Grand Tour of Japan: Cherry Blossoms, Baby Blue Eyes & Aoi Festival

The Otaru Canal was employed by businesses to transport their merchandise to warehouses with smaller ships since the bigger ships could not directly unload their goods to their destinations. However, eventually there was no use for the smaller vessels when the facilities were modernized, making the use of canals less necessary. Now the area is a tourist attraction, during the day people take leisurely walks about the scenic route where there are museums, restaurants, and shops. Furthermore, Otaru Canal is the main site of the Snow Light Path Festival which is celebrated annually during February as a winter festival.

The glass made in Otaru is refined and is made in many workshops that also offer hands-on experience for guests who take interest in making their own glassware for a fee. Otaru is located in the prefecture of Hokkaido, neighboring the city of Sapporo. Aside from glass workshops, there are also many cafés, restaurants, and other shops that also allow guests to admire and purchase their artistic glass.

Among the many shops found on Sakaimichi Street is the Otaru Music Box Museum. It not only displays various objects, but also sells a wide range of music boxes, some of which are more elaborate than others; some move and others light up along with their melody. Midst the various types of music boxes are some made from glass, wood, or even traditional Japanese fabric, some are fashioned after sushi or Western-themed concepts. These music boxes also carry different songs according to a collection that the establishment has at their disposable.

The Sapporo Clock Tower is a museum and a symbol of Sapporo’s city. Once used as a drill house for physical education and military training for the students in the Agricultural College, it now holds small displays of the origins of Sapporo’s development and local history. The clock itself was bought in 1881 from Boston, Massachusetts. Its appearance now consists of red roofs and white walls that stand out to people passing by this historical monument. It was once the tallest building when it was constructed, but is now overshadowed by the taller business buildings around it.

Located in the center of Sapporo, running from east to west is Odori Park. It was supposed to be the main street separating Sapporo north from south as a fire break, but now represents the area holding the annual Snow Festival events. It has 92 types of trees and many flowerbeds, enough to attract tourists and locals for a relaxing time in its vicinity. For guests wishing for good views and photographs, there is the Sapporo TV Tower’s observation deck available to the public for a fee. The deck is especially popular during the Snow Festival’s events held every February.

Nightlife plans for guests in Sapporo might include activities like hitting the pachinko machines, nightclubs, bars, karaoke, and restaurants. If that is the case, it will probably lead them to Sapporo’s biggest entertainment neighborhood, Susukino, which is similar to Shinjuku’s Kabukicho red light district. As such, it should not come as a surprise that expenses might run a little higher here than in other parts of the city. Susukino is one of the sites that hosts the annual Snow Festival held every February in Sapporo. Genghis Khan nabe, or Susukino’s Ramen Yokocho are local foods recommended to all.

The Historic Village of Hokkaido is a restored area based of what remained from the Meiji era and Taisho era. It is now an open-air museum with shops, households, and horse-drawn trams that run through the village. It displays various buildings and shops that were once constructed during Hokkaido’s growing development, including 60 different buildings from all over this northern island. It is also a place where many who lost their positions in the Edo Shogunate went to start their lives anew, especially samurai. It is located in the suburbs of Sapporo. It consists residential, mountainous, fishing, and agricultural zones.

Sapporo is considered the birthplace of beer in Japan since it started manufacturing beer in the Meiji Period. The building for the Sapporo Beer Museum was originally used as the Sapporo Sugar Company around 1890. Then, it was employed as a location for the cleaning process of barley leaves that were used to make beer in 1965. Finally, it was made into a brewery and, then, the museum that now has two neighboring beer gardens. There are tasting lounges and tours offered at the Sapporo Beer Museum for a fee, though there are few signs containing English for foreign guests.

Initially opened in 1990, the Porotokan Ainu Museum was dedicated to cataloging, preserving, and teaching the history and culture of the original native peoples of Hokkaido: the Ainu people. In 2018, however, the Porotokan closed down in order to clear the way for the new and expanded National Ainu Museum. This newer museum’s philosophy is based on the ideals of multicultural coexistence and presents various exhibits divided into six separate Ainu-centered themes: history, language, lifestyle, livelihood, worldview, and trade with other peoples. The museum is one building in a larger facility called Upopoy (“singing in a large group” in Ainu language). This facility includes, in addition to the museum, a National Park near Lake Poroto, and a Memorial Site for deceased Ainu.

