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 Asakusa - Japan's famous temple town. While you breathe the air of Asakusa, stand in front of the old gate, walk through shops ("Nakamise,") and you feel this harmony of ancient and present Japan. The energy from people and the town rise up high while Japanese tradition and culture, present and past co-exist together. Asakusa is one of the landmarks of Tokyo, Japan, and Asakusa became a place that tourists cannot miss.
Asakusa has many shrines to visit and each shrine gives you a fresh mind and "Zen" spirit. The most remarkable temple is Senso-ji, the oldest temple in Tokyo, Japan. When approaching Senso-ji (also known as Asakusa Kannon Temple), located in the Asakusa district of Tokyo, visitors mainly go through Kaminari Mon, Nakamise, and Hazomon. The first thing that catches your eye is a famous gate with a large red lantern - Kaminari Mon. "Kaminari" means thunder and "Mon" means gate. This has become one of the traditional sights of Tokyo. This is a main gate of the Senso-ji.
Kaminari Mon leads you to a vigorous and exciting street filled with souvenir shops - the street name called "Nakamise." Nakamise is one of the oldest shopping areas in Japan. There are over 80 shops on200m of street, which sell Japanese traditional items and food. Over 3million people visit this shopping area per year. Nakamise serves people all year around - Japan's symbol flower the cherry blossoms are in bloom in the spring, verdant willows in the summer, autumn color maple leaves in the fall, and the New Year's festivals in the winter. ?
Go through Nakamise and then go through Hozomon at the end of the street, the oldest temple in Tokyo, Senso-ji, stands in front. Its' significant architecture and peaceful holiness bring 3 to 4 million visitors each year from all over the world. Senso-ji history began with two fisher brothers netting a 5.5cm human statue from the Sumida River in the year 628. Hajino, Nakatomo discovered that the statue was the Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy, and the temple was built for the Kannon. The temple was completed in the year 645 and the Kannon Statue was enshrined here. The original temple was destroyed by fire several times, and the present temple was completed in 1958. When you visit Senso-ji, toss some coins in an offertory chest and pray experiencing the Buddhist culture. |
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 Akihabara: The mix of two faces - Electronic Anime town of Tokyo, Japan. Akihabara is familiar with a shortened name of "Akiba" by locals. Akihabara has become the world's most famous electronic town for the latest and widest selections at low prices. The place to find phones, computers, cameras, DVDs, TVs...any and all appliances and devices are gathered here in Akihabara. Akihabara represents the best of Japan's high - tech culture. Many tourists come and experience this famous high tech town with some electronics shops offering duty free to the visitors who have a passport with a valid visa.
 Another face of Akihabara is the Anime town. Akihabara is a paradise for Anime/Manga (comic, cartoon) fans. Akihabara gathers the best selections of Anime shopping around Japan: Anime DVDs, Anime Figures, Anime computer games, and Anime books. As Japanese Anime was recognized worldwide, Japanese Anime fans established their space in Akihabara. They even have their societal nickname - Otaku. Otaku means geeks or maniac in English. Otaku means people who are insanely focused on their hobby; for example, Game Otaku for people who dedicate their life to playing games, and Anime Otaku is for people who are extreme fans of Anime.
Akihabara gives you a taste of what Japan is famous for in the world-High technology and Anime. For those tourists who are interested in Electronic and Anime or simple Japanese culture, Akihabara is a great place to be! |
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The Japanese Imperial Palace / Tokyo |
 Kokyo means the Japanese Imperial Palace in English, which is a residence of Japan's imperial family. It is designated as a nationally important cultural property, and many tourists from Japan and overseas come to visit the Imperial Palace. The Imperial Palace used to be Edo Castle where Tokugawa Ruler, who ruled Japan from 1603 till 1867, lived. In 1868, with the beginning of Meiji era, Japan's capital and imperial residence moved from Kyoto to Tokyo. Since then, the Edo Castle was called kyujo (meaning palace castle,) and this palace was destroyed during World War Two. In 1888, a new palace was rebuilt and completed, and since the end of the war, this Castle has been called Kokyo. There are several sightseeing spots around the Imperial Palace around the Imperial Palace such as the Tokyo tower, Tokyo station, the Diet Building, Foreign embassies, Supreme Court, and the National Theater. Do not miss the remarkable and unique black pine trees, symbolic two stone bridges, Meganebashi (Eyeglass Bridge) and Nijubashi (Double Bridge) in the park. You will see and feel the beautiful and traditional Japanese gardens while you walk through the park. |
 Kitanomaru Park, to the north of the Imperial Palace, is home to the Nippon Budokan Hall, the Science Museum, the National Museum of Modern Art and its annex, the Crafts Gallery. The Budokan is an imposing octagonal structure modeled after the Yumedono Hall of Horyuji Temple in Nara Prefecture. It was originally built for the judo competition at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, and now serves as a venue for major concerts as well as Japanese martial arts events. Regular classes are held in every martial arts discipline and visitors are welcome to watch. The park is at its liveliest in early April when Chidorigafuchi, the avenue of cherry trees along the palace moat, is hung heavy with blossoms and packed with sake-fueled cherry-blossom viewing parties. Other places of interest near the park are Yasukuni Shrine and Yamatane Museum of Art. Yasukuni Shrine is dedicated to Japanese war dead. Cherry blossoms in the compound let Tokyo people know the advant of spring. About 1, 000 cherry trees render the standard for the time of blooming of cherry blossoms in Tokyo. Yamatane Museum of Art has a fine collection of Japanese paintings from the Meiji era to the present day.
