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

Iriomote is a tropical island, with fine sand, palm trees, mangroves and tropical fish.

Asia

Japan

Iriomote Jima

Europe

Central America

Africa

North America

South America

Middle East

Oceania

It is a small island that is only accessible by boat and not frequently visited by foreign tourists. Not many people speak English, even in the accommodation, but they are very nice and make a big effort to communicate. Unlike the rest of Japan, fruit is in big supply, including pineapples and mangoes.
The beaches are fabulous, with a rich variety of marine life just a few yards from the beach. Some of the schools of little fish are very curious and don't hesitate to come up and nip your fingers. Not to worry if you don't have a snorkel or fins, you can rent them on the spot for a few hours. The manta rays come to the area from April to May and it is possible to dive with them.
There are opportunities for hiking or kayaking in the tropical forest or among the mangroves. If you are lucky, you might see a huge Iriomote crab or, much more exceptionally, the Iriomote cat.

Iriomote is a tropical island, with fine sand, palm trees, mangroves and tropical fish.

Iriomote Jima Holidays

Iriomote Jima: How to get there?

Iriomote Jima: See when to go?

Iriomote Jima: For how long?

Iriomote Jima: What to see nearby?

Japan: our articles for your holidays