There are many hot springs in Japan, one of which is located in Hokkaido with the name of Jigokudani, meaning “Hell Valley.” The very characteristics of the valley itself justify the name given to the location. Other physical features of the valley include its crater foundation that is more than a kilometer and half all around.

Mount Usu, Japan’s most active volcano. The unusual thing with Mount Usu is that it does not spew out tons of lava, but instead forms new landmarks. The rise of volatile magma creates the lava domes as well as the crypto domes. There are several walking trails that can be taken to see the destruction left behind. There are also wrecked houses, confection factory, telephone poles, cars and other buildings that remain there to educate individuals on the destructive power of volcanoes. The trail then leads to the craters where you can still see steam emitting from the fissures.

Onuma Park (known as Quasi National Park) is located north of Hakodate in Hokkaido. Lake Onuma is located within Onuma Park. Lake Onuma is known for the resorts that permit year-round for guests at their hotels some of which offer golfing, canoeing and camping among other activities as part of their outdoor attractions. Even during winter, Lake Onuma has a ski resort for tourists, so people can try snow- based activities in the colder seasons. During colder seasons and even in spring, Lake Onuma is usually frozen until May due to the high altitude in its already cold prefecture of Hokkaido.

Known as “Lying Cow” for its shape, Mount Hakodate offers one of the best views from its summit some 334 meters high, overlooking both sea and land. The views that can be seen from Mount Hakodate include the peninsulas located south from the summit, the Tsugaru and Shimokita Peninsulas belonging to Aomori Prefecture. In addition to the peninsular views, the night time and daytime views in either direction are popular among the tourists, so tourists need only worry about the observation deck and ropeway operational times when visiting Mount Hakodate.

Hakodate’s Morning Market is a market specializing in seafood. It was created after World War II and extends some four city blocks. This morning market consists of approximately 160 shops, however tourists from all over can buy and have their meals prepared for them at that moment. Seafood like sea urchins, clams, king crab, salmon and more amongst the fruit and vegetables that they sell as well. This market offers sales every day from early in the morning until around noon time.

The Kanemori Red Brick Warehouse refers to the several buildings lined up facing the Hakodate Bay. The Kanemori Youbutsukan is a shopping center, which offers a variety of goods. It is set up daily like a flea market for people to enjoy. The Hakodate History Plaza is where the Hakodate Beer Hall is located. Here you can have a chance to enjoy Hakodate beer, and there is an exhibition hall at the center of the plaza showcasing the history of the area.

The Goryokaku Fort was first built over a hundred years ago, this established structure held the magistrate’s office where Hokkaido was administered and was the first western-styled stronghold of its kind in Japan. The fort was not always affiliated to military, once it lost its importance for military self-defense, it was employed as a park in 1910. This area is one of the best places to see cherry blossoms in early May because it has more than a thousand trees blooming there each year. An observation tower is also available for public use to view the grounds from above.

Wanko-soba (buckwheat noodles) is the local cuisine of Iwate and is eaten in a very unique and entertaining manner. As soon as you finish the first bowlful, a server flings a fresh ball of noodles into the empty bowl with a wild cry and keeps on filling it until you have had enough! Only about a mouthful of noodles is served each time, so if you are an adult male you should be able to eat about 50-60 bowls. Some say that this tradition stems from when landowners hospitably served their guests until they were full. It is now known throughout Japan as a specialty of Morioka and Hanamaki. The trick to eating a lot is to slurp it down without chewing. National championships are held every year in Morioka and Hanamaki, so if you are confident of your appetite, why not take up the challenge?

Iwate Prefecture’s Chusonji Temple was built on the Kanzan Hill, which is why it is also commonly referred to as the Kanzan Chusonji Temple. The grounds originally had many buildings created like pagodas, temples, and halls, however, only two of the buildings remain standing. One of these structures is called Kyozo Hall, which holds Buddhist scripture. The second building is called Konjikido, which is covered in gold and is often compared to the famous golden pavilion located in Kyoto.

