essay travel to japan

20 Reasons Why You Should Visit Japan

Japan is the most amazing tourist destination and it offers many unique experiences that you cannot find in any other part of the world. The culture of this country is an interesting blend of Eastern traditions and Western modernity that can be seen everywhere. Japan is one of the oldest civilizations and has a beautiful and diverse history. The stunning, diverse scenery with mountains and breathtaking views, which are much appreciated by the Japanese, offers so many different experiences that attract tourists from all corners of the world. In this article we give you our best reasons why you should make a trip to this amazing country at least once in your lifetime.

1. Pristine natural scenery

2. mount fuji , 4. incredible food, 5. beautiful temples, shrines, and zen gardens, 6. friendly people, 7. efficient public transportation, 8. thrilling experiences , 9. festivals/matsuri, 10. clean country, 11. shopper’s paradise, 12. weird stuff, 13. sakura (cherry blossoms), 15. onsen & sento , 16. unesco world heritage sites, 17. japanese castles , 18. sumo & sport events, 19. traditional arts and crafts, 20. unique accommodation, tour packages, other articles you might like.

The first reason to visit is obviously the natural beauty of the country. Even though many people think of Japan as a highly modern country with flashy neon lights and advanced technology, shopping malls and high-end stores, there are many ways in which Japan is a nature lover’s paradise as well!

As soon as you travel outside of the big and modern cities you will discover that the country is home to some of the best natural scenery in the world . From the wilderness in Hokkaido to the white pristine beaches of Okinawa , Japan’s nature is incredibly diverse. The rugged mountains, rocky coastlines, pristine white beaches, bamboo forests and some of the world’s most beautiful waterfalls are just some of the natural beauty to be enjoyed all year round. 

Mount Fuji is famous all over the world as a place to visit during any season of the year. But the majestic Fujisan is not ‘just a mountain’ as it takes a very special, sacred place in the Japanese culture. Since the 7th century it has been a sacred site for Shintoism, the indigenous religion of Japan . Japanese people have always held Mount Fuji close to their heart and Mount Fuji is displayed in many artistic outings, including (ancient) pottery, calligraphy, ukiyo-e paintings and woodblock prints.

Climbing Mount Fuji is at the top of many people’s bucket list and an estimated 400,000 people climb the volcano each year. The climbing season of the highest peak (3,776 m) in Japan lasts from early July to early September. Though, even if you are not keen on making your way to the summit, Mount Fuji is a sight to behold .

▼Book our tour to the 5th station of Mt. Fuji!

Japan is amongst the safest countries in the world , with an extremely low crime rate. This is something the Japanese are, understandably, quite proud of. Japanese people often leave their doors unlocked, children are perfectly safe traveling on the subway by themselves, and visitors are able to walk around the cities at night without having to worry. Japan’s low crime rate is partly due to the cultural belief in Japan where they always prioritize the common good above their own needs. You will likely come across some situations that you might think of as dangerous or stupid behaviour, but are perfectly normal in Japan. Japan is so safe, you can fall asleep on the train in Tokyo, the world’s biggest city, and wake up with your wallet and phone still in your possession. Or even on the street, you might see some salaryman passed out after 1 or 2 drinks too many but they won’t be robbed of their valuables. When you do forget something in a restaurant or on the train, always try to go back, it is highly likely that someone kept it for you or brought it to the police! 

Even though Japanese cuisine is available around the world, the country attracts millions of tourists every year just to experience authentic Japanese food . Some of the usual experiences are the sushi conveyor belt and sake bars and don’t forget to try some fresh sushi at Tsukiji Fish Market or the delicious street food like takoyaki in Osaka.

For many visitors, a trip to Japan provides the opportunity to indulge in some authentic Kaiseki food. Kaiseki is a traditional form of cuisine that has evolved over a period of thousands of years, using ingredients that are hardly found in any other part of the world. Any random, shady looking place makes the best sushi, ramen or tempura. Even the konbini food is tasty and freshly prepared on a daily basis. Tokyo has more Michelin stars than any other city in the world , with also the most three-star restaurants (12) in the world! Add to it a variety of traditional Japanese drinks and you have an experience of a lifetime waiting for you!

Are you hoping to try all the best food in Japan but don’t know where to start? Don’t worry, you can book a fun and delicious food and drink tour with us! We will assure that you will hit all the best spots that you would never normally stumble upon.

There are an estimated 80,000 temples and shrines in Japan of all sizes and some are over 1,000 years old! The Buddhist temples and zen gardens are incredibly beautiful and if you enter them you really can experience how peaceful and magical these places actually are.

Inari Shrines are the most familiar Shinto shrines to Japanese people and they are also known as “o-inari-san”. Thousands of them are spread all over the country. One of the most important Inari Shrine is Fushimi Inari in Kyoto, which is dedicated to Inari, the Shinto god of rice. It is famous for its thousands of vermilion Torii gates and definitely something you have to see with your own eyes.

Even if you are not visiting Kyoto, you will have the opportunity to visit shrines with rows of torii gates throughout the country , even in the centre of Tokyo!

When you’re visiting Japan you will quickly find out that Japanese behavior is completely different to how people behave in Western countries. People in japan have the attitude to bother the people in their environment as little as possible. You will notice it as soon as you enter the train because it is amazing how silent it is in the train! Everyone is as respectful as possible and also incredibly helpful. If you have a question or seem to be confused about something you will always find someone who can help you! The language barrier is difficult at times, but Japanese people will always try to help you. It is difficult to describe a feeling like this with words so you should definitely experience on your own.

Recommended article: Why You Should Learn Japanese

The public transportation network in Japan is simply amazing . Especially when you are in the bigger cities, the system is just incredible. With trains or metro’s departing every few minutes (during the day) it is amazing how fast you can commute from one part of the city to another part within a short period of time. 

The famous shinkansen, also known as the bullet train, takes you to all parts of the country. The extensive high-speed train network in Japan, connecting Hokkaido, Honshu and Kyushu, is extremely reliable with frequent departures throughout the day. The Tokaido Shinkansen line, connecting Tokyo, Osaka and Kyoto, is Japan’s busiest and most popular line with 370 departures each day! As a tourist it is definitely the most convenient, reliable, fastest way of discovering Japan . The best part for international tourists is that they can purchase a Japan Rail Pass that will give them unlimited travel for a designated period of time throughout the country!

Adventure tourism is not something that one would associate with Japan, but the truth is that you can find many exciting experiences in this country. Whether it is snowboarding or skiing in Hokkaido or Nagano , or cycling along the Seto Inland Sea , catching a glimpse of Mount Fuji from the rollercoasters of FujiQ Highlands or sand-boarding in Japan’s desert of Tottori , the options for thrill-seekers are endless.

With about 75% of Japan covered in mountainous landscape you can embark on some amazing multi-day hikes or walk the steps of ancient pilgrimage routes like the Kumano Kodo Trail or the Shikoku 88 Temples Pilgrimage and witness the perfect mixture of nature and culture. At many tourist spots like Arashiyama or Asakusa you can also actively explore the area while riding a traditional Japanese rickshaw. 

At any time of the year, Japan hosts a number of events and matsuri for anyone to enjoy . Matsuri are traditional Japanese events where often floats, called mikoshi, are carried around between temples and shrines. They often take place in the summer and attract thousands or even millions of visitors with their energetic atmosphere, and amazing street food activities for everyone to enjoy. 

In wintertime you will find some unique and great festivals too, like the Kamakura snow hut festivals that are held around the country. There are also several illumination festivals with spectacular light shows and decorations, some only over the Christmas period where others last well into spring. Another world famous festival is Sapporo’s Snow Festival that attracts millions of visitors each year with spectacular ice sculptures and cozy winter scenes. 

