Climate
Festivals
National Holidays

Japan has a highly efficient rail network enabling quick, comfortable long distance travel throughout the country. A typical trip from Tokyo to Kyoto will take less than 2 and half hours. In addition to the famous Bullet Train, there are many local trains that allow you to reach more remote areas. Taking advantage of a Japan Rail Pass will allow unlimited travel on the Japan Rail network (with certain restrictions). This is an ideal way to explore Japan at your own pace.

For added flexibility, an alternative way to explore Japan would be to hire a car. Those looking for something different may enjoy discovering areas not extensively covered by public transport, such as Hokkaido or Okinawa, by car instead.

Still as popular as ever, Japanese festivals are a major attraction for both locals and visitors. Festivals are predominately Shinto in origin and mark agricultural, historical or local events. The most spectacular festivals have hundreds of participants transporting portable shrines through the streets, accompanied by booming music and singing. These events are held throughout the year and it is highly recommended to visit one if at all possible.

As Japan is perceived to be an expensive country, many visitors pass over the opportunity to explore the wealth of shopping options available. However, this perception is now outdated and bargains can be found everywhere. For the fashion-conscious, cities such as Tokyo and Osaka offer a wide selection for all tastes and budgets. The technologically minded will consider Akihabara Electric Town in Tokyo a must see in order to check out the gadgets to expect in our shops next year. The perfect place to find souvenirs and authentic Japanese goods is Kyoto. The areas around the elegant temples and shrines often have shops selling sweets and gifts. Beautiful and light weight paper or fabric objects are ideal purchases when travelling.

Family travellers need not worry; fun for the family is in plentiful supply. Your family could visit the Magical Kingdom and meet Mickey Mouse and Co. at Tokyo Disney Resort. Alternatively visit Fuji-Q Highland near Mount Fuji. At this amusement park you can meet Thomas the Tank Engine before taking on the thrilling Fujiyama Roller Coaster. Or for something a little quieter, try feeding the deer in Nara Park. Wherever you are staying in Japan there will always be something of interest for the whole family.

Japan is a country passionate about sports. It is not unusual to see someone practising their golf and baseball swings, or carrying kendo and archery equipment on the train. As a result there are many opportunities for visitors to participate in and watch the nation’s favourite pastimes.

In winter the focus is upon over 700 ski resorts dotted all around Japan. Of particular interest to foreign visitors are the sites of the two Winter Olympic Games held in 1972 in Hokkaido and 1998 in Nagano. Both offer a variety of skiing and snowboarding options.

The mountainous landscape, which defines Japan, sets the backdrop for the popular sport of golf. Such is the popularity of this sport; a net covered driving range dominates nearly every city skyline.

If you would prefer something a little more relaxing, why not try some of Japan’s spectator sports? The national sport of Japan is Sumo, a hugely entertaining clash of titans, which takes place six times a year around the country. Other spectator sports well worth a visit include, J-league football, professional baseball and horse racing.

A stay in Japan would not be complete without trying Japanese-style bathing. Japan boasts more natural hot springs (onsen) than any other country in the world and visiting and staying at onsen resorts is a popular pastime. Perhaps the ultimate bathing experience comes from a leisurely soak in an open-air onsen (rotenburo) with a view of the mountains or the sea.

Onsen are located almost everywhere in Japan. Famous areas include Kinosaki (accessible from Osaka and Kyoto), Yufuin (on Kyushu Island) and Dogo (on Shikoku Island). Although the best onsen are located away from the major urban centres, there have been a number of city centre alternatives springing up providing an escape for weary city dwellers. These urban baths can be the perfect way to relax after a long day sightseeing or shopping.

Family travellers need not worry; fun for the family is in plentiful supply. Your family could visit the Magical Kingdom and meet Mickey Mouse and Co. at Tokyo Disney Resort. Alternatively visit Fuji-Q Highland near Mount Fuji. At this amusement park you can meet Thomas the Tank Engine before taking on the thrilling Fujiyama Roller Coaster. Or for something a little quieter, try feeding the deer in Nara Park. Wherever you are staying in Japan there will always be something of interest for the whole family.