The country of Japan is an archipelago consisting of 4 major islands and over
3000 more smaller ones. Approximately 75% of the land is mountainous with the
highest mountain being Mt Fuji at 12,385 ft. The bustling capital of Tokyo, with
some 12 million residents, is Japan’s cultural, economic and political center
but there are smaller cities that should be included in any visit if you are
going to experience this truly unique country.
Tokyo is a mix of innovative and eclectic commercial areas with towering
skyscrapers, mega-department stores, shops, restaurants and entertainment
opportunities. Subways, trains, and buses crisscross the city and make getting
around very convenient.
But even as modern as Tokyo is, visitors can still experience the old
traditions and observances in the city’s meticulously landscaped parks and
gardens or on a visit to the Imperial Palace or the many Shinto shrines and
Buddhist temples scattered throughout the city. The traditional practices of the
tea ceremony, Kabuki and Noh theater, the 3,000 years old art form of
calligraphy, flower arranging and bonsai are still revered and practiced today.
After exploring Tokyo, take the high-speed Shinkansen Bullet Train that
links to other cities, such as Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, Hakata, Hachinohe,
Akita, Shinjo, Nagoya, Niigata, Nagano, and Kagoshima. It is here you will find
a rich history and culture of ancient traditions living alongside modern ways.
The charming city of Kyoto, for example, is home to 1600 temples, 400 shrines,
60 gardens and 2 Imperial villas from a 1200 year old history. Each city is
unique and will be appreciated for its individual character and features as well
as the genuine warmth and hospitality of the Japanese people.
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