Something that you will soon notice after your arrival; Japan is extremely clean ! Even in the metropole of Tokyo you will not often see trash laying around, no cigarette butts on the curbs and streets smell nice. The lack of garbage bins available in the cities might make you wonder how is this even possible? The answer is simple, Japanese people respect their surroundings, clean up after themselves and take their trash home. A cultural principle that is highly valued in the Japanese society is mottainai , which can be freely translated as nothing goes to waste. When something is broken, it is not immediately replaced but often repaired and re-used.

Shopping is another reason why you should visit Japan, more so for the local brands than for the international ones. Tokyo and other major cities have world-class shopping centers as well as traditional markets where you can shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs. Often cities, small or big, have their own local shopping street.

These shopping streets full of small stalls and local vendors are known as a Shotengai. If you are travelling to Tokyo, then you should visit the popular areas in Harajuku, Ginza and Akihabara. If you go to Osaka, Umeda and Shinsaibashi are also popular shopping destinations. For gaming and anime lovers, shopping in Tokyo will be an unforgettable experience, Nakano would be the best destination for you .

Square watermelons, washing toilets that blow-dry and play music, plastic food menus, cartoon versions and mascottes of everything, maid cafe etc, Japan has all kinds of unique things.

Walk around in Harajuku to experience the famous Japanese kawaii culture , it is literally everywhere! Cute girls, kawaii food, mascottes, the kawaiiness in Japan knows no limits! Another unique popular culture is Japan’s otaku or geek culture. Otaku refers to pop culture fans who are obsessed with manga or anime. Best places to experience some of Japan’s otaku culture are Akihabara and Nakano in Tokyo.

▼Explore all the weird that Harajuku has to offer with the tour below!

No visit to Japan in spring is complete without sakura. For two weeks, everyone and everything in the spirit of the beautiful flowers. Everyone wants to see this million dollar view and hanami (blossom viewing parties) are everywhere. Japan is very passionate about picnicking under the cherry trees in full blossom.

Sakura presents the arrival of spring, a time for renewal and optimism and because of the short blooming season (about two weeks), the cherry blossoms also symbolize the transience of life, a major theme in Buddhism. During the sakura season you will see limited edition sakura (flavoured) treats and souvenirs everywhere.

One of the biggest contributors to Japan’s famous anime culture is the Ghibli movies. Have you ever seen My Neighbor Totoro or Spirited Away? They are some of the world’s most famous anime movies produced by the renowned Studio Ghibli, the animation and art producer founded by Hayao Miyazaki. In Tokyo, you can visit the Ghibli Museum , home to drawings of Studio Ghibli movies, models of how animations are made, and a small theater showing a special short film. Also, Japan opened the Ghibli-themed park in Aichi prefecture in 2022. A must visit if you are a Ghibli fan! If you want something extra, you may want to visit some of the locations which were used in Ghibli movies ! 

When asked about their favourite thing in Japan, many people will (amongst others) answer onsen. Taking an onsen, a hot spring filled with mineral-rich spring water heated by geothermal forces that contains several minerals beneficial to the body, is a must-try activity for tourists as it is completely different from taking a bath in other countries around the world. It is also a big part of the Japanese culture and the ultimate activity to relax after a day filled with discovering the nature and culture of Japan. There are several written and unwritten rules to respect when taking an onsen, a ritual that dates back to at least the 8th century. Famous onsen destinations are Kusatsu Onsen, Hakone Onsen and Beppu Onsen .

Sento are communal bath houses where people pay for their entrance. These bath houses were traditionally used by households that did not have their own bath and could be found in big cities and small villages. Today, the number of sento is decreasing as the number of houses with bathing facilities is increasing. 

By now you should know Japan is home to some of the world’s most picturesque places, a rich culture and a long history.  Indeed, Japan is home to no less than 23 UNESCO World Heritage Sites ; 19 Cultural Heritage Sites and 4 Natural Heritage Sites. Ranging from historically important shrines like Itsukushima Shinto Shrine on Miyajima to unique natural ecological treasures like Mount Fuji or Shiretoko National Park. 

In the history of Japan, a large number of castles were built, many of which were destroyed during the many battles or natural disasters like earthquakes. But there are some beautiful castles in Japan that still exist and can be visited, some of which are also designated UNESCO sites. A total number of 12 original castles , meaning they have a castle tower (or main keep) that was built during the Edo period or earlier, are located around the country. 

Another type of unique cultural event are the Grand Sumo Tournaments that take place at each odd-numbered month and last for two weeks. Sumo is Japan’s national sport, but not just a sport. In act, sumo is full of shinto rituals and watching a sumo match with a guide will help you to understand this ancient sport even better. Watching a sumo game is definitely an experience you should have at least once in your life! 

Baseball is Japan’s most popular sport, first introduced in 1872 by an American college professor. Whether you are a baseball fan or not, watching a baseball game will be an exciting experience for anyone ! It is good fun to join the Japanese baseball spectators and cheer on the teams. The games usually start from 2pm or 6pm and last for about 3.5 hrs.

Craft in Japan has a long history and has played an important role in the Japanese culture. From the more famous ones such as knives, pottery, kimono, yukata, and tatami, to lesser-known ones such as kokeshi dolls, fireworks, kendama, origami, daruma dolls , Woodblock Prints , Nambu Ironware, and rounded and folding fans, there is a large list of traditional japanese crafts. Each region has its own local specialties. Some of the craft and art is more valuable in price since they are handmade by professional craftsmen but all make for a great souvenir to take home ! There are many places that offer craft and art experiences like pottery workshops and tea ceremonies.

Purchase your own beautiful Japanese crafts  here!

Japan is home to a large number of Western-style hotels, but something that you should not miss out on is staying at the traditional Japanese ryokan. A ryokan is a type of Japanese inn that has been around since the 8th century. It often features tatami-floor rooms, onsen, and other public areas where visitors wear yukata, the traditional more casual kimono. Often an overnight stay comes with a delicious, large, Japanese dinner and breakfast made from seasonal and locally produced products. Staying at a ryokan is a great place to enjoy onsen (privately) and experience some of the traditional elements of Japanese culture. 

If you are interested in experiencing the simple and traditional lifestyle of Buddhist monks, temple lodging known as shukubo is an excellent option. Shukubo literally means “sleeping with the monks” and besides a great night’s rest and delicious shojin-ryori, the Buddhist vegan cuisine, you can join the monks for morning prayers.

Originating in Osaka, capsule hotels have made their advance in Japan. These hotels, usually found in the larger cities, originally targeted individuals looking for a cheaper alternative for single nights stay. Recently there are also more luxurious alternatives of the pod hotel that are more comfortable, though not as cheap as you might think.

These are just 20 reasons why you should visit Japan, but the list is endless. We haven’t even talked about the beautiful autumn colors, the cute deers, animal cafes, and love hotels amongst other things. Nowhere else on earth will you find a country like Japan, with its unique blend of long standing traditions and modern rituals, century old buildings and peaceful gardens sandwiched between the city’s modern highrises. Incredible fresh food, domestic drinks, sake and local specialties that you can get from any hole in the wall spot. Friendly people that will go out of their way to make you comfortable and require as much as a simple thank you. Reliable and punctual public transportation in a country that is among the safest in the world. The list of reasons for you to come to Japan is simply endless. Conclusion: plan your trip to Japan as soon as possible, you are in for a treat!

Japan Wonder Travel Tours 

Japan Wonder Travel is a travel agency that offers guided tours throughout Japan.  From private walking tours to delicious Food and Drink tours, we can help you organize the best tours just for you! If you want to explore Japan and learn more about the history and backstories of each area you are visiting, our knowledgeable and friendly English speaking guides will happily take you to the best spots!  In addition, we can provide you with any assistance you may need for your upcoming trip to Japan, so please feel free to contact us if yu have any questions or need some help! 

