With its ancient customs, high technology, bold fashion, and surprising taboos, Japan amazes tourists with a sudden flood of vibrant experiences. We suggest focusing on the most beautiful, rewarding, and fascinating aspects that will reveal Japan in a new light.
1. See the cherry blossoms
The cherry blossoms are one of the main symbols of Japan. This natural phenomenon is revered, and the tradition of admiring the delicate blossoms, known as hanami, has long been a folk festival. Japanese people gather with family, friends, and colleagues in gardens and parks for picnics to enjoy this brief but impressive spectacle—clouds of pink and white petals.
2. Watch the sunrise on Mount Fuji
Another symbol of Japan and the country’s highest peak is the sacred Mount Fuji. It rises 3,776 meters above sea level, and on a clear day, its snow-capped peak can be seen even from Tokyo, despite being 90 kilometers away.
3. Stay overnight in a capsule hotel
Capsule hotels have long been popular around the world, but the first such hotel opened in Osaka 45 years ago. Since then, they have become a unique tourist attraction, attracting travelers seeking new experiences. Furthermore, staying in capsule hotels is an affordable and convenient option: such rooms are significantly cheaper than traditional hotels and are easily found near train stations and airports.
4. Take an onsen bath
In Japan, onsen are hot springs and their associated infrastructure, including hotels with natural outdoor pools and indoor hot baths. After a bath, you can relax in the garden or courtyard, sip tea, and admire the cherry blossoms or autumn maples.
5. Climb the Tokyo Skytree
One of Tokyo’s most famous structures is the graceful Tokyo Tower, which stands over 300 meters tall. At the time of its construction, it was the tallest steel structure in the world, but in 2012, Tokyo completed a new tower. At 634 meters, it is the tallest television tower in the world. The Tokyo Skytree’s observation decks, located at the 350- and 450-meter levels, are considered the best in the city for observation. Only from above can one truly appreciate the sprawling metropolis.
