5 Tourist Attractions in Japan

Many first-time visitors to Japan are often surprised to learn that, as one of the world's most
advanced industrialized nations, this relatively small Asian country also boasts a rich and
fascinating history that dates back thousands of years. Indeed, long before many of Europe's
most spectacular cathedrals were built, Japan's Shinto and Buddhist temples were already well-
established and drawing pilgrims and patrons for their often elaborate designs and décor. At the
same time, the country was already perfecting the skills and trades that would set it on the path
to riches, from fine porcelains and ceramics to textiles such as silk. Much of this rich tradition has,
despite wars and natural devastation, been preserved (or rebuilt), and a visit to Japan is a
memorable adventure. Boasting an endless list of top attractions, things to see and do, and points
of interest to explore, a vacation in Japan is certainly a great investment of time and money.
Discover the best places to visit in the country with our list of the top-rated tourist attractions in
Japan.

1. Mount Fuji

Without a doubt Japan's most recognizable landmark, majestic Mount Fuji (Fuji-san) is also the
country's highest mountain peak, towering 3,776 meters over an otherwise largely flat landscape
to the south and east, and tall enough to be seen from Tokyo more than 100 kilometers away.
Mount Fuji has for centuries been celebrated in art and literature and is now considered so
important an icon that UNESCO recognized its world cultural significance in 2013. Part of the Fuji-
Hakone-Izu National Park, Mount Fuji is climbed by more than a million people each summer as
an act of pilgrimage, which culminates in watching the sunrise from its summit. While some still
choose to begin their climb from the base, the majority of climbers now start from above the
halfway mark, at the 5th Station, resulting in a more manageable six or so hour ascent. Of course,
for many, simply viewing the mountain from the distance, or from the comfort of a speeding
train, is enough to say "been there, done that.’

2. Imperial Tokyo
 Tokyo's most famous landmark, the Imperial Palace with its beautiful 17th-century parks
surrounded by walls and moats, is a must-see when visiting the nation's capital. Don't be put off
by the fact that the majority of the palace is closed to the public (it's still in use by the Imperial
family), as there is still enough to see simply by strolling the grounds. In addition to the many fine
views of the palace from numerous points in the surrounding parkland - including the famous
Nijubashi Bridge, or "double bridge," so named for its watery reflection - visitors are permitted
into the East Higashi-Gyoen Garden and other areas that are opened to the public as part of an
organized tour. Another must-see for tourists visiting Tokyo is the famous Ginza shopping district,
home to the Kabuki-za Theatre with its Kabuki performances, as well as the Shimbashi Enbujo
Theatre with its traditional Azuma-odori dances and Bunraku performances.

3. Historic Kyoto

One of Japan's most visited cities, lovely Kyoto - one of the few cities in the country
to be spared the devastation of WWII - attracts more than 10 million visitors annually
to explore its fine old streets and architecture, much of it unchanged since the
Imperial family took up residence here more than 1,000 years ago. Even then, the city
was Japan's most important cultural center, a legacy that continues with its many
museums and art galleries, each bursting with important sculptures, paintings, and
other art forms. Highlights of Kyoto's Buddhist-influenced architecture include its
many well-preserved temples, 30 of which are still in use, and important structures
such as the 14th-century Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji), famous for its exquisite gold-
leaf-clad exterior. Be sure to also visit Nijo Castle, a 17th-century fortress that has
retained its original walls, towers, and moat; its beautiful gates; and its palace with
fine interior décor. Also worth a visit is the original Kyoto Imperial Palace (Kyoto-
gosho), built in AD 794 and one of the city's most visited historic sites. Finally, no visit
to Kyoto is complete without spending time exploring the Arashiyama Bamboo
Grove, a beautiful area of tall bamboo just a few minutes' walk from the town center.

4. The Island Shrine of Itsukushima

 Just a short ferry ride from mainland Hiroshima is the island of Miyajima, famous
the world over as Japan's Shrine Island. Covering an area of 30 square kilometers in
Hiroshima Bay, Miyajima is best known as the home of the Itsukushima Shrine, a
Shinto temple dedicated to the Princess daughters of the wind god Susanoo. Dating
from the eighth century, the majority of the shrine's buildings rise out of the waters
of a small bay supported only by piles. The effect at high tide is simply stunning,
making these structures - including the famous Great Floating Gate (O-Torii) - appear
as if they're floating on water. Linked together by walkways and bridges, it's a
fascinating place to explore, in particular its larger halls such as the exquisite Honden
(Main Hall), the Offerings Hall (Heiden), the Prayer Hall (Haiden), and the Hall of a
Thousand Mats (Senjokaku). Another notable feature is the shrine's stage where
visitors are entertained with traditional dances and musical performances. Also worth
exploring are the island's exquisite grounds and gardens, home to wild deer and
numerous bird colonies.

