Japan is known for its traditional charm, delectable cuisine and ambient weather. It is apt for a solo vacation as well as for family trips. And now that the country is dropping all the pandemic-related travel regulations, there is no better time to board a flight and jet to the land of cherry blossoms. So if you are looking to explore, here’s your guide to travel to Japan. By Anushka Goel
Japan is a beautiful country in Southeast Asia. The destination, a haven for cherry blossom lovers, is rooted in culture. It is the perfect amalgamation of tradition and modernity. Japanese food and culture are also popular across the world, and has been for long.
The country is known for its stunning cherry blossom season, traditional homes and temples. It makes for a safe, comfortable place for a solo trip, or even for a week away with friends and family. So, if you’re planning on visiting, here’s your travel guide to Japan.
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What to do
Food
Green tea
One of the most popular things in Japan is its teas. It is known for its elaborate tea ceremonies, and enjoying a cup, brewed traditionally, is an experience that is simply unmissable.
Sushi
Who doesn’t love sushi? The dish is popular in Japanese cuisine and is relished across the world now. A combination of sushi rice, seaweed (nori) and some type of seafood (it has other fillings too, now), sushi is eaten with soy sauce and served with a side of wasabi and pickled ginger.
Miso soup
Miso soup is a popular broth-based dish in Japan. The broth uses miso paste (made with fermented soybeans), which lends a deep, umami flavour to the otherwise light broth. Add toppings such as vegetables, tofu, meat and fish to make this into a wholesome meal, or sip on some broth alongside your main course.
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Udon noodles
Thick and slurpy, Udon noodles are among the best-known noodles in Japan. They are chewy and have a bite to them, and the thick texture of the noodles helps soak up the sauce or broth they are served in, making for a bite that will hit all the right spots!
Soba noodles
Another popular noodle from Japan, Soba is made using buckwheat (kuttu) flour. This gives it an earthy flavour and makes it the perfect addition to soups and light broths.
What to see in Japan
Temples in Kyoto
Kyoto is a stunning city in Japan. What makes it so attractive for visitors is its temple structures. No wonder this ancient city is called the spiritual centre of the country! Head here and soak in the quiet, calm beauty of the place.
Visit Mount Fuji
If you’re visiting in the summer, be sure to pay a visit to Mount Fuji. Go trekking on the mountain for a tryst with nature, and once you reach the top, be mesmerised by the beautiful views the city has to offer!
Visit a bamboo forest
Bamboo is widely cultivated in Japan, so if you travel there, be sure to visit a bamboo forest. Walk amidst the tall grass, soak in the mild bamboo fragrance and calm your senses, as you enjoy a meal consisting of bamboo shoots later!
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Diving in Okinawa
Several places in Japan have a cold climate, but Okinawa offers water bodies in a tropical weather. These make it perfect for a swim and a dive.
See cherry blossoms in Tokyo
Cherry blossoms are one of the major attractions in Japan. The pink-hued flowers have a sweet, fruity, floral fragrance to them, and parks with cherry blossom trees make for a fun family picnic spot or a romantic date night.
Best time to travel to Japan
The best part about Japan is that you can visit throughout the year – be it summer, winter, autumn or spring. So, plan your trip according to the sights you want to see and make the most of your visit!
Hero and Featured Image: Courtesy of Sorasak/Unsplash
Related: Unique In Japan: A Temple Dedicated To Grapes And Wine
Anushka Goel
Digital Features Writer
Anushka has previously worked with publications such as the Times of India and Being Indian. A graduate from Xavier Institute of Communications, she specialises in entertainment, food and travel. She also likes to write about sustainability and beauty. When not working, you can catch her reading a book, tending to her plants, cooking or playing an instrument.