Geibikei Gorge is 2 km long with limestone cliffs over 50 meters tall. The name comes from Geibi, which translates to lion nose. There is a formation of limestone at the end of the gorge that resembles a lion’s nose. The gentle flow of the Satetsu River allows the boats in the shallow areas to be navigated by poles. These flat bottomed boats are large enough to transport several dozen passengers. The boat lasts for 90 minutes and at the halfway point you will be able to walk a few meters into the gorge to reach the famed lion nose. Here you can buy 5 small undama (lucky stones) for 100 yen. It is said that if you throw the rock and make it into the hole you will have good luck. This hole is located next to the lion nose shaped rock. Geibikei Gorge has different sceneries for every season. The autumn leaves of fall, wisteria blossoms in summer, and kotatsu (heated table) with nabe (hot pot) in the winter are some of the experiences people can enjoy. Then on the travels back to the port the boatman will sing a folk song through the peaceful gorge for the patrons. When entering the boat please remember to remove your shoes since there will be mats to sit on.

Matsushima Bay has been known as one of the top most scenic places in all of Japan for many years. Without a doubt the most popular and best way to see the bay is by boat cruises. There are many cruises available for visitors to ride on to experience one of Japan’s best scenic views.

The Matsushima Fish Market is a popular location for guests to enjoy local seafood specialties and shop for all of their seafood needs. Run by a captain who owns 7 large tuna fishing boats, visitors will find several kinds of fresh seafood being sold. As an indoor market, guests will find several stalls selling their products on the first floor, whether it be ingredients to cook with or live fish. Another popular aspect of the market, and Matsushima in general, are the Miyagi Oysters, known for their creamy and slightly nutty flavor. You will also find food vendors at the market, which serve these Miyagi Oysters as an all-you-can-eat treat for a low price. Because the water near Matsushima is rich with nutrients, their seafood is considered to be one of the highest quality in Japan. The market also holds tuna cutting shows every month as well as other events. Be sure to give the fresh tuna or the Miyagi Oysters a try, whether you prefer them raw, steamed, or fried, there is something for everyone. Even if you're not a fan of seafood, there are several other foods offered at the market including rice bowls, sushi, and even ramen.

Godaido serves as a symbol of Matsushima since it is a on an islet of the bay in Miyagi Prefecture, which is known for its cruises and natural scenery. Inside the temple itself are five statues that are presented to the public once every 33 years. The small island is connected a short, red bridge that gives the scenery a particularly attractive elegance to the temple’s surrounding environment. Admission to this temple is free, however it does close in the evenings.

One of the most distinguished temples of the Tohoku region is the Zuiganji Temple. The temple is so notable that it has been received as a national treasure in Japan; particularly special places are the main hall with golden sliding doors, the Kuri of the main hall, the “Gate of Honor”, and the “Inner gates” are some examples. Visitors going to the temple can also visit the museum called Seiryuden, also called the Zuiganji Art Museum, where many artifacts and some temple treasures are displayed, in particular a wooden statue of an armored Date Masamune.

Nikko is famous for the Toshogu Shrine, which holds the mausoleum of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the famous founder of the Tokugawa Shogunate that ruled for over 200 years (1603-1868). The original resting place for Tokugawa Ieyasu was much simpler in design that it is today. The construction was carried out in accordance to his father’s will by Ieyasu’s son, Hidetaba Tokugawa, in 1617. However, it was later expanded to its modern size by Ieyasu’s grandson, Tokugawa Iemitsu. The dozens of buildings were built with grandiose designs, unique with its brightly- colored carvings of animals and various types of images.

Kegon Waterfall is listed as one of the three most beautiful falls in Japan along with Nachi Waterfall in Wakayama Prefecture and Fukuroda Waterfall in Ibaraki Prefecture. It is located in Nikko and is the most famous waterfall out of the many in the area. Kegon Waterfall is about 100 meters high and is the only exit for the waters of Lake Chuzenji to exit from. The best time to see the waterfall would be in the autumn season. The surrounding foliage of Kegon Waterfall painted in fall hues is a sight not to miss.

