Hiroshima and the neighbouring island of Miyajima are both world famous but for very different reasons: one for the atomic bomb and its atrocities, and the other for its peaceful shrine amid the waves. 

Hiroshima and its region: between shrine and memorial

Nature has always played an important role in Japanese culture, and the tradition survives with the celebration of the arrival of spring by observing the cherry blossoms. Here is some advice about this festival, the hanami, and the best places to observe the trees in full blossom.

Go to see the cherry trees in Tokyo

Hokkaido is a hiker's paradise, thanks to its majestic, wild mountainous landscapes.
 Its national parks provide stunning views as well as a wealth of plant and animal life.
 Some are very isolated and difficult to access, but offer, nonetheless, a great sense of freedom.

Hiking in the stunning countryside of Hokkaido


Japan has numerous hidden treasures. Here are my top 10 most beautiful places to visit, but also the most interesting.

Top 10 places to visit in Japan

Tokyo

Shinjuku

Kanazawa

Hakone

The imperial capital of Japan for more than 10 centuries, Kyōto is one of the largest cities of the country with more than 1.4 million inhabitants.

Asia

Japan

Kyoto

Europe

Central America

Africa

North America

South America

Middle East

Oceania

I loved Kyōto! For the wealth of its history, the beauty of its temples and the strong cultural and religious character of the city, Kyōto is, in my opinion, an essential place to visit <a href="/japan/">during your trip to Japan.</a> 
I was among those travellers who felt this attraction toward Japan and who had a set of clichés in mind regarding the country. You could say that Kyōto offers a vast panorama of everything that Japan conjures to mind: the narrow alleys, the magnificent temples, the delicacy of the women's costumes, the quintessence of Japanese cuisine, the shades of colour that change with the seasons...
The spiritual atmosphere of Kyōto contrasts sharply with the hustle and bustle of Tokyo and I was particularly delighted to witness these two faces of Japan. If you were only to visit a few temples, do not miss the magnificent temples of Kiyomizu, Ginkaku-ji (the Silver Pavilion) and especially Kinkaku-ji (the Golden Pavilion).

The imperial capital of Japan for more than 10 centuries, Kyōto is one of the largest cities of the country with more than 1.4 million inhabitants.

Kyoto Vacations

Kyoto: How to get there?

Kyoto: When to go?

Kyoto: For how long?

Kyoto: What to see in the surroundings?

Japan: our articles for your vacation