Japan Hotels

Japan, fondly called the Land of the Rising Sun, is probably on almost everyone’s bucket list. This unique country in East Asia is known across the world as a place that has an amazing marriage of modernity set amidst its traditional spaces. Discover the fun side of Japan in its popular theme parks like Disneyland, Universal Studios, or Ghibli Museum. You can also bask in its rich culture and history when you visit the Imperial Palace in Tokyo, Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto, or Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima. The food in Japan is another great attraction that draws thousands of visitors daily.

How to Go

Getting to Japan isn’t all too difficult because all islands and most cities have an airport that services international and domestic flights from around the globe. The capital of Tokyo has two popular ones namely: Narita and Haneda, Osaka has the Osaka-Kansai Airport, and Sapporo has the New Chitose Airport. Other less popular destinations also have their own like Nagoya and Fukuoka. Depending on where you are staying, it would be easy to travel back and forth to the airport because they have a very efficient and modern transport system.

Getting Around

Japan is known for its amazing infrastructure with its public transportation system as one of the most efficient in the world. Cities are all guaranteed to have a subway system that connects key areas as well as bus systems. If you plan to go around the country, the shinkansen would always be available if you don’t want to opt for flying.

Top Things to Do

People often start with the capital city of Tokyo for their Japan adventure. It’s understandable because it’s the center of a lot of things like tradition and culture. Harajuku is a district in Tokyo that is known for its fashion scene with cosplay shops and themed restaurants. It’s the perfect place to see and get a feel of Tokyo’s quirkier side. A short distance away, you’ll find Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park where people of all walks of like take a stroll.

Meanwhile, Asakusa is a quieter place that is more known for the Senso-ji Temple. It has an impressive kaminarimon gate. Upon entering, you’ll find the most amazing Japanese delicacies from mochi, takoyaki, and even sake. Akihabara is a sharp contrast because it’s known to be an otaku central. If you’re a fan of a certain show, this is the first stop to find new merchandise.

When you’re in Tokyo, it goes without saying that admiring the city atop Fuji-san is a must. Located in Hakone, Fuji would be an amazing day trip because of the climb and the number of onsens you’ll find to destress.

Making your way south to Osaka would be a different trip altogether. This is foodie central for Japan and your days will be filled with non-stop eating. What makes the Osaka-Kansai area great is its proximity to other cities. Nara is a great stop if you’re interested in a quieter place. It’s near the famous Todaiji and Horyuji Temples. Feeding the deer in Nara Park is a popular thing to do too.

Kyoto is also nearby Osaka and it’s the best place to experience old Japan. Fushimi-inari shrine is here and you’ll be surrounded by the most amazing torii gates. It would look familiar if you have seen the movie Memoirs of a Geisha. The city of Gion is a must for those who want to stroll around in a kimono in its winding streets. You might even encounter a maiko and a geisha together.

The city of Kobe is near and easily reached by train. You will find Kobe beef everywhere here from steakhouses to ramen shops. If budget permits, Hiroshima is a city you cannot miss. Historical in its own right, you’ll be in a beautiful and quiet city that has navigated its way out of tragedy. You’ll find museums and beautiful gardens here and it’s a lot quieter than the other metros. The okonomiyaki is a standout in this place too because it’s different from the others in Japan.

Up north in Sapporo is popular for people who love to ski. Its winding hills become snow-capped during the winter months. The cuisine is different here because of its close proximity to the sea so seafood will dominate dishes here. Okinawa in the south is a popular spot during the summer because of its beaches. Since it’s so far from the main islands, this place seems to have its own unique culture that differs from Japan. It is noticeable a lot more laid back than the rest.

What to Eat

Eating in Japan is already an adventure. Out of all the places, similarities would be your sushi and sashimi. Although the choice of meat and preparation would differ depending on where you are geographically. If you want a totally immersive experience, Osaka is the best place to go because of the sheer amount of food you will find in the area. Every street corner will have its own surprise and rendition of a Japanese meal.

Nightlife

The party scene in Japan is crazy. The Japanese have a habit of drinking even on weeknights after work so seeing people passed out on the train is a common sight. Right outside the office spaces, you’ll find standing bars (izakayas) that are often made for quick drinks before heading home. It will have a variety of beer and sake to choose from. Themed bars are also the rage in Japan with some being cat cafes, raccoon cafes, shiba cafes, or maid cafes. There are even places purely dedicated to video games and anime as well.

Where to Stay

For the ones who are heading to Japan for the first time, the cities of Tokyo and Osaka would be great places to explore. Booking your accommodation in the city center is a good choice to be at the heart of everything.

Quieter ones such as Yokohama, Fukuoka, and Hiroshima are places you would go to for a more relaxed environment. Okinawa and Sapporo are also great year-round despite tourism peaking on certain seasons. All of these will surely offer great Japanese trips for everyone.

Overall, there are many types of accommodations you can choose from. There are five-star hotels, budget hostels, ryokans, and even unique ones where a dinosaur can be your receptionist.

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