Three reasons to visit Japan
Japan is a place that it seems almost everyone is interested in touring to, and for a good reason. Japan is an incredible cultural and beautiful locale, and so it is really no wonder as to why there are so many people out there that are enthusiastic about traveling to this wonderful place. However, before you go there, there are a few things that you will want to take into consideration and know about the country before you visit.
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The Best Things to do in Japan
These are the best things to do in Japan. Enjoy this amazing country with our tips here.
Understanding the Regions
Japan is an incredibly large country, and so you are going to want to understand the different regions and locales that are there before you go. This will not only make your trip more fun and enjoyable, but as well you will be able to get more sight-seeing in because you will not be constantly getting lost and asking for directions.
There are several areas in Japan that are considered as being the most major regions, and that would include the following: Hokkaido, Tohoku, Kanto, Chubu, Kinki, Chugoku, Shikoku, Kyushu, and Okinawa.
Then there are the most popular tourist destinations, and there are many, which include that of the following: Tokyo, Kyoto, Kamakura, Osaka, Hiroshima, Yokohama, Nara, Nikko, Takayama, Kanazawa, and Nagasaki. For a first time visitor, it is best to visit these regions in order to acclimate yourself to the country before visiting more obscure areas.
Learning the Language
Although you certainly do not have to become absolutely fluent in the language, it is definitely a good idea to at least learn even the basics or some useful phrases. This is so that you will be able to at least remotely speak to people once you get over there and will help your entire trip out immensely. After all, think about going somewhere where you are not able to communicate at all with anyone; it would obviously be a rather frustrating and difficult situation.
There are many ways that you can go about learning the language; for instance, there are many different learning centers across the region that you can go to in order to learn Japanese, and this only needs to take you even a couple of weeks in order to get the basics under your belt. Another good idea is the books-on-tape method, which you can even wear when you are going to bed, and this way, you are able to learn the major words of the language or some common phrases.
The Attractions
It is common for tourists to find out about the best places to visit in any country. For anyone visiting Japan, the most recommended places are definitely worth a visit. But have you thought about the slightly offbeat places in the country? There are many of these unique areas of tourist attraction that most people miss out on. Spend some time visiting these places, and you will see Japan in a completely new light.
Aogashima Island
Aogashima Island lies 200 miles south of Tokyo in the Philippine Sea. The island is renowned for its two volcanic craters, one within the other. The island can only be accessed by a helicopter or a boat, and it’s a place that will make you feel that you are in the Jurassic Period. Not too many tourists make the journey to this island because the action resembles a James Bond flick. The natural beauty here is simply awe-inspiring, and your mind and body will completely relax when you are here.
Tsukiji Fish Market
Whether you like eating fish or not, the Tsukiji fish market in Tokyo is worth a visit. It is the largest wholesale market in the world and is renowned for its fish and seafood supplies. Every day the action starts at 5:20 in the morning, where licensed participants engage in auctions. For tourists, however, the market is only open from 9 in the morning and that too the outer market. The inner market is completely out of bounds. One of the most amazing scenes in this market is the cutting of the Bluefin Tuna.
Sumo Tournament
Sumo wrestling is an integral part of Japanese culture. When you are in the country, you have to see one of the sumo tournaments. There are six tournaments held every year. Tokyo has three tournaments in January, May, and September, Osaka has one tournament in March, Nagoya has one tournament in July, and Fukuoka has one tournament in November. If you are in Japan during this time, you should book your ticket to this amazing tournament.
Odaiba
Odaiba is an artificial island in Tokyo Bay. It was built in the middle of the 19th century for defensive purposes but has now developed as one of the most happening places in Japan. The island is simply beautiful; that is the only word one has to use about it. It has some of the best hotels and shopping malls in Japan. The most distinguishing landmark of this island is the Daikanransha.
Daikanransha is a massive Ferris wheel that can be seen from miles away as it glows at night. The other attractions on this island include the Miraikan science and technology museum, the Fuji Television studios, and most importantly, a replica of the Statue of Liberty.
Todaiji Temple
The Todaiji Temple in Nara is home to Daibatsu, the largest bronze statue of Lord Buddha in Japan. Built-in 752 AD, the temple is the largest wooden structure in the world. The Daibatsu is made of 286 pounds pure gold, 165 pounds mercury, 437 tons bronze, and 7 tons vegetable wax. The temple itself is beautiful and has some of the most intricate carvings one can see. The Deer Park outside the temple is also completely relaxing. Overall, you get complete peace of mind when you are here.
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These attractions of Japan are unique to a large extent. Most of the travelers focus on the most popular attractions in Japan. But if you are interested in getting to know the Japanese people and their culture, a visit to all these attractions is a must for you. And while you are on your trip on this beaten path, we recommend the Ramen restaurants in Tokyo and the other cities. Get your Ramen prepared the way you want, and you can keep chomping while you are on the road.
Laura x
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