About Japan
Looking to travel to Japan but not sure where to start? You're not alone. With so much to see and do in this fascinating country, it can be tough to know where to begin. That's why One World Adventures has put together a tour of some of the best places to visit for people in their 30's and 40's.
Tokyo is, of course, a must-see. This bustling metropolis is home to world-famous sights like the Tokyo Tower and the Imperial Palace, as well as countless shops, restaurants, and bars. Spend a few days here exploring all that the city has to offer.
Next, head to Kyoto. This historic city is full of temples, shrines, and other traditional Japanese architecture. It's also a great place to try some traditional cuisine like sushi, tempura, and ramen. Be sure to stroll through the stunning Fushimi Inari Shrine, and don't miss the opportunity to take a day trip to nearby Nara.
Finally, no trip to Japan would be complete without a stop in Hiroshima. This tragic city is home to the Peace Memorial Park, which commemorates the lives lost in the atomic bombing of 1945. It's a sobering reminder of World War 2.
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Japan depends on what you want to do and see. If you want to experience the cherry blossom season, then the best time to visit is between late March and early April. If you want to avoid the crowds, then the best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall).
Currency: The currency in Japan is the Japanese yen (JPY).
Weather and average temperature: The climate in Japan varies depending on the region. The northern island of Hokkaido has a cold climate with long, snowy winters. The southern island of Kyushu has a warm climate with mild winters. The central island of Honshu has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons.
National Language: The official language of Japan is Japanese. However, English is widely spoken in major cities and tourist areas.
Top dishes to try: Sushi: Sushi is a Japanese dish of prepared vinegared rice combined with other ingredients, such as seafood, vegetables and sometimes tropical fruits, Ramen: Ramen is a Japanese noodle soup. It consists of Chinese-style wheat noodles served in a meat or (occasionally) fish-based broth, often flavoured with soy sauce or miso, and uses toppings such as sliced pork (叉焼, chāshū), nori (dried seaweed), menma and scallions, Tempura: Tempura is a Japanese dish of seafood or vegetables that have been battered and deep-fried, Sukiyaki: Sukiyaki is a Japanese hot pot dish of thinly sliced beef, vegetables, and tofu simmered in a dashi broth, Shabu-shabu: Shabu-shabu is a Japanese hot pot dish of thinly sliced meat, vegetables, and tofu simmered in a water-based broth.