Japan
Welcome to JAPAN
Japan is a country where tradition and modernity meet harmoniously. You will discover Tokyo, the bustling capital, and Kyoto, the former imperial capital, two fascinating cities offering unique travel experiences. Whether you are looking for cultural discoveries, culinary delights or urban adventures, Tokyo and Kyoto will win you over with their diversity and beauty. With its gleaming skyscrapers, historic temples and Zen gardens, Japan is a true jewel of East Asia. From the lively streets of Shibuya to the serene temples of Kyoto, every corner of this country offers treasures to discover. Immerse yourself in Japanese culture, savour its exquisite cuisine and let yourself be carried away by the magic of this exceptional destination.
Arriving in Japan
Getting to Japan is easy thanks to its many international air connections. The main airports are Narita International Airport and Haneda International Airport in Tokyo, as well as Kansai International Airport near Kyoto. Airlines such as Japan Airlines, All Nippon Airways (ANA), Emirates and Air France offer direct flights from major cities. On arrival, you will be welcomed by the warmth and hospitality of the Japanese people. The airports are well equipped with transport services such as trains, shuttles and taxis, making it easy to reach your accommodation.
Japan has a varied and efficient transport network that makes travelling around the country easy. The Shinkansen (high-speed train) connects Tokyo to Kyoto in around 2 hours and 30 minutes, offering a fast and comfortable option for intercity journeys. Metros and local buses are also practical and affordable ways to get around the cities. Taxis and online transport services such as Uber are available, although public transport is often more convenient. Travel cards such as Suica and Pasmo provide easy access to local transport networks.
Choosing your accommodation in Japan
Japan offers a wide range of accommodation to suit all budgets and preferences. For those seeking luxury, five-star hotels in Tokyo, boutique hotels in Kyoto and ryokans (traditional inns) offer world-class services and breathtaking views. These establishments often have spas, public baths and gourmet restaurants, perfect for a romantic getaway or a honeymoon. Ryokans, often set in beautiful natural surroundings or near historic sites, offer an equally comfortable alternative with a touch of character. Accommodation in Kyoto's historic districts is particularly popular for its peaceful atmosphere and proximity to temples and gardens.
Japanese cuisine
Japanese cuisine is a festival of flavours, reflecting the country's cultural and geographical diversity. Among its iconic dishes, sushi is a must. These bites of raw fish and vinegared rice, often accompanied by wasabi and soy sauce, are a delight for the taste buds. Another local delight is ramen, a noodle soup often topped with meat, eggs and vegetables. Tempura, seafood and vegetables fried in a light batter, is also a must. Okonomiyaki, a kind of pancake topped with various ingredients, is a delicious snack you will find in markets and street stalls.
To sample these culinary delights, Japan offers a multitude of restaurants, from high-end establishments to small street stalls. The Sukiyabashi Jiro restaurant in Tokyo is renowned for its exceptional sushi and elegant atmosphere. For a more local experience, head to the izakayas (Japanese pubs) of Shinjuku or Shibuya, where you can taste a variety of traditional dishes. In Kyoto, the Kikunoi restaurant is famous for its kaiseki cuisine (Japanese fine dining) and warm setting. For fresh seafood dishes, Nishiki Market in Kyoto is an essential stop.
Tourist attractions
Tokyo and Kyoto are full of fascinating historic and cultural sites. In Tokyo, Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, with its famous red lantern and Nakamise shopping street, is a must-see. The Imperial Palace, surrounded by magnificent gardens, offers a fascinating glimpse into Japanese history. In Kyoto, Kinkaku-ji Temple (Golden Pavilion) and Fushimi Inari-taisha Shrine, with its thousands of red torii gates, are iconic sites. The Gion district, famous for its tea houses and geishas, offers a unique traditional atmosphere.