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Shinjuku & Shibuya / Tokyo |
 Shinjuku, with its collection of offices, shops and entertainment facilities, especially the famous Kabukicho entertainment district, centered on Shinjuku station, is a bustling urban center. With its rows of High-Rise Buildings, such as the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, Shinjuku continues to develop and grow as a "New Metropolitan Center". In the same way as Shinjuku, Shibuya is well known as a center for fashion and youth culture. Together with nearby Harajuku and Omotesando, this area has become a shopping hotspot where upscale boutiques are gathered to delight shoppers. |
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 Tokyo has more than 5, 000 parks within the central 23 Wards, many with just a bench and a water fountain, but Shinjuku Gyoen is arguably the best park of all. Beautifully cared for, it includes English and French gardens. The park is especially spectacular when its 1, 500 cherry trees bloom at the beginning of April and the chrysanthemums open in early November. Tea and sweet cakes are served in a pavilion. 5 min walk from subway Shinjuku-gyoenmae Stn or Shinjuku Sanchome Station.
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Odaiba & Roppongi / Tokyo |
|  Odaiba, established as a harbor side development on reclaimed land in Tokyo Bay, has now become Tokyo's newest landmark. Not only does it offer parks, the latest amusement facilities and shopping areas where visitors can feel the sea breeze in the heart of the city, but also the beautiful sight of the Rainbow Bridge at night. Many foreigners can be seen in the international city of Roppongi, which is an exciting nightspot filled with bars and nightclubs. A large-scale redevelopment project, Roppongi Hills, was completed there in 2003.
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Tokyo Metropolitan Government Office |
 Relocated to Shinjuku from Yurakucho in 1991, these offices occupy a giant, cathedral-like structure designed by Kenzo Tange, Japan's leading postwar architect. The building rises 48 floors, dividing at the 33rd story into symmetrical towers that rise to 243 meters. The public observation decks on the 45th floor, reached by elevator in 55 seconds, have now superseded Tokyo Tower as the premier vantage point to survey the entire city. On clear days, especially in winter, the TMGO offers brilliant views of Yokohama to the southwest and Mt. Fuji to the west. 3-min walk from subway Tocho-mae Station or 10 min walk from JR/subway Shinjuku Station. |
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| Shinkansen means a high-speed passenger train. (Shinkansen is called a bullet train only by Non-Japanese speakers.) This great network of railroad systems enables passengers to travel to many Japanese prefectures fast. The very first bullet train line was between Tokyo and Osaka prefecture in 1964 just in time for the Tokyo Olympics. This bullet train line is called Tokaido Shinkansen; its speed goes up to 300 km/h (186 mph.) There are food and beverages carts available to passengers during the ride. They carry bento boxes which feature special local foods. If you want to purchase this delicious food, just wait for them to come by and simply order what you would like. Ordering in Japanese may be quite an experience! |
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Ginza is the most expensive place to live in Japan. Ginza is within the Chuo-Ku area, an up-scale promenade that has high class boutiques, department stores, shops, restaurants, and cafes. Ginza is a popular place day and night especially on the weekends and holidays. There are some land marks that Ginza has, including the Wako clock tower, Kabuki-Za, and Namiki-Dori. The Wako clock tower stands as a symbol in the heart of Ginza.
Wako is the department store that carries luxury jewelry, clock, watch, handbag, room decor, and plate. There is an art gallery in this particular Wako building. Wako is the only clock tower left in the Ginza area, and all the other European style buildings were destroyed by the unforgettable earthquake in 1923. The Wako building lights up on the New Year's Eve for a celebration. For those who seek brand name shopping and quality time spent, this is a "must go" place.
