Five reasons to add Japan to your travel bucket list

Japan is an excellent holiday destination for tourists, offering many unique experiences you won't find anywhere else. Its culture is an exciting blend of Western modernity and Eastern traditions, making it even more alluring to explore. Having one of the oldest civilizations in the world and with breath taking scenery, Japan is a country that should be on every traveller's bucket list.

Five Reasons why travel to Japan is a great idea!

1. The Iconic Cherry Blossom

The best time to visit Japan is in spring, during the country's Cherry Blossom Festival, also known as the "sakura season". For two weeks, locals and visitors alike will gather at the beautiful gardens and parks to engage in a picnic underneath the gorgeous Cherry Blossom trees. Some of the best places to admire the Cherry Blossom in Japan are the Shinjuku Gyoen in Tokyo and Toji temple in Kyoto, which has an extensive garden full of cherry trees. When you visit during the sakura season, you will also find several limited edition sakura-themed souvenirs and treats everywhere in the country.

Five reasons to add Japan to your travel bucket list (Image Canva By Phattana)

2. Ski on the Niseko’s Slopes

If you visit Japan during the winter season, you will have the opportunity to enjoy plenty of winter sports activities, such as snowboarding and skiing amongst other luxury winter tours of Japan. Most of the country's ski resorts can be found on the northernmost island of Hokkaido, and the most popular of these is Niseko. Famous for its majestic slopes blanketed in pixie-dust snow and home to high-end ski resorts, sophisticated shops, and delectable restaurants, Niseko will make your winter holiday in Japan a truly memorable one.

Five reasons to add Japan to your travel bucket list Niseko skiing (Image Canva By kazuto_yossy)

3. Japan does Christmas

Christmas in Japan may be a new concept, but it is a truly magical experience. Many of the things traditionally associated with the holiday can be found all over the country, from decorative Christmas lights to fancy Christmas trees and lively Christmas markets. In fact, one of the best things you can do in Japan on Christmas is to explore the markets, which will remind you of those Christmas markets you will find in Europe. The German Embassy hosts a Christmas Market in Tokyo every December, where you will find stalls selling everything, from tree ornaments to delicious treats!

Five reasons to add Japan to your travel bucket list Christmas in Japan (Image Pixabay)

4. Geisha Culture

One of the most intriguing things in Japan is its geisha culture. Geisha are professional entertainers called to attend banquets and other special occasions. Their role is to entertain guests and make them feel at ease through conversations and dance performances. Geishas can be found all over the country, but the best way to see them is in the Gion District of Central Kyoto. In Gion, you could spot some geishas walking along its charming streets. Before taking photos of the geishas, visitors must first ask permission.

Five reasons to add Japan to your travel bucket list Geisha (Image Canva)

5. Stay in a Ryokan

Japan is home to several fancy resorts and Western-style luxury hotels. But if you want to experience the Japanese culture, stay at a Japanese ryokan, a traditional accommodation that features tatami mats and communal hot baths, known locally as the "onsen". You will be treated to a traditional Japanese dinner and tea ceremony during your stay, making the experience even more authentic.

Five reasons to add Japan to your travel bucket list Ryokan (image Canva)