Japan, an island nation blending modern innovation and tradition, offers a unique experience. What makes it so fascinating?
Where Is Japan Located?
Japan lies to the east of the Korean Peninsula, across the Sea of Japan. It’s about a 3- to 5-hour flight from many parts of Southeast Asia and only a few hours from China and Korea. Its strategic location makes it a popular tourist destination for people around the world.
What Is Japan Known For?
Japan is famous for its cherry blossoms, ancient temples, high-tech cities, anime culture, and bullet trains. It’s also well known for its polite and orderly society, cleanliness, rich cuisine, and beautiful seasons, especially spring and autumn.
Japan at a Glance
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Language: Japanese
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Population: Around 124 million
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Government: Constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system
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Currency: Japanese Yen (¥)
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Education: High literacy rate with a strong focus on discipline and technology
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People’s Attitude: Japanese people are known for being respectful, courteous, hardworking, and helpful to tourists
The 7 Most Visited Places in Japan
Here are seven destinations that travelers from around the world can’t resist:
1. Tokyo – The Capital of Cool
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What to See: Shibuya Crossing, Tokyo Tower, Senso-ji Temple, Akihabara (for anime), and Tokyo Disneyland
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What It Offers: A fast-paced mix of futuristic technology and old-world tradition
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Special for Tourists: Shopping, pop culture, and themed cafes
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Supermarket Foods: Onigiri (rice balls), instant ramen, sushi trays, bento boxes
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Getting There: Fly into Narita or Haneda Airport
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Stay: Shinjuku, Shibuya, or Asakusa offer budget to luxury stays
2. Kyoto – The Heart of Traditional Japan
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What to See: Fushimi Inari Shrine, Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion)
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Why Popular: Cultural heritage, temples, geisha district in Gion
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Special for Tourists: Tea ceremonies, kimono rentals
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Supermarket Foods: Matcha sweets, traditional mochi
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Getting There: Bullet train from Tokyo (about 2.5 hours)
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Stay: Ryokans (traditional inns) or hotels near Gion
3. Osaka – Japan’s Food Capital
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What to See: Dotonbori, Osaka Castle, Universal Studios Japan
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Why Popular: Vibrant nightlife and street food
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Special for Tourists: Takoyaki, okonomiyaki, and friendly locals
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Supermarket Foods: Fried snacks, Japanese curry, seafood ramen
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Getting There: Fly into Kansai Airport or take the Shinkansen
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Stay: Namba or Umeda districts
4. Nara – The City of Free-Roaming Deer
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What to See: Todai-ji Temple, Nara Park, Kasuga Taisha Shrine
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Why Popular: Peaceful atmosphere and historic treasures
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Special for Tourists: Feed the friendly deer
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Supermarket Foods: Local rice crackers, Japanese sweets
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Getting There: Train from Osaka or Kyoto (about 45 mins)
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Stay: Small guesthouses near Nara Park
5. Hokkaido – Winter Wonderland
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What to See: Sapporo Snow Festival, Furano flower fields, hot springs
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Why Popular: Winter sports, cool climate, stunning nature
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Special for Tourists: Skiing, fresh seafood, lavender season
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Supermarket Foods: Fresh crab, Hokkaido milk and cheese products
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Getting There: Fly into New Chitose Airport
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Stay: Sapporo city or Niseko for ski resorts
6. Hiroshima – City of Peace
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What to See: Peace Memorial Park, Hiroshima Castle, Miyajima Island
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Why Popular: Historical importance and serene landscapes
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Special for Tourists: Learn about peace and resilience
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Supermarket Foods: Okonomiyaki kits, oysters, local sake
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Getting There: Bullet train from Osaka or Tokyo
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Stay: Near the Peace Park or Hiroshima Station
7. Mount Fuji (Fuji-san) – Icon of Japan
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What to See: Climbing routes, Fuji Five Lakes, Chureito Pagoda
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Why Popular: Sacred mountain and breathtaking views
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Special for Tourists: Sunrise hikes, photo opportunities
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Supermarket Foods: Yamanashi region peaches, souvenir snacks
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Getting There: Bus from Tokyo or trains to Kawaguchiko
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Stay: Campsites, hot spring resorts, or inns near the mountain base
Tips and Suggestions
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Travel Pass: Get a Japan Rail Pass for unlimited Shinkansen rides (available only to tourists)
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Connectivity: Rent a pocket Wi-Fi for easy navigation
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Language Help: Use translation apps; most signs are in English too
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Respect the Culture: Bow, be quiet on public transport, and remove shoes when needed
Japan offers an unforgettable journey with every visit. From neon-lit cities to serene temples, each destination has a charm of its own. Whether you’re in it for the food, history, or adventure, these 7 places are a must-visit to experience the real Japan.