Asia : Japan

Located along the eastern coast of Asia, Japan is an archipelago made up of four major islands—Honshu, Hokkaido, Shikoku, and Kyushu—and thousands of smaller islands. Japan's latitudinal range is the same as the range between Quebec and Key West, yet its land mass is slightly smaller than the state of California or Sweden, with almost three-quarters of the land consisting of mountains. Its highest mountain is the iconic Mount Fuji.

Japan's history is evident everywhere, whether in a venerable Buddhist temple or Shinto shrine, a museum housing samurai swords or intricately detailed ceramics, or one of Japan's many festivals with a profusion of costumes, ancient rituals, and throngs of joyous crowds. Feudal-era castles still rise from their massive stone foundations, while Japan's exquisite gardens, many of them former noble-class retreats, are visual commentaries of what nature can achieve under generations of skilled master gardeners. Two of Japan's most famous forms of entertainment, sumo wrestling and Kabuki, give another glimpse into the country's past, so little have they changed over the centuries. Other cultural pursuits with strong historic ties include the country's unique forms of flower arranging and the tea ceremony.

Japanese festivals, or matsuri, are colorful celebrations that reflect the country's ancient religious beliefs and mark the passing of the seasons. They are an important part of life in Japan and can be enjoyed in cities and towns throughout the country. Whatever time of year you decide to visit, there is sure to be a festival taking place somewhere in Japan, from elaborate displays of snow and ice sculpture at the Sapporo Snow Festival to lively summer events like the Nebuta Matsuri in Aomori with its parade of giant illuminated figures.

Search Results By: Asia : Japan