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

One of the major Buddhists centres of Japan, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, many Japanese go to Koya-san in pilgrimage.

Asia

Japan

Koya-san

Europe

Central America

Africa

North America

South America

Middle East

Oceania

The Okuno-In is a huge cemetery sheltered by cedar trees. It is the most beautiful place in Koya-san. There are many jizos, or ancient tombs, but also many more original ones, such as the monument funded by an insecticide company in memorial to all the termites they have exterminated. There is a something uniquely Japanese about the atmosphere of the place. There are also 5 large temple complexes to see in the city, each with its particularities: pagodas, museums, etc. It is possible to participate in an introduction to Buddhism, with the delivery of a certificate at the end of the session.
If you have the time, go to discover the surroundings and the pilgrimage trails which cross Mount Kii. 
You can find articles about my latest visit to Koyasan on my personal website.

One of the major Buddhists centres of Japan, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site, many Japanese go to Koya-san in pilgrimage.

Koya-san Holidays

Koya-san: How to get there?

Koya-san: See when to go?

Koya-san: For how long?

Koya-san: What to see nearby?

Japan: our articles for your holidays