The Land of the Rising Sun

Venice Joy Flores

Do you want to travel outside the Philippines? Japan is waiting for you! It is an ideal place for a short holiday and has a lot to offer its tourists.

Japan is an island country in East Asia. Located in the Pacific Ocean, it lies to the east of the Sea of Japan, the East China Sea, China, Korea and Russia, stretching from the Sea of Okhotsk in the north to the East China Sea and Taiwan in the southwest. The kanji that make up Japan's name mean "sun origin", and it is often called the "Land of the Rising Sun".

Japan is known for their lovely cherry blossoms and their famous anime. Japan also is good at cosplaying so if you like cosplayers or cosplaying then Japan is perfect for you.

On Japan's southern, subtropical islands of Okinawa, cherry blossoms open as early as January, while on the northern island of Hokkaido, they bloom as late as May. In most major cities in between, including Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka, the cherry blossom season typically takes place in early April.

Anime is an art form, specifically animation, that includes all genres found in cinema, but it can be mistakenly classified as a genre. In Japanese, the term anime refers to all forms of animation from around the world. In English, anime is more restrictively used to denote a "Japanese-style animated film or television entertainment" or as "a style of animation created in Japan".

Every August, the twice-yearly Comic Market gets underway in Tokyo. Besides fan-created comics, it draws numerous cosplayers who brave the heat to show off their outfits.


Tourist Attractions

Golden Pavilion

Kinkaku-ji or the Temple of the Golden Pavilion is the most popular tourist attraction in Japan and Kyoto. The pavilion was originally built as a retirement villa for Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu in the late 14th century. Unfortunately, the pavilion was burnt down in 1950 by a young monk who had become obsessed with it. Five years later, the temple was rebuilt as an exact copy of the original. Emphasis is placed on the building and surrounding gardens being in harmony with one another. The pavilion is covered in gold leaf which highlights the reflection of the pavilion in the pond and the pond’s reflection on the building.

Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji is the highest mountain in Japan at 3,776 meters (12,388 ft). The volcano’s exceptionally symmetrical cone is a well-known symbol of Japan and it is frequently depicted in art and photographs, as well as a popular tourist attraction for sightseers and climbers. An estimated 200,000 people climb Mount Fuji every year, 30% of whom are foreigners. The ascent can take anywhere between three and eight hours while the descent can take from two to five hours.

Tokyo Imperial Palace

The Emperor of Japan makes his home at the Tokyo Imperial Palace. It also functions as an administration center and museum to showcase Japanese art and history. The palace is set on the ruins of older castles that were destroyed by fire or war, and architects have honored the past by incorporating design elements of the different eras into the modern palace. The new palace is surrounded by traditional Japanese gardens and has many reception and function rooms to receive guests and welcome the public.

Tokyo Tower

The Tokyo Tower is a testament to the advancement of technology and modern life. Inspired by the Eiffel tower design, it is the second tallest man-made structure in Japan and functions as a communications and observation tower. Visitors can climb the tower for unparalleled views of Tokyo and the surrounding areas as well as visit shops and restaurants.

Todaiji Temple

The Todaiji Temple in Nara is a feat of engineering. It is not only the world’s largest wooden building, it is home to the world’s largest bronze Buddha statue. Surrounded by beautiful gardens and wildlife, the Kegon school of Buddhism is centered here and the grounds hold many artifacts of Japanese and Buddhist history. Deer are allowed to freely roam the grounds as messengers of the Shinto gods.

Himeji Castle

The Himeji Castle is considered the best existing example of Japanese castle architecture. It was fortified to defend against enemies during the feudal period, but it has been rebuilt many times throughout the centuries and reflects the different design periods. It survived the bombings of World War II and is frequently seen in domestic and foreign films, including the James Bond movie “You Only Live Twice”. The white exterior and design give the castle the appearance of a bird taking flight, earning the the castle the nickname ‘white egret castle’.

Great Buddha of Kamakura

The Great Buddha of Kamakura is a colossal outdoor representation of Amida Buddha, one of Japan’s most celebrated Buddhist figures. Cast in bronze, the Great Buddha stands at over 13 meters (40 feet) high and weighs nearly 93 tons. The statue reportedly dates from 1252. Although it originally was housed in a small wooden temple, the Great Buddha now stands in the open air as the original temple was washed away in a tsunami in the 15th century.

Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park

The Hiroshima Peace Memorial is a haunting tribute to the lives lost when the atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima on August 6, 1945. Set in a park, the memorial features Genbaku Dome, the only building left standing in the vicinity after the bomb dropped. This harsh reminder of a world at war reminds visitors of the importance of human life and honors the victims so they will never be forgotten.

Jigokudani Monkey Park

Any person interested in seeing wild monkeys bathing in a natural hot spring should visit this park. It has a man-made pool located near the park's entrance that attracts many monkeys. This park was commonly known as Hell Valley by the ancient people since it has very steep cliffs and steam that emanate from its various springs. This park is covered in snow in almost one third of the year; however, this does not prevent monkeys from inhabiting it. In fact, troops of wild Japanese macaque spend most of their time here. In the day time, monkey sit in the warm hot springs before returning to the security of the forests in the evenings.

Hakone Open-Air Museum

Hakone Open-Air Museum is Japan's first open-air museum, opened in 1969 in Hakone in Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. It has collections of artworks made by Picasso, Henry Moore, Taro Okamoto, Yasuo Mizui, Churyo Sato, and many others, featuring over a thousand sculptures and works of art. The museum is affiliated with the Fujisankei Communications Group media conglomerate.

Mode of Transportation

Japan has an efficient public transportation network, especially within metropolitan areas and between the large cities. Japanese public transportation is characterized by its punctuality, its superb service, and the large crowds of people using it.

There are various modes of transportation available in Japan, when travelling. Understanding these various modes may help you plan or draft out your itinerary better. Each of the transportation modes may serve your different needs / purposes during your trip:

• Walking, by far, is the best mode if you wish to explore the vicinities within a city area. Of course, it is the cheapest because it does not cost any money. However, if you are moving from prefecture to prefecture or city to city, this will not be a good idea as the distance is too long for you to walk.

• Bus / Tram, is the next cheapest solution. These are buses running within each city. Usually the cost of buses may start from 100 yen onwards, depending on the distance that you travel.

• Ferry. There are 2 types of ferries: 1 is for sightseeing (kanko) and 1 is for transporting from the main island (Honshu) to Hokkaido or other smaller islands. Prices vary from at least 1,000 yen onwards and depends on where you are heading to.

• Rail / Train: Japan is renowned for having a complicated railway system. Basically there are several categories of rails / train in Japan that you need to take note:

Metro / Subway - This is a short line of rail system that runs in the city area and is separate from the main rail system. Some cities that have metro / subway lines are Tokyo and Sapporo. Tokyo has the highest number of metro and subway lines, and has 2 different operators: Tokyo Metro (http://www.tokyometro.jp/en/) and Toei Subway (http://www.kotsu.metro.tokyo.jp/eng/)

Local (kakueki-teisha / futsu-densha / 普通) - These trains operate on the main rail system and serve all stations on the railway map. The prices are usually the cheapest in the main rail system (not comparing to metro / subway).

Rapid (kaisoku / 快速) - These trains operate on the main rail system and serve most of the stations, skipping a few of the minor stations on the railway map. The prices are usually the same as the Local trains.

Express (kyuko / 急行) - These trains operate on the main rail system and serve even less stations as compared to Rapid trains. The prices are slightly higher, as an additional fee (express fee) is usually added to the base fee.

Limited Express (tokkyu / 特急) - These trains operate on the main rail system and serve only the major stations. The prices are usually much higher. There are different seat categories and reservations for this type of trains. Some of these trains may have baggage area where you can put light luggage.

Bullet / Super Express (shinkansen / 新干线) - These trains operate on their own rail system and their tracks and platforms are separated from the rest of the trains types. Their tracks are made for these hi-speed trains that go at least 300km/h. They only stop on designated stations. The prices are more expensive than the other train types. There are different seat categories and reservations for this type of trains.

Good Hotels to Stay in

•  The Tokyo Station Hotel

An iconic landmark in the heart of the city, The Tokyo Station Hotel’s majestic red-brick building exudes a timeless elegance befitting its deep rooted heritage. The 150 luxuriously appointed rooms and suites, most with panoramic views of the Imperial Palace Gardens and the Marunouchi cityscape, raise the bar for exclusivity and sophistication. Guests are well-connected as this Central Tokyo hotel is primely located right inside Tokyo Station building and is enticingly-close to a bevy of the most popular attractions and places of interest in and around Tokyo. Above all, it is the impeccable service at The Tokyo Station Hotel that makes your stay extraordinary and remarkable. Book a stay at The Tokyo Station Hotel and experience Omotenashi – genuine Japanese hospitality at its finest.