5. Sapporo, Hokkaido

Located on Japan's northernmost island, Hokkaido, the city of Sapporo offers many things to see
and do for tourists. As the island's largest city, it's a hub of cultural activity, hosting many
excellent events and festivals; a distinctive culinary style; a rich theatrical history; and plenty of
museums, galleries, and parks. The focal point here is very much the city's attractive downtown
area, the center of which is Odori Park, a large swath of green that's very pleasant to explore.
From here, you can also access points of interest such as the Sapporo TV Tower, as well as the
city's famous aerial tramway, an easy walk away. The Mount Moiwa Ropeway will eventually get
you to the summit's Upper Station, from where you can enjoy incredible views over the city, a
real treat at night. The mountain is also the location of the Mount Moiwa Ski Resort, a popular
winter destination, especially since the 1972 Winter Olympics were held in the city. And if you're
arriving in winter, be sure to visit the Sapporo Snow Festival, held here each February and
drawing in excess of two million revelers.
 5 Popular Japanese Festivals
Matsuri are traditional Japanese festivals and each of them has a long history. The date
and nature of each festival are different from community to community. Matsuris are powerful,
energetic, exciting and enjoyable - everybody is always welcome to participate.

1. Gion Matsuri (Kyoto).

Gion Matsuri is a one of the most famous festivals in Japan. It takes place during the entire month
of July, but the highlight isthe grand procession of floats called "Yamaboko Junko" on the 17th
and 24th. It takes place on the Kawaramachi and Oike.

2. Kanda Matsuri (Tokyo

Kanda Matsuri is one of the most famous festivals in Tokyo and is a festival for the Kanda Myojin
Shrine. The main action happens during the middle of May. The portable shrines, called Mikoshi,
are accompanied by about a thousand people, and after they leave the Kanda Myojin Shrinein
the morning, the parade continues through the Kanda district, Nihonbashi and Akihabara and
returns to the shrine in the evening.

3. Yuki Matsuri, Snow Festival (Sapporo)

Sapporo's Yuki Matsuri takes place in February. The origin of this festival was six snow statues
built by local high school students in 1950, and now it has become an international contest of
gigantic snow sculptures.
4. Nebuta Matsuri (Aomori)

The Nebuta Matsuri takes place from the 2nd to the 7th of August in Aomori City. Nebuta are
lantern floats which depict human figures and are accompanied by thousands of chanting
dancers. The parade starts at sunset and continues for hours

5. IKEBANA(FLOWER ARRANGING)

While there are plenty of florists throwing together multi-colored bouquets in Japan, not all of
them will practice the more traditional art form of ikebana. Ikebana is usually more simplistic
than modern flower arranging and different parts of the plant are emphasized rather than just
the colorful blooms. The harmony of the colors, textures, form and balance of the plants and
branches is key. But ikebana is first and foremost a form of creative expression and is
appreciated for this quality as well.
 5 NATIVE ANIMALS IN JAPAN
Japan is blessed with rich nature that reflects its history. Its geological
history has given it an extraordinary flora and fauna. Japan has a diverse
habitat that supports rich species of animals. Over 80,000 species of
animals have been confirmed in Japan. Most of the animal species are
irreplaceable, having evolved over the years and formed a unique
ecosystem by interacting with each other. There are about 153 species of
mammals in the country, of which 3 are critically endangered, 22 are
endangered, and 13 species are categorized as vulnerable. Below are
some of the animals that are native to Japan.

1.Dugong

The dugong is a marine mammal and one of the living species of the family Dugongidae.
It is the only strictly marine herbivorous mammal. The dugong has a large body with cylindrical
shape tapering both ends. The skin is thick and smooth, and is pale in color at birth and darkens
with age. The body has sparse hair which is mainly developed around the mouth. The tail flukes
and flippers resemble those of a dolphin. Dugongs are common in warm coastal waters. It is
referred to “sea cow” because its diet consists of sea-grass. Dugong ingests the whole plant
including the root.

