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Geography
Japan is separated from the Asian mainland by 160km (100 miles) of sea. About
70% of the country is covered by hills and mountains, a number of which are
active or dormant volcanoes. A series of mountain ranges runs from northern
Hokkaido to southern Kyushu. The Japanese Alps (the most prominent range) run in
a north-south direction through central Honshu. The highest mountain is Mount
Fuji at 3,776m (12,388ft). Lowlands and plains are small and scattered, mostly
lying along the coast and composed of alluvial lowlands and diluvial uplands.
The coastline is very long in relation to the land area, and has very varied
features. The deeply indented bays with good natural harbors tend to be adjacent
to mountainous terrain.
The Japanese archipelago stretches over 3000km (1900 miles) from the temperate,
northernmost island of Hokkaido to the subtropical islands of Okinawa in the
south. Both Tokyo and Kyoto are located on Honshu, the largest and economically
and culturally most important of the four major islands. Shikoku and Kyushu lie
to the southwest. Much of the archipelago is mountainous and only a small
percentage of land is available for agriculture and development. Thus large
areas remain forested while towns and cities tend to be densely populated. The
coastline is indented with numerous bays, inlets and small islands.
Tokyo
Japan’s capital and center of business and finance, Tokyo offers a surprising
blend of futuristic cityscapes, historic sights and cultural entertainments. A
vast conglomeration of districts, each boasts its own characteristic
attractions. The Ginza is one of Asia’s shopping paradises. Prices are high but
the selection and presentation are superb. Nearby is the Kabukiza Theater and
the Imperial Palace (closed to the public) with its impressive moat and East
Garden (Higashi Gyoen). Tokyo Tower affords excellent views of the bay and the
space age architecture on Rainbow Town (O-daiba), a reclaimed island. Early
risers will enjoy touring the massive waterfront Tsukiji Fish Market. Akasaka
and Roppongi, playgrounds for the nearby banking and governmental districts,
offer vibrant nightlife of every kind, from geisha tea houses to discos. For
youth culture, fashion and trendy dining, Harajuku and Shibuya are the places to
see and be seen, while the forested oasis of the Meiji Shrine offers respite
from the crowds. West Shinjuku is Tokyo’s high-rise metropolis with its ‘Gothem
City’ skyscrapers and plazas. To the east, Shinjuku’s bustling shopping and
neon-lit nightlife districts contrast strongly with the calm beauty of the
neighboring Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. For a taste of ‘Old Tokyo’, the
downtown Shitamachi area is the place to head for, particularly in the summer
when three enormous festivals attract vast crowds of revelers and spectators.
The Asakusa-Kannon Temple is the area’s main tourist draw, a vibrant Buddhist
complex approached via a colorful shopping lane. Across the river, Ryogoku is
the location of the excellent Edo-Tokyo Museum and the renowned National Sumo
Stadium. Ueno is famous for its large park containing several important art
museums and cultural venues. Cheap eats and bargains galore are to be found at
the raucous Ameyoko Market.
Excursions
Narita, location of Narita Tokyo Airport, is an attractive old town with a large
and impressive pilgrimage temple, Narita-san. Nearby Tokyo Disneyland is a major
year-round attraction for Japanese and foreigners alike. Two hours north of
Tokyo in Nikko, the extraordinary Toshogu Shrine complex is situated with the
mausoleum of the founder of Japan’s Tokugawa Shogunate. The surrounding Nikko
National Park offers mountain hot spring resorts and opportunities for hiking,
fishing and boating. Pottery fans will enjoy the rural kiln town of Mashiko. The
coastal town of Kamakura, one hour south of Tokyo, was the seat of Japan’s
medieval feudal government and abounds in historic sights. Highlights include
the giant bronze Great Buddha, colorful Hachimangu Shrine and picturesque
Enoshima Island. The international port city of Yokohama, 30 minutes from Tokyo,
has a vibrant Chinatown, harbor district and historic Sankei-en Garden. Japan’s
highest mountain, Mount Fuji, may be climbed during the high summer. Located one
hour 30 minutes from Tokyo is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, a recreational
paradise offering hot spring resorts, golf courses and facilities for fishing,
camping, hiking, swimming and boating. At Hakone, cable cars carry visitors over
volcanic landscapes of boiling mud, sightseeing boats ply scenic Lake Ashi and
there is an Open Air Sculpture Museum, a Porsche Museum and several sights of
historical interest.