▶ Tokyo Fish Market Tour @Tsukiji – Enjoy Local Food and Drink Explore the most lively and popular fish market in Tokyo and try some of the local’s favorite street foods and sake with one of our friendly and knowledgeable English speaking guides! 

▶ Tokyo 1–Day Highlights Private Walking Tour (8 Hours) There’s no better way to explore an area than taking a tour with a knowledgeable local guide. You will have the chance to learn about the history and interesting background stories of Tokyo, as well as discover some hidden gems which can be hard to do without a guide.

▶ Mt. Fuji Day Trip Bus Tour from Tokyo Experience the breathtaking views of Mt. Fuji by visiting the highlights of the area on our guided sightseeing bus tour! Departing from Shinjuku in central Tokyo, you can travel comfortably to all of the best spots in the area by bus.

If you want to make travel easier, click here to find the best tour package from various operators!

These are just 20 reasons why you should visit Japan, but the list is endless. We haven’t even talked about the beautiful autumn colors, the cute deers, animal cafes, and love hotels amongst other things. Nowhere else on earth you will find a country like Japan, the unique blend of long standing traditions and modern rituals, century old buildings and peaceful gardens sandwiched between the city’s present-time highrise. Incredible fresh food, domestic drinks, sake and local specialties that you can get from any hole in the wall place. Friendly people that will go out of their way to make you comfortable and require as much as a simple thank you. Reliable and punctual public transportation in a country that is among the safest in the world. The list of reasons for you to come to Japan is simply endless. Conclusion: plan your trip to Japan as soon as possible, you are in for a treat!

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Happy traveling!

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JRailPass.com » Japan Travel Blog » Why travel to Japan? 20 best reasons to visit it

Why travel to Japan? 20 best reasons to visit it

June 15, 2022

There are a endless number of reasons to visit Japan , as the country has something to entice almost every kind of traveler.

Whether you’re dying to explore Japanese history and culture at the variety of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the country, indulge in diverse Japanese cuisine, or experience a ride on the lighting-fast Shinkansen trains, a trip to Japanese promises adventure around every corner.

From the chance to visit some of the many impressive temples and castles around the country, to the opportunity to take a dip in an Onsen hot spring, below you’ll find the 20 best reasons why you should visit Japan .

It’s easy to get around on public transportation

Japan has one of the most efficient and reliable public transport systems in the world, with a wide range of travel options including bus, train, and subway services across the country.

One of the best ways to get between cities is to ride the Shinkansen bullet trains , which can reach a speed of up to 300 km/h and boast a range of luxury services onboard. The most cost-efficient way to travel by Shinkansen is to buy a JR Pass online before traveling to Japan.

Book your Japan Rail Pass now

Japan is very clean

The Japanese really pride themselves on their cleanliness , and upon first arrival in the country you may be surprised by how sparkling clean the streets are.

Hotels and restaurants tend to be absolutely spotless , filled with pleasant smells, and regularly and efficiently cleaned. One downside is that there tends to be a total absence of trash cans in public spaces. However, you can just follow the Japanese example and carry garbage with you until you find a place to get rid of it later on.

Japanese people are polite and friendly

The Japanese have a worldwide reputation for being uncommonly polite, friendly, and welcoming. Although the language barrier may prove a challenge at times, people in Japan usually try to be as helpful as possible if you ask anything of them.

It’s a good idea to brush up on Japanese etiquette tips before traveling: locals will appreciate your efforts to respect local customs!

The incredible natural landscapes

Although Japan is perhaps best known internationally for its technologically advanced cities, the majority of the country is actually taken up by a vast expanse of forested hills and mountains , and there is lots of nature to explore.

One of the most obvious beauty spots to visit is the iconic Mount Fuji , but you shouldn’t rule out a visit to lesser known natural gems such as the Arashiyama bamboo forest or the Ritsurin landscape gardens on Shikoku Island .

The large number of UNESCO sites

Japan boasts a total of 21 World Heritage Sites , including 17 cultural monuments and 4 natural landscapes, and there are currently 8 more sites pending UNESCO classification.

Travelers interested in Japanese history should definitely pay a visit to the Hiroshima Peace Memorial , which commemorates the victims of the 1945 atomic bomb, as well as Shirakawago and Gokayama , historic villages which feature unique thatched-roof dwellings.

The majestic temples in Japan

There are number of stunning historic temples and shrines in almost every town and city in Japan, while larger cultural centers can have up to 1,000 temples within their municipality.

One of the most impressive temples in Japan is the Byodoin Buddhist temple in Uji, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back over a thousand years. The Toji temple in Kyoto , which boasts the tallest wooden pagoda in Japan and an extensive garden full of cherry trees, is also well worth visiting.

The unique castles

Visitors to Japan can dig deep into the country’s history by exploring the elegant architecture and fascinating family legacies of Japanese castles.

Primarily serving as the homes for local feudal lords and their family during the Sengoku period of Japanese history, the castles in Japan are defined by their elegant façades and interiors, as well as extensive defensive features.

Some of the most impressive castles in Japan include the well-preserved Hikone castle , which dates back to 1622, and the castle in Himeji .

The spectacular cherry blossom season

Japan is one of the best places in the world to view the spring cherry blossom and attend a Cherry blossom festival.

Once the cherry blossom season peaks in April , locals and visitors alike flock to Japanese parks and gardens to engage in hanami (picnics beneath the cherry trees). Some of the best places to experience the blooming flowers include Hirosaki Castle Park and Shinjuku Gyoen, located in the heart of Tokyo.

The exciting summer festivals

If you’re visiting Japan during the summer months, you should plan to experience some of the colourful Matsuri festivals which take place all over the country.

These traditional celebrations pay tribute to legendary historical events and different deities connected to an individual shrine in the towns where they take place. Many Matsuri festivals feature processions of enormous floats , colorful parades, and spectacular fireworks shows.

Christmas in Japan is magical

Spending in Christmas in Japan is worth the effort just to experience the range of extravagant winter illuminations that saturate the city streets during the festive period.

Those planning to spend winter in Japan are also advised to visit the Sapporo snow festival in Hokkaido, where you can see a range of incredible ice sculptures , many based on well-known pop culture characters.

The world-class powder snow

Winter sports enthusiasts shouldn’t miss the chance to go snowboarding and skiing in Japan at one of the many resorts across the country, as Japanese powder snow is considered some of the best in the world.

Many of the best ski resorts in Japan are located on the northernmost island of Hokkaido, such as Furano, Rusutsu, and Niseko, as well as in the Japanese Alps on Honshu.

The chance to bathe in a natural hot spring

Onsens are Japanese hot spring baths filled with mineral-rich spring water heated by geothermal forces , somewhat like a natural Jacuzzi.

Onsen baths have been present all over Japan since at least the 8th Century , when the belief that hot springs had curative and rejuvenating powers was at its height. Taking a bath in an onsen is an incredibly relaxing experience , and popular with both Japanese locals and tourists.

The superb Japanese cuisine

Food is incredibly important in Japanese culture , and while in the country you’ll be able to sample a huge range of the many delicious dishes that make up Japanese cuisine.

From worldwide favorites like sushi and ramen , to Sukiyaki (beef hot pot) and Yakiniku (Japanese barbeque), there are an endless number of dishes in Japan guaranteed to make your mouth water.

Japan is also the country with the most 3-star Michelin restaurants in the world , and there are are also a number of Matsuri food and drink festivals you can experience during your trip.

