Fascinating Japan - a country of longevity, magical culture, and technological innovation
If a trip to Japan is on your travel dream list, you've come to the right place! Japan, rich in natural beauty, is one of the world's leading economic powers. Its political system is based on an imperial monarchy with a parliament. The people of this country are known for their excellent manners, honesty and hospitality. However, what really attracts and fascinates visitors? Without a doubt, these are pulsating metropolises, modern means of transport, delicious and healthy cuisine, hot springs, charming gardens, mysterious and beautiful geishas from Kyoto, and the picturesque peak of Mount Fuji. Get to know the greatest attractions and the most beautiful attractions of the only modern empire in the world.
Climate, fauna and geography of Japan
Geographically, Japan consists of approximately 3000 islands, the main of which are: Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku and Kyushu, accounting for 97% of the country's land area. This archipelago, separating the Pacific Ocean from the Sea of Japan, is approximately 2000 kilometers long. This country is inhabited by 127 million people and, according to the World Health Organization, it is the society with the highest life expectancy; life expectancy is approximately 82 years for men and over 90 years for women. Amazingly, 10% of the world's centenarian population lives here. Frequent walks, physical activity, limited sugar consumption and a low-calorie diet are just some of the secrets to the longevity of the islanders. Japan is a country of mountains, where mountain ranges reaching a height of about 3000 meters, with the highest peak - Mount Fuji, 3776 meters high, dominate the landscape.
Japan's climate is mostly temperate in the north, while warmer and subtropical in the south. The best seasons to travel to Japan are spring, summer and fall. Anyone who has ever wanted to admire the pink 'snows' of cherry blossoms understands perfectly why these seasons are so popular. Japan's autumn landscape, with its orange-red tree leaves and pleasant temperatures, is also stunning. The country has approximately 200 active and inactive volcanoes, which are the source of many hot springs inland.
Relax in onsens, i.e. Japanese hot springs
A visit to Japanese onsens, i.e. hot springs with mineral water, is must have for everyone who visits this country. Japan is famous for its natural, traditional swimming pools and sento baths, which effectively relax both the soul and body. The most beautiful onsens are often located in spectacular locations, high in the mountains, overlooking the sunset over the Pacific, or in winter ski resorts.
One of the most appreciated places for bathing is Kusatsu, considered the best onsen in Japan, located less than 200 kilometers northeast of Tokyo. Bathing in national parks is equally unique, with breathtaking views of volcanoes or Mount Fuji, as well as golden forests in autumn. Onsens and sentos play a key role in Japanese culture, delighting with their diversity; both types of swimming areas are very popular among the local community. The difference between them is that sentos do not have to use water from natural hot springs, unlike onsen which always use water from natural thermal springs. Interestingly, Japanese monkeys from the mountain region of Nagano Prefecture are also fans of relaxing in the springs; They enjoy using them, especially in winter.
Healthy and tasty cuisine and interesting facts about Japan
Japanese cuisine is considered one of the healthiest in the world, and is the main attraction for tourists visiting this country. It is characterized by minimal human intervention in the process of preparing dishes, a large amount of fish, sea algae and soy; there is relatively little meat. Holidays in Japan, especially in Tokyo, are associated with shopping and wonderful restaurants serving local dishes. Sushi and sashimi, prepared from fresh tuna, salmon and seafood, vegetable tempura, a type of Japanese noodles with salads and raw mussels - these are just some of them.
For gourmets, it is worth mentioning yakitori, i.e. grilled skewers, and sukiyaki, a broth fondue in which meat, tofu and vegetables are cooked. It is worth noting that Japanese cuisine is full of umami - perfectly balanced flavors that perfectly complement the dishes with their aroma. When traveling in Japan, it is worth looking for places that offer a small selection of dishes, which indicates the improvement of recipes and cooking techniques, often perfected over a lifetime; e.g. learning to cook rice may take up to several years. The Japanese value authentic, unchanged flavors of dishes, so they avoid excessive amounts of spices and aromatic additives that may disturb the natural qualities of the ingredients. The culinary philosophy of Japan is simplicity and a return to the roots: eating dishes in their natural, untouched state.
Japanese drinks – what do the inhabitants of the Land of the Rising Sun drink?
Sake is a drink made from fermented rice, heated to 38ºC in winter or cooled to 8-10ºC in summer. There are over 500 distilleries of this alcohol in Japan. Sake is a popular drink served during lunch or dinner. However, drinking this prized drink is often associated with ceremony; Sake is usually consumed from small porcelain cups. In Poland, sake is often referred to as "rice vodka"; however, the alcohol content ranges from 14% to 20%. In addition to sake, beer and local liqueurs, rice distillates and vodkas are also the leaders in alcohol consumption.
