For centuries Japan was one of the Far East’s best kept secrets, but today it is one of the world’s fastest growing tourist destinations. In 2018, The forward-thinking Japanese Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport & Tourism rolled out a strategy to both manage and facilitate the influx of visitors. From the broader aspects of this plan, such as improved rail connectivity, reduced congestion and wildlife conservation, to thoughtful initiatives for ‘Hands Free Tourism’, where luggage storage is more readily available, Japan is ready to welcome you warmly with a polite bow.
The Japanese Way
Iconic symbols such as sumo, geisha, temples and Mount Fuji draw people to Japan, but it’s the way simple things are done differently that stays with you. Trust us, once you’ve used a high-tech Japanese toilet you’ll never want to use a standard one again! The trains run to precision, there isn't a scrap of litter to be seen, and simple activities such as bathing and drinking have been elevated to high culture. There’s a strong reverence for tradition; from the spiritual and meditative beauty of Japanese gardens to the countless festivals that continue to play out just as they have for centuries. And the people are unfailingly polite – even in Tokyo’s rush hour.
Land of Contrast
Japan is an enormously varied and diverse country, and the contrast in geography from one end of the country to the next is quite staggering. Comprising some 6,800 islands, Japan stretches over 3,000km from the quasi-Siberian snowscapes of Hokkaido to the subtropical beaches and mangrove forests of Okinawa. Of this, over 70% of the terrain is mountainous and contains one tenth of the world’s active volcanoes. Each region is unique and will provide you with a never-ending list of things to see, experiences to be had and tastes to savour.
Unique stays
For an authentic Japanese experience, spend a night or two at a ryokan; inns with hot spring baths, delicious multi-course dinners and traditional interiors (including sliding doors and tatami mat floors). There are also minshuku; charming family-run inns, and Buddhist temple lodgings. In the big cities the western style hotels are always a favourite.
Seasons
While cherry blossom (Sakura) makes springtime the most famous season, Japan is a great year-round destination. Winter brings stunning snow-capped landscapes and world-class winter sports conditions; summer has no end of vibrant festivals; and with leaves painting the landscape shades of orange, autumn’s beauty rivals even that of the cherry blossom.
Japan is safe
As a nation that prides itself on honesty and respect, Japan has one of the lowest crime rates in the world, making it a top choice for families and solo travellers.
Interests for everyone
Walking and hiking - Japan offers some spectacular scenery and interesting hiking options.
Gardens - Beautiful gardens with lily ponds, weeping willows, glistening moss and meticulously raked gravel can be found in and around every town in Japan so can be easily incorporated into any trip.
Food and drink - When it comes to food, Japan deserves every accolade it gets. With tens of thousands of restaurants and more Michelin stars than anywhere else in the world, Tokyo is a foodies dream.
Traditional art and crafts - Despite dramatic modernisation over recent years, Japan guards its culture and traditions fiercely so heritage museums and open studios are a must for aesthetes.
Transport is a breeze
With clean, efficient and punctual public transport, travelling in Japan is stress-free; commuters form orderly queues before boarding and ticket conductors even bow to passengers before entering and exiting carriages!
Not expensive
Whilst it’s not as cheap as other parts of Asia, Japan is more reasonable than you might think. Entrance to a temple can cost as little as £3, subway journeys from £1, and dining out is usually cheaper than the UK because there’s no tipping!
What’s more, the Japanese themselves are some of the most charming, gracious, hospitable people that you will ever meet.
Embarque Travel work with one of the country’s most acclaimed specialist tour operators for Japan and would be happy to assist with your plans, contact us to get the ball rolling!