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Japan

For most people, the image of Japan is an enigmatic one, with a vague notion of geishas and samurai warriors butting up against buzzing neon arcades and frenetic TV game shows. Japan is indeed a nation of contrasts and those who venture there on holiday will gain a greater understanding of the unique ancient culture and traditions of this beautiful country, as well as experiencing the modern innovations and infrastructural genius which has made contemporary Japan a powerhouse.

Japan’s major cities (Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka) appear on the surface to be west
ernised, but visitors quickly realise that the sleek modern culture of Japan is expertly blended with millennia of tradition, evident in the Buddhist and Shinto temples sprinkled throughout the urban centres, intricate social rituals for eating and greeting, and other small reminders of Japan’s long and proud history.

Once out of the cities, visitors can explore a different side of Japan, climbing one of the country’s 200 mountains, soaking in secluded hot springs, visiting ancient shrines and castles, or attending a sumo match.

Whether it’s for skiing in the winter, viewing the cherry blossoms in spring, or enjoying the sunshine of late summer, a holiday in Japan is a rewarding adventure for all.

Cherry blossoms
Mt Fuji
Tokyo

The fascinating land of pink cherry blossoms, sushi and Manga comics, Japan is a cultural explosion of attractions, neon-lit cities and exquisite mountainous landscapes. Thankfully this mystical country retains plenty of its oriental charm resulting in an ‘East meets West’ experience of a lifetime for visitors.
Head to the capital of Tokyo for a spot of shopping, sample authentic Japanese sushi, and maybe even enjoy a little karaoke. Although famous for its glitz and neon glam this ultra impressive modern metropolis also has ancient shrines and temples round just about every corner, making the sightseeing a wonderful combination of old and new.

Head south to the city of Hiroshima, the country’s most famous tourist attraction, where thousands of visitors make a pilgrimage to Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park, taking in the museums and lively city that has emerged triumphantly from the horror of the atomic bomb dropped during World War II. Hiroshima is a must for anybody interested in modern history and is a deeply moving place to visit.

Once you have had enough of Japan’s cities, visit the vast countryside and marvel at the hundreds of picturesque volcanoes, take a dip in the hot springs, and explore the mountainous interior of the islands. Japan is a beautiful country and even in the cities the parks are punctuated with cherry blossom trees and mathematically correct Zen gardens which never cease to amaze foreigners.