Japan

Home to both buzzing, neon-lit cities like Tokyo and serene, historic sites such as Kyoto, Japan offers various sights and experiences. Enjoy diverse culinary delights, from sushi to sake, explore splendid rural landscapes, or dive deep into diverse pop culture phenomena like manga, anime, and J-pop. Museums, castles, and heritage sites cater to history and art enthusiasts. Embrace an unforgettable journey filled with captivating culture, exceptional landscapes, and hospitality in the Land of the Rising Sun.

Where is Japan?

Japan is an island country located in East Asia. It's in the northwest Pacific Ocean, lying off the eastern coast of the Asian continent. It is bordered by the Sea of Japan to the west and extends from the Sea of Okhotsk in the north towards the East China Sea and Taiwan in the south. Japan is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire and comprises an archipelago of 6,852 islands, with the four largest being Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Shikoku. Tokyo, the capital of Japan, is one of the 47 prefectures of the country.

Land of the Rising Sun

An Intriguing Mix of Tradition and Innovation

Japan, situated in the Pacific Ocean, is a striking archipelago characterised by its rich history, diverse landscapes, and innovative technologies. Famed for its flavourful cuisine, such as sushi and ramen, it also boasts several World Heritage sites, including ancient temples and castles. The fusion of time-honoured traditions with cutting-edge advancements creates a uniquely charming environment, attracting visitors from all corners of the globe.

Why Should I Visit Japan?

Iconic Cities

Tokyo, the capital and most populous city, offers a fascinating blend of ultra-modern architecture and historical landmarks. Kyoto, the former imperial capital, stands as a bastion of traditional culture, showcasing stunning temples, palaces, and the famed geisha district. Osaka is an economic powerhouse with a modern skyline, vibrant nightlife, and delicious street food, complemented by the historic Osaka Castle. Hiroshima commemorates its tragic history with the Peace Memorial Park and Museum while also providing access to the UNESCO-listed Itsukushima Shrine. Lastly, Sapporo, on Hokkaido Island, is best known for its beer, snow festival, and botanic garden, and serves as a gateway to skiing and hot spring destinations.

Spectacular Scenery

Japan's scenery can be described as both strikingly diverse and genuinely enchanting. With four distinct seasons, the landscapes transform into an array of vivid colours throughout the year. Across the country, you'll find coastal cliffs with crashing waves, striking beaches on Okinawa's subtropical islands, and expansive rice fields in the rural countryside. Japan’s pristine lakes and rivers, such as Lake Ashinoko in Hakone and the Hozu River in Kyoto, also provide tranquil and idyllic settings. The country's natural hot springs (onsen) in regions such as Hakone and Beppu offer peaceful retreats nestled in scenic surroundings, providing a contrasting but complementary side to Japan's bustling, vibrant cityscapes.

Sumptuous Cuisine

From refined multi-course kaiseki dinners to hearty street food, the diversity of food in Japan is remarkable. The nation is renowned for its sushi, crafted with precision from the freshest seafood. Ramen, available in various regional styles, is another beloved staple, with simmering broths and springy noodles. Tokyo holds the title for the most Michelin-starred restaurants in the world, demonstrating high-quality gastronomy. Kyoto, on the other hand, is the heartland of traditional Japanese cuisine, including kaiseki and yudofu (tofu hotpot). Osaka is often referred to as the "nation's kitchen", known for delightful street foods like takoyaki (octopus balls) and okonomiyaki (savoury pancake).