Japanese whiskey also holds a unique place and is gaining more and more recognition around the world. Its taste is more similar to Scotch whiskey than American bourbons. Popular brands include Asahi, Hibiki, Nikka and Suntory. Suntory's whiskeys are internationally popular due to their delicate flavor and Japanese floral notes. The production process of these distillates reflects the Japanese devotion to nature. Japanese whiskeys are usually light and go well with a variety of dishes.
Japanese people often drink a lot of green tea at the end of meals and between meals. In Japan you can find different varieties: matcha, sencha, gyokuro, bancha and genmaicha (with roasted rice). The most valued are matcha (called "Japanese gold") and gyokuro, while the cheapest are bancha and gunpowder. Green tea is a rich source of flavonoids that strengthen immunity and fight the aging process. They have antioxidant properties that reduce the risk of developing many diseases.
Honshu – an island of impressive samurai residences
Honshu is the seventh largest island in the world. This largest island in Japan is famous for its metropolises such as Tokyo, Yokohama and Kawasaki, but also for places where you can learn about the ancient tradition of samurai. On Honshu, near the city of Shimonoseki, you can admire the old castle settlement of Chofu, belonging to the Mori family. Several centuries of the existence of this clan have left behind an entire district of samurai houses. Currently, some of them have been turned into small museums.
In the northern part of the island of Honshu, it is worth visiting the 17th-century town of Kakunodate with a samurai district. There you can buy interesting handicrafts made using polished Japanese cherry bark. Cherry bark serves as a veneer and is used as a coating for decorative boxes, vases and various furniture, as well as for decorating panels in samurai houses. A center and museum of artistic crafts was established in Kakunodate, where you can also see products such as straw samurai coats and ceramics. There are numerous festivals in the city, including the fire and snow festival, which is worth attending if your trip to Japan takes place in winter.
Kanazawa – the city of shoguns
Kanazawa is a city with about half a million inhabitants, located on the Sea of Japan in Ishikawa Prefecture. In the east of Kanazawa there are the Japanese Alps, 40 km wide and 200 km long. The highest peak is called Mount Hotakadake. Kanazawa is one of the country's cities that did not suffer as a result of World War II; you can feel the real, old Japan there. A very popular and charming place in Kanazawa is the Kenrokuen Garden, founded in the XNUMXth century with the elegant Seisonkaku villa, built by the ruler Maeda for his mother. In Kanazawa there is also the Oyamajinja temple and the Ninja temple, which was supposed to be a shelter for the rulers. Kanazawa was one of the most powerful feudal cities in Japan in the XNUMXth century. In addition to the magnificent Kanazawa Castle and temples, it is worth visiting the districts formerly inhabited by shoguns and geishas. During your travels around Japan, this city should be one of the must-visit points.
The best and most expensive hotels in Japan, perfect for sightseeing and holidays
- Aman Tokyo, Tokyo
- Amanemu, Honshu island
- Aman Kyoto, Kyoto
- Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto, Kyoto
- Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi, Tokyo
- Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi, Tokyo
- The St. Regis Osaka, Osaka
- Hotel Gajoen Tokyo, Tokyo
- The Hiramatsu Hotels & Resorts Sengokuhara, Hakone
1. Aman Tokyo, Tokyo
Hotel Aman Tokyo combines the appearance of a traditional Japanese residence with sliding doors made of delicate washi paper and luxurious fabrics, using the latest technology. The whole thing is decorated with unique stucco in the corridors, created by a local master, Syuhei Hasado. This harmonious mixture of tradition and modernity gives the hotel a unique character. A wide range of experiences are available at Aman Tokyo, including private sessions iaido, an ancient martial art from the 30th century that was characteristic of Japanese warriors. Aman Spa, a place of unique character, offers treatments and therapies inspired by balance and nature, which are key elements of Japanese philosophy. Additionally, guests can use the XNUMX-meter-long swimming pool, which provides unforgettable views of the city.
2. Amanemu, Honshu island
The luxurious hotel, located in Ise-Shima National Park, overlooks Ago Bay, also known as the Bay of Pearls. The owners of this facility decided not only to celebrate the long-standing traditions of Japanese onsens, i.e. baths built around hot springs, but also to introduce guests to the culinary heritage of the region. The facility is adjacent to the Kumano Kodo routes, which are protected by UNESCO as pilgrimage routes for seekers of spiritual purification. These trails lead through mountainous and coastal areas, connecting holy places of pilgrimage for over a thousand years. In close proximity to the hotel there is the Shinto shrine of Ise Jingū, where you can participate in prayers and observe ceremonial dances.