Natural beauty and tranquil gardens Tokyo's gardens, such as Hama-Rikyu Gardens and Shinjuku Gyoen, are perfect for relaxing and escaping the bustle of the city. Hama-Rikyu Gardens, with their ponds and tea pavilions, offer an idyllic setting for peaceful walks. In Kyoto, the Zen gardens of Ryoan-ji Temple and the gardens of Kyoto Imperial Palace are havens of peace. The surrounding mountains and the bamboo forests of Arashiyama offer opportunities for hiking and exploration, with spectacular landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Activities and entertainment in Japan
Japan is an ideal playground for hiking and adventure enthusiasts. The mountains, national parks and coastal regions offer hiking trails, kayaking excursions and safaris to observe wildlife in its natural habitat. The mountains of Takao and the trails of Mount Fuji offer guided hikes and climbs for mountain lovers. For thrill seekers, try paragliding over the mountains of Nagano or rafting on the rivers of Gunma. Cycling and boat excursions offer unforgettable adventures through the country's diverse landscapes.
Nightlife in Japan is vibrant and varied, with something for every taste. Tokyo and Kyoto are the main areas for going out, with a multitude of bars, clubs and cafes offering live music and cultural performances. Tokyo's Shibuya district is an iconic place to enjoy live music and cocktails. For a cultural experience, do not miss kabuki and noh theatre performances, as well as traditional Japanese music concerts.
Shopping guide to Japan
Japanese markets are colourful, lively places where you can buy unique handicrafts and souvenirs. Silk clothing, ceramic objects and ukiyo-e prints are popular purchases. Lacquered wood objects, fans and Japanese paper items are also sought-after souvenirs. Tsukiji Market in Tokyo and Nishiki Market in Kyoto offer a variety of local crafts, handmade jewellery and works of art. Shops in shopping centres and historic districts also offer a selection of quality products, including designer clothing, decorative items and beauty products.
For iconic Japanese products, do not miss shops specialising in teas and beauty products. Green tea-based beauty products and Japanese cosmetics are renowned for their therapeutic and aesthetic benefits. Souvenir shops in Tokyo and Kyoto offer a selection of quality products, including kimonos, decorative items and works of art. Lightweight cotton clothing, colourful sarongs and fashion accessories are also popular souvenirs. Fashion boutiques in Tokyo and Kyoto offer creations by emerging Japanese designers, while shops in Ginza sell lacquered wood items, cotton clothing and decorative objects.
Immersion in Japanese Culture Japanese is the official language of Japan, but English is also widely spoken in tourist areas and hotels. Learning a few phrases in Japanese can greatly ease your journey and show your respect for the local culture. Learn a few Japanese words: 'Hello' is 'Konnichiwa', 'thank you' is 'Arigato' and 'yes' is 'hai'. Japanese people are known for their warmth and friendliness and will be delighted to share their culture with you. Festivals are an excellent opportunity to discover Japanese culture. The Gion Matsuri festival, with its parades and dances, is a unique celebration that attracts thousands of visitors each year. Also take part in local cooking workshops, calligraphy classes or garden visits for a fully immersive experience. These activities allow you to understand Japanese daily life and build meaningful connections with local people. Calendar of Events Japan is a country of festivals, with celebrations taking place throughout the year. The Gion Matsuri festival, held in July in Kyoto, is one of the most spectacular events, with concerts, parades and dance competitions. The Sanja Matsuri festival, held in May in Tokyo, is another major celebration, marked by parades, dances and sporting competitions. The cherry blossom festival in April celebrates the beauty of sakura with picnics beneath the blossoming trees and street festivals. The Sapporo Snow Festival in February is a major cultural event, offering ice sculptures, art exhibitions and concerts. Visiting Japan is much more than a simple sightseeing trip. It is an immersion in a rich and diverse culture, a discovery of breathtaking landscapes and an encounter with warm and welcoming people. Whether you explore ancient temples, relax in onsens (hot springs) or savour refined dishes, every moment spent in this country will leave an indelible mark on your heart. Japan invites you to return, explore further and continue discovering its countless wonders. Whether for an adventure, a spiritual retreat or simply to relax, Japan offers a multitude of unique and memorable experiences. Come and discover why this country is called the Land of the Rising Sun and let yourself be captivated by its timeless magic. Share this article with your friends