Despite being smaller than the US state of
California, Japan can really pack a punch for every traveller with its fascinating cultures, varied landscapes and iconic sites. Consisting of 6,852 islands which include the four ‘main’ islands of Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku and Kyushu, this place is packed with amazing getaway destinations. A population of more than 126 million contributes to the country’s abundance of advancements in nearly every field, particularly technology.
A
luxury holiday is guaranteed in this exceptional country with some of the world’s most prestigious accommodations, eateries and businesses located in the capital
city, Tokyo. Whatever five-star holiday you’re after, you’re sure to find it here, with snowy regions ideal for
skiing, balmy blue oceans for
beach lovers and mountainous peaks for intrepid explorers looking for that once-in-a-lifetime view.
Foodies in particular are going to go nuts for this Far Eastern paradise of culinary excellence. Each of the 42 prefectures is home to a signature dish or style of cooking which locals will proudly claim to be the best. You never have to worry about any two eating experiences being the same between regions, as even the toppings on national dishes such as sushi or Takoyaki (balls of deep fried octopus) are varied from place to place.
Sporting enthusiasts will love everything the islands have to offer. There are more than 500 ski resorts throughout Japan which cater to everyone whether you’re a beginner or an off-piste expert. Diving is also a popular past time with so much of the country surrounded by warm, crystal clear waters and a diversity of marine life. You can even take a dip to visit some of the underwater farms in Okinawa, where the locals make a living growing one of the most sort after vegetations – seaweed!
And to top it all, there is no better place in the world to fulfil your photography dreams than Japan. Every turn of the bullet train, every step on a mountain and every new street in its city centres offers another breath-stealing, incomparable view. Let the neon lights of Tokyo dazzle you as they bring the city alive at night, see the world as never before as you make your pilgrimage to the peak of Mount Fuji or simply gaze in wonder from a café at the multitude of wonderful, varied and fascinating people that call the country home.
WINGED BOOTS WISDOM
Public transport in Japan is among the best in the world with its leaping strides in all forms of engineering and technology. Examples of this are the famous Japanese ‘bullet trains’ which offer high-speed access to even the most remote areas in the country. Winged Boots recommends making use of this public transport wherever possible as it is not only fast and convenient but also a great way to see the country and soak up a key element of Japanese culture.