• Khaosan Tokyo Guest House Ninja

One of the cheapest places to stay in the city, the Khaosan Tokyo Guest House Ninja is a popular spot for backpackers. The communal space in the hotel features free Wi-Fi and a large TV with cable, and the dormitory-style rooms (no doubles – not ideal for couples) accommodate both short- and long-term guests. The hotel encourages a community spirit among guests, which is rare for Tokyo, and often holds parties for residents. 

• Tokyu Stay Shibuya

Located in a quiet corner of the bustling city, and offering guests simple amenities, the Tokyu Stay Shibuya is more of a business hotel than a place for tourists, but rates are reasonable and as well as having internet access, rooms also come with kitchenettes including sink, fridge and microwave, and washer/dryers. For visitors staying at the hotel for more than six days, rooms are cleaned once a week. Often this Shibuya branch of the chain will be fully booked, but Tokyu has hotels at many other locations across the city, almost always close to railway stations.

• Shinjuku Washington Hotel

Here you can find reasonable rates right in the centre of the Shinjuku skyscraper district. Room facilities include high-speed internet, air-conditioning and fridges. The hotel's restaurants and bars are perhaps better avoided: steep prices make eating out nearby much better value. Rooms are simply decorated, and large enough to be comfortable, and there are decent views from the upper floors. Be sure to visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Government offices across the road, where it is free to get to the top of the skyscrapers and see spectacular views of the city.

Cultural Background of Japan

Japan has a fascinating and multifaceted culture; on the one hand it is steeped in the deepest of traditions dating back thousands of years; on the other it is a society in a continual state of rapid flux, with continually shifting fads and fashions and technological development that constantly pushes back the boundaries of the possible. This is part of what makes it such a fascinating country to visit. If you are looking for something different you are sure to find it here!

Japanese Painting : The Japanese painting is a very popular form of art celebrated through out the country. The outstanding procedure of the painting is borrowed from continental regions.


Japanese Language : The language of Japan is one of the most eminent elements of Japanese culture. This language includes a polysynthetic linguistic process and is featured by a distinctive lexical pitch modulation. The written form of this language is very interesting as the Japanese scripts are combination of various types of scripts as Roman Alphabets, Chinese Characters.


Japanese Sculpture : Japanese Sculptures are the reflection of Shinto as well as Buddhist cultural heritage. Stone, metal, pottery and wood are considered as the favored materials for sculpting.

Lucky charms

Luck, fate and superstition are important to the Japanese. Many people buy small charms at temples or shrines, which are then attached to handbags, key chains, mobile phones or hung in cars to bring good luck. Different charms grant different luck, such as exam success or fertility.

Prayers are often written on votive tablets: wooden boards called ema that are hung in their hundreds around temple grounds. At famous temples such as Kyoto's Kiyomizu-dera, you'll see votive tablets written in a variety of languages.

A final way to learn your destiny is to take a fortune slip. Sometimes available in English, a fortune slip rates your future in different areas: success, money, love, marriage, travel and more. If your fortune is poor, tie your slip to a tree branch in the temple grounds; leaving the slip at the temple should improve your luck.

Shinto, Buddhism and the Japanese belief system

Religion in Japan is a wonderful mish-mash of ideas from Shintoism and Buddhism. Unlike in the West, religion in Japan is rarely preached, nor is it a doctrine. Instead it is a moral code, a way of living, almost indistinguishable from Japanese social and cultural values.

Japanese religion is also a private, family affair. It is separate from the state; there are no religious prayers or symbols in a school graduation ceremony, for example. Religion is rarely discussed in every day life and the majority of Japanese do not worship regularly or claim to be religious.

However, most people turn to religious rituals in birth, marriage and death and take part in spiritual matsuri (or festivals) throughout the year.

Japanese food: a whole lot more than just sushi!

When it comes to food, the Japanese are among the most enthusiastic and passionate of any race. Ask any Japanese person about a recent trip within Japan and the conversation almost always includes talk of the local food. In fact, for many Japanese travelling outside of their hometowns, food is often one of the primary motivators for travelling.

Rice
Once traded as currency, rice has been a staple food for the Japanese for over 2,000 years and still accompanies or forms the base of many meals.

