Japan is home to some of the best tourist destinations in the world. There are countless experiences in the Land of the Rising Sun that you will not find anywhere else. From urban wonders like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto to serene villages like Shirakawa, Biei, and Okayama, Japan takes your imagination for a spin. Every season in the country brings new colours of fun and thrill.
If you are planning your Japan holidays, this guide is for you, as it covers the best places to visit, top things to do, how to get around and the best time to visit this beautiful land.
The Ultimate Guide to Making the Most of Your Japan Holiday
Things to Do in Japan
Japan offers a wide range of activities for different types of travellers. In this section, we will highlight some of the best ones to make your holidays wholesome and more fun.
Explore Temples and Shrines
You will be surprised to know that there are around 80,000 shrines and 77,000 temples all across Japan. Simply put, your trip will not be incomplete if you don’t visit the best of them. Our suggestions include the Fushimi Inari Taisha shrine in Kyoto and Senso-ji Temple in Tokyo.
Experience Traditional Culture
When in Japan, take part in its ceremonies, like traditional tea service, sumo wrestling, watch a live kabuki performance, and dress in a kimono. It is always a good idea to reserve your slots for these excursions in advance. So, when you book Japan holiday packages, add them to your deal for a fun time here.
Try Japanese Cuisine
You must try seafood in its famous fish market called Tsukiji Market. It is located in Chuo, which is a neighbourhood of Central Tokyo. Apart from the sushi and exotic tuna, you will fall in love with ramen in Fukuoka, okonomiyaki in Osaka, and street snacks like takoyaki and yakitori. Lastly, don’t forget to try some fresh matcha and traditional sweets.
Shop and Wander
Japan is often called a shopping hub. As you step into its markets, you will see a wealth of stores. While passing by the stalls and shops, you are most likely to locate traditional souvenirs, local food, electronics, and trendy fashion brands. Whether you are tight on budget or extravagant to spend Yuan on high-end fashion boutiques, these markets will not disappoint you.
How to Get Around in Japan?
You can use the following options to commute in the country.
Trains
Japan has one of the most developed train systems in the world. The bullet trains connect all the major cities, like Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, and Hiroshima. However, it is not cheap. So if you are planning to visit multiple cities, get a Japan Rail Pass. It reduces your train travel cost, which can otherwise cost you hundreds of dollars if you buy separate tickets for every city. It offers unlimited train travel on most JR lines and can save you a lot of money.
Buses
If you want to explore the beauty of Japan while travelling, we suggest you get on a bus. Although bus rides are time-consuming, they are cheap. However, there is no dearth of comfort and convenience in these modern buses.
Best Places to Visit in Japan
This section highlights some of the must-visit destinations in Japan. Check them out.
Tokyo
Tokyo, a bustling metropolis, is a must-visit place during Japan luxury holidays. The city is always on the move, which means that it feeds on progress. Tokyo is full of bright lights and neon signs that beg visitors to pause for a moment. A stop in this city will make it worth every penny. You can visit monuments and historical sites, take photos, eat sushi, and do shopping here.
Kyoto
Millions of people visit Kyoto for a snapshot of imperial Japan. It once enjoyed the status of being Japan’s capital. It has thrived as a hub for Japanese culture, art, and education. The city has more fascinating sights than you could see in a dozen other tourist destinations. Hence, to see Kyoto at its best, visit Nijo Castle, the weaving workshops of Nishijin, or take a boat along Fushimi’s picturesque canals. This is just the beginning. You must appreciate its tea culture, which is evident in its elegant teahouses.
Osaka
If people love Osaka, it is due to its tasty food scene. While here, you must try its tasty grilled pancake. It is made with cabbage, batter, and your choice of toppings. After having your stomach filled with its delectable cuisine, head to explore its flashy Dotonbori neighbourhood. You can spot Osaka Castle, Universal Studios Japan, and the Osaka Aquarium.
The Best Time to Visit Japan
Japan is the tourists’ favourite go-to destination. Where does the secret lie? In its year-round pleasant weather. So no matter which season you plan your holidays in, Japan will come up to your expectations regarding the adventures. However, autumn and spring are the two best seasons to visit Japan. The weather turns mild, which invites nature lovers to soak in the country’s spring bloom. As spring air fades away, autumn colours fill the streets. The fallen leaves start to turn parks into shades of red and orange. Except for these two seasons, you can also expect winter to surprise the tourists. During the cold season, snowboarding and skiing become popular adventures. This means that we cannot fix one season to be the best time to visit Japan because each season has something unique to offer. However, if you still ask for a name, then spring it is.
The Final Note
Japan is the best travel destination for tourists who want an experience. Its ancient temples, buzzing cities, fresh sushi, and the warmth of the onsen waters make it more than just a tourist spot. When you step in Japan, your every stroll and ride will feel like a memory in the making. So what are you waiting for? Book Japan holiday packages from Virikson Holidays and make your trip one of a kind.
