Japan

• Mt Fuji
• Kyoto
• Tokyo

One of the major attractions of traveling throughout Japan is trying different local cuisines in every town you visit. While sushi is in fact a large part of Japanese heritage, myriad flavors from all around the world have contributed to Japan’s robust foodie culture, attracting more and more culinary figures worldwide to try the new eastern hot spot.

Anyone who loves shopping knows that Tokyo is one of the most renowned shopping cities in the world. It should come as no surprise that Japanese people love style and fashion as designers from around the globe know that Tokyo is a hot spot for their label to be featured. It is here that well-established Japanese shops and famous brand names like Gucci, Chanel, Armani, Louis Vuitton, and others stand side by side on the various blocks that make up the center of the Ginza shopping area.

Japan values its cultivated traditions and practices as much as it values keeping in touch with the future. Whether grounded in history or in religion, Japanese customs are still widely practiced to this day. Additionally, Japan holds festivals year round that symbolize various aspects of culture and tradition, which are held in very high esteem by Japanese people. For anyone looking to delve further into Asian history and heritage, look no further than Japan.
-Brett

Currency Japanese yen

Language There is no official language, but the main language is Japanese

Why we love it What’s not to love about the Land of the Rising Sun?  its a fascinating destination full of contrasts.  Springtime in Japan is absolutely magical as the cherry blossoms are sure to capture your attention. You will love Japan even more if you’re a foodie.

Weather During January to March, Winter is cool in most of Honshū and may be snowing in the mountains. In the end of December – early Jan many businesses will be closed.  June and July is rainy season in most of Japan (except Hokkaidō) – it doesn’t rain every day but it can be pretty humid. Autumn (September to mid-December) is usually cool and clear. In April, May and August it can be busy around the Golden Week (early May), O-Bon (mid-August) and New Year. Honshū cities are busy in the cherry blossom (late March to early April) and autumn foliage (November) seasons.

Social customs and quirks  Japanese rely heavily on body language in communication as words can have many underlying meanings. For visitors, a passive facial expression is recommended and try not to make eye contact as it invades the Japanese sense of privacy. The hierarchy of status and age is important, with every person having his or her own place within the group. Formal greetings are standard and bowing the head is a sign of respect. When it comes to dining with Japanese people, remove your shoes before entering their home, arrive on time, dress appropriately and conservatively, and wait to be told where to sit. Don’t point or pierce your food with your chopsticks, and try whatever is offered. If you don’t want second or third helpings, leave a little food in your bowl or drink in your glass as it’s good manners to never leave the guest with an empty plate. Finally, conversation while eating isn’t polite, as your hosts prefer to savour the food.

Festivals and events Most festivals and events in Japan center on either Buddhist or Shinto religious holidays. The nature-focused events like cherry and plum blossom viewing and commemorations of historic events are much-loved by the Japanese people.

Health* There are currently no health requirements for entering Japan.