Packed with contrasts, you are sure to get an insight into many aspects of Japan and its culture – past, present and future.
Prepare to be pleasantly disorientated as you negotiate this fascinating land where ancient gods, customs and craftsmanship are mixed up with cutting edge modern technology, futuristic fashions and up-to-the-second style.
♦ Osaka
Osaka is Japan’s second largest metropolitan area after Tokyo. Osaka may not be as well-known, rich and flashy as Tokyo but Osakans will tell you that it is a more real, honest, friendly and earthy place with a deeper history and a richer sense of humor and fun.
1. Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade
The Shinsaibashi shotengai is a shopping street with a very long history and one of the most popular areas to visit in Osaka. Limited to pedestrians, this strip is sheltered from the elements and provides you withcountless stores from high end brands to the familiar high street names.
2. Dotonbori
Crossing the street and out of the covered arcade, you’ll walk into this open area and see a large Glico Man sign. That’s when you know you’re in Dotnobori. Originally installed in 1935, the giant Glico Man is Dotonbori’s most iconic landmark. It’s a symbol for the Glico candy company, makers of caramel candy and Pocky.
♦ Kyoto
A calming antidote to the futuristic capital, Kyoto is synonymous with ancient temples, tea ceremony masters, traditional ryokan inns and centuries-old craftsmanship.
Kiyomizu Temple
Kiyomizudera is one of the most celebrated temples of Japan. It was founded in 780 on the site of the Otowa Waterfall in the wooded hills east of Kyoto, and derives its name from the fall’s pure waters. In 1994, the temple was added to the list of UNESCO world heritage sites.
♦ Gifu
The prefectural capital Gifu City is famous for cormorant fishing and is blessed with an environment full of natural beauty.
1. Shirakawa-go Village
Shirakawa-go is a quiet mountain village with rice fields and a river running through it. 114 thatched rooves stand together in the village, which was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995.
2. Takayama Historic District
Takayama served as an old merchant town overflowing with a traditional Japanese atmosphere and perfectly suited for a stroll!
♦ Tokyo
Tokyo is a marvelous mix of modern living and old-fashioned manners, slick high-tech gadgets and cutesy cartoon mascots. It’s terribly crowded, yet can be strangely quiet.
1. Asakusa Kannon Temple
Tokyo’s oldest temple is a Buddhist temple located in Asakusa. When approaching the temple, visitors first enter through the Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate), the outer gate of Sensoji Temple and the symbol of Asakusa and the entire city of Tokyo.
2. Meiji Shrine
Meiji Shrine is dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his consort, Empress Shoken.The spacious shrine grounds offer walking paths that are great for a relaxing stroll.
3. Tokyo Skytree
The Tokyo Skytree is a television broadcasting tower and landmark of Tokyo. It is the tallest structure in Japan and the second tallest in the world at the time of its completion. A large shopping complex with aquarium is located at its base.
Photos by Widia Arianti
