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|  | JAPAN COUNTRY SNAPSHOT AND INTERESTING FACTS | "Where tradition and modernity meet"
The Japanese archipelago has long been a favourite of more adventurous travellers, and with high-tech Tokyo and vibrant Osaka increasingly popular choices for long-haul stopovers, and Japanese culture more fashionable than ever, there has never been a better time to explore this multifaceted country.
While the bustling cities won't fail to impress those in search of the clichés of the Japanese success story - skyscrapers, bullet trains, trendy nightlife and rampant consumerism - beneath the brash modernity beats an ancient heart. This is the realm of emperors and shoguns, the exquisite art of the geisha and the skill of the sumo wrestler. A land of great natural beauty where ancient festivals are celebrated according to the seasons and food is elevated to an art form.
And from the snow festivals and lavender farms of the northern isle of Hokkaido, via Kyoto's shrines and temples, to the sun-drenched beaches of the subtropical south, superb public transport means everywhere is easily accessible. Japan is one of the safest countries in the world, and there's no need to worry about the language barrier - the Japanese are unfailingly friendly so help is always at hand. Whether you choose to climb Mount Fuji or relax at volcanic hot spring resorts, delight in traditional performing arts or lose yourself in high-tech wonderland, Japan is a truly unforgettable destination. In 1603, a Tokugawa shogunate (military dictatorship) ushered in a long period of isolation from foreign influence in order to secure its power. For 250 years this policy enabled Japan to enjoy stability and a flowering of its indigenous culture. Following the Treaty of Kanagawa with the United States in 1854, Japan opened its ports and began to intensively modernize and industrialize. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Japan became a regional power that was able to defeat the forces of both China and Russia. It occupied Korea, Formosa (Taiwan), and southern Sakhalin Island. In 1933 Japan occupied Manchuria and in 1937 it launched a full-scale invasion of China. Japan attacked US forces in 1941 - triggering America's entry into World War II - and soon occupied much of East and Southeast Asia. After its defeat in World War II, Japan recovered to become an economic power and a staunch ally of the US. While the emperor retains his throne as a symbol of national unity, actual power rests in networks of powerful politicians, bureaucrats, and business executives. The economy experienced a major slowdown starting in the 1990s following three decades of unprecedented growth, but Japan still remains a major economic power, both in Asia and globally. In 2005, Japan began a two-year term as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council. Government-industry cooperation, a strong work ethic, mastery of high technology, and a comparatively small defense allocation (1% of GDP) helped Japan advance with extraordinary rapidity to the rank of second most technologically-powerful economy in the world after the US and third-largest economy after the US and China, measured on a purchasing power parity (PPP) basis. (Using market exhange rates rather than PPP rates, Japan's economy is larger than China's.) One notable characteristic of the economy is the working together of manufacturers, suppliers, and distributors in closely-knit groups called keiretsu. A second basic feature has been the guarantee of lifetime employment for a substantial portion of the urban labor force. Both features are now eroding. Industry, the most important sector of the economy, is heavily dependent on imported raw materials and fuels. The tiny agricultural sector is highly subsidized and protected, with crop yields among the highest in the world. Usually self sufficient in rice, Japan must import about 50% of its requirements of other grain and fodder crops. Japan maintains one of the world's largest fishing fleets and accounts for nearly 15% of the global catch. For three decades overall real economic growth had been spectacular: a 10% average in the 1960s, a 5% average in the 1970s, and a 4% average in the 1980s. Growth slowed markedly in the 1990s, averaging just 1.7%, largely because of the after effects of overinvestment during the late 1980s and contractionary domestic policies intended to wring speculative excesses from the stock and real estate markets. From 2000 to 2003, government efforts to revive economic growth met with little success and were further hampered by the slowing of the US, European, and Asian economies. In 2004, growth improved and the lingering fears of deflation in prices and economic activity lessened. Japan's huge government debt, which totals more than 160% of GDP, and the aging of the population are two major long-run problems. A rise in taxes could be viewed as endangering the revival of growth. Robotics constitutes a key long-term economic strength with Japan possessing 410,000 of the world's 720,000 "working robots." Internal conflict over the proper way to reform the ailing banking system continues. | Open here a detailed map in a new window. Map Server Travel-Island.com. |  |
| | | RESORTS AND EXCURSIONS | The Japanese archipelago stretches over 3000km (1900 miles) from the temperate, northernmost island of Hokkaido to the subtropical islands of Okinawa in the south. Both Tokyo and Kyoto are located on Honshu, the largest and economically and culturally most important of the four major islands. Shikoku and Kyushu lie to the southwest. Much of the archipelago is mountainous and only a small percentage of land is available for agriculture and development. Thus large areas remain forested while towns and cities tend to be densely populated. The coastline is indented with numerous bays, inlets and small islands.