The fantastic architecture

You’ll be able to take in some incredible modern architecture while in the major Japanese cities, such as the Tokyo Skytree , the tallest building in the capital.

You can also find some exquisite examples of traditional Japanese architecture all over the country, such as the majestic Ise shrines on the Shima Peninsula.

The advanced technology

From futuristic capsule hotels with complimentary tablets, to high-tech public toilets , advanced technology is in full display in every corner of Japan’s cities.

If you feel like getting an inside look at technological advancements in Japan, pay a visit to the permanent robotics exhibitions at Miraikan – The National Museum of Emerging Science and Innovation in Tokyo’s Odaiba district .

Japan is a Mecca for manga and anime lovers

If you first fell in love with Japan through manga and anime , you’re bound to be in heaven during a visit to Tokyo, which boasts a number of anime-themed experiences .

Visit J-World Tokyo , an indoor amusement park based around popular manga characters, the One Piece Tower, or the Pokémon Mega Center Tokyo , a huge store which offers a range of Pokémon merchandise exclusive to Japan.

It’s the home of Studio Ghibli

Fans of classic Japanese animation films like Princess Mononoke (1997) and Spirited Away (2001) shouldn’t miss the chance to see some of celebrated director Hayao Miyazaki’s creations at the Studio Ghibli museum in Mitaka .

Children can play on a huge replica of the Catbus from My Neighbor Totoro (1988) and watch animated shorts exclusive to the museum. There is also an ever-changing range of exhibitions exploring Ghibli’s creative process.

Japan is the birthplace of karaoke

If you love belting out your favorite songs, whether in front of a small group of friends or a crowd of random strangers, then you’ll want to take advantage of the huge karaoke culture while in Japan.

You might not be aware that Karaoke actually originated in Japan and continues to be incredibly popular: there are currently around 100,000 karaoke boxes and bars across the country.

The fashion

Fashion lovers arriving in Japan should head directly to Tokyo’s most stylish area , Harajuku , where most of the biggest Japanese trendsetters set up shop.

Those more interested in traditional Japanese fashion may want to pay a visit to Kyoto and try on one of the elegant kimonos or yukatas the city is famous for.

Japan is very safe

Japan is considered to be one of the safest countries in the world, and has one of the lowest global crime rates .

Japanese people often leave their doors unlocked, children are perfectly safe traveling on the subway by themselves , and visitors are able to walk around the cities at night without having to worry.

Nevertheless,as when traveling to any foreign destination, visitors to Japan should still exercise caution in crowded places and use common sense.

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A complete 7 day itinerary for Japan

Japan is a country I have long wanted to visit, with incredible mountain scenery, one of the world’s most chaotic & quirky cities (Tokyo), a long history of culture & tradition, and of course incredible cuisine with authentic sushi on offer everywhere you turn.

I have been asked many times over the past few years of blogging why I have not yet been to Japan, with the answer being that I was just waiting for a time that was right. This is a country I wanted to see as a whole over at least 2 weeks, instead of just flying in for a quick city trip to Tokyo or a ski trip in one of Japan’s famous ski resorts.

When I came across the Splendours of Japan Tour with Trafalgar (who I have travelled with previously in Peru ), it seemed like a great opportunity to take one of my parents overseas to visit Japan, as I knew either of them would appreciate the culture and history unlike anyone else I knew – so I booked my dad a plane ticket, told him to pack his bags, and we were off!

My Trip to Japan: Tokyo

Japan’s capital Tokyo is weird, wonderful, and at time completely whacky – but that is precisely what makes it such a sought after city for international visitors.

Our trip started in Tokyo as it is the main gateway to Japan and a great city to spend a few days discovering its many pockets – from the hustle and bustle of Shibuya & Shinjuku, over to the quiet peace and serenity of Japan’s public parks, and all the way through to Tokyo’s gaming district; Akihabara.

Be sure to allow yourself at least 3-5 days in this city as there is much to see and do – including tourist hot spots like the Mieji Shrine; Sensō-ji temple; Ueno Park for remarkable cherry blossom viewing in Spring; Harajuku for young fashion, nearby Omotesando for grown-up fashion, Tokyo Tower for impressive views at sunset, and if you have more time, day trips to Tokyo Disneyland, Disney Sea, or nearby Mt. Fuji.

For our Tokyo hotel we stayed at New Hotel Otani and I would highly recommend it, though for location I would have preferred to be position in Shibuya or Shinjuku.

Further reading:

A Quick Guide to Tokyo

Mt. Fuji Day Trip

After enjoying all of the chaos and craziness that is Tokyo, allow yourself one day to get out of the hustle and bustle and escape to nearby Mt. Fuji to view the impressive mountain where many Japanese and foreign guests make their climb to the summit each year.

Whilst here enjoy great views (weather dependent) from Lake Kawaguchi and enjoy a delightful blueberry + vanilla soft serve from the gift store.

Onwards from Mt. Fuji we proceeded to visit Hakone, a small village on lake Ashi, which also offers great views of Mt. Fuji from afar by taking the cable car to the viewing platform.

Further Reading:

Matsumoto Castle (En route to Takayama)

After 3 nights in Tokyo (I would suggest booking at least 1-2 more nights to allow time to see/do everything in Tokyo), we made our way by bus to Takayama via Matsumoto Castle – one of Japan’s most picturesque castle. Also known as crow’s castle due to its black exterior, this castle is entirely built of wood and as per Japanese tradition, built completely without nails (it pieces together like a jigsaw puzzle and can be entirely pulled apart and put back together).

There isn’t a great deal to see beyond the castle, so after a quick look inside and walk around the grounds, it was onwards to Takayama in the same day!

This gorgeous little city known as Takayama is the gateway to the Hida region. One day to explore this city is enough time to see most points of interest, though if time is on your side this would be a great town to slow down and spend a couple days immersed in Japanese culture and traditions.

Soft serve ice cream plays a big role in Takayama with many flavours available on the many street – don’t be afraid to try them all! There are also some great Izakaya restaurants here (casual Japanese food), offering a great chance to try regional food.

For our hotel in Takayama we stayed at the three-star Hida Plaza Hotel . I wouldn’t particularly recommend it and I believe Takayama is a great location to try a traditional Ryokan whilst in Japan.

A Quick Guide to Takayama

Gokoyama & Shirakawago

After two nights in Takayama, we made our way through countryside villages toward the busy city of Kanazawa – but as is often the case, today was all about the journey to get there.

En route we stopped at two traditional villages – characterised by thatched roofs and traditional wooden houses. These two villages are UNESCO World Heritage listed as they portray Japanese traditional in its truest form – so be sure to take plenty of photos!

Onwards we stopped at a Nomura House, a traditional samurai house where we learned the history of the local region, ongoing traditions and the history of the samurai.

Sadly I have only a couple of rainy, not-so-clear photos to show from our time in Kanazawa, as we experience rained for the two days we were though and thus mostly stayed indoors.

Should you be received in Kanazawa with sunshine, be sure to visit Kenroku-en, regarded as one of Japan’s three most beautiful gardens and just next door is Kanazawa castle, which is also worthy of a visit.

Kanazawa is a larger city (with multiple Starbucks and McDonalds if that gives any indication!), so I would recommend just one day to explore here, to allow for more time in the countryside or cities that have more to offer in terms of sightseeing and culture – like the next stop; Kyoto!

For our hotel in Kanazawa we stayed at the Kanazawa Tokyu Hotel , which I would highly recommend for both location & a fantastic buffet breakfast!

Once the capital of Japan, Kyoto is as idyllic as one could ever imagine Japan to be. Although the charm of Kyoto lies beneath the bustling city that it is today, when you take the back streets you soon begin to discover the history, culture and traditions that live on in Japan to this day.

