10 Reasons Why Japan Is Awesome

Japan has a lot to offer as a traveller’s destination. Straddling the old and new with finesse, it preserves its historical buildings while breaking new ground with architectural designs. What’s more, its natural scenery, seasons and foods spark joy. Its people are also some of the most hospitable people in the world. Here are 10 reasons why you should visit Japan.

1. Japan dazzles your eyes with spectacular scenery. Seldom do you get the chance to take in verdant forests and pristine beaches in a pure and unadulterated state. Yakushima’s ancient cedar trees were inspiration for one of Studio Ghibli’s movies. The beaches on the Okinawan islands allow you to rejuvenate.
2. Japan is a haven for sporty people. Its wonderful scenery is a balm for the soul and makes you want to exercise. Cycling fans can enjoy a cool breeze while cycling from Okayama to Hiroshima. And who can forget hiking Mount Fuji in the summer?
3. Japanese food is gastronomic. From Michelin-starred restaurants to street stalls selling ramen, there’s something for every kind of travel budget. Best of all, every prefecture has its signature delicacies that boast unique flavors that are characteristic of homegrown ingredients, so you will have quite memorable culinary experiences.
4. Japanese festivals are a riot of fun. Complementing its seasons are charming festivals that show you how Japanese people are adept at having fun. There are the famous yosakoi dance festivals in which everyone dances to infectious tunes. There are ice and snow festivals that are worth braving the winter cold. Join the Japanese for a slice of festive fun!
5. Japanese temples and shrines are great tourist attractions. Shinto Buddhism is a unique religion and many travellers visit temples and shrines so that they can partake in the quintessential Japanese way to pray to the Gods. Most of these temples and shrines were built in ancient times, so their existence pays homage to the past and evokes a sense of serenity that is hard to come by in today’s hectic world.
6. Japan is a family-friendly destination. It’s not easy to travel with kids in tow, but Japan allays your anxiety with awesome places that will entertain kids for hours. Theme parks like Tokyo Disneyland and Universal Studios Japan need no introduction. Your offspring will probably relish the chance to visit some manga-themed museums like Anpanman and Fukui, which is the Jurassic Park of Japan.
7. The Japanese way of incorporating technology into daily life is interesting, Japan is often at the forefront of technology, so your trip will surface opportunities in which you will be pleasantly surprised by Japan’s technological devices. Fancy meeting a robotic assistant? You can do so when you visit SoftBank stores and talk to Pepper the robot. Even the toilets in Japan are amazing - so many functions and buttons to press!
8. After a long day of sight-seeing, you will want to soak yourself in hot water and recharge yourself. Japan has onsens no matter where you travel - facing the ocean, inside traditional ryokans (inns), even open air. Foreigners are shy about taking off all their clothes at first, but you will soon realise that no one is looking at your body and get rid of your self-consciousness. Have a good dip!
9. Indulge in retail therapy in Japan. Renowned global brands have flagship stores on the posh shopping streets of Tokyo and Osaka. Besides international brands, you should check out exquisite Japan-made products that are made via time-honored craftsmanship techniques that have been passed down for generations. Speaking of which, you must head over to the food halls near JR train stations to buy all the local delicacies as souvenirs for your loved ones back home.
10. Usually, no one wants to waste their time to explore deserted islands. But what if the islands have something that makes them as distinctive? Take for instance Naoshima in Kagawa which has several art museums whose exhibits blend seamlessly with the surroundings. Or Battleship Island in Nagasaki that once housed thriving mining communities but now evokes an eerie feel.