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

Kyoto

Hakone

A town that blends the old with the new. The old part of town will give you an insight into traditional Japanese life, but without the hordes of tourists that you'll find in Kyoto.

Asia

Japan

Kanazawa

Europe

Central America

Africa

North America

South America

Middle East

Oceania

One of my favourite places in Japan. Kanazawa's old town has managed to maintain its traditional charm. Plus there are fewer tourists than in Kyoto. There are loads of places to visit: temples, a castle, park, samurai district, geisha houses, narrow lanes and canals... Some of the old buildings have been turned into restaurants or small boutiques selling traditional souvenirs. They've kept their charm, with sliding wooden doors and textile panels masking the interior. You'll come across kimono-clad geishas in the geisha quarter and see them popping in and out of various tea houses. And, when evening falls, dinner time cabarets are held on an almost daily basis. The town was once one of Japan's gold production centres. One of the geisha houses boasts a room and wall entirely covered in gold. You can also sample cakes and local specialities decorated with gold leaf.

A town that blends the old with the new. The old part of town will give you an insight into traditional Japanese life, but without the hordes of tourists that you'll find in Kyoto.

Kanazawa Vacations

Kanazawa: How to get there?

Kanazawa: When to go?

Kanazawa: For how long?

Kanazawa: What to see in the surroundings?

Japan: our articles for your vacation