Just north of Tokyo is Ibaraki Prefecture, home to Hitachi Seaside Park where the beautiful baby blue eye flowers bloom each spring. The hills full of more than a million baby blue eyes (Nemophila) match the bright blue skies on sunny days, making it a truly wonderful spring scene.

The outer Tsukiji Fish Market offers a variety of freshly prepared food products and ingredients. Travel in between the different stores and taste a few of their dishes, freshly prepared with some of the best ingredients.

The Imperial Palace is located in the center of Tokyo, only a short walk away from Tokyo station. The palace is home to the current Imperial Family. The inner grounds of the palace is not open to the public, except on January 2nd and December 23rd where guests are able to enter and see the current members of the Imperial Family from a balcony. Visitors can view the Nijubashi, two bridges that form an entrance to the inner palace grounds. The stone bridge in front is called Meganebashi (Eyeglass Bridge) for its looks. The bridge in the back was formerly a wooden bridge with two levels, from which the name Nijubashi (Double Bridge) is derived.

Take a lesson from an expert and prepare fresh sushi. Experience the difference in the taste of Japanese-grown ingredients. Then, enjoy eating your masterpiece for lunch after completing your sushi lesson.

The Sensoji Temple located in Asakusa is one of the most popular Buddhist temples to visit. The temple was built and completed in the year 645 and is Tokyo’s oldest temple. The surrounding area offers shopping for souvenirs and food. The Sanja Festival is one of Tokyo’s biggest festivals and is held every May at Asakusa Temple.

The Tokyo Skytree is Japan’s tallest structure ever built and the world’s second tallest structure ever built at the time of its completion. Located not too far from Asakusa, this 634 meter tall tower is now one of the most popular destinations for visitors. The main observatory is 350 meters high and the second observation deck is 450 meters high and both offer a breathtaking view of the city.

Mt. Fuji is a widely-known symbol of Japan. At 3,773 meters, Mount Fuji is Japan’s tallest mountain. “Station (gome)” is the unit representing one tenth of the length from the trail entrance to the top.The fifth station Mt. Fuji is the fifth point from the base at the height of 2,305 meter. Being the end of the Fuji Subaru Line toll road and the highest point that general cars can reach. From the observatory you can see below Komitake Shrine, an ancient place for prayer that has been visited by worshippers and disciplinant, and Yamanaka-ko, the largest lake among the five Fuji lakes.

One of the most popular ways to get around Hakone is by taking the Hakone Ropeway. The ropeway travels between Sounzan and Togendai. The Hakone Ropeway gives visitors a beautiful view of Hakone and on a clear day, it is possible to get a nice view of Mount Fuji as well.

Owakudani is located in Hakone and is an area around a crater where gaseous fumes, hot springs, and hot rivers exist. Just like most of Hakone, on a clear day, it is possible to see Mount Fuji as well. There are hiking trails available for guests, but these trails are difficult for inexperience hikers.

Hikone Castle is located in Hikone Japan not too far from Kyoto off the shores of Lake Biwa. This castle is one of the four castles in Japan that were declared as national treasures. This castle is an original castle that has never been destroyed and rebuilt. Around the castle is the Hikone Castle Museum and the beautiful Genkyuen Garden.

Built on the grounds of Hikone Castle in 1677, the Genkyuen Garden features a central pond and a circular walking path. It was originally built as a means of entertainment for the local lord, his family, and his guests. From the garden visitors can see the Hikone Castle’s mainkeep, known as “borrowed scenery”. There are also a cluster of wooden buildings where tourists can enjoy a cup of tea during their serene visit.

The Miho Museum is located in the city of Koka and along with Koka’s ninja attractions, is a fun side trip from Kyoto. This museum has a unique architecture that blends in well with its surroundings and artwork display. This museum features many exhibits of world history and culture.

The Aoi Festival is among of Kyoto’s three most famous festivals that takes place between the Kyoto Imperial Palace, Shimogamo Shrine, and Kamigamo Shrine. The main attraction is the large parade that starts from Kyoto Imperial Palace to Shimogamo Shrine and then proceeds to Kamigamo Shrine. This fun festival takes place every year on the 15th of May.