Be sure to wander through Gion, Kyoto’s most renowned Geisha district and an absolute mecca for green tea (matcha) lovers! Here green tea comes in any and all forms – ice cream, parfaits, frappes, hot lattes and more!

Kyoto is also home to the famous Fushimi Inari Taira – an incredible shrine of thousands of red torii gates that line the 4 kilometre stretch to the sacred Mt. Inari. Nature lovers will enjoy the bamboo groves, whilst those looking for a city escape can always make a quick trip to Osaka – just a 30 minute express train ride away!

For our hotel in Kyoto we stayed at the  Hotel Nikko Princess  which I would highly recommend due to the large rooms, amazing service (particularly from the concierge), great location and a great breakfast buffet.

A Quick Guide to Kyoto

Although Osaka wasn’t on our itinerary for the tour, we had an extended stay at the end in Kyoto, which allowed for a spontaneous trip to nearby Osaka (30 minutes by express train from Kyoto). The trip happened completely by chance, as we were sat in our hotel room making a plan for the following two days, deciding when would be best to visit each location for less crowds, particularly as it was a public holiday that day. All of a sudden we made the decision to head out of Kyoto to nearby Osaka and experience the hustle and bustle of now my absolute favourite city in Japan.

My favourite areas to explore in Osaka were Shinsekai and Dotonbori. Shinsekai felt like a time warp as you quite literally step back in time to a Japan that time forgot, but of course with the added colour and livelihood of the 21st Century! Dotonbori is the main tourist thoroughfare in Osaka which is also home to the best street food in Osaka (and some of the best in Japan), whilst allowing plenty of opportunities to spend some cash.

A Quick Guide to Osaka

World of Wanderlust experience the Splendours of Japan Tour as a guest, however my opinions and oodles of photos are all my own!

Brooke Saward founded World of Wanderlust as a place to share inspiration from her travels and to inspire others to see our world. She now divides her time between adventures abroad and adventures in the kitchen, with a particular weakness for French pastries.

Find me on: Twitter | Instagram | Facebook

Incredible places would be great for students to visit in their winter vacations. Students will get to learn many things about these places.

*early next year

Hi Brooke! I love your Japan travel blog! Planning to go there early next week. Btw, may I ask what camera do you use? Your photos are fantastic!

Great post, japan is so calming even though i haven’t been there by reading your post i feels like i was also there. hope i can visit there soon and try alot of ramen, thankyou!

Great blog! Thanks for sharing informative and complete japan itinerary.

Japan always make me dream…and you made that too with your post and pictures!! I really can’t wait for restrictions to go away, the first place i’m gonna visit are Gokoyama e Shirakawago for sure!

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30 Reasons to visit Japan – Why you should visit Japan once in your life

Are you still not sure why you should visit Japan at least once in your life? In this post you can find 30 reasons to visit Japan! It’s one of our favourite destinations in Asia. Probably because it has the perfect mix of culture, history and modern comfort. And lets not forget the amazing food they have! Japan is a unique country, and even though you might have an image of how it will be, this beautiful country will definitely still surprise you!

Below you can read 30 reasons why you should visit Japan. If you’ve been persuaded already, be sure to check our other articles of Japan and keep your eyes peeled for more on this blog! 

30 Reasons to visit Japan at least once in your life

1. japan has some of the most beautiful places.

Japan offers a lot of beautiful places. There are a lot of popular and unique, of the beaten track destinations that you should include in your itinerary. This means there is so much to explore and there really is something for anybody! From nature, such as beautiful blue ponds, waterfalls and bamboo forests to culture, with amazing temples and shrines.

Read more of our Japan blogs! 25 Most Beautiful Places in Japan to include in your itinerary A Day Trip to Mount Fuji from Tokyo 8 Fun things to do in Osaka

2. japan is a very safe country.

Japan is one of the safest countries to travel in the world. According to Worldatlas.com, Japan was in the top 10 of the World’s Safest Countries in 2017 . What makes Japan so safe? For one thing, Japan puts a strong focus on crime prevention, with measurements such as ATM’s inside buildings or banks and the fact that firearms aren’t readily available.

During our time in Japan we also felt incredibly safe and didn’t have any problems whatsoever.

3. There is a lot of history to discover in Japan

The ancient Japanese culture is really interesting, and it has been around for thousands of years. Even now the culture and heritage is very prominent in the country. During your visit in Japan you can learn a lot about the history by visiting castles, temples, shrines and more. Especially Kyoto is a perfect destination if you want to experience the ancient Japanese culture.

4. There are countless of beautiful temples and shrines in Japan

Japan offers countless of beautiful Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines throughout the country. The above photo was taken at the Fushimi Inari shrine and is a gorgeous spot in Kyoto. But also in Osaka, Tokyo, Mount Fuji and almost every city and town in Japan you can find temples and shrines that are worth a visit.

5. Japan is also very modern

Like I’ve mentioned before, Japan is a perfect mix culture, history and modern comfort. There are skyscrapers, modern restaurants and everything else you can come across in the modern world. But, Japan does have it’s own unique, modern style and can’t be compared with any other modern country.

6. It’s very easy to travel around Japan

The public transport in Japan is very efficient! It’s so easy to travel from one destination to another in this country. In just a few days time you can see a lot! Plus, the trains in Japan are super punctual. It’s almost not possible for them to have a delay.

7. Japan is a super clean country

Everything in Japan is super, super clean. You’ll never find any litter on the streets anywhere for that matter. Every hotel and accommodation we stayed at always smelled rosy clean and every restaurant table is efficiently cleaned before we sit down.

8. Everything is so kawaii in Japan

How can everything in Japan be so freakin’ cute?! You’ll be surprised to see the biggest companies having advertising with the most cute characters. It’s just part of the Japanese culture that everything should be adorable. If you’re a sucker for kawaii, then you just have to visit Japan!

9. Japan has some of the most amazing food

Japan has more amazing food than only ramen or sushi! For instance, try the Okonomiyaki pancakes, made with cabbage and topped with a variety of options. This can be anything from meat to seafood! Other food to try in Japan are Soba noodles, Yakiniku barbecue, Tempura, Sukiyaki, Yakitori and much, much more…

10. Eat all the Matcha in Japan!

One thing we absolutely love is matcha-flavoured sweets. And in Japan you can really eat anything in matcha flavour: chocolate, cookies, ice-cream and even in burgers. For those of you that don’t know: matcha is green tea, made from the finest tea leafs. The leafs are steamed, dried and made into a powder. It’s super healthy and delicious!

11. The KitKats in Japan come in countless of flavours

Lets keep talking about food a bit longer… Because, well, I love food and Japan is an excellent place for foodies. KitKats are available in all kinds of flavours in Japan. Strawberry, pear, citrus golden blend, cinnamon cookie, strawberry cheesecake, wasabi and many more! Yes, also matcha! Really try out some of those crazy flavours!

12. It’s easier to stick to your budget in Japan than you would think!

We expected Japan to be very expensive and compared to most Asian countries, it is. Luckily, we still found that Japan can easily be explored on a budget! Of course, it really depends what your budget is… But we managed with a budget of approximately 30 euros per person a day. For accomodation, we stayed in an Airbnb, mostly ate a lot of ramen (and even sushi!) and still did a lot of activities. Many touristic attractions in Japan are free!

We found the transport in Japan to be the most expensive. We eventually decided to travel by train and always looked for the most affordable train ticket.

13. There is definitely a weird, but cool, side to Japan

To us Japan was a bit weird at times. We can’t ignore the fact that it’s a bit different than, let’s say, Western Europe. All those big blown up signs and other 3D models in the streets, maid cafes and grown ups in game halls. But all this actually makes Japan so cool!

