired by "Princess Mononoke," "Kiki's Delivery Service," and "Howl's Moving Castle," set to open in 2023.

Shikoku Island, following in Kobo Daishi's footsteps

Shikoku is one of Japan's four main islands (along with Hokkaido, Honshu, and Kyushu). It is renowned for its nature but especially for its famous pilgrimage route. This consists of 88 temples, some built under monk Kobo Daishi's (Kukai) guidance who lived from 774 to 835.

You will find numerous temples there each with their peculiarities and traditions. Jison-in Temple receives offerings representing breasts in all shapes and sizes because women come here to pray for health and good fertility.

Niutsuhime Jinja Shinto Shrine notable for its arched bridge has been listed as UNESCO World Heritage.

At Kongobu-ji Temple you can join a meditation session in Dojo located within Banryu-tei Garden —the largest stone garden in Japan—led by a monk amidst a calming candle-lit atmosphere during this 40-minute meditation.

Okuno-in Temple houses Kōbō Daishi’s (Kūkai) mausoleum making it one of Japan’s most sacred sites.

At Rengejo-in Temple bell chimes mark day start allowing participation alongside Buddhist monks during ritual performance.

Visit Nakano Udon School specialized in udon noodle making offering fun-filled learning experiences allowing take-home noodles & recipe book!

Finally relax sipping Matcha tea within Ritsurin Garden honored as "Special National Scenic Beauty," considered one among Japan’s most beautiful vast gardens overlooking Mount Shiun backdrop.

Okayama: "Land Of Sun"

Nicknamed "land Of Sun," Okayama Prefecture enjoys over 270 sunny days annually; beyond enjoying fine weather explore Ashimori clan samurai former residence preserved within original state delighting visitors discovering Edo period lifestyle (17th–19th century).

If appreciating traditional gastronomic artistry visit Urashima Honpo traditional confectionery founded over eighty years ago by Miyake family offering local sweet discoveries alongside confectionery crafting initiation ending learning tea ceremony execution!

Okinawa: Discover Subtropical Japan

Okinawa comprises 160 paradise islands boasting subtropical climate enjoyed throughout year preserving nature filled varied colorful landscapes; white sandy beaches turquoise waters tropical forests waterfalls… Okinawa blends historical cultural heritage hosting exceptional marine terrestrial biodiversity alongside renowned festivals events.

Tour Kerama Islands uncovering corals humpback whales; prefer stunning beaches visit Yaeyama Islands Miyako or Kume Island ideal scuba diving sites plus snorkeling amidst world’s most beautiful reefs!

Regarding island artistic cultural heritage performing arts hold significant place within inhabitants’ hearts since Ryukyu Kingdom era integral life portions notably Ryukyu dance Kumiodori music song accompanying Sanshin or Eisa; Okinawa birthplace karate self-defense technique taught Ryukyu warrior aristocracy.

In Okinawa food considered "kusuimun" meaning remedy; islanders believe balanced tasty diet contributes healthy body so savor Okinawan soba alongside awamori Japan’s oldest distilled alcohol fully enjoying experience.