Arashiyama is located on the western outskirts of Kyoto and is a well-known destination for both the cherry blossoms and fall colors seasons. North of the famous Togetsukyo Bridge is Sagano, and together they make this place a nice little getaway from temples and shrines to enjoy nature. Popular destinations include the Togetsukyo Bridge and the Bamboo Forest of Arashiyama.

Located in the Arashiyama district in Kyoto, the Tenryu- Ji Temple is Arashiyama’s most popular temple. The temple is listed as one of Japan’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The original buildings of Tenryu-Ji Temple was lost many times throughout its history, except for Tenryu-Ji’s garden. The Tenryu-Ji Temple Zen Garden that visitors see today is the original garden and landscape.

One of the most popular and well-known spots for visitors is the Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. A nice walking path takes visitors through the groves of bamboos. The Arashiyama Bamboo Forest is also one of the most famous and photographed places in all of Kyoto and brings many visitors every year during the autumn color season.

The famous Kinkakuji (Golden Pavilion) Temple is located in northern Kyoto and is most known for the building covered in gold leaf. This famous building is the number one most popular destination for tourist visiting Kyoto. The Golden Pavilion sits overlooking a large pond and various small attractions and shops are available for visitors.

Take the chance of interacting with a maiko while drinking tea, ask her about her profession, training, and lifestyle. What is different between her life and other girls in Japan? Drink a cup of tea with her, and fulfill some of your curiosity, and even take a picture with her.

The Kiyomizu-Dera Temple is located only 15 minutes away by bus from Kyoto Station to the eastern side of Kyoto. This temple is one of the most popular temples in Kyoto and is listed as one of Japan’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The temple features a large wooden terrace that offers a fantastic view of the cherry blossoms in the spring and autumn colors during the fall season with the city of Kyoto in the background.

Located only 20 minutes away by bus from Kyoto Station, is the Gion Geisha District. The Gion Geisha District is one of the most famous and popular destinations for tourist visiting Kyoto. This area is filled with restaurants, teahouses, shops, and other attractions to entertain guests. The machiya merchant houses along with river and the occasional geisha walking around, brings visitors from everywhere to experience everything that this area has to offer.

The Fushimi Inari-Taisha Grand Shrine is located in southern Kyoto and is one of the most famous and visited shrines in Kyoto. This shrine is only five minutes away from Kyoto Station by train, and features over a thousand vermillion colored torii gates that brings many tourist to this shrine every year.

Located north of Nara Park is one of Japan’s most historic and famous temple called the Todai-Ji Temple. This temple is listed as one of Japan’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The temple’s main hall named Daibutsuden, is the largest wooden building in the world. It is home to one of Japan’s largest bronze statues of Buddha siting at fifteen meters tall.

Located in central Nara is Nara Park, it is one of the most famous and popular parks in Japan. The park is famous and popular because it is home to over one thousand deer. The deer roam freely throughout the park and visitors are able to get up close and feed the deer as well. This park is conveniently located near most of Nara’s main tourist destinations, which include Todai-Ji Temple, Kasuga Taisha Shrine, Kofuku-Ji Temple, and the Nara National Museum.

Shinsaibashi is Osaka’s main and most popular shopping center. This crowded area is full of stores that cover everything from clothes to food and entertainment. Nearby this busy shopping center is also the famous entertainment district called Namba. This area also is full of restaurants and shops as well.

Himeji Castle is located in the city of Himeji and is only a five minute bus ride away from Himeji Station. Himeji Castle the most popular and visited castle in Japan, it is also listed both as one of Japan’s national treasure castles and as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This castle is also one of Japan’s twelve original castles, which means it was never destroyed in its history and has been standing since it was originally completed in the year 1609. The surrounding area is also one of Japan’s most popular cherry blossom destinations during the spring.

Kurashiki’s canal area is one of Japan’s most beautifully preserved canals that date back as far to the Edo Period. The canals were once used to transport rice into the storehouses where they would be shipped to cities such as Osaka and Tokyo (was known as Edo during those times). Now this historic area is the most popular destination for tourist visiting Kurashiki. Many of the historic storehouses have been turned into shops, cafes, restaurants, and museums for guests to enjoy.