14. Japan offers the most beautiful cherry blossoms

Yoshinoyama, Nara, Japan in spring season.

One of the most popular times to visit Japan is during spring. This is, of course, because of the amazing pink cherry blossoms that cover the streets. But not only the trees start to blossom when spring approaches, everything else in Japan turns into “sakura” mode. Think fake cherry blossom flowers in stores, cherry blossom drinks and even food.

15. You can enjoy nature in Japan

Although Japan has big, heavily urbanised cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka, there is also a lot of nature to explore. In fact, two thirds of Japan is actually covered by forested mountains and hills ! But in Japan you also have waterfalls, volcanoes, mountains and more.

16. It’s possible to visit the incredible Mount Fuji

One of our favourite places in Japan is Mount Fuji. It’s such an iconic landmark and an Cultural Site on the UNESCO’s World Heritage List. It’s possible to enjoy the beauty of Mount Fuji from different places, and you can also climb Mount Fuji.

17. Japan has some of the most amazing architecture

Are you a sucker for architecture? Well, in Japan you can find beautiful architecture. Especially the traditional Japanese style is unique and very aesthetically pleasing. You’ll definitely enjoy the castles, temples and shrines.

18. You can encounter beautiful wildlife

In Nara Park you can find deer roaming the streets freely and in the forest of Jigokudani valley you can find the Snow Monkeys. But there is a lot more wild life in Japan, such as tanuki (sort of raccoon), wild boars, squirrels and more!

19. In Japan you can feel like a kid in Disney World

The last time I felt the same way as in Japan was when I was a little kid in Disney World. Not only are there toys everywhere, just walking around on the streets you won’t know where to look! There is something to see anywhere. One day we were walking around in Osaka and suddenly saw people driving around in Mario Kart cars on the streets. Adult people feeling like kids again!

20. Japan is perfect if you’re an anime lover…

Book your ticket to Japan right now if you’re an anime fan. Japan is the birthplace of anime, manga and video games. Some of the best places to enjoy anime in Japan are the Tokyo Anime Center, Akihabara, J-World Tokyo and Pokémon Mega Center Tokyo.

21. … And if you still love toys, no matter what age

Don’t be embarrassed.. Just buy that Pokémon toy, no matter what age you are. Like I said before, Japan makes you feel like a kid again. Enjoy it!

Read more of our Japan blogs! 14 Fun things to do in Kyoto 10 Fun things to do in Tokyo

22. you can play videogames in cool game arcades in japan.

We went to Kawasaki Warehouse Arcade in Tokyo and had a lot of fun. It was really one of the coolest places ever. And in Japan you can find a lot more game arcades and other places where you can play games.

23. Have some karaoke fun in Japan!

The fun doesn’t stop at toys and game arcades, you can also have karaoke fun in Japan! Karaoke actually originated in Japan and is enjoyed by people of all ages in the country.

24. Japanese fashion is trendsetting

The fashion in Japan is really better than the clothes in this photo, I promise.  

Of course the traditional clothing in Japan is absolutely beautiful. Just think of the details of the Geisha outfit or all the beautiful fabrics they use for kimono’s. But in Japanese big cities, such as Tokyo, there is a lot of trendsetting fashion. In areas such as Harajuku or Shibuya you can see many locals walking around in great styles.

25. You can try on a kimono and other Japanese traditional clothing

Dress up as a geisha or buy your own kimono or yukata. One of the best places to dress up in Japanese traditional clothing is Kyoto. You rent a beautiful kimono and walk around in the city.

26. Experience the most busy intersection in the world at Shibuya

Shibuya Crossing in Tokyo is a very cool, exciting place. It’s actually claimed to be one of the busiest intersection in the world. It’s really cool to see thousand people crossing the streets at once.

27. There are many themed restaurants in Japan

There are very adorable themed restaurants in Japan, such as Pompompurin Café that you can see on the photo above. In addition, there are themed restaurants that are a bit weird or crazy. For instance, the Robot restaurant in Tokyo or Kawaii Monster Café Harajuku (cute and crazy!).

28. There are 21 World Heritage Sites in Japan

Himeji, Japan at Himeji Castle in spring season.

There are 21 World Heritage Sites in Japan, with 17 cultural sites and four natural sites. Plus, there are actually eight more sites that might become World Heritage Sites. The photo above is of the gorgeous Himeji castle that is also a World Heritage Site.

29. In Japan there are vending machines for anything

Japan has the highest density of vending machines in the whole world. The country has about 5.52 million vending machines! And you can get almost anything from them: coffee, tea, candy, soup, hot food, and much more.

30. It’s probably one of the most awesome countries in the world

This list can go on and on. There is so much to see, so much to do and it’s such a unique country. Trust me, Japan really should be on your list!

That were 30 reasons why you should visit Japan at least once in your life! Have you ever been to Japan? Let us know in the comments!

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This is an awesome post! I had already thought about visiting Japan and now I reaaally want to go! Beautiful photos!

I absolutely loved Japan for many of these reasons! If I had the time, I would definitely go back there. I also have many ice cream photos too! Haha!

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The 10 most wonderful places to visit in Japan

Mar 28, 2024 • 6 min read

From buzzing cities to serene forest walks, these are our favorite places to visit in Japan © Taiyou Nomachi / Getty Images

Japan offers up a real feast for travelers, with mountainside onsen (hot spring) villages, beach-lined islands and buzzing megacities all on the menu.

You could arguably spend a lifetime sampling the country’s delights, but some towns and sights are staples – core ingredients to any great Japan trip. Here’s our pick of the 10 best places to visit in Japan .

Best for contemporary culture

Tokyo is a city forever reaching into the future, pushing the boundaries of what's possible on densely populated, earthquake-prone land, and building ever taller, sleeker structures.

It's Japan's top spot for contemporary art and architecture, pop culture, shopping, drinking and entertainment (and a tie with Kyoto for dining). But more than any other sight, it's the city itself that enchants visitors.

It's a sprawling, organic thing, stretching as far as the eye can see. Constantly changing with a diverse collection of neighborhoods , no two experiences of Tokyo are ever the same.

Planning tip: Tickets for sumo, kabuki and Giants baseball games usually go on sale one to two months in advance. The Imperial Palace and Ghibli Museum are other popular attractions that require prior planning.

Best for traditional experiences

Kyoto , Japan's imperial capital for a thousand years, is home to more than a thousand temples. Among them are the monumental, like Kinkaku-ji (an exquisite pavilion sheathed entirely in gold leaf), and the meditative, like Ryōan-ji , with its stark Zen rock garden.

And temples are only the beginning. There's the culture of tea, which you can appreciate at one of the city's many elegant teahouses; the art of the geisha, those iconic performers of traditional music and dance; and also a rich food culture, including kaiseki (Japanese haute cuisine).

3. Naoshima

Best for architecture

Naoshima is one of Japan's great success stories: once a rural island on the verge of becoming a ghost town, it's now a world-class center for contemporary art.

Many of Japan's most lauded architects have contributed structures, including museums, a boutique hotel and even a bathhouse – all designed to enhance the island's natural beauty and complement its existing settlements.

The resulting blend of avant-garde and rural Japan is captivating. It has also inspired some Japanese to pursue a slower life outside the big cities, relocating to Naoshima to open cafes and inns.

Planning tip: Try to plan your visit during one of the three exhibitions of the  Setouchi Triennale festival, which happens during the spring, summer and fall every three years – the most recent was in 2022. Naoshima hosts various art, drama, music and dance events that make this festival really special.

