Travel Guide to Japan

  

Travel Guide to Japan 

Japan is an island country composed of stunning views, ancient heritage, and entertaining culture which attracts thousands of tourists. 

This travel guide for Japan will help you to navigate each Czech Republic tourism destination, offering you the most valuable knowledge that you need for an astonishing trip.

Best Places to Visit in Japan

1. Tokyo: The Bustling Metropolis 

Tokyo is the capital of Japan and at the same time is a representative of modern city and ancient history. 

This city covers every adventure from as modern as technology to as history as temples. 

Visitors should ensure they visit Asakusa’s Senso-ji Temple, Ueno Park, Shibuya and Harajuku districts for a great nightlife and shopping experience. If you want to taste something quite special, have a look at the okonomiyaki in Tsukiji.

2. Kyoto: The Cultural Heart

Kyoto is an old city packed with history which has a huge number of temples, beautiful tea houses and gardens. 

Kyotos greatest attraction is the Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and Fushimi Inari Shrine is perhaps one of the most famous shrines with thousands of the symbolic red torii gates. 

More often one can enjoy a tea ceremony, or stroll through the Gion district and perhaps even meet the mysterious geisha.

3. Osaka: The Kitchen of Japan 

Rich in various sorts of cuisine, particularly local food, Osaka is also well-known for its colourful nightlife. 

Don’t forget to try kushikatsu, takoyaki and any other local delicacies you may find attractive. 

Learn more at Osaka Castle and get some shade at the famous Dotonbori with neon lights and a variety of food to offer.

4. Hiroshima: A City of Peace 

The city of Hiroshima was destroyed during the Second World War and has become a peaceful city. 

Hiroshima is home to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Museum. A wonderful boat tour with a visiting point on Miyajima Island which is home to the famous floating torii gate of the shrine.

5. Nara: Heike and Other Political Dramas 

Visiting Nara is interesting due to the number of historic temples that are in the region. Among them is Todai-ji which is famous for its giant Buddha statue. 

Friendly deer strolling in the open grounds of Nara Park make a contribution to the character of this historical city.

Basic Facts and Information about Japan – Particular Travel Advice 

6. Citizens of the aforementioned countries are required to obtain a visa to Japan

To be on a safer side, when planning to go travelling ensure you find out the visa requirements for your country. 

Basically, there are two kinds of passengers; those that can enter Japan without a visa for a duration of up to 90 days, and those that require a visa before entering the country. Make sure to carry your travel papers intact in case of any issues arising when getting to the destination.

7. The availability of functions providing information and services related to currency and payment methods 

The currency used in Japan is the Japanese yen given the symbol JPY. Accepting credit cards is common in the big cities, but it’s better to have cash on you particularly in the rural areas. 

International cards can be accepted and used at convenience stores; especially at self-service ATMs wherever there is the need to withdraw cash.

8. Understanding of Public Transport

Public transport in Japan is convenient, and there is almost no language barrier. If you plan on using any form of train transport such as a shinkansen (bullet) train, then buying a Japan Rail Pass may be of great benefit due to its ability to provide unlimited use of most of the trains. Taxis, buses and local trains and subways are also convenient for moving around the city.

9. Evaluating Japanese Culture

The Japanese are a formally polite people since respect for tradition is their key value. You must bow when saying greetings, take off your shoes before entering the houses or some offices, and do not have to be noisy especially when using public transport.

10. Safety and Natural Disasters of Mobile Apps

Japan stands among one of the safest countries in the world for travellers. But we must keep abreast of natural calamities such as earthquakes, tsunamis, hurricanes, etc. 

Make sure you know the safety precautions and get the application by the Japanese Meteorological Agency to receive the alerts.

Japan's Food

11. Must-Try Dishes

As already mentioned, the Japanese are very keen on using fresh food when preparing their meals as well as how the meals look when they have been prepared. For lunch you should try kaiseki, sushi, ramen, Okonomiyaki and yaki-niku.

12. Dining Etiquette

The material culture of residential daily life, or what is consumed, includes various dining etiquettes; while eating, it is polite to say ‘Itadakimasu,’ and after a meal ‘Gochisousama deshita.’ 

Giving tips is not prevalent and is actually discouraged or frowned upon. Instead, try to somewhat immerse oneself to the event or perhaps more importantly the taste.

13. Best Restaurants to Visit

Select from a range of eating places, you may have highly sophisticated restaurants in Tokyo or simple restaurants in Osaka. As with other places, surf for information on recommended places or consult residents of the geographical location.

14. Japanese Tea Culture

Participate in a Japanese tea ceremony, where focus is paid to the principles as follows: harmony, respect, purity and tranquillity. Go to a tea house in Kyoto to learn more about this tradition.

15 Onsen and Ryokan experiences 

Significantly, take a dip in a Japanese hot spring or spend a night at a Japanese inn, also called a ryokan. Take natural hot springs to help relieve discomfort and be soothed by the scenery that surrounds the water.

Adventure Activities in Japan 

16. Hiking in Japan

Tokyo Region traveller attractions include; mountain climbing; there are many mountains in Japan including the Japanese Alps, and hiker friendly trails in Nikko National Park. 

Remember there are trails for those willing to challenge themselves and those willing to take a toll on their bodies for stunning views.

17. Skiing in Hokkaido

Skiing and snowboarding are the two most popular activities in Hokkaido, a favourite winter sports destination of tourists. Niseko and Furano are relevant examples of the resorts with good slopes and beautiful views.

18. Cultural Festivals

Enjoy Japanese festivities and get acquainted with Japanese traditions by visiting festivals taking place in the country all year round. A parade, dance, song, clothing, food and fireworks are featured in the festivals such as the Gion Matsuri in Kyoto and Nebuta Matsuri in Aomori.

19. Visit Historic Castles

Visit other Japan’s historic castles like the Himeji Castle and the Osaka Castle which depict more on the architectural design of the samurai era.

20. Unique Experiences

Take sumi-e (ink painting), pottery classes or samurai experience etc to get more flavour of Japan.

Conclusion: Your Journey Awaits

Japan is a great country to travel, very fascinating, full of both adventure and history, as well as good food. 

There is nowhere quite like Japan – from the nightlife in Tokyo to the sanctuaries of Kyoto, it’s a perfect holiday destination for anyone. So, with this travel guide in hand you are prepared to discover the richness and the wonder of Japan.