Should Japan be your Next Vacation?

Four Reasons You Should Visit Japan

My fall trip to Japan marked my first visit to Asia, and I was immediately drawn to the mystique of “The Land of the Rising Sun.” After spending two incredible weeks exploring the country, I can confidently share four reasons why Japan deserves a spot at the top of your travel list.

A Culture Rooted in Respect

Japan’s culture is truly distinct, and its reputation for kindness and respect is well-deserved. From room service attendants who removed their shoes before entering our room, to guides and locals who greeted us with a bow, every interaction felt thoughtful and sincere. In Japan, bowing is more than a polite gesture; it is a heartfelt expression of respect. It felt surprisingly natural to return the gesture and be part of this shared courtesy.

Modern Japanese culture was equally fascinating. Manga and anime are deeply woven into everyday life, and I saw references everywhere. Much of it felt familiar to Americans, especially when we were welcomed at the airport by murals featuring Nintendo favorites like Mario, Princess Peach, and Yoshi.

Unexpected Natural Beauty

I wasn’t fully prepared for how beautiful Japan would be. Outside Kyoto, we hiked Mount Kurama, passing shrines and bridges before reaching a Buddhist temple with sweeping panoramic views. Along the way, our guide explained the spiritual significance of each site, which made the experience even more meaningful.

Kyoto continued to impress with unforgettable highlights like the Moss Temple, home to more than 120 varieties of lush, velvety moss, and the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. In Hakone, although the weather was foggy, the mist only added to the mystique of Lake Ashi. There, I learned the legend of the nine-headed dragon said to have transformed from an evil spirit into a guardian of the Hakone Shrine.

A Fascinating History

Japan’s history especially captivated me, and I asked my guides endless questions. I learned that samurai lords known as shoguns ruled Japan beginning in 1185, governing in the name of the emperor. This system lasted until 1868, when the shogunate ended and Japan became a constitutional monarchy, a structure that remains today following the country’s surrender at the end of World War II.

In Tokyo, I climbed to the top of Tokyo Tower, built in 1958 during Japan’s postwar recovery. Standing 333 meters tall, the tower symbolized hope and progress as the nation rebuilt and emerged as a modern, industrialized society.

Religion in Japan also intrigued me. Most Japanese people practice both Buddhism and Shintoism, often blending traditions. Christianity arrived with Portuguese missionaries in 1542 but was banned in 1587. Today, Japan has religious freedom, and about 1% of the population identifies as Christian.

An Unforgettable Culinary Experience

Of course, no trip to Japan would be complete without talking about the food. I wandered through bustling markets filled with octopus and other exotic seafood, and sushi was everywhere. My favorite culinary experience was a guided ramen tour. We visited four different restaurants, sampling unique styles of ramen at each stop. Every bowl was different, and every one was delicious.

Japan truly offers something for everyone, whether your interests lie in culture, history, nature, or food. If Japan is calling your name, Vacations by Shannon is ready to customize the perfect journey to the Land of the Rising Sun.