Japan is one of the most visited countries in the world and many tourists wax lyrical when they share their travel experiences. The landscape offers an interesting blend of beautiful nature, well kept religious shrines and temples, historical landmarks, modern cities and world heritage sites. The influence of Japan’s fascinating cultures and unusual subcultures have such an international impact that foreigners flock here to experience sumo wrestling, traditional tea drinking ceremonies, anime comic art, samurai legends and more. Japan is also known as the birthplace of sushi, aikido and calligraphy. A trip here would not be complete without experiencing the otherworldly music scene and diverse nightlife.
Tokyo is a massive, wealthy, and fascinating metropolis, including a mainland located northwest of Tokyo Bay and two beautiful and subtropical archipelagos, the Izu and Ogasawara Islands. It encompasses rugged natural scenery, high-tech visions of the future, and glimpses of traditional life. The various districts of this phenomenal city vary wildly in character, from the electronic blare of Akihabara to the magnificent Imperial gardens and shrines of Chiyoda; from the lively youth mecca of Shibuya to the splendid pottery shops and temple markets of Asakusa. If you don't like what you see, hop on the train and head to the next station, and you will find something entirely different. The city truly has a little bit of everything for everyone.
Located in the Fukui Prefecture, Japan, Awara is set on the Sakai Plain, which is known for its rice paddies, and it is set near the mountains and the sea. Awara is renowned for its onsen resorts and natural hot water springs, which were discovered in 1883. Visitors can escape to one of the most atmospheric hot spring towns in central Japan. Visit the Echizen Awara Hot Springs resort, which was founded over 100 years ago; and sample delicious local cuisine, such as Echizen crab and other fresh seafood caught in the Sea of Japan. Visitors can enjoy an overnight stay in a traditional Japanese Ryokan to soak in the therapeutic spring waters and day visitors can visit the Saintpia Awara, including Saintpia's Tennoyu and Chinoyu. Don't Miss a visit to the Ashinoyu foot baths, and the Yukemuri Yokocho food alley.
The bustling metropolis of Kobe is one of Japan’s largest cities, with a striking setting facing Osaka Bay and backed by the Rokko Mountains. Mount Rokko, the highest peak in the range, is linked to the city by a cableway and offers magnificent views over the metropolis and the ocean beyond. From here, a separate ropeway leads to the Arima Onsen, where a hot springs health spa has been operating since the 8th century when it was first established by Buddhist monks. Don’t leave town without trying the marbled Kobe beef, renowned in global gourmet circles for its flavour and tenderness.
Located on Honshu Island in Japan’s Kansai region, Kyoto, the nation’s cultural heart, is renowned for its magnificent temples, tranquil Zen gardens, and historic shrines. Rich in tradition yet alive with modern energy, the city offers an extraordinary blend of ancient beauty and contemporary experiences. Not-to-be-missed highlights include the other-worldly Fushimi Inari-Taisha Shinto shrine; Kiyomizu-Dera, offering a ‘love providing’ ceremony as well as jaw-dropping views, and Buddhist Tōfuku-Ji, famous for its glorious garden. Kyoto is renowned for its food, with places like Nishiki Market offering a wide variety of culinary delights. Culture enthusiasts can attend a traditional tea ceremony; soak up the striking displays at the Kyoto International Manga Museum; or head to Gion, the vibrant downtown district, to visit artisan studios or watch a Kabuki show. Just beyond the city, scenic hikes and restorative hot springs provide the perfect way to connect with nature.
