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

Tokyo Metropolitan Central Wholesale Market

Shiba-Shimbashi

Odaiba

Nikkois an excursion that can be done from Tokyo in one or two days and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Asia

Japan

Nikkō

Europe

Central America

Africa

North America

South America

Middle East

Oceania

The city of Nikko abounds in temples of Chinese inspiration. The temples are much more golden and ornate than is customary. In the Toshogu sanctuary, you can see at the top of different doors, the statues that narrate the famous legend of the three wise monkeys: the one that does not want to see what is contrary to propriety: see no evil, the one that does not want to hear what is contrary to propriety: hear no evil and the one that does not want to speak what is contrary to propriety: speak no evil. There is also the small statue of a white cat asleep. There are many buildings (mausoleums, temples...) to be visited as well. Close to the sanctuary, you can access the sacred bridge Shinkyo, a red bridge which particularly stands out from the surrounding nature that it overlooks. If you are able to, come either in autumn or in spring. A visit to Yumoto Onsen village, an hour and a half from Nikko, will enable you to recharge your batteries in the onsens in a village located in the heart of the mountains.

Nikkois an excursion that can be done from Tokyo in one or two days and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Nikkō Holidays

Nikkō: How to get there?

Nikkō: See when to go?

Nikkō: For how long?

Nikkō: What to see nearby?

Japan: our articles for your holidays