3. Aman Kyoto, Kyoto
Picturesquely situated in the mountainous terrain of Hidari Daimonji, this property offers a charming setting in the heart of the former capital of the Japanese Empire, providing a luxurious getaway. Known for its perfectly kept, beautifully designed gardens, where winding paths lead through forests and charming corners. The architecture of the garden is extremely charming, and among the yamamomiji maples you can find statues of the deity Jizō, adding even more charm to the place. The location is an excellent starting point for visiting the numerous attractions in the area, including 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites. Visit stunning temples such as Ryoan-ji with its Zen meditation gardens, Nijo-jo Castle to explore samurai history, and the vast Shimogamo-jinja temple complex.
4. Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto, Kyoto
Four Seasons Hotel Kyoto was named the best hotel in Japan in 2023 by DestinAsian magazine. It offers unique advantages, including an 800-year-old hectare garden that is a real gem. Additionally, guests can enjoy an authentic experience of dinner with a geisha, which is a unique element of their stay at this place. This charming resort is just a short walk from the famous Tenryu-ji Temple Complex, as well as other popular sites such as Kinkaku-ji Gardens and Ryoan-ji Temple. Located near Osaka airport, the drive takes only about 50 minutes. This unique resort is aimed at people who want an extraordinary luxury holiday in Japan. Guests can take advantage of a diverse program of activities, including private martial arts lessons, sake tastings and fascinating tours with an experienced guide around the area.
5. Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi, Tokyo
This is an exclusive hotel in Tokyo, located in the heart of one of the most recognizable districts of the Japanese capital - Roppongi Hills. The Four Seasons Tokyo At Otemachi in Japan stands out as one of the finest hotels in the entire country. It provides unique sightseeing opportunities, including the Sensoji temple, participation in Kabukiza performances and watching competitions at the sumo stadium. This unique hotel in Tokyo opened in September 2020, offering an unforgettable experience in the heart of Japan.
6. Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Marunouchi, Tokyo
Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo At Marunouchi is a unique resort among luxury hotels in Tokyo. Located in the prestigious Marunouchi district, the hotel stands out for its elegant, modern style, harmoniously combining Japanese traditions with Western culture. Getting to know Tokyo and staying at the Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo At Marunouchi is not only a luxurious experience, but also the opportunity to visit many attractions. In the hotel's surroundings you can find such pearls as the Imperial Palace, Hibiya Park, the Mitsubishi Ichigokan Art Museum and the famous Ginza shopping district, where there are exclusive shops, restaurants and boutiques.
7. The St. Regis Osaka, Osaka
In each of the hotel's rooms you can admire wonderful panoramas of the city. Carefully selected works of art and ceramics, as well as high-quality finishes and silks from Kyoto are an important element of the interior design of the rooms at The St. Regis Osaka. It is worth mentioning that the headboard in each bed is made of beautiful Kawashima silk, presenting unique patterns related to the ginkgo and cherry blossom motifs - symbols characteristic of Osaka and all of Japan.
8. Hotel Gajoen Tokyo, Tokyo
Hotel Gajoen Tokyo is the result of nearly a century of development of the idea of hospitality and excellent service. It was built on the site of the former house and gardens from the feudal times of the Hosokawa family, and then was carefully restored, preserving the art and heritage of that time. Gajoen is not only a place that cherishes history, but is also famous for calling itself the "museum of Japanese beauty".
9. The Hiramatsu Hotels & Resorts Sengokuhara, Hakone
The Hiramatsu Hotels & Resorts Sengokuhara, located in Hakone, offers guests a great location and access to hot springs. This is undoubtedly one of the best hotels in all of Japan with such facilities. The hotel also has a fitness center, free private parking, a garden, a 16-hour reception, bars and great restaurants. Some rooms and apartments have a balcony with mountain views. Distance of important places from the property: Hakone-Yumoto train station - 86 km, the nearest airport, Oshima Airport, is located 42 km from the hotel. Distance from Hotel Hiramatsu to important places in Hakone: Shuzenji Temple - 45 km, Fuji-Q Highland Amusement Park - XNUMX km. It is an ideal place for a holiday in Japan combining relaxation with sightseeing.
Do you want to explore more of the secrets of this fascinating culture and customs? If you are planning a vacation this season, it is worth checking the offers of trips to Japan in luxury travel agencies, such as: CARTER® www.carter.eu. Japan is a timeless travel destination that delights at every turn. An alternative to Japan may also be other countries and islands in Asia, such as Bali with its wealth of temples or Thailand, known for its smiling inhabitants and amazing SPA centers.
Author: Travel Agency CARTER
