Japan is an island country located off the east coast of Asia, headed by an emperor. The Japanese archipelago is made up of 4 main islands. The largest of these, Honsiu, occupies 60% of Japan’s surface area, the smaller ones being Hokkaido, Kiusiu and Sikoku and several thousand smaller islets. Called the “Land of the Rising Sun”, Japan is one of the most interesting places in the whole world. You will experience an unusual combination here at every turn – modernity and technological advances intertwine with ubiquitous traditions. A holiday in Japan will undoubtedly be an unforgettable adventure, full of a variety of attractions, increasingly popular with tourists. Discover today the home of sushi, samurai, as well as the place where anime was born, where origami originated and where you will taste the famous rice-based alcoholic drink – sake.
Japanese climate
Japan lies in 3 climatic zones. The south of the country is in the tropical zone, the central part is subtropical and the north is a warm temperate climate. The country’s weather is also influenced by monsoons, the extent of which shapes the maritime nature of the climate.
Many people head to Japan during the cherry blossom season for its magical sights. This period is mobile and shifts every year – but usually in late March/early April. In general, the most favourable weather conditions for active sightseeing during a trip are from April to mid-June (late June and July are the rainy season in Japan) and from September to November. Average temperatures then reach over 20 degrees Celsius.
Japanese culture
The culture of the Land of the Rising Sun is intriguing above all for its distinctiveness, which can be discovered during a trip. The Japanese are extremely attached to tradition, have excellent, healthy cuisine, celebrate numerous holidays and even wear traditional costumes. What makes them different from most countries in Europe, on the other hand, is first and foremost a completely different perception of the world, which is mainly due to their beliefs and the island’s isolation from the rest of the continent. Japanese fashion is also subject to traditions. One example is the famous kimono. At the same time, Japan is a country of extraordinary technical progress, which can be seen, for example, in the computer games that are popular among the Japanese, in modern technology and in everyday solutions.
Japanese attractions
Japan is an extremely attractive tourist country. To fully discover the charms of Japan, you should plan at least 12 days-15 days for your holiday here. Japan offers something you won’t discover in any other part of the world. It is a country overflowing with natural beauty. Interesting excursions await you here: relaxing among hot springs, visiting national parks or trekking around active volcanoes. Many also marvel at the unique architectural style of traditional Japanese buildings and the wealth of everything to be found in Buddhist temples.
Kyoto
Kyoto is located on the island of Honsiu and was the capital of Japan until 1868. The city is characterised by the fact that it is impossible to count the monuments found here. You will find here, among others, 1,500 Buddhist temples and World Heritage listed monuments – Shinto temples, Buddhist monasteries and Nijo-jo Castle. During a trip to Kyoto, you should also see the Zen rock garden of Ryoan-ji Temple. What’s more, you can take part in the Chanoyu, or tea ceremony. It takes place in a tranquil atmosphere, allowing you to take a break from your daily worries. It also takes place in the right mood and concentration, according to strict rules. The host welcomes the guests, who quietly look around and admire the garden. The guests wash their hands with water from the spring and rinse their mouths, symbolising the purification of both soul and body. Conversations during the meeting revolve solely around the topic of the tea ceremony itself.
Tokyo
The capital of Japan, Tokyo, is a place full of contrasts. From a small fishing village, it has become one of the world’s most important financial centres and a major cultural hub. It is impossible not to visit Tokyo when travelling in Japan. The highlights of the city are: Tokyo Imperial Palace with its gardens, Sky Tree Tokyo skyscraper, one of the most beautiful temples in Japan – Sensoji.
Fuji
Fuji is still an active volcano and Japan’s highest peak, but also a sacred mountain that is one of the country’s symbols. There are also 5 beautiful lakes and several waterfalls near the summit – ideal trekking areas for outdoor enthusiasts. The entire area is located within the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park. It is one of the most important sites in all of Japan, visited by millions of tourists every year.