One of the most popular museums located in the city of Takamatsu is the Shikoku Mura Village. This is an open air museum that features preserved buildings and structures from all over Shikoku. Many of the structures on display have been relocated from all over Shikoku and provide guests with a pleasant experience of Shikoku’s history. The exhibits feature old traditional buildings, farmhouses, storehouses, and other structures.

Ritsurin Koen Park is one of Japan’s most beautiful landscape garden located in the city of Takamastu. Many consider this garden to belong on the list of Japan’s three most beautiful gardens. This spacious and beautiful park features many ponds, hills, trees, bridges, and pavilions. There are a number of walking routes throughout the park and provides views that would leave any guest satisfied.

One of the most unique attractions in Onomichi City is the Shimanami Kaido. This long 60 km (close to 37.25 miles) road connects the main island of Honshu to Japan’s Shikoku Island and passes over six small islands in the Seto Inland Sea. This roadway is the only way to travel into Japan’s Shikoku Island by foot or bicycle. Visitors can rent bikes to travel between Onomichi, the small six islands, and Imabari City on Shikoku Island. The scenery is spectacular and lets travelers enjoy the natural beauty of the Seto Inland Sea and the islands.

The Hiroshima Peace Park is a memorial park located in the center of the Hiroshima City. Many of the memorials related to the dropping of the atomic bomb are located in and around this area. The park is the location to the memorials such as the A-Bomb Dome, Children’s Peace Monument, and the Peace Memorial Museum. This area is also listed as one of Japan’s UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Peace Memorial Museum is one of the main destinations for guests visiting the Hiroshima Peace Park. The features the history of Hiroshima, effects of the atomic bomb, and its aftermath. Guests visiting the museum can explore the various artifacts and displays related to the atomic blast.

One of the most famous and well known shrines in Japan is the Itsukushima Shrine. This location is one of Japan’s top three most scenic places along with the famous Matsushima Bay and Amanohashidate, and brings plenty of tourist every year. This shrine and its famous torii gate are built over the water, which makes it seem like it is floating in the sea. Guests can stay in the ryokan hotels nearby or ride one of the many boat cruises while here.

The shinkansen (or "bullet train") is a type of high speed train that travels between most of the major cities in Japan. By taking the shinkansen, trips between destinations that might take almost a full day by car can be reached in a few hours. The bullet trains can run up to 320 kilometers per hour (close to 200 miles per hour), and are known to be generally on time, comfortable and safe.

Kitsuki’s most popular attraction is its two well preserved samurai districts. The samurai districts sit opposite to each other on hills north and south with a commercial district in between both areas. Both areas are well preserved with hidden powerlines and no large modern signs to keep a well preserved authentic atmosphere. There are plenty of former residences and museums in both districts for visitors to explore and learn about the history of the area.

There are a few hot springs located in Beppu that are very unsafe for people to go into, but those hot springs are perfect for viewing. There are eight different hot springs that are open for the public due to how beautiful and unique they look. These eight hot springs are all located in different areas within Beppu and offer its own unique view. Some of the hot springs are blue, white, and red or have animals like crocodiles. Some of the hot springs are also a designated national special scenic spot as well.

The Takasakiyama Monkey Park is located at the base of Mount Takasaki between the city of Beppu and Oita. This park is one of the most popular destinations for tourist visiting Kyushu and is known for being the home to over 1500 wild monkeys. Guests can watch the monkeys up close as they are fed and watch the monkeys play or relax in the sun. Guests should avoid eye contact or feeding the monkeys for their own safety.

Located within Takachiho is the Takachiho Shrine, and is one of the most popular destinations for guests visiting the town. The town is known for the legend of the sun goddess hiding herself in a cave and thus taking the world’s sunlight with her. One of the other gods performed a ridiculous dance which caused all the other gods to laugh, and the sun goddess came out to see what all the commotion was and thus brought back the light into the world. The Yokagura dance is a reenactment of the legend and is one of the most popular events to see.

