Japan offers a true experience for all types of travelers. From the mighty Mount Fuji, under which beautiful cherry orchards bloom in the spring months, to vibrant cities that impress with their futuristic image.
Japan is an enigma. Stranger. A perfect combination of centuries-old traditions overlapping with lightning-fast technological development. This relatively small Asian country is one of the most advanced on the planet, but also boasts a rich history dating back thousands of years. Japan's Shinto and Buddhist temples stood long before many of Europe's most spectacular cathedrals were built. Much of the rich tradition of crafts and natural resources has been preserved despite wars and natural devastation, which is why visiting Japan is still an unforgettable adventure today.
When to Japan?
The best time to visit Japan is spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). This is when the action in Japan is most lively, with delicate cherry blossoms or bright red leaves moving in the wind. August is by far the hottest month, and temperatures can go up to 40°C, while January, on the other hand, will be quite cold (5°C).
Photo: Unsplash/Tomas MalikWhat should I see in Japan?
It is the majestic Mount Fuji that shines from Japan's most recognizable images. It is one of Japan's highest peaks, as it rises as high as 3,776 meters above sea level, and due to the surrounding plain, it can also be admired from Tokyo. Mount Fuji has been celebrated by the Japanese for centuries in art and literature, and due to its iconic appearance, it also earned a UNESCO World and Cultural Heritage designation in 2013. To Mount Fuji, which is part of the national park Fuji-Hakone-Izu, more than a million people climb every summer, and the highlight of the climb is watching the sunrise from the very top. If you're thinking about going to the top, consider a six or seven hour walk, so it's best to sleep in one of the mountain huts along the way and climb to the top at sunrise.
When visiting Japan, some famous cities such as Kyoto and Tokyo should not be overlooked. The capital Tokyo is a city that pushes the limits of what is possible in a densely populated and earthquake-prone territory with ever higher and ever more elegant high-rise buildings and skyscrapers. A city where modern art and architecture, as well as pop culture, have found their home. The most famous landmark of the city is the Imperial Palace with beautiful 17th-century parks surrounded by walls and moats. Although a large part of the palace is closed to the public, as it is still used by the Japanese royal family for their needs, what you see will not leave you indifferent. One of the most romantic areas is the famous Nijubashi Bridge or “double bridge”, so called because of the water reflection. When visiting Tokyo, don't miss the Ginza shopping district, which is home to the Kabuki-za theater.
Photo: Unsplash/Tianshu LiuHistorically colored Kyoto on the other hand, it is considered the thousand-year-old capital of the imperial family, in which more than a thousand temples are located. The most famous of them are Kinkaku-ji and Ryōan-ji, with their sharp Zen rock formations. The culture of tea also originates from Kyoto, which you can experience in one of the city's many elegant teahouses. Kyoto was spared the devastation of World War II, so it's the best address to admire the old streets and traditional architecture, largely unchanged since the imperial family settled here. The city is also the cultural center of Japan, with a range of museums and art galleries, and a real eye-catcher is the bamboo grove, just a few minutes' walk from the city centre.
If you're a history buff, even the darker ones, head to Hiroshima. Hiroshima Heiwa Kinen Kōen it bears witness to the horrors of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima in August 1945 and serves as a reminder of the many victims of the world's first nuclear attack. Thanks to this, Hiroshima became a symbol of lasting peace. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, visited by more than a million people each year, lies at the heart of the atomic blast in a once bustling part of the city. Would you like to get to know the country's traditions even more deeply? Then visit the temple city of Nara, which is home to many historic buildings, as it boasts a series of magnificent temples in addition to its many historic streets. Check out the seventh-century Kofuku-ji, perhaps the most famous of Nara's Seven Great Temples, and the magnificent Todai-ji, the eighth-century Great Eastern Temple, famous for its colossal bronze Buddha statue.
Photo: Unsplash/ReddHow to explore Japan?
Trains are the most popular way of exploring the country among travelers. They are fast, efficient and extremely reliable, although they may not be among the most affordable forms of transport. If you are on a budget then consider traveling by bus as Japan has an extensive long distance bus network. Buses also run on routes that trains do not.
How much is a plane ticket to Japan?
Airline tickets are anything but affordable, and flights from Vienna or Venice can be found from 600 euros and up. You can search for flight tickets according to your vacation date HERE.
Photo: Unsplash/Yoav AzizCovid-19 restrictions in Japan
As of October 11, 2022, Japan has relaxed some measures for tourists to enter the country. Strict covid measures for entering Japan were in force for a good two and a half years, but now tourists can enter the island with a certificate of full vaccination (3 doses) or a negative PCR test result, which must not be older than 72 hours. Check all current information about Covid-19 restrictions HERE.
Accommodations in Japan
Hotel Musse Ginza Meitetsu
Just a short walk from Tokyo's Higashi Ginza Station, this Japanese-style business hotel offers air-conditioned rooms that also include seating areas and complimentary toiletries. In the mornings, you are served a breakfast consisting of bread, cereal, fruit, yogurt and coffee.
BnA Alter Museum
Kyoto is famous for its range of excellent accommodation, but the artistic BnA Alter Museum is truly something special. Located a short walk from the train station, all rooms boast uniquely designed and artistic furnishings. Some also offer river views. An Italian or vegetarian breakfast is available each morning.
