What to See in Japan

Commonly known as the ‘Land of Rising Sun’, Japan is one of the favorite countries of tourists. There are a lot of things in Japan that are worth-seeing and therefore attract a large number of tourists towards this beautiful country. If you ever make a plan to visit Japan, then take a look at this article as it contains the famous things and attractions which you must see in Japan.

Gardens

Most of the gardens in Japan are located in the calm and peaceful surroundings of monasteries and some are located in the ruins of the castles of feudal lords. They display a very rich look of Japanese art and culture. There are a lot of attractions to see in Japanese gardens but the most worth-seeing are the ponds which are vital parts of every garden. They don’t only show Japanese’s peoples good taste but also add marvel and beauty to these gardens.

The gardens in Japan have different types including Tsukiyama Gardens (hill gardens), Karesansui Gardens (dry gardens) and Chaniwa Gardens (tea gardens).

Temples

Most of the population of Japan consists of Buddhists therefore temples in Japan are the houses of worship for these people. These temples should not be missed to see during the visit to Japan as they are beautifully made and present a beautiful blend with lush and green vicinity. The architecture of these temples is also out of this world and must see.

Castles

The castles in Japan were initially built for military purposes but afterwards they transformed into commercial centers as the time passed and eventually they became popular tourists’ attractions. They are truly a master-piece as they were built after careful planning and by the untiring efforts of thousands of labors.Shrines

There are almost one million shrines in Japan. Most of them serve as a worship home for the followers of Shintoism. These shrines are located in the isolated areas of this country, near to forests, to provide a peaceful and calm feeling to the visitors. When these shrines were first built, they were quite simple but with the passage of time they began to look like Buddhist temples due to the influence of Chinese architecture. On the basis of the architecture style of these shrines, they are divided into four types: Nagare, Shinmei, Taisha and Hachiman.These were some must visit attractions of Japan that deserve at least one visit in the life time of a tourist.

Renowned Attractions in Kyoto

Being seventh largest city of Japan, Kyoto was also a capital of Japan from 794 to 1868. Most of the people think that Kyoto is the city of temples and shrines but it is totally a misconception. Although temples are shrines are major attractions in Kyoto, there are a number of other fun-based and modern attractions in this cultural center of Japan. Let’s have a brief introduction to tourists’ attractions in Kyoto.

Kyoto Municipal Zoo

It is an 8.4 acre zoo which was established in 1903. It is the second oldest zoo in the country. It is not just a zoo but also it is considered to be the best place for enjoying cherry blossom in spring and watching leaves turning yellow in winter. Animals which you will find in the zoo are zebras, giraffes, monkeys, lions, bears, hippos, flamingo, sea lions, peacocks, foxes, red pandas, deer, gorillas, eagles, tanuki, hawks etc. Other facilities in this zoo include:

Animal Data Room: It is a place having information about former animals of zoo. Skeletons of these animals are also kept here for information and knowledge.

Children’s Zoo: Opened in 1955, the zoo allows people to watch and touch animals. Here you will find rabbits, pigs, chickens, ducks, penguins, goats, cockatoos, a donkey and turtles.

Kyoto Tower

Kyoto Tower is another attraction that provides visitors with the best views of city. It is an observation tower having an observation deck at a height of 100 meters. Kyoto Tower has been divided into two parts. The primary structure is one where the famous observation deck is located. To have a view of city, this area is provided with telescopes. From here, you can view some magnificent scenes of the city including the mountains of Higashiyama and Arashiyama. Second structure of this tower is quite interesting to see as it contains a spa, shops and book store. The 3-star Kyoto Tower Hotel is also located here.

Gion

Gion is a district of Kyoto located in front of Yasaka Shrine. This district was actually built to facilitate the visitors of shrine but with the passage of time, it became one of the most impressive and exclusive geisha districts in Japan. This district is featured with flagstone-paved streets and tourists love to visit this place because of its traditional wooden buildings. Here you will also see beautifully dressed women in teahouses. In this district, areas to the north of Shijo-dori are very beautiful as well as areas of Sannen-zaka and Ninen-zaka are also worth-seeing.

Higashi Honganji

It is one of the most famous historical buildings of Kyoto. Constructed in 1602, this building is located near Kyoto Station. This building was constructed with an intention to compete nearby Nishi Honganji. The things that will attract you in this building include its huge gates and entire building along with the black rope that is made of a woman’s hair.

Kyoto Imperial Palace

This is an imperial palace of Japan where the Emperor resided since 1869. This palace is located in the huge Kyoto Imperial Park and boasts of having halls, gates and large gardens. If you want to visit this palace, you will have to plan a visited tour which is held by the Imperial Household Agency.

Uzumasa Movie Village

It is a modern attraction in Kyoto which is a headquarters of one of the Japan’s biggest film studio. It also serves as a location for historical and action movies and ninja films. Don’t forget to visit a theme park and movie museum located here.