Best for views and pilgrimages

Even from a distance,  Mt Fuji will take your breath away. Close up, the perfectly symmetrical cone of Japan's highest peak is nothing short of incredible. Dawn from the summit? Pure magic.

Fuji-san is among Japan's most revered and timeless attractions. Hundreds of thousands of people climb it every year, continuing a centuries-old tradition of pilgrimages up the sacred volcano.

Those who'd rather search for picture-perfect views from the less-daunting peaks nearby will be following in the steps of Japan's most famous painters and poets.

Planning tip: The best time to climb Mt Fuji is during its official season, from July 1 through mid-September, which avoids the rainy season and snowfall. Always check for typhoon warnings before hiking in Japan.

5. Hiroshima

Best for introspection

Hiroshima today is a forward-thinking city with attractive, leafy boulevards. It's not until you visit the Peace Memorial Museum that the true extent of human tragedy wreaked by the atomic bomb becomes vividly clear.

A visit here is a heartbreaking, important history lesson. The  park around the museum , much of which was designed by Japan's great modernist architect Tange Kenzō, offers many opportunities for reflection.

But the city's spirit of determination – as well as its food – will ensure that you'll have good memories to take with you when you leave.

6. Yakushima

Best for forest bathing

Yakushima, a small island off the coast of southern Kyūshū , is often described as magical and enchanting – otherworldly even. It's a place where words fail and clichés step in.

Home to some of Japan's last primeval forests, you'll find the yakusugi , an ancient cedar native to the island whose giant roots seem to form alien tentacles.

Hiking trails underneath them cover craggy terrain, often fuzzy with moss. The landscape here is believed to have inspired the iconic Studio Ghibli animated film,  Princess Mononoke .

Detour: When you're not hiking, stop by the  Yakusugi Museum to learn more about the importance of yakusugi  to the islanders of Yakushima. An English audio guide is available.

7. Koya-san

Best for exploring temples

Riding the funicular up to the sacred Buddhist monastic complex of Kōya-san feels, appropriately, like ascending to another world.

There are over a hundred temples here, the highlight of which is Oku-no-in , where paths weave their way among towering cryptomeria trees and time-worn stone stupas covered in moss and lichen.

Other temples offer a different experience: the chance to spend the night, dine on traditional vegetarian Buddhist cuisine and wake up early for morning meditation with the resident monks.

Planning tip: Though Japanese temples and shrines do not have established dress codes, visitors are expected to stay relatively quiet in these sacred spaces.

8. Okinawa and the Southwest Islands

Best for beaches

Okinawa and the Southwest Islands offer a totally different experience from the rest of Japan. This semi-tropical archipelago forms an arch between Kyūshū and Taiwan .

Until the islands were annexed by Japan in the 19th century, they formed their own kingdom – the Ryūkyū Empire – and the cultural differences are apparent in everything from the architecture to the food.

This is where you'll find Japan's best beaches, like those on the Yaeyama Islands  and the Kerama Islands, with sugar-white sand fringed with palms and turquoise waters. Bask in the sun, or snorkel and scuba dive.

Best for street food and nightlife

Tokyo doesn't nab all the superlatives when it comes to urban experiences. Osaka , Japan's third-largest city, is tops for street food: don't miss its signature dish, takoyaki (grilled octopus dumplings).

It also has the most dramatic of nightscapes: a dazzling display of LED lights, animated signage and flashing video screens along the canalside strip Dōtombori .

The city, Japan's oldest merchant center, has a pace, spirit and zest for life all of its own; its unofficial slogan is kuidaore (eat until you drop).

Planning tip: In addition to nightly accommodation fees, Osaka hotels will typically charge an accommodation tax that varies depending on the standard nightly rate.

10. Kamikōchi

Best for mountain hikes

One of Japan's most stunning natural vistas, Kamikōchi is a highland river valley enveloped by the soaring peaks of the Northern Japan Alps .

Easy day hikes are possible along the Azusa-gawa, following the pristine river through tranquil forests of willow, larch and elm.

The birthplace of Japanese alpinism, Kamikōchi is also the gateway for more challenging treks up some of the country's tallest mountains, such as Yari-ga-take (3180m/10,433ft). Private cars are banned from Kamikōchi, which lessens the impact of the crowds.

This article was first published April 2021 and updated March 2024

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Tips/learnings from my trip to Japan

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It loses all my bullets when I try to copy the text in, so I'll just share the link of the Google doc:

https://docs.google.com/document/d/1k7oXewR2D3mSAJ8ZZK4YOO54NoROffV3Yj0wTvSOmhE/edit?usp=sharing

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• Tokyo trip report here

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Travel in Japan

• Recommend Place in Kochi
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Informative Essay

• Biography Essay
• Opinion Essay

 Today, the influence of Covid-19 is less, the number of people who travel around the world is increasing. In Japan, many people who from other countries come and travel. There are two good points and a bad point for sightseeing place to come to Japan from other countries: tourists give good economic effects, sightseeing places may revitalize, and some troubles happen due to difference of manners or cultures.

To begin with, tourists give good economic effects. In sightseeing place, tourists eat famous something there, need public transportations to move, and especially international tourists need a place to stay. So, they pay a lot of money to enjoy trip. According to NHK News Web, foreigners who visited Japan in the three months until September 2023, consumed 1.39 trillion yen. It was the big economic effect for Japan.

Secondly, sightseeing places may revitalize. Japan has many attractive sightseeing places.  Not only Japanese but also almost all of tourists from overseas visit some sightseeing places.  If they notice attractive there, they may visit Japan repeatedly. Also, foreign tourists consume more than Japanese tourists. So, coming more foreign tourists leads to revitalize. An organization "Japan National Tourism Organization" exist in all over the world. It is carried out activity to attract foreign tourists. Also, they support people who try to invite foreigners at some places. From these, inviting foreigners to Japan is important to revitalize.

Lastly, some problems happen due to difference of manners or cultures. I often watch some news which some foreigners don't follow the Japanese manners, so there are a lot of problems such as littering the trash, talking loudly on the train and so on. However, I think foreigners don't know the Japanese manners or cultures is the cause of this problems. Tokyo metropolitan government published "How to enjoy Tokyo!", which is handbook written manners and customs of Japan. If tourists read this handbook before visiting Japan, some problems may reduce than now.

In conclusion, visiting Japan from overseas have positive and negative sides for Japan. There is more positive economic effect, a lot of areas revitalize, and some trouble happen because of not knowing Japanese culture. The influence of the Covid-19 has also been reduced, I want more tourists to come to Japan, and know a lot of attraction of Japan.

References: 

“The consumption of foreigners visiting Japan from July to September exceeded the pre-Covid-19 pandemic and reached an all-time high”, NHK NEWS WEB , October 18, 2023, 〈 https://www3.nhk.or.jp/news/html/20231018/k10014228641000.html 〉 Accessed on November 21, 2023.

”an outline of organization”, Japan National Tourism Organization, 〈 https://www.jnto.go.jp/ 〉 Accessed on January 4,2024

"How to enjoy Tokyo!", Bureau of industrial and labor affairs Tokyo metropolitan gorvernment , June 2021〈 10bd44414e8b0f3d929489144ef5090d_4.pdf (tokyo.lg.jp) 〉Accessed on January 4, 2024

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Russia’s latest air-launched cruise missiles may travel less than half the distance of their predecessors, but they pack twice the punch.

The upgraded Kh-101 nuclear-capable cruise missile — first added to Russia’s arsenal in 1995 — boasts tandem warheads, set to detonate simultaneously, according to Ukraine’s Pravda .

The updated technology was discovered after a missile downed by Ukrainian forces Friday was analyzed, Ukraine’s Defense Express reported.

The stealthy missile is designed to fly low to the ground, undermining air defense systems.

