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Home , Aoi Aso Shrine, Asakusa Shrine, Hachinohe, Heian Shrine, Hie Shrine, Himeji Castle

1 The essence of Japanese culture... Shrines, Temples, N Temples in gold, temples in simplicity, shrines in tranquility, and gardens in refinement ... Which is your favorite? o Magnificent Buddhist temples, and those which embody the essence of c understated architectural elegance through the elimination of almost all Kinkakuji Temple: i "... As a country Buddhist , my father, rather poor in decorative features. Quiet and stately shrines rest amid dark vocabulary, used to tell me that nothing in this world is as green woods ... has them. Everywhere (even nestled in large beautiful as Kinkakuji ..." ( excerpt from "The Temple of The Gold Pavilion" by renowned author, Yukio Mishima) population centers like and !). Many date back well over

1,000 years. Shinto, an ancient, indigenous religion unique to Japan, with emphasis on ancestor worship and harmony with the natural world. Buddhism, brought in from the Asian Continent way back in the sixth

century teaches spiritual enlightenment and salvation. Both continue to Rice cultivation began in Japan over be prime and moving sources of inspiration, culturally and esthetically, for 2

the Japanese even today.

Putting temple structures aside, the Buddhist images enshrined The Great Buddha of : This Great Buddha is world-famous as the symbol of the therein and their gardens are splendid pieces of art. Japanese gardens ancient capital Kamakura. are world-renowned as refined reproductions of nature's beauty all confined within a limited space. Sit on a temple veranda and let time float by while viewing the . The perfect way to get away from it all. It's S

good when time goes by so slowly. Since ancient times, pilgrimages to

shrines and temples have been a great source of leisure and the harbinger of tourism for the Japanese. Experience it for yourself. Only a few hours' drive or train ride (More information on gardens is on page 29.) The East Garden: f This formal within the Imperial Palace is open to the public. Admission is free of charge.

Japan abounds in rice and other

c Ryoanji Temple: Ryoanji is celebrated for its "dry landscape garden" better known as a "stone garden," a symbolic reproduction of

the world of nature using only rocks and white sand.

Alluring Charms of Japan

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Nature, Rural Landscape a

An almost prototype image of true scenery “a la Japonica” Magnificent Buddhist temples, and those which embody the essence of can be found u in the countryside.

Enjoy a leisurely trip through the countryside and Matsushima: experience the legendary One of the three most famous scenic attractions of Japan, this picturesque site is dotted Japanese hospitality. with over 260 islets that virtually seem to float in the bay.

Rice cultivation began in Japan over Jigokudani : 2,000 years ago. Since then, of course, Monkeys love to Japanese society and industry have bathe in the open-air Putting temple structures aside, the Buddhist images enshrined evolved tremendously but rice "rotemburo" bath at this t cultivation has always been the very unusual onsen. core. In early summer, the paddies shine with the fresh green of young Shirakawa-go: rice plants orderly set in fields This village, nestled deep in the mountains, is brimming with water. In autumn, the renowned for its unique "gassho-zukuri" style farmhouses. fields are drained and turn into golden carpets as the crop ripens. These Only a few hours' drive or train ride scenes evoke nostalgic images of from the great urban centers like Japan and can be seen far and wide Tokyo, bring you to a totally different throughout the country. world — picture yourself in a peaceful "Tanada" Terraced Rice Fields: Japan abounds in rice and other pastoral area with lush mountains and These rice paddies were built to make the most crops from the field and is additionally of small pieces of land in mountainous areas. peaks in the background. How about a They create a nostalgic scene of old Japan. blessed with gifts from the mountains small community in the remote and the sea. Local festivals, performing mountains, or a seaside fishing arts and crafts, not to mention local village? A journey to the countryside cuisine filled with local flavors, are can be the key to satisfaction bound to offer a "truly impressive" especially if traveling means getting experience — one which will guarantee away from it all and exploring a world a lifelong memory. What truly touches Mt. Fuji: yet unknown to meet the people in the heartstrings, above all, will be the No doubt, this elegant peak is probably the their own locale. most coveted "must-see" attraction for any

A sincere hospitality you encounter. visitor to Japan.

