Unforgettable Experiences That Make Japan Unlike Anywhere Else
Japan has a habit of staying with you long after your trip has finished and that's one of the reasons we love it so much here at Tailored Journeys.
Before Japan, you most likely think of all the famous sights, the temples, the neon lights, the bullet trains, sushi, but what most poeople realise is that there is so much more to this fabulous country.
If you are planning a trip, these are the experiences I'd build a Japan holiday around.
1. Cherry Blossom Season
Cherry blossom season completely changes the atmosphere of the entire country.
For a few short weeks each spring Japan's parks fill with people gathering for the cherry blossom, having picnic underneath these pink trees and the city feels like it slows down.
The blossom bloom starts in the south, gradually moving north, reaching Tokyo and Kyoto around late March into early April. It's one of Japan's busiest travel periods, so if seeing the blossoms is a must on your bucket list, then we recommend planning well in advance. Hotels in Kyoto and Tokyo can get booked up some times a year before peak bloom!
2. A Sumo Wrestling Tournament
One of the most exciting things you can do in Japan is watch a Sumo Tournament! The build up to the contest is very special; ceremonial salt is thrown into the ring; the crowd all stamping their feet; and then the silence before the two wrestlers collide in a contest that might last less than thirty seconds!
I think its less like watching a sporting event and more like being part of a tradition that's been carefully preserved for centuries.
We will always try to book the best seats in the house for you to experience a Sumo as it really is one of the most authentic experiences you can have. The
3. Skiing and Onsens
Japan does skiing differently. The snow is expectional, and the resorts even more so. The light, dry powder snow draws in skiers from around the world.
But unlike a lively Apres Ski in the Alps, winding down after skiing in Japan is a lot more relaxing. Slip into a naturally heated outdoor onsen to completey unwind and recouperate before hitting the slopes again the next day.
4. Annual Festivals
Japan's calendar is packed with festivals and each one will show you a different aspect of the country.
Kyoto's Gion Matsuri transforms the city's historic streets with towering floats and centuries-old traditions.
In winter, the Sapporo Snow Festival fills the city with enormous snow and ise sculptures that light up after dark.
Summer brings Nebuta Matsuri in Aomori, where illuminated lantern floats parade through the streets alongside powerful drumming, while Awa Odori in Tokushima turns the city into one huge dance floor.
If your dates are flexible, building your itinerary around one of these celebrations is one of the easiest ways to experience Japan off the beaten track.
5. Stay in a traditional Ryokan
If we had to recommend just one experience, it would be to stay at least one night in a traditional ryokan and we more than often include this in all our itineraries.
In a ryokan, you'll find tatami mat floors, sliding paper screens, kaiseki dinners and futons laid out while you're enjoying your evening meal. These stays are peaceful, simple and deeply rooted in Japanese hospitality and for most of our clients, it's the night they remember most.
6. Tea ceremony in Kyoto
The Japanese tea ceremony is a tradition steeped in Japanese tradition. It is a ceremonial way of preparing and drinking green tea in a traditional tearoom with tatami floors. The main purposes of the tea ceremony is for guests to enjoy the hospitality of the host and grab some respite from the fast-paced life outside.
The tea ceremony is still practiced to this day but mainly more of a hobby and a way of makign an income. Various ceremonies are conducted throughout but we make sure you visit a more tradition venue where you get to experience true authenticity and maybe even see how good you could look in a kymono, for a bit of fun! Kyoto is amongs the best places to enjoy Japan's tea culture.
7. Venture beyond Tokyo and Kyoto
Of course Tokyo and Kyto deserve every bit of their reputation and should absolutely be visited.
But some of Japan's most memorable moments happen elsewhere; in small mountain villages, you'll find natural hot springs and the occasional snowmonkey; beach towns feel completely unexplored and almost sleepy; and Okinawa could be a holiday destination all on it's own.
One thing you'll notice is how quickly the landscape changes from destination to destination, you could start your trip in the hustle and bustle in Tokyo but end in a small village in the countryside that feels miles away from modern life.
Whether you're hoping to experience cherry blossom season, soak in a traditional onsen, explore Japan's quieter corners or simply discover what makes this country so unique, we'll create an itinerary that's completely tailored to you.
Has this blog made you consider a trip to Japan, or is it already on your bucket list? Get in touch with our team to start planning your bespoke Japan holiday by filling out the enquiry form below, sending us an email at: enquiries@tailoredjourneys.co.uk or by calling us on 01442617777 / 02081039000
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