Note: The Japanese government provides a nationwide telephone service called Japan Travel Phone which offers visitors from abroad extensive tourist information and general assistance in English (tel: (0088) 224 800 (toll-free except Tokyo and Kyoto; (3) 3201 3331 (Tokyo); (75) 371 5649 (Kyoto). It can only be dialled from inside Japan (Mon-Fri 0900-1700).
A volunteer 'Goodwill Guide' service is available in Kyoto, Nara and other popular destinations such as Himeji and Hiroshima. Call Japan Travel-Phone for more details.
Tokyo
Japan's capital and centre of business and finance, Tokyo offers a surprising blend of futuristic cityscapes, historic sights and cultural entertainments. A vast conglomeration of districts, each boasts its own characteristic attractions. The Ginza is one of Asia's shopping paradises. Prices are high but the selection and presentation are superb. Nearby is the Kabukiza Theatre and the Imperial Palace (closed to the public) with its impressive moat and East Garden (Higashi Gyoen). Tokyo Tower affords excellent views of the bay and the space age architecture on Rainbow Town (O-daiba), a reclaimed island. Early risers will enjoy touring the massive waterfront Tsukiji Fish Market. Roppongi and Akasaka, playgrounds for the nearby banking and governmental districts, offer vibrant nightlife of every kind, from geisha teahouses to discos. For youth culture, fashion and trendy dining, Shibuya and Harajuku are the places to see and be seen, while the forested oasis of the Meiji Shrine offers respite from the crowds. West Shinjuku is Tokyo's high-rise metropolis with its 'Gothem City' skyscrapers and plazas. To the east, Shinjuku's bustling shopping and neon-lit nightlife districts contrast strongly with the calm beauty of the neighbouring Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. For a taste of 'Old Tokyo', the downtown Shitamachi area is the place to head for, particularly in the summer when three enormous festivals attract vast crowds of revellers and spectators. The Asakusa-Kannon Temple is the area's main tourist draw, a vibrant Buddhist complex approached via a colourful shopping lane. Across the river, Ryogoku is the location of the excellent Edo-Tokyo Museum and the renowned National Sumo Stadium. Ueno is famous for its large park containing several important art museums and cultural venues. Cheap eats and bargains galore are to be found at raucous Ameyoko Market.
Excursions
Narita, location of Tokyo International Airport, is an attractive old town with a large and impressive pilgrimage temple, Narita-san. Nearby Tokyo Disneyland is a major year-round attraction for Japanese and foreigners alike. Two hours north of Tokyo in Nikko, the extraordinary Toshogu Shrine complex is situated, where the mausoleum of the founder of Japan's Tokugawa Shogunate. The surrounding Nikko National Park offers mountain hot spring resorts and opportunities for hiking, fishing and boating. Pottery fans will enjoy the rural kiln town of Mashiko. The coastal town of Kamakura, one hour south of Tokyo, was the seat of Japan's medieval feudal government and abounds in historic sights. Highlights include the giant bronze Great Buddha, colourful Hachimangu Shrine and picturesque Enoshima Island. The international port city of Yokohama, 30 minutes from Tokyo, has a vibrant Chinatown, harbour district and historic Sankei-en Garden. Japan's highest mountain, Mount Fuji, may be climbed during the high summer. Located one hour 30 minutes from Tokyo is Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park, a recreational paradise offering hot spring resorts, golf courses and facilities for fishing, camping, hiking, swimming and boating. At Hakone, cable cars carry visitors over volcanic landscapes of boiling mud, sightseeing boats ply scenic Lake Ashi and there is an Open Air Sculpture Museum, a Porsche Museum and several sights of historical interest.
