The archipelago reveals a combination of buildings from the past, traditional temples as well as modern structures in the field of architecture. For example, the Zojoji Temple which is located at the foot of the Tokyo Tower . Zojoji is the head temple of the Japanese Jodo school of Buddhism.
From a young age, Japanese people learn to admire the beauty rich people data of nature, to be part of it, to love it. Every year, during the Hanami festival, locals and visitors enjoy the beauty of the Sakura (cherry blossom). The cherry tree embodies voluptuousness and lightness. This legendary tree has been celebrated for thousands of years in Japan .
Hanami is a national tradition. The festival usually takes place in early spring, around mid to late March. The festivities begin in the capital, Tokyo , and then continue to other cities and towns.
Another tradition that shows love for nature is the practice of Bonsai. This is the daily maintenance of a potted tree with the idea of recreating a miniature natural landscape.
Do as the Japanese do and learn to “look at flowers.”
Description of Japan
Area : 377,000 km²
Population : 125.988 million (January 2020)
Capital : Tokyo
Main cities : Sapporo, Yokohama, Nagoya, Osaka, Kobe, Kyoto, Fukuoka
Official language : Japanese
Currency : Yen
National Day : February 23 (birthday of the reigning emperor)
Why travel to Japan?
Japan is one of the most unusual places on the planet, where centuries-old traditions coexist harmoniously with all kinds of innovations. The archipelago offers a cultural holiday rooted in landscapes and rich tradition.
You can immerse yourself in its culture with sumo wrestling, ancient castles and religious festivals. Also explore its nature rich in volcanoes, forests and lakes. Stroll through unique sites like Buddhist temples and Japanese gardens.
Scenic circuits
Japan surprises travelers with the beauty of its nature, which contrasts with its sprawling megalopolis .
So, don't hesitate to take the road or public transport to explore old fishing villages, natural hot springs or legendary forests.
This is the case of the mossy forest on the island of Yakushima populated with relict cedars of Yakusugi.
Many trees are 1,000 years old and the oldest may be over 7,000 years old. Walking along the Pacific coast from July to August, you can watch turtles hatch and flee to the sea.
An authentic culture
For a long time, Japan was a closed country, sheltered from outside influences. It was not until the 16th century that the country of the sun opened up to Westerners. Despite Western influence and the rise of new technologies, the Japanese state has kept a traditional universe.
All classes of Japanese society have maintained a strong attachment to ancestral practices. To better understand the traditions, lifestyle and state of mind of the Japanese, it is worth visiting the Tokyo National Museum . Its rooms contain many unique objects that give an insight into the life of the former military nobility as well as the different crafts, religious traditions and the tea ceremony.
Activities and places of interest in Japan
In the land of the rising sun, there is no shortage of activities. Japan is culturally rich and offers many interesting discoveries in architecture, art, food, lifestyle and nature. It is the perfect combination of modernity and tradition.
Here are some ideas for organizing your stay.