Joanna James
Japan is a simply crazy place with a unique culture, which at times is dynamic, post-modern and a bit irrational to an outsider, but at other times very rooted in tradition and heritage. Navigating your way through the oddity that is Japan does require a little pre-planning.
Any Japan holiday package you book with the help of a travel partner such as Mackinnons Travels (you probably should, it can get quite expensive otherwise) will probably lead you to Tokyo first. And where better to start your trip of this magical country than in its eccentric and immense capital. Tokyo is the place to go if you’re going to Japan because you’re a fan of the pop-culture. A visit to Akihabara can be quite transcendental for the Anime or Manga fan.
But Tokyo is much more than just that, there are plenty of places around Nagoya if you want to experience a futuristic night life. Be sure to try as much street food you can – go to an isekaya; small street-side shops that offer unlimited liquor as long as you keeping ordering their delicious food.
Kyoto is the old-capital of Japan, back when feudal lords known as shoguns ruled the island. Kyoto is best known for its amazing and beautiful shrines. You’ve probably seen the iconic gateways, which lead to these shrines in a few pictures on the internet at least. Kyoto is a far cry from Tokyo and is more depictive of Japan’s traditional side of things.
Hiroshima is located on Japan’s Honshu Island and is sadly best known for being ground zero for the atomic bombs dropped on Japan at the end of World War 2. But it’s safe to say that Hiroshima has left that past behind and modernised quite well. There are, of course, memorials and museums dedicated to this atrocity of humanity's past, which you should definitely visit. But beyond that, the food in Hiroshima is unique and rustic and there are plenty of wonderfully curated gardens you should definitely visit.
Okinawa is an island on the southern tip of Japan. If you’ve watched Karate Kid, you’ll probably remember that Mr Miagi was from Okinawa. But aside from that fun fact, Karate Kid 2 did not accurately depict Japan. The island is completely different from the rest of Japan and looks more like a tropical beach destination. If you want warm weather, gorgeous beaches and laidback people, Okinawa is where you need to go in Japan.
Osaka is Japan’s second largest metropolitan area after Tokyo and boasts a wide variety of attractions for any type of tourist. For a start, Universal Studios Japan is located in Osaka. But aside from that, you can visit the Museum of History, the National Art Museum or the Bunraku theatre. There are also many beautiful Japanese-style gardens such as the Minoo Park. Osaka also has a lovely aquarium and its very own castle. Osaka also boasts a very vibrant night-circuit and plenty of restaurants to try unique dishes from all over Japan.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
