Japan's enduring traditional culture, economic vitality, and harmonious society combine to make it one of the most unique destinations to discover. Begin in the sophisticated capital city of Tokyo where the energy of the crowded streets draws you like a magnet; take a ride to the top of the Tokyo Tower for an unforgettable view of the city that stretches for as far as the eye can see. Visit the Asakusa Kannon Temple which is the oldest and largest temple in the city and wander in nearby Nakamise-dori, a colourful street selling traditional Japanese toys, dolls, kimonos, and snacks. From Tokyo travel to the Hakone National Park to view the majestic snow-capped Mount Fuji from the tranquil shores of Lake Ashi and maybe take time to sooth away the stress and strains in a traditional Japanese hot spring bath. Kyoto is the cultural centre of Japan and was the imperial capital for over 1000 years; the city still retains a rich heritage of temples and gardens, palaces and museums—and the secret world of the geisha. From Kyoto take afternoon trip to the ancient capital of Nara with its large park which is home to over 1200 freely roaming deer, considered in Shinto to be the messengers of the gods, Nara's deer have become a symbol of the city and have been designated a natural treasure, they even welcome you with a polite bow in return for an offering of a tasty rice cake! A Journey by Japan’s famous bullet train will take you to Hiroshima where you can learn about its tragic past by visiting the moving Peace Memorial Park and its educational museum and then take a short ferry ride to nearby serene Miyajima Island, famous for the huge torii gate rising out of the sea at the 12th century Itsukushima Shrine built in honour of the Goddess of the Sea to protect fisherman.
Wherever your travels in Japan take you, you will be sure to unlock cultural treasures of a uniquely complex land and her people.
