Japan
Japan is often called the land of the rising sun since it is always portrayed on the far east of the world map. The country is divided into four main islands Honshu, Hokkaido, Kyushu, and Shikoku.
Throughout the islands, there are different climate zones, which will give you the choice to have a beach holiday in the southern part of a skiing vacation in the north.
The most northern island is called Hokkaido. It is best known for its skiing resorts and breathtaking landscapes. Colorful fields full of different flowers can be discovered throughout the island, which is a must-see in spring and summer. If you are looking for a winter vacation, you need to go to the Odori parc in the capital Sapporo. Every year the Yuki Matsuri takes place, which is a snow festival with huge sculptures made completely out of snow and ice.
The main island is called Honshu. Most people are thinking about this island when they are talking about Japan. It is the biggest island with the most population. All the big cities can be found on this island – Tokyo, Kyoto, Yokohama, Kobe, and Hiroshima.
Tokyo will be for most the first contact with Japan since most international flights arrive here. The region of Tokyo with its 40 million inhabitants reaches from the bay of Tokyo up to the Tama region with a radius of over 20km.
Everybody knows the world-famous crossing in Shibuya, where hundreds of people are crossing the streets in an orderly manner. In the Tama region, however, the dense city changes into a greener landscape. The bigger cities in the region are much rather used as “sleeping cities” since you can get to Tokyo in just 90 minutes by train. Most people are commuting to Tokyo on a daily basis.
If you are continuing your travel, you will find hot water springs, stalactite caves, and wonderful forests, that are especially beautiful in autumn.
South of Honshu you will find Kyushu. The island has a subtropical climate and is known for its hot springs, which are set all over the island. The biggest cities are Fukuoka, Beppu and Nagasaki. The cities in Kyushu may not be as vibrant as Tokyo, but the landscapes on the island are simply unique. Formed through volcanic activities the rugged landscapes allow you to relax inactive hot springs or simply enjoy your stay on the beaches. You can explore many temples, as well as the oldest Shinto shrine. It can be found in the USA and has been built in the 8th century.
The smallest island is called Shikoku and is located just west of Kyushu. This tranquil island is the perfect choice if you want to travel off the beaten track. It is known for the pilgrimage of 88 temples and will show you traditional Japan.
No matter which kind of vacation you are searching for, Japan can provide something for every occasion. Don’t miss out on the country that combines a modern and traditional ways of life like no other.