Introduction To Japan
Japan, land of the rising sun, is a unique place where both old and new happily co-exist. Beneath the modern veneer of Japan’s cities, the traditional and historical side of this country peaks out to its visitors; waiting to be discovered.
Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka and Kanazawa offers its visitors an explosion of hyperactivity; yet at the heart of these cities traditions are firmly present. You can catch a Kabuki show (a classical dance drama), attend a Sumo match (an event rarely seen outside of Japan), visit amazing temples & shrines or stay at a Roykan to experience living and eating like a local.
Beyond the cities, Japan is rich in beautiful landscapes, mountains, secluded islands and towns. Japan’s unique charm of East meets West will win over even the most jaded of travelers.
Tokyo
Tokyo’s an incredible city. It’s manic energy invigorates you to go out and explore this amazing place. Wander the neon lined streets of Akihabara and shop for the latest and greatest in electronics. Visit Ginza and get lost in the designer stores that line its streets. Go to Shibuya Square, one of the world’s busiest intersections, and marvel at the congested crowds doing the “Shibuya Shuffle”. Stroll through Yoyogi park where you can relax, unwind and do some people watching. Most importantly, make sure you visit one of the many beautiful temples or shrines in Tokyo.
Come to Tokyo, and be prepared to be amazed.
Kyoto And More
Japan’s capital for over 1,000 years, Kyoto in some ways is still Japan’s cultural capital. Filled with over 1600 temples and shrines, countless beautiful Zen gardens and boasts a still working Geisha district. Kyoto stands apart from Japan’s other larger cities. Kyoto is the cultural yin to Tokyo’s yang, but with a sprinkling of modernity.
Beyond Kyoto there’s so much to explore and see in Japan. There’s the beautiful islands of Okinawa that offer beautiful beaches and incredible scuba diving. Historic cities like Takayama, Kanazawa and Nagoya that transport you to older times. Finally there’s Hiroshima and Nagasaki, which are emotional cities to visit and are dedicated to world peace and disarmament of nuclear weapons.
Japan Video Blogs
Below are my video blogs from my travels throughout Japan.