Northern Honshu & Hokkaido
Northern Honshu, known as Tohoku, offers wonderful natural scenery spread over three national parks plus numerous lesser-known cultural and historical treasures. Sendai is a lively, modern city, home of the famous August Tanabata Star Festival and gateway to the Tohoku region. Nearby Matsushima boasts a famously scenic bay. The pleasant city of Aizu-Wakamatsu is known for its lacquer ware, historic Tsurugaoka Castle and fascinating Buke-yashiki samurai residence. The volcanic landscapes of the adjacent Bandai-Asahi National Park are a favourite with hikers, as is the dramatic Dewa Sanzan area and Mount Zao, which in winter transforms into one of Japan's top ski resorts. Historic Hiraizumi is of interest for the fabulously ornate Chusonji Temple and Hirosaki is an attractive castle town. To the very north of Honshu, the stunning volcanic crater of Lake Towada is surrounded by the alpine landscapes of the Towada-Hachimantai National Park, also known for its hot springs and ski resorts.
Hokkaido was long Japan's 'Wild West' and still retains a distinct pioneer feel. The island is home to the last of Japan's indigenous Ainu people, and the remnants of their distinct culture are a major attraction. Large parts of Hokkaido are protected as National Parks: areas of fantastic volcanic scenery, 'bottomless' crater lakes, hot springs and numerous mountain and ski resorts. Furano, in particular, is renowned for its summer flower fields and winter skiing. During the winter visitors flock to see two of Hokkaido's outstanding natural phenomena: 'dancing' cranes and hot spring-bathing monkeys. Sapporo, Hokkaido's vibrant capital, is famous for its great nightlife and extraordinary February Snow Festival. To the south, the port city of Hakodate was one of the first of Japan's ports to open to foreign trade. Known for its historic Goryokaku Fort and gorgeous night views, the city displays a notable Russian influence.
The Japanese Alps & Central Japan
The Japanese Alps run through the centre of Honshu Island, an area known as 'the Roof of Japan'. A popular natural playground for hikers, climbers and sightseers in all seasons, much of the area is protected as a National Park. Nagano, the prefectural capital, hosted the 1998 Winter Olympics and is renowned for its great Zenkoji Pilgrimage Temple. The surrounding area abounds in skiing and hot spring resorts. Matsumoto is the main gateway to the Alps and retains its original medieval castle. The nearby Kamikochi Highlands are a favourite destination for hikers, particularly in the autumn when the colours of leaves are spectacular.
Takayama is famous for its colourful festivals and boasts a largely preserved 17th-century townscape. The historic city of Kanazawa is known for the beautiful Kenrokuen Garden and for a range of traditional industries such as silk-dying and ceramics. To the north, the Noto Peninsula's dramatic coastline and tiny fishing villages attract adventurers, while to the south are the great Zen temple complex of Eiheiji and the picturesque Shirakawa-go folk villages. One hour by boat from the costal city of Niigata lies Sado Island, rural, unspoilt and home to the world famous Kodo Drummers.
Nagoya is Japan's fourth largest city, noted for its porcelain industry, textile and lacquer crafts. Nagoya Castle is an impressive sight, as is Atsuta Jingu, one of Japan's most important shrines. Meiji Mura is an extensive outdoor museum of characteristic buildings from the Meiji Period. Japan's pre-eminent Shinto shrine is the revered Ise Grand Shrine, located one hour 30 minutes from Nagoya. The Ise Shima National Park protects the scenic coastal area dotted with numerous small pearl fishing villages. The port of Toba is famous for its 'Married Rocks', two islets linked by a massive Shinto rope, and Mikimoto Pearl Island features demonstrations of techniques used in the pearl industry.
Kyoto, Nara & Osaka
Located in the Kansai area, these three famous cities are all major tourist destinations, each having contributed distinctive elements towards Japanese history and culture. Capital of Japan for over 1000 years, Kyoto remains Japan's star attraction. Founded in AD 794, the city's vast number of temples, shrines, museums and historical sites acts as a textbook to Japanese history, while her arts, crafts and cuisine rank among the country's finest. 'Must see' sights include the Golden Pavilion (Kinkakuji), the minimalist Zen rock garden of Ryoanji, impressive Kiyomizu Temple and the Imperial gardens and villas of Katsura and Shugakuin (permit required). The splendid medieval Nijo Castle, the vermilion-lacquered Heian Shrine and the Buddhist art treasures of Sanjusangendo Temple are also well worth visiting. The city's many historical neighbourhoods, such as the rural temples of Arashiyama, the textile workshops of Nishijin and the Gion geisha district, are best explored on foot. Kyoto hosts three major traditional summer events, the colourful Aoi, Gion and Jidai Festivals.
