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Japan
Comprising of an archipelago of over 6,800
islands, the largest being Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku and Kyushu.
Japan is drenched in history and has a mix of modern hi-tech cities,
spectacular countryside and wonderful traditions.
Japan is an extremely volcanic
country, for this reason it has an abundance of onsens (hot
springs). The Japanese have been visiting onsens for centuries
predominantly for the reputed healing properties but also to relax.
A number of these onsens can be found in the Japanese Alps or the
southern island of Kyushu.
Known for their efficiency, the Japanese have
a superb public transportation system with signage in English
script. Any visit to Japan is not complete without a ride on a
Shinkansen (bullet train). Travelling at high speed this rail
service links major cities all over the country and makes even
remote regions accessible to visitors.
Another must, is a stay at a Ryokan, a
traditional Japanese style inn. Here you will discover for
yourself the authentic Japanese way of life. Dinner and
breakfast is normally included and it is an excellent opportunity to
enjoy the delicious Japanese cuisine and wonderful hospitality.
Japan’s modern capital is a heady mix of hi-tech and history. A
relatively new city by Japanese standards, Tokyo, formerly Edo,
became the nation’s administrative centre at the beginning of the 17th
century and the official capital in 1868. Like most capital cities,
Tokyo is the centre of commerce and finance, but there are some
charming insights into the past, including the Asakusa Kannon
Temple, the Imperial Palace and the Meiji Shrine.
Wedged between Mt. Fuji and the Izu Peninsula, Hakone is encircled
by several forested mountains. In feudal days it was a very
important checkpoint to safeguard the seat of the Shogun in Edo
(Tokyo) and historic relics and documents are well preserved in some
of the museums. Today the area is very popular with Japanese and
foreign tourists alike for the many hot sulphurous springs (Onsens).
There are numerous spa hotels and inns with hot spring baths.
Cruises on Lake Ashi, a cable car or funicular ride are other
popular tourist attractions.
 Kyoto
was the
capital of Japan for a thousand years and is a treasure trove of
palaces, temples and shrines and traditional arts. The Gold and
Silver Pavilions, the Rock Garden at Ryoanji Temple, the Imperial
Palace and Kiyomizu Temple are just a few of the attractions in this
living museum of the past.
After the events of 6th August 1945 when an atomic bomb
was dropped on the city, Hiroshima has received many visitors
wishing to pay their respects and witness some of the devastation
which is still apparent even today. Peace Memorial Park containing
the Peace Museum and the A-Bomb Dome and are among the most visited
attractions. Hiroshima has since been rebuilt into a vibrant,
bustling and modern city with good shopping and an excellent tram
network.
 The
beautiful island of Miyajima is world renowned for its amazing
Itsukushima Shrine, its vermilion torii gate stands in the shallows
in front of the shrine is probably one of Japan’s most photographed
spots. A stay overnight is highly recommended to avoid the crowds
and also witness the island at its most picturesque during sunrise
and sunset.
Fringed by stunning mountain scenery, Takayama has much to offer the visitor. A historic
castle town, Takayama is full of old wooden houses, many of which
are traditional Saki breweries. There is also the Takayama
Jinya which was once a local government building for administration,
finance and policing, this interesting site was built in 1603 by the
influential Tokugawa family. Takayama is well known for its
beautiful Matsuri festivals which take place during April and
October. During this festival huge intricately designed floats
are carried through the streets of Takayama to the Sakurayama
Hachiman Shrine. Four of these magnificent floats are
displayed at the Takayama Float Exhibition Hall and are well worth a
visit.
For more information or
further assistance please don't hesitate to contact us on 020 7038
3945 or email us at
info@asia-fare.co.uk
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