Takachiho Gorge is a beautiful ravine in which the Gokase River flows through. This place is known for its natural beauty and religious importance. The Takachiho Gorge features the scenic Manai-No-Taki Falls and is a popular tourist destination. Guests can view the gorge from renting a boat and rowing down the gorge itself. Another popular way to see the gorge is by walking along the trail above the cliffs to get a good view of the entire gorge.

Located within Takachio is the Amano Iwato Shrine, and is one of the most popular destinations for guests visiting the town. The town is known for the legend of the sun goddess hiding herself in a cave and thus taking the world’s sunlight with her. The Amano Iwato Shrine is near the cave where the sun goddess hid herself in the legend. This beautiful location is one of the most visited and famous destinations in Japan.

The Nagasaki Peace Park commemorates the atomic bombing of Nagasaki of August 9, 1945, which destroyed wide parts of the city and killed ten thousands of inhabitants.

Located in the city of Nagasaki is Dejima, the former district that was once reserved for Dutch traders. During Japan’s period of isolation, the Dutch were the only ones to trade with Japan and were restricted to this district. This popular location is free for guests to explore and has plenty of shops and restaurants for travelers.

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Nagasaki is the Glover Garden, a popular destination representing Japan’s trade history with foreign countries. Nagasaki was one of the earliest port cities that traded with the western world, the Glover Garden is a nice mix of Western and Japanese culture and is an important cultural location.

As a part of Catholic religion in Japan, the Oura Church is often regarded as a must-visit site. It is not only the first foreign building declared as a national treasure, but is often referenced along with the 26 martyrs who were murdered for their conversion to Catholicism despite established laws.

There are many restaurants located within Kobe that serve Japanese or international cuisine, but there are many places that offer Kobe beef. Kobe is known around the world for its famous Kobe beef, which is beautifully marbled, delicious, and very expensive beef. The most popular way to enjoy Kobe beef is in a restaurant where the chef grills the meat in front of the guests. Eating Kobe beef is a popular activity for tourist visiting Kobe and can provide a delicious and unforgettable experience.

Located just a five minute walk from JR Chitoise station and a 10 minute drive from the airport, the hotel offers guests comfort and convenience. The in- house restaurant serves up traditional Japanese dishes. However, if you are in the mood for other cuisines, just step out of the hotel and you will find numerous restaurants and bars where you can indulge with your favorite cuisine or drink.

This modern luxury hotel and resort, situated in the northernmost major city of Japan, is a landmark for opulence and leisure. Guests will enjoy a location that is just a short walk from the Sapporo Subway Station and an additional six minutes from the JR Sapporo Station. ANA Crowne Plaza Sapporo is an ideal choice for guests who want a central location close to public transport links and a vast selection of on- site facilities as well as first class professional service.

Noboribetsu Manseikaku is standing at the entrance of Hokkaido's famous hot-springs Resort, Noboribetsu Onsen and promises the stay in comfort and relaxation. It is the modern style ryokan which offers genuine courtesy services.

Facing beautiful Hakodate Port, this hotel is located in exotic and poetic surroundings including Motomachi Park, a historical church and the morning market.

3 minutes on foot from the station. This top class facility features a mixture of classic European style and elements of Morioka. The large banquet hall can host international conferences.

Hotel Taikanso is located on the highland overlooking Matsushima bay in the three most famous scenic places in Japan. The largest resort hotel sprawls atop a plateau surrounded by pine- covered hills and offers the best views in town. Matsushima's splendid view are enjoyed from the observatory public bath, open-air bath, lobby and several other locations in the hotel.

Surrounded by a forest and an expansive pasture, this stylish, Northern Italian-style hotel is wrapped in the verdant, peaceful bosom of nature. The baths use water from the hotel's own constant and free-flowing hot spring.

Hotel Metropolitan Tokyo Ikebukuro is located 3 minutes by foot from Ikebukuro Station, a massive terminal with eight different subway and JR lines. From the station, over 17 round trip buses depart to both Narita and Haneda International Airports each day, assuring convenience for guests arriving by or planning to make a transfer by air. When setting off from the hotel, guests can easily reach popular attractions such as the Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre and Ikebukuro Café, a unique space where visitors can play with owls and other animals.

