Why Japan Captivates
Japan is a land of contrasts that don't cancel each other out — they create a unique harmony. Here, a monk in an orange robe can stand beside a salaryman in a suit, both reaching for canned coffee from the same vending machine. Bamboo forests and neon metropolises are just an hour apart by shinkansen.
Traveling through Japan, you'll feel time moves differently. Slowly in Zen gardens, at breakneck speed on the Tokyo metro — but always with extraordinary precision.
Tokyo — The Pulse of the Future
Tokyo is a city that never sleeps, yet somehow never feels chaotic. One of the world's safest megacities, where punctuality is a religion and politeness is simply how things are done.
Neighborhoods You Must Experience
Shinjuku is quintessential urban life. In the evenings, Golden Gai transforms into a maze of microscopic bars, each with its own character. Some literally hold just four or five people.
Shibuya is home to the famous Scramble Crossing — over a million people pass through it every day. The view from the Starbucks terrace above the intersection is an icon of modern Japan.
Harajuku is the mecca of street fashion and subcultures. Here you'll find cosplayers, Lolita fashion devotees, and themed cafés of every imaginable variety.
"Tokyo is like a dream you dream with your eyes open — too vivid and too beautiful to believe it's real." — anonymous traveler
Kyoto — The Soul of Japan
If Tokyo is the future, Kyoto is the past. The imperial capital for over a thousand years, it still preserves 1,600 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto shrines.
The Golden and Silver Pavilions
Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion) may be Japan's most famous building. Covered in gold leaf, it reflects in the waters of Kyokochi Pond — a scene worthy of the greatest painter.
Less crowded but equally beautiful is Ginkaku-ji (the Silver Pavilion). Here the silence of the Zen garden will help you understand the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi — the beauty of imperfection.
Fushimi Inari
Thousands of vermilion torii gates form corridors leading to the summit of Mount Inari. The hike to the top takes about two to three hours and rewards you with beautiful views over Kyoto.
Food — A Journey for the Senses
Japanese cuisine is itself a reason to visit.
- Ramen — every region has its own version. Sapporo favors miso, Tokyo soy sauce, Fukuoka the rich tonkotsu broth
- Sushi — best experienced at the old Tsukiji market area in Tokyo
- Takoyaki — octopus balls, a signature Osaka street food
- Wagashi — Japanese confectionery, perfect alongside ceremonial matcha
Practical Guide
Getting Around
One of your best investments is the JR Pass — unlimited travel on Japan Rail trains for 7, 14, or 21 days. For the shinkansen (bullet train), it essentially pays for itself in one or two trips.
Cash or Card?
Japan remains surprisingly cash-heavy. Many small restaurants and temple shops accept only yen. The ATM at 7-Eleven convenience stores is your best friend.
Etiquette Tips
- Remove shoes when entering temples and traditional restaurants
- Don't eat while walking (exception: festival stalls)
- Keep your voice low on trains
- "Arigatou gozaimasu" always earns a warm smile