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Japan is a country of contradictions, with natural wonders and uber-modern cities. If you’re a nature lover, you might be surprised at how much of Japan is untouched and pristine. Think of the serene beauty of Mount Fuji as a contrast to futuristic high-rise Tokyo.

The Land of the Rising Sun is at the intersection of traditional culture and contemporary ideas. You’ll find yourself gazing in awe at a Shogun’s Castle while not long later, you could find yourself gawking at the outlandish fashions of Japan’s teenagers. There are so many ways and routes to enjoy a visit to Japan. At the top of the list are Japan’s famous Golden Route.

What is the Golden Route in Japan?

Japan’s Golden Route traces the route of the ancient Tokaido road between Tokyo to Kyoto. The attraction of this route for tourists is it passes by many of Japan’s famous landmarks, such as Mount Fuji and the Hakone hot springs region.

When is the best month to travel to Japan?

Japan is a country with four distinct seasons. Each season has its own highlights. However, if you want to see Japan’s beautiful cherry blossoms, the season to visit is Spring. Between March and May, the country is painted in white and pink as the cherry blossoms bloom and Japan comes alive with Spring festivities.

What is the best city to visit in Japan?

The top cities in Japan to visit are Tokyo, which is easily the most popular city in Japan, Kyoto, a beautiful historic city with lovely shrines, and Osaka, which is a busy economic hub. Other historic cities are Hiroshima and Yokohama.

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Japan is a country where ancient meets modern. Shinto shrines dating back hundreds of years are now dwarfed by skyscrapers. In these Japan tourist spots and other places, the contrasts are obvious.  After first visiting Japan during the hanami (cherry blossom) season, I knew I had to return to see...
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Kanazawa is the capital of Ishikawa Prefecture on Honshu (Japan’s largest island). Kanazawa has a rich history and has played an important role in Japanese culture since the Edo Period when it served as the seat of the powerful Maeda Clan. Because of this influence the city grew into...

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