Hotel New Akao is located at the tip of Uomisaki Point in Atami and all rooms are oceanfront. All rooms have the exclusive superb view of Nishikiga- Ura, one of the most scenic spots in Izu and the night view of Atami. Akao Resort includes Japanese garden, herb and rose garden, and private beach in the total site of 750,000 square meters. The founder, who was very impressed by the unique place and scene, established this resort without destroying nature and managed to fit the hotel in the land like a big tree.

Just 5 minutes from Kyoto Station on the free shuttle, Kyoto Tokyu Hotel features 3 restaurants, a bar and a fitness gym. The modern rooms have Tempur comfort pillows and a satellite LCD TV. Free WiFi is available throughout the property. All rooms are air-conditioned and include a fridge and an electric kettle. Guests are entitled to complimentary access to the on-site fitness centre. All guest rooms are non-smoking, while there is a designated smoking area on site.

Located in the Umeda city centre, Hotel Elsereine Osaka features stylish accommodation and plenty fresh flowers. This completely non-smoking hotel offers 3 dining options, and comes with a concert hall with a grand piano and a meeting space. JR Osaka Train Station is a 10-minute walk, and the JR Kita-shinchi Train Station is a 5- minute walk away. Universal Studios Japan is a 25-minute train ride away, and Osaka Castle is a 30-minute train ride away from Osaka Hotel Elsereine. Umeda Station is a 10-minute walk away from the property.

Located just a 3-minute walk to Washu Highland Amusement Park, Washu Blue Resort Kasago features open-air natural hot spring baths on the rooftop. Each Japanese-style room is fitted with tatami (woven-straw) flooring, and in-room facilities include a flat-screen TV, a fridge and an electric kettle. Mini-bar and yukata robes are also provided. The private bathroom has a hairdryer and free toiletries. While staying at Washu Blue Resort Kasago, guests can unwind at the public bathing area which includes large indoor baths and a sauna. Guests can savor delicately prepared buffet-style dinner featuring local seafood. A breakfast buffet can be enjoyed at the restaurant with an open kitchen.

Imabari Kokusai Hotel is 22-story landmark tower building standing in the center of Imabari city and over looking Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge. Here, one will feel refreshed while overlooking the beautiful Inland Sea. The hotel has large main bath with open-air bath and sauna in addition to the fitness center with swimming pool and gym.

Grand Prince Hotel Hiroshima is located beside Motoujina Park and commands the picturesque islands dotted in the Seto Inland Sea. With magnificent views of the Hiroshima Port and Miyajima Island, the hotel is a dramatic prism structure tower of 23 floors. The hotel's private pier is a great starting point to enjoy leisure activities along the marina or to take a cruise to the nearby islands.

One of the most popular places to stay in Takachiho. As a Kokuminshukuha ("Peoples Lodging"), they offer great indoor public bath room and facilities of the rooms are the same as standard Japanese ryokan and can feel the calm atmosphere and the heartfelt hospitality. Great access down to Takachiho Gorge.

ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel Nagasaki Gloverhill is located on a mountainside in Nagasaki- Minamiyamate, the southern part of Nagasaki City. The area is famous for its cosmopolitan atmosphere, with historical structures like the Oura Catholic Church and the memorable Glover Garden built at the time when Nagasaki City itself was playing a very important role as the international seaport of Japan. ANA Crowne Plaza Hotel Nagasaki Gloverhill provides guests with first class service and refined facilities for their relaxation.

Hotel Nikko Fukuoka is a prestigious world class hotel located in front of Hakata Station, the entrance gate of Kyushu. It is conveniently located only two subway stations away from Fukuoka Airport and 3 minutes walk from JR Hakata City (Hakata Station). It has 360 guest rooms all with a relaxing atmosphere and of various styles including authentic Imperial Suite Room and rooms with an atmosphere of a classy study room. You can visit any of the 8 authentic restaurants residing in the hotel and enjoy a variety of dishes made by skillful cooks with seasonal ingredients. This hotel run by the flag carrier company promises you a refined and comfortable time with its great hospitality.