2.Sika Deer

The Sika deer is a deer species native to parts of East Asia and also introduced in some
parts of the world. The species is in overabundant in Japan. The name “Sika” comes from the
Japanese word “Shika” which means deer. The Sika deer is among the few species of deer that
do not its spots upon reaching maturity. Some species have large spots while others have nearly
invisible spots. The pelage color ranges from mahogany to black. The coat darkens during winter.
It mainly forages during the day in patchy clearings in the forest.
3.Green Pheasant

The green pheasant is endemic and native to the Japanese Archipelago and the national
bird of Japan. It is mainly found in Honshu, Kyushu, and Shikoku. The bird is spread throughout
its range and can always be seen on farmlands and human settlement. The male green
pheasant has green plumage on its breast and flanks while the female has brownish-black
plumage. The males are slightly larger than the female. In Japan, those with hunting licenses are
allowed to hunt the bird. They can capture at most two male birds per day. However, shooting
a female bird is not permitted.

4.Stellar's Sea Lion

Stellar's sea lion is a species of sea lion that has been categorized as near-threatened. It
is the largest of the eared seal but inferior in size among pinnipeds. Their recent significant,
unexplained decline has attracted considerable attention. Adult Stellar's sea lions are lighter
than most sea lions. Its color ranges from pale yellow to tawny and sometimes reddish. Males
can be distinguished from the female by the higher forehead and coarser hair around the neck.
The sea lions live in coastal waters because of the cool temperate climate. They are mainly
carnivores but can fall a prey to killer whales.

5.Red-Crowned Crane
 The red-crowned crane is a large crane known is as a symbol of luck and longevity in
some parts of the world. The Japanese crane is among the rarest East Asian cranes. Their name
originates from the patch of red bare skin on the crown which turns brighter during the breeding
season. The red-crowned crane is snow-white in color with black on the lower parts of the wings.
Males also have black cheeks, throats, and necks while the females are gray in these spots. The
cranes are found in the Hokkaido and are mostly non-migratory. They are omnivores and feed on
rice, carrots, and water plants.

5 JAPANESE FESTIVALS

There are countless local festivals (祭り, matsuri) in Japan because almost
every shrine celebrates one of its own. Most festivals are held annually and celebrate the shrine's
deity or a seasonal or historical event. Some festival are held over several days.
An important element of Japanese festivals are processions, in which the
local shrine's kami (Shinto deity) is carried through the town in mikoshi (palanquins). It is the only
time of the year when the kami leaves the shrine to be carried around town.
Many festivals also feature decorated floats (known regionally under various names, such
as dashi, yatai, danjiri, etc.), which are paraded through the town, accompanied by drum and
flute music by the people sitting on the floats. Every festival has its own characteristics. While
some festivals are calm and meditative, many are energetic and noisy.

1. Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri (Kishiwada, Osaka)

Kishiwada Danjiri Matsuri takes place in Kishiwada City, Osaka, during the middle of September.
Danjiri are wooden floats, many of which are heavier than 3000 kg. The Kishiwada Danjiri
Matsuri is one of the most thrilling festivals in Japan. People pull their huge floats at breakneck
speeds, with the team leaders hopping and dancing on top of the floats.
2. Awa Odori (Tokushima)

This is the largest traditional dance festival in Japan. Men, women and children dance on
almost all of the streets in Tokushima City, from the 12th to the 15th of August. They wear
summer cotton kimono and straw hats. More than a million people get together for this
festival, and it is a spectacular sight. You can even join them to dance with the rhythmic music!

3.Tanabata Matsuri, Miyagi

The origin of Tanabata Matsuri festivals is to pray for good harvest later in autumn
derived from an ancient Japanese Shinto purification ceremony traditionally held on 7th July
and it’s related to Obon festival. After introduced the Star Festival to celebrate the meeting of
deities Orihime (weaving princess) and Hikoboshi (cow herder) from China in 8th century, those
two festivals are mixed and become to cerebrate as one festival. The modern Tanabata festival
is known as its derived from the Chinese originated Star Festival. Sendai Tanabata Festival is
held on 6th ~ 8th August based on old Chinese calendar and the festival is known as one of the
three great festivals in Tohoku region. The main features of the festival is the colorful and
gorgeous Tanabata decorations can be found along the Central Sendai and neighbouring
shopping districts.

4.Chichibu Night Festival (Chichibu Yomatsuri), Saitama

 With festive floats, Mikoshis and a firework display, the Chichibu night festival is for the
Chichibu Shrine and is one of the greatest float festivals in Japan. The floats are lit with lanterns
and are richly decorated in bright colours. Some floats turn into Kabuki stages and Kabuki plays
are performed during the festival. The festival ends with all the floats lined up at the city hall
followed by a 2 hour firework display.

