In ancient days, the samurai country Japan tried to conquer the world through its advanced warfare techniques. And today it is conquering the world with latest advancements in technology, its renowned super motor vehicles and through the hearts of the people who visit it. Japan has it all: ancient cultural traditions, antiques and shrines and temples, majestic gardens, wonderful mountain sights, geishas and tea festivals, and lodgings that vary from ryokans or quaint inns to ultra-modern posh hotels. An overview of the best four places to visit in Japan.
Tokyo
If you like mingling with people, then you will surely love Tokyo. The Japanese capital metropolis is the most populous city in the entire world. From picking fresh spring cherry blossoms in traditional gardens to the huge fish market in Tsukiji. Tokyo is a mixture of the ancient and the new, from shrines to dance clubs. Just taking a walk along the streets of this wonderful city can be an exhilarating experience. When Tokyo’s speed gets too fast, visitors suggest unwinding at the beautiful Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden.
Takayama
If you crave peace and quiet after the hustling pace of daily life, you should head to the famous town of Hida-Takayama where you get to experience life in a rural atmosphere. Situated near the northern Japan Alps mountains, Takayama is famous for having one of the best-preserved historic towns in the country. The most attractive section of the old city is known as Sanmachi. It has three narrow lanes full of wooden buildings housing sake breweries and little boutiques.
Nara
Nara, formerly known as Heijo, was established in 710AD. Situated lesser than an hour from Kyoto, seeing Japan’s huge ancient temples is a popular tourist attraction here.
Kyoto
Kyoto is today’s capital only of the Kyoto Prefecture, but it once served as the imperial capital of entire Japan for over a 1,000 years. Built on the central Honshu Island, this city is home to 1.5 million people and is also called the City of 10,000 Shrines since it is home to thousands of Shinto shrines, which includes the top-rated Fushimi Inari Shrine, and also the Buddhist temples. Kyoto is famous for its heavenly gardens and the splendid Gion Matsuri festival, a July celebration considered one of the best in Japan.