Nara, one hour south of Kyoto, is a major Buddhist centre and acted as Japan's capital during the eighth century AD. Visitors flock to see the famous 'great Buddha' of Todaiji Temple, the world's largest wooden structure, ancient Kasuga Shrine and the Buddhist sculptures of Kofukuji Temple. The beautiful expanses of Nara Park are home to hundreds of sacred deer. Nearby, the venerable Horyuji Temple dates back to the seventh century AD.
One of Japan's largest cities, prosperous, commercial Osaka is renowned for its abundance of excellent restaurants, historic Osaka Castle and the performing arts of Kabuki and Bunraku. The city also boasts an impressive Aquarium and superb Museum of Oriental Ceramics. The city's busy Namba and Umeda districts are renowned for their nightlife and the Dotomburi area is particularly vibrant after dark. Universal Studios Japan opened its 140 acre theme park in Osaka in 2001, an attraction which is proving to be enormously popular.
Excursions
The historic town of Uji, between Kyoto and Nara, is famous for the graceful Byodoin Temple which is featured on Japan's Yen10 coin. Pilgrims and tourists are welcomed by the many temples and monasteries on scenic Mount Koya, two hours from Osaka, where overnight temple lodgings and Buddhist vegetarian cuisine are offered at reasonable prices. The port city of Kobe has an international flavour and is famous for its old foreign-style houses and buildings dating from the Meiji era.
Western Honshu
The main attractions of Western Honshu are to be found along the coasts, namely the Inland Sea Coast (Sanyo) and the Japan Sea Coast (Sanin). The gleaming white walls of Himeji Castle dominate the city of Himeji. Known as the 'White Heron Castle', it is the best preserved and most beautiful castle in Japan. The pleasant city of Okayama is known for its black castle and the Korakuen Stroll Garden, considered one of the three most beautiful in the country. Nearby is the pottery town of Bizen and wonderfully preserved Kurashiki with its historic merchants' quarter, now housing numerous museums and craft galleries. Further west, Hiroshima was the target of the world's first atom bomb during World War II but has risen from the ashes to become a thriving modern city. The bombing is commemorated by the Peace Memorial Park and Museum. Nearby is the beautiful island of Miyajima, its famous red Shinto torii gateway seemingly floating on the sea at high tide. Itsukushima Shrine, the cable car up the central mountain for panoramic views and the tame deer are all major attractions. Iwakuni is known for its five-arched bridge while Hagi, on the western Japan Sea Coast, is famous for its pottery and will appeal to history buffs. The sand dunes of Tottori, ancient Izumo Taisha Shrine and the famous coastal panorama of Amanohashidate are the most famous attractions along this northern coastline.
Shikoku
The smallest of Japan's four main islands, Shikoku is linked to Honshu by two major bridges and numerous ferries which crisscross the beautiful island-studded waters of the Inland Sea. Protected as the Inland Sea National Park, many of the 600 islands are popular summer beach destinations. Facing these placid waters, the attractive city of Takamatsu, on the northern coast of Shikoku, is the main gateway to the island. The historic Ritsurin Park is considered among the most beautiful in Japan and mountaintop Kotohira Shrine, about an hour away, is extremely impressive. To the east is Tokushima, a city famous for its coastal Naruto Whirlpools and massive summer Awa Odori dance festival. Matsuyama, on the western coast of Shikoku, boasts one of Japan's best-preserved medieval castles. The nearby Dogo Spa is famous as being among the oldest in Japan. Located on Shikoku's rugged Pacific southern coast, Kochi is also noted for its castle. The mountainous interior of the island remains wild and largely unspoilt. Shikoku is famous for its pilgrimage circuit of 88 temples dedicated to Kannon, the Goddess of Mercy.