These were some of the famous attractions in Kyoto. Now you must have known that Kyoto is not all about temples, shrines and dusty museums as there are modern and contemporary attractions as well.

Exploring Yokohama’s Attractions

People have a general perception that Tokyo is far more attractive and beautiful as compared to Yokohama but it is not true at all. If you have visited Yokohama, you will be aware of the fact that a visit to Yokohama is capable of capturing your heart with its superb attractions. There are a number of places in this city that provide a chance to explore this city. If you also want to explore Yokohama’s attractions then read this post as I am going to describe some of its most beautiful and popular attractions.

Sea Paradise

Sea Paradise aquarium in Yokohama is featured with all fishy attractions as well as penguins and polar bears. If you want to have a closer view of stringrays and beautiful fish, you can do so by passing through an underwater tunnel. Here you can also enjoy marine performances like that of dolphins and seals. The seaside amusement park, with this aquarium, is also a worth-watching place and has attractions like roller coasters and much more.

Harbor View Hill Park

This park is located at atop of hill and is featured with a raised platform from where you can see a stunning view of harbor and Yokohama Bay. If you will visit this park during daytime, you will find an opportunity to watch ships passing in and out of the harbor. Another opportunity which you can avail here is to spend and enjoy your time by walking through rose garden which is park’s most popular attraction. I really like this place because after sunset, this park turns into a beautiful romantic place. If you have recently got married, you should definitely visit this park. You will enjoy one of the best nighttime views of blue-lit Bay Bridge with your loved one.

Yokohama Cosmo World

Yokohama Cosmo World is another amusement park which has canal running through middle. Here you will not only find a lot of attractions but also you will enjoy some of the contemporary and exciting rides. Major attractions in this amusement park include a simulation theater and a roller coaster. You will really enjoy your visit to Yokohama Cosmo World. No…… Cosmo World’s attractions are not limited to a roller coaster only as you will also find a Ferris wheel here which boasts of being the largest in the world so visit this amusement park and have a wonderful time.

Nogeyama Zoo

This zoo is the most loved attraction of Yokohama because it is free. Yes….absolutely free. This free zoo was opened in April 1951 covering an area of 24 acres. It is a public park having about 1400 animals which also include some exotic animals. Animals which are kept here include giraffes, zebras, red pandas, camels, lion, tigers, owls, love birds, reptiles, ducks, penguins etc. In short, you will find almost all kinds and species of animals here in this zoo. Another zoo named Makigahara Children’s Zoo is located within Nogeyama Zoo that was opened in 1979. It contains small animals like pigs, mice, chickens, snakes and pigeons.

Sky Walk

Some other exciting and thrilling activities in Yokohama can be found on a pedestrian walkway named Sky Walk. Along the Sky Walk, you will find telescopes to view some of the popular and major attractions of this city including Minato Mirai, Yamashita Park, port of Yokohama, old Marine Tower etc. If you ever have a chance to go to Yokohama, must visit this attraction as it will make your trip memorable.

This was brief description of some of the major attractions of Yokohama. I hope that each word of this post will increase your urge to visit this wonderful city.

Top Tokyo Tourists Attractions

Tokyo is the capital city of Japan which is a lively and bustling city. It is very popular among tourists especially families because of its gardens and amusement parks. There are some of the most favorite places of kids here in Tokyo like Dome City and Disney Resort. Including these, some other major and most popular attractions in Tokyo are:

Sony Building

This is an attractive and contemporary building which offers latest audio-visual attractions for the visitors. There are also different kinds of computer products available here. The sixth floor of the Tokyo Sony Building is dedicated to a Play Station so it is the favorite place of kids and young alike. Here in this building, there is also a High-Vision Theatre showing free movies every Saturday at 4:30 pm. There are also many gadgets and games that can capture your attention for hours.

Imperial Palace

This is a historical building that is located in the heart of Tokyo. This palace has the honor of being the residence of Japanese Emperors for almost 150 years. This historical building remains open for the tourists for 24 hours a day and no charges are taken for the tourists’ admission in the building.

Dome City

The Dome City is full of family based tourists’ attractions. Here the attractions which you will find include:

• Shopping opportunities
• Amusement park
• Spa for relaxation
• Restaurants

It is a city within a city providing incomparable fun and entertainment.

Disney Resort

It is a theme park full of attractions that can appeal to the people of all ages. There is a romantic park named Disney Sea having a number of attractions. In the resort, there are restaurants, huge shopping malls and more than 100 different boutiques. For those tourists who want to stay here, there are also a large number of hotels. This resort also has different events and parades that take place throughout the year mesmerizing the tourists with their attraction and beauty.

Hanayashiki Amusement Park

It has a history of more than 150 years and it was opened as a flower park initially. But now it is an amusement park having a number of rides like roller coaster, large Ferris wheel and carousel. These rides provide the visitors with an opportunity of watching good views of the park. It is a great fun to visit this park and enjoy the rides.

These were some of the major attractions in the main city of Japan, Tokyo. Visit these places and have fun with your friends and family.