Japan is an intriguing contrast between Imperial and traditional past and the ultra modern. While the outward surface has changed dramatically, its unique
character, brought about by thousands of years of isolation, lies just below the surface.
The nation of Japan consists of an island archipelago stretching from northeast to southwest off the coast of mainland China and Korea, separated from its
Asian neighbors by the Sea of Japan. Between 1639 and 1859 Japan elected to cut itself off from trade or traffic with the rest of the world, except for some
marginal contact through the southern Kyushu island ports. Since opening up its doors once more, just 150 years ago, the densely populated islands have developed
in leaps and bounds and much of the country is now covered by sprawling neon-lit cities and the world's most sophisticated public transport networks.
What to See
Kyoto - Geisha's still step gracefully through the backstreets of this cultural gold mine.
Cherry blossom - (Kyoto) Enjoy the April floral riot along the Tetsugaku-no-michi (Path of Philosophy).
Himeji - Built on a high bluff, Japan's most famous castle exemplifies elegant feudal military architecture. It is an easy stop on the bullet train
from Tokyo to Hiroshima.
Tokyo - Once a fishing village Tokyo is now one of the world's greatest metropolis, fast, lively and modern with a sleek and efficient transport system.
Hiroshima - A vibrant city which has much to offer beyond the remembrance of the first atomic bomb but still more to teach the world about peace.
Hokkaido - Escape to nature in Daisetsuzan National Park's mountains at the heart of Hokkaido
Mount Fuji - See the sun rise in the east on Japan's famous sacred peak and highest mountain. It's an almost perfect snow-capped cone.
Activities
Join the rush hour melee on the Tokyo subway.
Sample sublime Sushi, sashimi and sake
Steam your troubles away with a relaxing bathe at an onsen (natural hot spring) on Kyushu
Play with gadgets at the Sony HQ in Tokyo.
Catch an artificial wave at the Ocean Dome, Myarzaki, a massive indoor water park.
Spend the night in one of Tokyo's capsule hotels, where sleeping pods have a built-in TV.

"A boat that is not tied up will drift along with the stream."