Northern Honshu & Hokkaido
Northern Honshu, known as Tohoku, offers wonderful natural scenery spread over
three national parks plus numerous lesser-known cultural and historical
treasures. Sendai is a lively, modern city, home of the famous August
Tanabata Star Festival and gateway to the Tohoku region. Nearby Matsushima
boasts a famously scenic bay. The pleasant city of Aizu-Wakamatsu is known for
its lacquerware, historic Tsurugaoka Castle and fascinating Buke-yashiki samurai
residence. The volcanic landscapes of the adjacent Bandai-Asahi National Park
are a favorite with hikers, as is the dramatic Dewa Sanzan area and Mount Zao,
which transforms into one of Japan’s top ski resorts in winter. Historic
Hiraizumi is of interest for the fabulously ornate Chusonji Temple and Hirosaki
is an attractive castle town. To the very north of Honshu, the stunning volcanic
crater of Lake Towada is surrounded by the alpine landscapes of the
Towada-Hachimantai National Park, also known for its hot springs and ski
resorts. Hokkaido was for a long time Japan’s ‘Wild West’ and still retains a
distinct pioneer feel. The island is home to the last of Japan’s indigenous
Ainu people, and the remnants of their distinct culture are a major
attraction. Large parts of Hokkaido are protected as National Parks: areas of
fantastic volcanic scenery, ‘bottomless’ crater lakes, hot springs and numerous
mountain and ski resorts. Furano, in particular, is renowned for its summer
flower fields and winter skiing. During the winter visitors flock to see two of
Hokkaido’s outstanding natural phenomena: ‘dancing’ cranes and
hot-spring-bathing monkeys. Sapporo, Hokkaido’s vibrant capital, is famous for
its great nightlife and the extraordinary Snow Festival in February. To
the south, the port city of Hakodate was one of the first of Japan’s ports to
open to foreign trade. Known for its historic Goryokaku Fort and gorgeous night
views, the city displays a notable Russian influence.
The Japanese Alps & Central Japan
The Japanese Alps run through the center of Honshu Island, an area known as ‘the
Roof of Japan’. A popular natural playground for hikers, climbers and sightseers
in all seasons, much of the area is protected as a National Park. Nagano, the
prefectural capital, hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics and is renowned for its
great Zenkoji Pilgrimage Temple. The surrounding area abounds in skiing and hot
spring resorts. Matsumoto is the main gateway to the Alps and retains its
original medieval castle. The nearby Kamikochi Highlands are a favorite
destination for hikers, particularly in the autumn when the colors of the leaves
are spectacular.
Takayama is famous for its colorful festivals and boasts a largely preserved
17th-century townscape. The historic city of Kanazawa is known for the beautiful
Kenrokuen Garden and for a range of traditional industries such as silk-dying
and ceramics. To the north, the Noto Peninsula’s dramatic coastline and tiny
fishing villages attract adventurers, while to the south are the great Zen
temple complex of Eiheiji and the picturesque Shirakawa-go folk villages. One
hour by boat from the coastal city of Niigata lies Sado Island: rural, unspoilt,
and home to the world-famous Kodo Drummers.
Nagoya is Japan’s fourth-largest city, noted for its porcelain industry, textile
and lacquer crafts. Nagoya Castle is an impressive sight, as is Atsuta Jingu,
one of Japan’s most important shrines. Meiji Mura is an extensive outdoor museum
of characteristic buildings from the Meiji period. Japan’s pre-eminent Shinto
shrine is the revered Ise Grand Shrine, located one hour 30 minutes from Nagoya.
The Ise Shima National Park protects the scenic coastal area dotted with
numerous small pearl fishing villages. The port of Toba is famous for its
‘Married Rocks’, two islets linked by a massive Shinto rope. Mikimoto Pearl
Island features demonstrations of techniques used in the pearl industry.
Kyoto, Nara & Osaka
Located in the Kansai area of central Honshu, these three famous cities are all
major tourist destinations, each having contributed distinctive elements towards
Japanese history and culture. Capital of Japan for over 1000 years, Kyoto
remains Japan’s star attraction. Founded in AD 794, the city’s vast number of
temples, shrines, museums and historical sites acts as a textbook to Japanese
history, while her arts, crafts and cuisine rank among the country’s finest.