Kabuki-Za (Kabuki Theater) was opened for Kabuki plays. Kabuki is a Japanese traditional play with all roles male or female by male performers only with extravagant face paint. Kabuki was enlisted on the UNESCO for the Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity on November 24th, 2005.
Namiki-Dori (Namiki Street) is the street that approximately 1km long that stretches from Ginza 1 chome (district) to Shinbashi area. This street is filled with brand name goods from overseas such as Hermes, Louis Vuitton, Salvatore Ferragamo , Max Mara Cartier, and Chanel. This street has the ambience of Avenue Montaigne, Paris, France or Monte Napoleone, Milan, Italy. ???? For those who prefer spending time brand shopping, this is the street where you can spend a lot of time. |
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Today, Kamakura is a very popular tourist destination. Sometimes called the Kyoto of Eastern Japan.
Located by the sea, Kamakura is a haven of peace and quiet. The beach will revive the spirits and relax the mind.Cultural and political capital of Japan from 1192 until its bloody and violent razing of 1333, Kamakura is a treasure trove of eccentric temples and interesting shrines.
The most famous and revered sight at Kamakura is the big Buddha who meditates calmly, framed by trees and groups of camera clicking tourists. He has survived fire, floods, tidal waves, typhoons and even the great earthquake of 1923, so it is no surprise to hear that he is looking a little weather beaten nowadays. But still he sits casting his serene gaze over the surrounding hills, a figure of salvation.
Tsurugaoka Hachimangu is Kamakura's most important shrine. It was founded by Minamoto Yoriyoshi in 1063, and enlarged and moved to its current site in 1180 by Minamoto Yoritomo, the founder and first shogun of the Kamakura government.
The shrine is dedicated to Hachiman, the patron god of the Minamoto family and of the samurai in general. The deified spirits of the ancient Emperor Ojin who has been identified with Hachiman, Empress Jingu and Emperor Chuai are enshrined in the main buildings of the Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine.
The treasure house, which is a museum featuring the valuables owned by the shrine, and a park with ponds are located next to the main buildings.
Various events are held at the shrine throughout the year. During the New Year holidays, Tsurugaoka Hachimangu is with over 2 million visitors one of the country's most visited shrines, and in April and September, horseback archery (yabusame) is performed on the lane that leads to the shrine's dance stage and main building.
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 Nikko - popular tour city for Japanese tourists. Nikko is located in the Tochigi prefecture, which is to the North of Tokyo. Nikko is famous for the heritage shrine, temple, scenic slope, lake, National Park, hot spring, and waterfalls. One of the famous shrines is Toshogu, which is designated as the world heritage site. Approximately 6000 tourists come to visit Nikko for its ancient atmosphere and historical presence.
 Kegon falls is one of Japan's top 3 tourist attractions for its height and dynamic elevation change. Water falls from approximately 100m (350ft) in height, and it gives the tourists spectacular views. Visitors are able to go to the bottom of the gorge with an elevator to see this amazing view from behind the waterfalls.
 Lake Chuzenji is one of the many lakes that represent Japan's beauty. Lake Chuzenji was created by the eruption of Mt. Nandai, its lava entered Daiyagawa River and formed the lake. It is surrounded by beautiful nature, and visitors can enjoy all four seasons with its exquisite scenery.
Iroha-zaka. Iroha means 1,2,3 the old counting system in Japan, and Zaka means a slope. There is a scenic driving slope on the way to Lake Chuzenji. There are 48 curves on the road, and its seasonal landscape is just outstanding. Iroha-zaka was designated as one of Japan's most unique roads.
Nikko has been one of the foremost areas of mountain worship in Japan since ancient times. Nikko flourished as a land associated with the Tokugawa family after the enshrinement in the Toshogu of Taougawa leyasu, the first shogun of the Edo government (1603-1867), in 1617. The sophistication of Edo Period architecture and arts such as sculpture and ornamentation can be seen in Nikko Toshogu Shrine today. The Lake Chuzenji that spreads at the base of Mt. Nantai is famous for beautiful sceneries of nature in every season. |
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 Hakone - popular destination for Japanese tourists and world travelers for the four season's of beauty. Hakone is located in the Kanagawa prefecture, which is South of Tokyo, adjacent to Mt. Fuji. Visitors enjoy Hakone in all seasons of the year: vibrant green and Azaleas in the spring, boating excursions and fireworks in the summer, autumn color leaves in the fall, reflection of Mr. Fuji on the Lake Ashi in the winter. Many visitors come for the popular hot springs, architecture museum, culture institution, Hakone Shrine, National Park, Owakudani, Lake Ashi, and Mt. Fuji to relax at the resort. Hakone suits tourist activities, and it gives visitors satisfaction through relaxation, scenery, and beauty of nature.