Kyushu
The southernmost of Japan's four main islands, Kyushu is best known for its mild climate, volcanic landscape, excellent hot springs and ceramics. The gateway to Kyushu, Fukuoka (Hakata) is known for its traditional textile and doll-making industries, its delicious food and for the nearby Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine, a very active place of worship where students go to pray to the god of learning. On Kyushu's west coast, Nagasaki was one of Japan's earliest designated foreign ports and is famous for Arita and Imari ceramics and for the Peace Park which commemorates the devastation caused by the second nuclear bomb of World War II. Other major sights include the Chinese Temple, Chinatown and Glover House, said to be the setting that inspired Puccini's opera Madame Butterfly. Nearby Mount Unzen, an active volcano, is also a well known hot spring resort. Kumamoto is an old castle town and gateway to the scenic wonders of the Mount Aso National Park. To the south of the island, the seaport of Kagoshima is overshadowed by the dramatic smoking cone of Sakurajima volcanic island. Nearby Ibusuki Spa, on the southern tip of Kyushu, boasts some of the most famous hot springs in Japan and is renowned for its hot-sand saunas. Summer whale and dolphin-watching tours depart from the town of Kasasa. Beyond Kagoshima lies the beautiful, mountainous island of Yakushima, a National Park renowned for its primeval cedar forests and hiking trails. Miyazaki, situated on Kyushu's south-eastern coast, is a prosperous modern city famous for its palm trees, golf courses and ancient burial mounds. The Beppu hot spring resort, near the city of Oita, is great fun despite its slightly sleazy atmosphere. Dozens of hotel and bathing complexes compete for customers by offering everything from amusement parks and sports facilities to museums, gardens and shopping arcades.
Okinawa
The 161 islands that make up Okinawa lie to the far south of Japan, like stepping stones between Kyushu and Taiwan. The subtropical climate, clear turquoise seas and many fine beaches mean that the islands have long been a holiday favourite among Japanese. Recently, however, several of the islands are also becoming well known as eco-destinations. Numerous coral reefs offer excellent diving opportunities, with many resorts catering to enthusiasts. Okinawa Island, the main island of the group, has a number of famous resorts such as Onna Beach and Manza Beach, offering white sands and watersports. The fantastic formations of the Gyokusendo Caves are also a popular attraction. Naha, the relaxed Okinawan capital, is famous for its pottery and textiles and impressive Shuri Castle, former seat of the Ryukyu kings. The large American bases nearby help to fuel a lively nightlife scene. The island retains many reminders of the fierce fighting that took place here during World War II, and the southern coastline is dotted with War Memorials. Ishigaki Island has great diving, snorkelling and folkcrafts and is a good base from which to explore the remoter islands. Iriomote Island is known for its mangrove swamps, jungle interior and rare wildlife such as the Iriomote Wildcat, while tiny Taketomi retains its rural charm. Occurring throughout the islands, Okinawa's ancient Ryukyu festivals are some of Japan's most colourful and feature distinctive performing arts. | | PASSPORT AND VISA APPLICATION Furthermore, in order to get into many countries on the stay abroad you will require a visa of some type, even if you are just visiting. This is usually an insert, stamp or sticker which is placed in your passport and the duration of its validity varies from place to place. If you do intend to work or study in the country to which you are traveling, however, you should organize your visa even further in advance as this can take longer to process.
As well as your passport you should ensure that you have at least one other form of identification with you. This may be a driver’s license, birth certificate or any other form of ID which is acceptable worldwide. As with passports, bring at least two copies of all forms of identification in case of loss or theft.
Help to Passport and Visa Application Forms. How to find the right one(s)?
A passport is issued to you by your home country as proof of citizenship. Visas are stamped into your passport to allow you entry into other countries. Although there are exceptions, you are usually required to display your passport when entering or leaving a country. Once you arrive at your destination, carry a photocopy of your passport and keep the original in a safe place.
A visa is an endorsement or stamp entered into your passport by a foreign government. It allows you to enter that country for a specific reason and period of time. Start applying for visas as soon as your passport is available so that all your documentation is completed well before your departure date. To receive a visa you need to send your passport to an embassy or consulate of the country you want to visit. Most countries have embassies and consulates worldwide, and travel agents can usually tell you where the nearest ones are located. Keep in mind that your passport may be tied up for days or weeks until the paperwork is done, so plan accordingly. In addition, some countries require proof of yellow fever vaccination before they will issue you a visa. The amount of time spent mailing your passport to the various agencies involved can really add up if you are visiting several countries. Plan ahead if possible. If you only have a few weeks to prepare, a commercial visa service can often speed up the process. |
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