‘Must see’ sights include the Golden Pavilion (Kinkakuji), the minimalist Zen
rock garden of Ryoanji, impressive Kiyomizu Temple and the Imperial gardens and
villas of Katsura and Shugakuin (permit required). The splendid medieval Nijo
Castle, the vermilion-lacquered Heian Shrine and the Buddhist art treasures of
Sanjusangendo Temple are also well worth visiting. The city’s many historical
neighborhoods, such as the rural temples of Arashiyama, the textile workshops of
Nishijin and the Gion geisha district, are best explored on foot. Kyoto hosts
three major traditional summer events: the colorful Aoi, Gion and
Jidai Festivals.
Nara, one hour south of Kyoto, is a major Buddhist center and acted as Japan’s
capital during the eighth century AD. Visitors flock to see the famous ‘great
Buddha’ of Todaiji Temple, the world’s largest wooden structure, ancient Kasuga
Shrine and the Buddhist sculptures of Kofukuji Temple. The beautiful expanses of
Nara Park are home to hundreds of sacred deer. Nearby, the venerable Horyuji
Temple dates back to the seventh century AD.
One of Japan’s largest cities, prosperous and commercial Osaka is renowned for
its abundance of excellent restaurants, historic Osaka Castle and the performing
arts of Kabuki and Bunraku. The city also boasts an impressive aquarium and
superb Museum of Oriental Ceramics. The city’s busy Namba and Umeda districts
are renowned for their nightlife and the Dotonburi area is particularly vibrant
after dark. Universal Studios Japan, a 140-acre theme park in Osaka, is
enormously popular.
Excursions
The historic town of Uji, between Kyoto and Nara, is famous for the graceful
Byodoin Temple which is featured on Japan’s ¥10 coin. Pilgrims and tourists are
welcomed by the many temples and monasteries on scenic Mount Koya, two hours
from Osaka, where overnight temple lodgings and Buddhist vegetarian cuisine are
offered at reasonable prices. The port city of Kobe has an international flavor
and is famous for its old foreign-style houses and buildings dating from the
Meiji era.
Western Honshu
The main attractions of Western Honshu are to be found along the coasts, namely
the Inland Sea Coast (Sanyo) and the Japan Sea Coast (Sanin). The gleaming white
walls of Himeji Castle dominate the city of Himeji. Known as the ‘White Heron
Castle’, it is the best-preserved and most beautiful castle in Japan. The
pleasant city of Okayama is known for its black castle and the Korakuen Stroll
Garden, considered one of the three most beautiful in the country. Nearby is the
pottery town of Bizen and wonderfully preserved Kurashiki with its historic
merchants’ quarter, now housing numerous museums and craft galleries. Further
west, Hiroshima was the target of the world’s first atomic bomb during World War
II but has risen from the ashes to become a thriving modern city. The bombing is
commemorated by the Peace Memorial Park and Museum. Nearby is the beautiful
island of Miyajima, its famous red Shinto torii gateway seemingly floating on
the sea at high tide. Itsukushima Shrine, the cable car up the central mountain
for panoramic views and the tame deer are all major attractions. Iwakuni is
known for its five-arched bridge while Hagi, on the western Japan Sea Coast, is
famous for its pottery and will appeal to history buffs. The sand dunes of
Tottori, ancient Izumo Taisha Shrine and the famous coastal panorama of
Amanohashidate are the most famous attractions along this northern coastline.
Shikoku
The smallest of Japan’s four main islands, Shikoku is linked to Honshu by two
major bridges and numerous ferries which crisscross the beautiful island-studded
waters of the Inland Sea. Protected as the Inland Sea National Park, many of the
600 islands are popular summer beach destinations. Facing these placid waters,
the attractive city of Takamatsu, on the northern coast of Shikoku, is the main
gateway to the island. The historic Ritsurin Park is considered among the most
beautiful in Japan and the mountaintop Kotohira Shrine, about one hour away, is
extremely impressive. To the east is Tokushima, a city famous for its coastal
Naruto Whirlpools and massive summer Awa Odori dance festival. Matsuyama, on the
western coast of Shikoku, boasts one of Japan’s best-preserved medieval castles.
The nearby Dogo Spa is famous as being among the oldest in Japan. Located on
Shikoku’s rugged Pacific southern coast, Kochi is also noted for its castle. The
mountainous interior of the island remains wild and largely unspoilt. Shikoku is
famous for its pilgrimage circuit of 88 temples dedicated to Kannon, the Goddess
of Mercy.