Lake Ashi is well known for its views of Mr. Fuji. Lake Ashi is the one of the most famous tourist spots. Lake Ashi is famous for of fishing black bass, lake smelt, and rainbow trout, and also for boat rides and cruises available on the lake. The beauty of Mt. Fuji's shadow is also used as a photography spot and used as in art paintings.
Owakudani is as famous a spot as Lake Ashi in Hakone. Owakudani is a valley that was caused by the eruption of Mt. Hakone more than 3000 years ago, and it attracts more visitors each year. Owakudani is a place of volcanic smoke, and smoke still comes out from this area. If you use the aerial tramway, you can see a clear view of the smoking valley. Visiting Owakudani makes your Hakone experience thrilling and remarkable! |
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 Osaka is the central city of West Japan with a population of 2.6 million. In the Edo Period (1603-1867), it was the distribution center for products from around the country and from Meiji (1868-1913) onward, it developed as the center of the Japanese economy with the wholesale trade. Shinsaibashi is one of the best downtown areas in the city, possessing a wide array of shops. Osaka's unique open culture can be experienced here. Osaka's Castle, constructed in 1583, is one of Osaka's representative sightseeing spots. Kitashinchi is a high-class amusement area that occupies a section in front Osaka station. |
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 Kobe, open to the Seto Inland Sea, developed as a trade port. The influence of Western Culture is conspicuous in this region due to its large population of foreigners in the Edo Period (1603-1867) after the opening of the port. Meriken Park is a seaside park constructed for the 120th anniversary of Kobe's port opening. Mt. Rokko, located near Kobe city, is renowned for the beautiful nightscape viewable from its peak. Himeji is western Hyogo's central city with a population of 500,000. It's symbol, Himeji Castle, is registered as a world cultural heritage site. Kumano Kodo, which is an old religious pilgrimage path, has just achieved world heritage registration in 2004. |
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| Japan 's Northern island Hokkaido , is a new fully opened up only 140 years ago. Located in the cool- temperature zone, its climate is harsh, with sub-zero temperature in winter. But such a severe environment has left many undeveloped natural areas, allowing the traveler to experience a liberating of open space unique to Hokkaido. Main cities include traffic-laden Sapporo , the center of politics, economy and culture, Otaru and Hakodate , the port towns that served as base centers for pioneers, Tokachi , Japan 's greatest dairy land and bread basket, and Furano, which is famous for it's beautiful scenery, such as its close proximity to the magnificent Taisetsuzan mountains near the center of Hokkaido . In the eastern and northern Hokkaido regions are Kushiro , which is renowned for wetlands and surrounding lakes and Abashiri, noted for its views of the Sea of Okhotsk . |
 Sapporo
This is Hokkaido 's central city, home to about 1,800,000 people. The city spreads north and south from its center, Odori Park , where the TV tower is located. Highlights include the "Susukino" entertainment district, which contains about 4,000 eating and drinking establishments, and symbols of the pioneer days such as the clock tower, and the old Hokkaido government office.
- Otaru/Hakodate
 Otaru is a port town that flourished as a mercantile city from the late 19 th to the early 20 th century. The largest ski slopes in the area, the Niseko Hirafu Ski Resort, is also located in central Hokkaido . Hakodate became Japan 's first trade port following the Treaty of Peace and Amity signed between America and Japan in 1854. Together with Naples and Hong Kong , this exotic town's nightscape is included as one of the three most beautiful nightscapes in the world.
- Taisetsu/Furano
 The magnificent sights of the Tokachi Mountain Range and Mt. Daisetsu , which are over 2,000 m in height, can be viewed up close from the farming, dairy and sightseeing center of Furano, which is located near the center of Hokkaido . This area is noted for lavender, which blooms prolifically form late June to late July. Sounkyo is a hot spring resort located at the foot of Mt. Taisetsu . The great canyon, surrounded by cliffs on both sides, is also a sight a worth seeing.
- Eastern and Northern Hokkaido
Kushiro is active in the fishing industry and is the major urban center of eastern Hokkaido . The Kushiro Wetland is and extensive national park of 26,861ha and is inhabited by many species of animal including the protected Japanese crane. Beautiful lakes, such as Lake Kussharo , Lake Mashu and Lake Akan , are spread around the outskirts of Kushiro . Abashiri is a town facing the Sea of Okhotsk and is the only place in Japan where ice drifts can be observed. Nearby is Japan 's largest coastal grasslands,
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