5.Saidaiji Eyou Matsuri (Hadaka Matsuri), Okayama

Saidaiji Eyou Matsuri known as Hadaka Matsuri is one of the three most eccentric
festivals of Japan with over 500 years history. Nearly 10,000 men wear only fundoshi traditional
loincloths purify their body with cold water first, and battle to grab a pair of sacred sticks
(shingi) thrown from the top of a temple. Whoever catches the shingi will be regarded as the
“lucky man” and blessed with a year of good luck and happiness.

5 JAPNESE CULTURE
Japan has a distinct, fascinating culture that is unlike any other countries, and will leave a
lasting impression with you! This is part of what makes it such a captivating country to visit and
it is certainly one of the most unique countries in the world!
Japanese culture has many different uniquely interesting aspects, both modern and traditional,
such as: cuisine, architecture, performing arts, fashion, anime, manga and Geisha. On the one
hand Japanese culture is immersed in a rich history and deep traditions dating back thousands of
years; on the other Japanese society is one that is in a continual state of rapid change, and is
continuously evolving with new trends in fashion, technology and pushes the boundaries of what
is possible.
At present, the culture of Japan stands out as one of the leading and most prominent cultures
around the world, mainly due to the global reach of its popular culture. If you are looking for
something different and a culture like no other you’ll certainly find that in Japan!

1.Japanese Cuisine

Japanese cuisine is well known and appreciated globally for its precision, highly detailed
technique and unique presentation. Each region in Japan has its own variety of specialty dishes
with ingredients that are carefully selected to complement its individual flavour. Rice has been
an essential food and source of nutrition for millennia and has been used to make various
products such are rice cakes and condiments: from Sushi, Okonomiyaki, Teppanyaki, Teriyaki,
Tempura, Udon, and Yakitorit, to name but a few.Washoku has been recently included on the
list of UNESCO's (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) Intangible
Cultural Heritage of Humanity. These are traditional foods that are regularly eaten at home on
a daily basis; it consists of cooked rice, soups, pickles and side dishes to make the rice more
appetizing.

2.Temple Lodging (Shukubo)

Temples and shrines offer accommodation to visitors and serve traditional vegetarian
food. A Buddhist service is held early every morning at Shukubo temples. During the ceremony,
the chief priest and monks of the temple chant Buddhist sutras in the main temple hall. It may
be noted many temples offer a course on meditation. In the past, temple lodgings were only for
monks engaged in disciplined practices. However, Buddhists temples these days are open to
tourists regardless of their beliefs. This is why religious tourism and the hospitality that temples
give, is a popular choice among overseas visitors.The best example of this would
be Koyasan which has more than 50 temples. It has been awarded as part of the “Sacred Sites
and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range”, a place on UNESCO’s prestigious world
heritage list.

3.Geisha
 The Geisha are considered living custodians of Japanese culture and one of the known
symbols of Japan. In essence, they are performing artists, adept at playing a range of musical
instruments, traditional dance and mannered conversation.

4.Tea Ceremony

A ceremonial and cultural presentation of ‘Matcha’ (powdered green tea). The

ceremony is to form a bond between host and guest that demonstrates the spirit of generosity
and respect. The Japanese tea ceremony is a long standing tradition, the refreshing brew first
being introduced during the 9th century. Its initial use was for religious rituals in Buddhist
monasteries going on to become a status symbol for the well-off and military officials. Over the
years, tea drinking has been extended to different levels. Sen no Rikyū, a historical figure and
honourable tea master, introduced the four principles of Chanoyu, Wa Kei Sei Jaku (harmony,
respect, purity and tranquillity). The essential components in a tea ceremony are Natsume (tea
caddy), Chakin (hemp cloth), chasen (whisk), chasaku (tea scoop), chawan (tea bowl), and Kama
/ Chanoyugama  (iron pot, or kettle).

5.Traditional Performing Arts - Kabuki

Ka, signifying “song”; bu, “dance”; and ki, “skill.” Kabuki has derived most of its material
from the Noh theatre. The main audience are townspeople and farmers. It is one of the three
major classical styles in Japan. Originally, the cast were performers of both sexes, male and
female but later all parts were played by men and this tradition continuous up to the present
day. Kabuki is performed by men wearing Kesho (kabuki make-up). There are two types of roles,
which are Aragoto (rough style) and Wagoto (soft style). Kabuki has its own distinctive music,
costumes, stage craft and props which strive to adapt traditional styles for modern pallets.