Kyushu
The southernmost of Japan’s four main islands, Kyushu is best known for its mild
climate, volcanic landscape, excellent hot springs and ceramics. The gateway to
Kyushu, Fukuoka (Hakata) is known for its traditional textile and doll-making
industries, its delicious food and for the nearby Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, a
very active place of worship where students go to pray to the god of learning.
On Kyushu’s west coast, Nagasaki was one of Japan’s earliest designated foreign
ports and is famous for Arita and Imari ceramics and for the Peace
Park that commemorates the devastation caused by the second nuclear bomb of
World War II. Other major sights include Chinatown, the Chinese Temple and
Glover House, said to be the setting that inspired Puccini’s opera Madame
Butterfly. Nearby Mount Unzen, an active volcano, is also a well-known hot
spring resort. Kumamoto is an old castle town and gateway to the scenic wonders
of the Mount Aso National Park. To the south of the island, the seaport of
Kagoshima is overshadowed by the dramatic smoking cone of Sakurajima volcanic
island. Nearby Ibusuki Spa, on the southern tip of Kyushu, boasts some of the
most famous hot springs in Japan and is renowned for its hot-sand saunas. Summer
whale- and dolphin-watching tours depart from the town of Kasasa. Beyond
Kagoshima lies the beautiful, mountainous island of Yakushima, a National Park
renowned for its primeval cedar forests and hiking trails. Miyazaki, situated on
Kyushu’s southeastern coast, is a prosperous modern city famous for its palm
trees, golf courses and ancient burial mounds. The Beppu hot spring resort, near
the city of Oita, is great fun despite its slightly sleazy atmosphere. Dozens of
hotel and bathing complexes compete for customers by offering everything from
amusement parks and sports facilities to museums, gardens and shopping arcades.
Okinawa
The 161 islands that make up Okinawa lie to the far south of Japan, like
stepping stones between Kyushu and Taiwan. The subtropical climate, clear
turquoise seas and many fine beaches mean that the islands have long been a
holiday favorite among the Japanese. Recently, however, several of the islands
have also started to become well known as eco-destinations. Numerous coral reefs
offer excellent diving opportunities, with many resorts catering to enthusiasts.
Okinawa Island, the main island of the group, has a number of famous resorts
such as Manza Beach and Onna Beach, offering white sands and watersports. The
fantastic formations of the Gyokusendo Caves are also a popular attraction.
Naha, the relaxed Okinawan capital, is famous for its pottery and textiles and
impressive Shuri Castle, former seat of the Ryukyu kings. The large US bases
nearby help to fuel its lively nightlife. The island retains many reminders of
the fierce fighting that took place there during World War II, and the southern
coastline is dotted with war memorials. Ishigaki Island has great diving,
snorkeling and folkcrafts and is a good base from which to explore the remoter
islands. Iriomote Island is known for its mangrove swamps, jungle interior and
rare wildlife such as the Iriomote Wildcat, while tiny Taketomi retains its
rural charm. Occurring throughout the islands, Okinawa’s ancient Ryukyu
festivals are some of Japan’s most colorful and feature distinctive performing
arts.
Martial arts
Japanese ceremonial wrestling, sumo and judo are Japan’s national sports, both
drawing huge crowds. There are six sumo tournaments a year, each of which lasts
for 15 days. Three of them are held in Tokyo, and the others take place in
Fukuoka, Nagoya and Osaka. Matches by senior wrestlers begin at 1500. Sumo
training sessions can be observed between 0500 and 1030 at Kasungo Stable in
Tokyo (tel: (3) 3631 1871). Judo enthusiasts can visit the Kodokan Judo Hall,
1-16-30, Kasuga, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo (tel: (3) 3818 4172), where there is a
spectators’ gallery. There are opportunities for the visitor to purchase a
costume and learn some of the techniques. There are separate classes for men and
women and English is spoken in most large schools. More information can be
obtained from the All Japan Judo Federation (website:
www.judo.or.jp). Karate, the art of self-defense, is taught at schools in
Japan and has become a very popular sport since it was introduced into the
country in 1922. For further information, contact the Japan Karatedo Federation
(website:
www.karatedo.co.jp). Kendo, Japanese fencing, is practiced in numerous clubs
and college halls. In December, the All-Japan Championships are held in Tokyo.