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10 special heatandenergy. own their radiate that culture urban in of latest the elements ever-moving the with side by side exist past centuries from traditions where is This Asia. in metropolis exciting most the — Tokyo Kannon Temple , withitscolorful shoppinglanes,isa tm fo kmn t hn-ae ob. combs. hand-made to kimono from items ie wt od ulig ad hp, el traditional sell shops, and buildings old with lined itit s h pae Te ay arw ak streets, back narrow many The place. the is district for mecca a as reputation find animationfigures,costumes andmanga. can you where stores related many are new There a gained play." "costume so-called or games computer anime, recently has district electronics art andculturewithitsmanyvariedmuseums. of center great a forms park The merrymakers. and viewers numerous attracts and blossoms cherry pink Tokyo &Vicinity April, the park turns into a paradise of delicate pale delicate of paradise a early into In turns park city. the the April, in largest the Park, Ueno find will spacious the to turn districts, bright, kaleidoscopicneonlights. its and shopping elegant for over world the famous shops andrestaurants,whichattractmanyvisitors. beingreplacedattractivenew by buildings withoffices, Japan’s season, open toallasanidealplaceforrelaxation. each of special blossoms and flowers on with is graced Gyoen) public is garden The stood. (Higashi once the donjon original the where Garden to East The open Double is occasions. or and Nijubashi Bridge elegant . the by approached innermost is entrance at main The set grounds. are the around towers original intervals guard old its and gates by Handsome surrounded The ImperialPalace From the neon bustle of the Ginza and Yurakucho and Ginza the of bustle neon the From The For a glimpse into Tokyo's past, the the past, Tokyo's into glimpse a For Akihabara A 10-min. walk takes you to the the to you takes walk 10-min. A is Station Tokyo of side west The Explore Japan , formerly Castle, is still is Castle, Edo formerly Palace, Imperial largest business district. Here old buildings are te ol' lret n ms famous most and largest world's the , Ueno Otaku district where you where district o fntc of fanatics or , Ginza Marunouchi Asakusa district, , ©TOKYO-SKYTREE and the modish the and Onsen Monogatari,excitinghotspringthemepark. featuringexpansivean shopping mallandtheOoedo- Tokyo; Center, and RoppongiHills. Art National the Midtown; Tokyo an as are attractions developing its Among center. cultural and rapidly artistic is visitors, international of forefront engaging and enjoyable. is evidence. cafe in The sidewalk a fully from is People-watching fashion and art in transmission. is international youth of culture the continuous which from hub paradise, setting entertainment trend- a is set. young and the among particularly shopping popular and fine sedate to the to as well GyoenNationalGarden. as nightspots, shopping, raucous sophisticated and popular souvenirs. buy to SKYTREE place marvelous ainl ak Aot n or rm h cne of center the from hour an a Tokyo, itisa popular spotformountain hiking. as About designated park. is and national nature in rich is It Tokyo. Side Trips from Tokyo by trainfromTokyoSta. min. 17 only district Maihama the in is Japan, in park TOKYO SKYTREE , on the city's trendy west side, is home to home is side, west trendy city's the on Shinjuku, The Roppongi h atm lae i Nvme ad h plum the and November in leaves autumn The oy Dse Resort Disney Tokyo t Takao Mt. Shibuya , built, onreclaimed land inthe ofTokyo, is easytoaccessfromthisarea. fle wt ngt pt pplr with popular spots night with filled , s 9 m ih n lctd n western in located and high m 599 is district, near the tranquil the near district, Harajuku ® te ot oua theme popular most the , and Aoyama districts, is a is districts, Shrine Meiji TOKYO blossom in February are particularly beautiful, The Seven Islands of Izu collectively form a attracting many people to the mountain. There is also superb resort area combining beautiful seascape a famous temple near the peak. attractions and hot springs as well as impressive , Japan's second largest city, 30 min. by volcanic topography. Oshima Island, for example, is a rail from Tokyo, is one of the first Japanese cities popular resort within an easy 1 hrs. 45 min. high-speed that opened up to foreign residents during the Meiji boat ride from Tokyo, allowing for even a day trip. Restoration(1868-1911) and is a bustling port city Kusatsu Onsen is one of Japan's top spa resorts, with numerous historic buildings and the spacious situated less than four hours from Tokyo by direct Sankei-en Garden. The "Minato Mirai 21" district on bus link. The highly acidic spa water, which is potent the waterfront is highly popular among younger enough to dissolve a ¥1 coin in a week, is generation, offering a most enjoyable shopping and extraordinarily effective. fantastic gourmet experience. Yokohama's China Nikko, 2 hrs. by rail from Tokyo, is both a gem of Town offers any number of excellent restaurants. natural beauty and home to one of the must-sees of Kamakura, 1 hr. by rail from Tokyo, is a small quiet . Toshogu Shrine which coastal town with tranquil temples. Once the seat of houses the mausoleum of the founder of the the feudal government set up in 1192, the town today , is Nikko's most famous still retains much of its ancient and historical attraction. The complex is unusual among Japanese heritage. Kamakura's most famous attraction is the architectural gems for its display of opulence and giant bronze Great Buddha. This impressive decorative complexity. "Daibutsu" is 11.4 m. high, weighs 122 tons and sits in the open-air. Near Kamakura Sta. is Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine. A number of Buddhist temples, large and small, also dot the area. A leisurely stroll here slips you back to the 12th-century . Whichever temple you visit, you'll be greeted by the beautiful flowers and blossoms of the season.