The original Kh-101 weighed over 880 pounds, and was capable of hitting targets 3,400 miles away. To accommodate the addition of a second warhead, Russian engineers decreased the missile’s fuel tank size, cutting its range to 1,400 miles.

With two warheads, one of which is a fragmentation warhead, the Kh-101 now weighs more than 1,700 pounds.

While capable of destroying anti-aircraft missiles, the warhead, according to the Defense Express, also has the potential to cause devastation on the ground, resulting in human casualties.

The reports suggest Russia first started working on the missile upgrade in 2010.

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Destination: Shohei Ohtani

With huge demand to see the baseball superstar play for the Dodgers, M.L.B. teamed up with a Japanese travel agency. Fans began plotting trips.

By Scott Miller

It has already been a sweet life for Fumihide Oda, chief executive of Rokkatei , one of the oldest confectionary shops in Hokkaido, Japan, and the birthplace of the popular Marusei butter sandwich cookies.

This summer, Mr. Oda anticipates life becoming even sweeter. He and his wife, along with two other couples — including his sister and her husband — will take their four children to Oakland, Calif., to experience, in person, another of Hokkaido’s treasured exports: Shohei Ohtani.

This is the family’s first overseas trip to see Mr. Ohtani. And it will be the children’s first visit to the United States.

“We have decided to go to California now because we want to see Ohtani in a Dodgers jersey!” Mr. Oda, 45, wrote in an email.

In a serendipitous bit of timing, the family will open Rokkatei’s first store in Southern California this summer. That gave them a perfect excuse to find a way to see Mr. Ohtani, whose ability to thrive as a star batter and pitcher led to his signing an outrageous and record-breaking 10-year, $700 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers — the largest contract in North American sports history.

“We are very, very excited that it happened to be in the same year that Mr. Ohtani will be playing for the Dodgers,” said Mr. Oda, whose grandfather founded Rokkatei under a different name in the 1930s.

As a new baseball season dawns after Mr. Ohtani’s move from the Los Angeles Angels to the Dodgers this winter, travel stories like Mr. Oda’s will crop up all season long. Having been stuck on an irrelevant team for his entire Major League Baseball career, Mr. Ohtani has joined a storied franchise packed with other stars, with a singular focus among them of winning the team an eighth World Series title.

Anticipating unprecedented interest in Mr. Ohtani and the Dodgers — especially from Mr. Ohtani’s native Japan — Major League Baseball entered into a multiyear partnership with JTB Corp., the largest travel agency in Japan. To get the ball rolling, JTB has offered international travel packages to the season-opening series between the Dodgers and the San Diego Padres in Seoul, which begins on Wednesday. The company intends to roll out further packages for regular season games in the United States as well.

Catering to very casual fans as well as those who are more passionate, the travel packages are expected to include airline tickets, hotel accommodations, transportation from hotel to stadium and pregame tours and merchandising.

“We feel that this has reached a level where even people who would not have considered going overseas to watch baseball are now interested in actually going to the stadium,” Kaori Mori, who is part of JTB’s communications and branding team, said. “In fact, we regularly send out an email newsletter with information about traveling to watch sports, and within two weeks of the news of the M.L.B. partnership, the number of registered members increased by 110 percent.”

From Hideo Nomo, who was a pitching sensation for the Dodgers in the 1990s, to Ichiro Suzuki, a Seattle Mariners icon who is likely to be inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame next year, players from Japan have repeatedly found success and popularity in the United States. But according to Ms. Mori, the previous stars “received a lot of attention, but this time Ohtani’s popularity is beyond imagination.”

The Ohtani Bump is being felt significantly in the United States as well. On the final day of February, according to the ticket resale site SeatGeek, an official M.L.B. partner, the Dodgers’ March 28 home opener against St. Louis was the most in-demand opening day game, with an average resale price of $567 per ticket. That was 38 percent higher than the next-most in-demand opener (Cubs at Texas).

“Going from the Angels to the Dodgers, people think, ‘Oh, it’s the same market’, but the Dodgers are at a different level in tiers of M.L.B. fan base sizes, and playing at a legacy club at that level of hype is a big combination,” Chris Leyden, director of growth marketing for SeatGeek, said. “It’s interesting, because in baseball it tends to be harder to see the impact of a singular player, partially because if they’re not a pitcher they maybe get only four or five at-bats a game, and if they’re a designated hitter it’s maybe four at-bats a game and they don’t play the field.”

In other sports, like basketball, Mr. Leyden said that individual players such as LeBron James and Stephen Curry can dramatically drive prices for single-game tickets, sometimes as much as doubling them. But in baseball, it usually takes something historic. Think Aaron Judge’s pursuit of Roger Maris’s single-season, American League home run record in 2022, which led to Yankees prices increasing by 36 percent once he was one homer short.

“We often see the impact is larger on the road than at home,” Mr. Leyden said. “It’s almost basic supply and demand. LeBron plays 41 home games, but I can see him only one time in Charlotte.”

With a three- or four-game series at each stop, baseball enjoys an advantage over other sports in that fans generally have more than one opportunity to see a rival star when his team comes to town. For those fans hoping for an in-person brush with the Dodgers and Mr. Ohtani this summer, the team’s road schedule presents creative opportunities.

The Oda group, for example, is traveling to Oakland in August for strategic reasons. The Dodgers have led the National League in attendance in each of the past 11 seasons, drawing 3.8 million fans in each of the past two seasons.

“As we will be traveling in a group of 10, we couldn’t get good seats in Dodger Stadium,” Mr. Oda said. “So we decided to see him in Oakland because it was easier to get tickets.”

He hopes they will be able to get a close look at Mr. Ohtani, who played for the Hokkaido Nippon Ham Fighters in Japan before leaving for M.L.B. That should not be a problem in Oakland, where the stadium is known mostly for its vast quantities of empty seats .

As M.L.B. seeks to increase its reach, both internationally and with younger generations, Mr. Ohtani’s outsize popularity could play a huge role.

Osuke Ishiguro, a general manager in JTB’s Los Angeles office, said that one thing he has noticed, as the company facilitates summer travel plans, is how “a lot of tourists coming from Japan are not just baseball fans, but they are bringing a lot of kids.” Specifically, he said, many grandparents are bringing their grandchildren, “wanting to show them what baseball can do.”

Mr. Oda said that his group’s upcoming trip simply means more to them now, with Mr. Ohtani playing for one of baseball’s most illustrious franchises, than it would have when he played for the Angels.

“We want to see him challenge in a new field,” said Mr. Oda, whose group is bringing children who are 10, 7, 6 and 4. “We hope to see how the Dodgers bring out the maximum potential of Ohtani and we wish to see him go beyond his limits!”

Inside the World of Sports

Dive deeper into the people, issues and trends shaping professional, collegiate and amateur athletics..

No More  Cinderella Stories?: Expansion of the N.C.A.A. men’s basketball tournament has been a popular topic. But adding more teams could push small schools like Oakland, which upset Kentucky, out of the action .

Caitlin Clark’s Lasting Impact: People have flocked to watch the Iowa basketball star  on TV and in person. But will her effect on the popularity and economics of women’s sports linger after her college career ends ?

Gambling Poses Risks for Leagues:   The situation involving the former interpreter for Shohei Ohtani, the Los Angeles Dodgers slugger and pitcher, shows that when it comes to wagering on games, professional leagues have more than just the players to watch .

Unionization Efforts: How is a football team different from a marching band? The National Labor Relations Board is considering this question as it tries to determine whether some college athletes should be deemed employees .

Delayed Gratification: Doping rules, legal challenges and endless appeals have left some Olympic medalists waiting for their golds .