Kyudo, Japanese archery, is one of the oldest martial arts. It is closely
associated with Zen Buddhism. Unlike many martial arts, it is pursued by almost
as many female students as males. Yabusame, or archery on horseback, which was
originally performed by courtiers or imperial guards in the seventh century, is
today a Shinto rite for ensuring peace and good harvests. It is staged by horse
riders in colorful costumes who gallop down a narrow 250m course shooting at
small wooden targets set up at 80m intervals. The best-known events are at
Tsurugaoka Hachmagu shrine in Kamakura on the third Sunday in April and on 16
September and at the Shimogano Shrine in Kyoto on 3 May.
Wintersports
These are very popular and there are over 50 major ski resorts, especially in
the Japanese Alps and on the northern island of Hokkaido. One of the great
attractions is the prevalence of hot springs in the skiing areas. Various
resorts at Nagana in Central Honshu offer facilities for night-skiing. The
southernmost natural ski slope in Japan is the Gokase Highland Ski, in
the north Miyazaki prefecture, which offers grass skiing out of season between
late April and late November. Transport connections are very good, and there are
sometimes railway stations within a few minutes walk of the slopes. During the
ski season, it is necessary to reserve seats on trains and buses. Although
equipment is easy to hire, it can sometimes be a problem to obtain ski boots in
larger sizes; skiers should telephone the resort in advance in order to check on
availability.
Both diving and snorkeling are popular around the Kerama Islands near Okinawa,
which is one of the world’s clearest sea areas. Between January and March, it is
also an area for whale watching.
All kinds of fishing are practiced, and there are many keen anglers in Japan.
Freshwater fish include
trout, funa (silver carp) and ayu (sweetfish). Given the shape of
the country, fishing locations are never far away. Travelers might like to try
ukai or cormorant fishing, a type of fishing where cormorants are used to
catch fish. The cormorants and the crew do the work while the passengers watch.
Food and drink are provided. Expeditions go out at night and can be arranged
through hotels and tourist boards in the Kyoto area.
Cycling
This is popular in April and May during the cherry blossom season and also in
October and November when autumnal colors adorn Japan. Owing to snow and ice,
cycling in Hokkaido and in the northern area of the main island, Honshu, is not
recommended between December and March. Cyclists must keep to the left and
should be careful at all times because of heavy traffic, especially on the
national highways. There are numerous interesting paths routed through Toyko.
Football
Japan co-hosted the 2002 World Cup with Korea (Rep). Football has taken
off in a big way in Japan in recent years with the introduction of the Japanese
soccer J-League and the participation of the Japanese national team in
the World Cup of 1998 and 2002.
Golf
Courses in and around Tokyo are considered by some to be among the most
challenging in the world. However, membership or an invitation is sometimes
required. Some courses have the additional attraction of hot spring baths and
mahjhong rooms. For further information, contact the Japan Golf Association
(tel: (3) 3566 0003; fax: (3) 3566 0101; website:
www.jga.or.jp).
Cultural activities
Among the traditional entertainments on offer is bunraku, a unique form
of puppet theater. This can be seen in major towns, as can noh drama and
kabuki, traditional Japanese drama forms, with participants attired in
medieval costumes. The most fascinating and colorful of Japan’s religious
festivals takes place in Kyoto, the old imperial capital. The Gion Festival
reaches its climax on 16-17 July. A street parade takes place with the
participants dressed in fine costumes and carrying portable shrines. The large
floats depict ancient themes. The Aoi (or hollyhock) Festival on
15 May dates back to the sixth century. The procession, consisting of imperial
messengers in oxcarts followed by a retinue of 600 people dressed in traditional
costume, leaves at around 1000 from the imperial palace and heads for the
Shimogamo-jinja shrine where ceremonies take place. It then proceeds to
Kamigamo-jinja shrine. The Jidai Festival (Festival of the Ages) is of
more recent origin, though still splendid to watch. More than 2000 people parade
through the town dressed in costumes dating from different periods. For dates of
other festivals, see Special Events in the General Info section.
Those wishing to see the Japanese tea ceremony can arrange to do so through the
tourist information centers in Kyoto and Tokyo (see General Info
section). If visitors are interested in eastern religions they can arrange to
stay at a shukubo (temple lodging). The tourist office will have a full
list of temples offering this service. Sometimes it is possible to participate
in meditation sessions.
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