Experience the Real Japan

Japan is a fascinating country situated in north-east Asia.

It is comprised of more than 4,000 islands - the main four being Hokkaido, Honshu, Kyushu and Shikoku. The Japanese name for Japan is ‘Nippon’ or ‘Nihon’ meaning ‘sun origin’ and is often translated as ‘Land of the Rising Sun’. It is a country of contrasts; engaging a combination of futuristic cities, ancient culture and diverse scenery. Japan is famous for its relatively short Cherry Blossom season.

Tokyo

Tokyo, meaning ‘Eastern Capital’, was originally a small fishing village called Edo. This city has survived a turbulent past including the wrath of war and devastation of earthquakes, but has risen and prospered and is one of the world’s major metropolises.

Osaka

Osaka is Japan’s third largest city. Established as a major industrial and cultural centre in 1889, it is also home to one of Japan’s most famous castles, Osaka Castle, which was originally built in 1593.

Takayama

Takayama is nestled high in the mountainous Hida alpine region of Japan. It has retained a traditional atmosphere unlike many other Japanese cities, especially in the beautifully preserved Old Town. It is the perfect location to soak in hot spring baths (onsen), after a day of sightseeing.

Kyoto

Once the imperial capital of Japan, Kyoto is another city with a diverse past. The city is home to over 2,000 places of worship, including Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines.

Kanazawa

Kanazawa is part of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network, boasting many historical attractions, and is renowned for traditional handicrafts and performing arts. Kanazawa’s main attraction is Kenroku-en Garden, one of Japan’s top three gardens.

Koyasan

Koyasan, a UNESCO World Heritage listed mountain, is home to over 100 temples and has been the centre of Shingon Buddhism for over 1,200 years. It is one of the best places to experience an overnight stay in a Buddhist temple lodge, known as a ‘shukubo’, to get a sense of a monk’s lifestyle.