Seasonal & local food
Japan is very proud of its four very distinctive seasons and each season marks the beginning of more delicious offerings. This is very evident in supermarkets, hotels and inns and restaurants where menus are frequently changed to reflect what is available and what is in season.

Fish
It's fair to say that fish is an integral part of the Japanese diet. Whether it's eaten almost live (odorigui - still dancing!) raw (nama or sashimi), grilled (yaki) or deep fried (tempura), it seems that the Japanese have tried and tested every possible method of preparation.

Meat & other foodstuffs
Of course the food offering in Japan extends to far more than just fish. Japan has a huge variety of fruit and vegetables, a whole host of noodle dishes (including one dish served with ice!) and some of the best patisseries outside of France.

Vegetarians
If everything so far sounds a bit meat and fish orientated don't be alarmed - there are plenty of vegetarian options in Japan. In fact eating meat was prohibited in Japan for more than a thousand years prior to 1868!

The World of the geisha
The distinctive white face, red lips and elaborately decorated hairstyle of the Geisha is an enduring image portrayed throughout the globe as the entrance to a world to which most of us mere mortals are not invited. From somewhat seedy beginnings, the current world of the geisha remains a mystery to most foreigners and Japanese alike.

Kabuki
Kabuki is one of three styles of traditional Japanese theatre that continue to be performed in Japan today. Kabuki is very stylised and performed entirely by male actors, who wear extravagant costumes and very elaborate make-up. This theatrical style is over 400 years old and remains popular, with shows performed regularly at Tokyo's newly restored Kabuki-za Theatre - amongst others.

Traditional sports
Sport plays a significant part in the fabric of modern day Japanese life. From a young age children join school teams, instilling a sense of camaraderie, pride, hard work and dedication. Though modern sports such as baseball, badminton, tennis and football are popular, Japan is perhaps better known for sports with a more ancient, traditional profile.

• Sumo
• Kendo
• Karate
• Aikido
• Judo

DO's and DONT's:

Do Bring Gifts

It is a cultural tradition in Japan to bring gifts. This can be a slightly confusing Japanese custom, as giving a gift inappropriately or giving no gift at all can cause embarrassment. As a visitor to Japan a small gesture presenting an aspect of your home culture will be warmly welcomed by your hosts - it can also work as a great conversation starter.

Do Remove Your Shoes

The custom in Japan is to remember to remove your shoes when entering a house. You should see a rack near the entrance, with slippers for you to put on. The Japanese take dirty shoes very seriously and should not be worn especially on Japanese flooring known as Tatami. There are also special slippers that you’ll need to wear when going to the toilet, so make sure that you don’t take those ones outside.

Do Use Your Chopsticks

Many Japanese restaurants should supply you with a chopstick holder. When you are not using your chopsticks it is important to place them back on the holder. Chopsticksshould never be placed upright in a bowl of rice as this resembles a custom performed at Japanese funerals!

Do Say `Thank you’ After Eating

Do put your palms together and say “Gochiso sama deshita” after finishing a meal – it is a polite way of expressing “Thank you creating this feast.”

Do Try And Speak The Language

Try and use the limited Japanese you know, even a small effort is wholly appreciated so give it a go!

Don’t Blow Your Nose

As we know, blowing your nose in Blighty in completely acceptable, in fact, it’s encouraged. However, this is not the case in Japan! Blowing your nose in Japan is probably seen as the rudest thing you can do. The Japanese are also disgusted by the idea of a handkerchief. The Japanese word hanakuso unpleasantly means `nose waste.’

Don’t Forget To Bow

Bowing is the traditional form to greet someone in Japan. Bows can range from a simple nod to a deep bow, although if you’re a visitor, a simple nod should be adequate. The longer a person bows the stronger the emotion and respect being expressed. If the other person maintains his bow for longer than the normal two or three seconds, it is polite to bow again, upon which you may accept another bow in return.

Don’t Be Afraid To Slurp!

It’s near impossible to enjoy a bowl of noodles in Japan without making any noise. Slurping shows the chef you’re appreciating the food – so slurp away!

Don’t Tip

Leaving gratitude or tipping in Japan is often seen as being rude. Leaving a tip is not part of Japanese culture and some will even see it as an insult.

Don’t Talk On Your Phone On A Train

It is seen as rude to speak on your mobile while on a train in Japan. The compromise is that you are sharing the time and space with everyone there, so you are expected to be considerate by not making noise. Many Japanese place their phone in `manner mode’ –which sounds a lot nicer than ‘silent mode’!