Lake Ashi & Mt. Fuji Toshogu Shrine

Onsen

Like a giant sponge soaked with hot water, Japan literally leaks from thousands of hot springs. And at some 1,800 of these spring China T Townown Mountain Railway, areas, onsen resorts have sprung up over some 2,000 years of the Japanese love of a Hakone, 1 hr. 30 min. by rail from Tokyo's Shinjuku good, hot bath. The nation's hot-spring spas Sta., is a famous hot spring resort area set in the are among its most enjoyable destinations for beautiful mountains which comprise the Fuji-Hakone- visitors, and offer a mind-boggling array of Izu National Park. A major attraction here is the variations on the seemingly simple act of Open-Air Museum, with hundreds of sculptures. soaking in hot mineral waters. Go for a soak in Relaxing in one of the many hot springs is simply a an onsen bath. You are bound to get hooked! worthwhile experience. Take a pleasure cruise around Lake Ashi, offering marvelous views of Mt. Fuji. In Owakudani, steam and sulfurous fumes rise from crevices in the rocks. Mt. Fuji, at 3,776 m., is not only Japan's tallest mountain but it's the best known symbol as well. In addition to being a favored climbing site during the months of July and August, Mt. Fuji is the center of a wide-ranging natural recreation zone. This includes the Fuji Five Lakes district to the north, which offers extensive opportunities for hiking, boating, fishing, camping, and picnicking. The World Heritage Sites designated by UNESCO The Izu Peninsula, south of Hakone, is an important recreational area known for its hot spring resorts. • Shrines and Temples of Nikko [] The peninsula's scenic backbone is formed by the • Ogasawara Islands [Tokyo] hot spring and waterfall-rich Amagi Mountain Range. 11

12 evoke nothing less than the image of "Japan" of image you've longdreamedof. the than less nothing evoke streets serene traditionally and temples honored Time- have centuries. many over unchanged — remained unsurpassed traditions and treasures to invaluable home — capitals ancient two The retreat for Emperor Go-Mizunoo. Permission must be must Permission Go-Mizunoo. Emperor for retreat a as shogunate Tokugawa the by century 17th the in The landscaping. f rdtoa Jpns acietr ad garden and architecture Japanese traditional of examples finest the of one be to considered is , beauty ofitsunderstatedlandscape gardens. the and architecture exquisite its for both renowned city. the of view panoramic a to extends that valley exquisite o is ie odn ead jtig u oe an over out jutting veranda wooden wide its for Mercy. of Goddess the old-style area, Higashiyama the designed In atmosphere. refined distinctly the tastefully to add of restaurants Rows theater. noted for its 1,001 gilded wooden statues of Kannon, of statues wooden gilded 1,001 its for noted traditional and arts traditional view to place excellent lavishly shogun onhisrarevisitstothecity. more the is Nearby p.m.) appointed 2 or / and a.m. :10 tour the before min. 20 passport, your with permit a for apply must You (Note: architecture. Japanese Palace near Airport International Osaka. Kansai the from min. 15 hr. 1 and Tokyo from by express min super 40 hrs. and 2 in reached religion, be can culture, Kyoto thought. art, Japanese of best the of much of repository the became time that during and Kyoto and Kiyomizu Temple In the center of Kyoto you find the find you Kyoto of center the In The The The The Kyoto Explore Japan rnwe a a ince o is ipiiy of simplicity its for pinnacle a as renowned , in Corner Gion asr Ipra Villa Imperial Katsura , or the Silver Pavilion, is Pavilion, Silver the or Temple, Ginkakuji a Jpns aia fr vr ,0 years, 1,000 over for capital Japan's was io Castle Nijo Imperial Shugakuin er hj-aaaah i an is Shijo-Kawaramachi near Kiyomizu Temple Kiyomizu hm o te Tokugawa the of home , Sanjusangendo Temple Sanjusangendo lctd n western in located , Kyoto Imperial Kyoto is famous is was built was is o yaj fmd o is tn gre wih is which white and garden sand. rocks only stone with designed its itself for simplicity famed Ryoanji to contrast excellent in is Pavilion, Golden or Kinkakuji, n ot r iyl, feig spr walking Kinkakuji superb a offering bicycle, experience especiallyonthosefineweatherdays. or celebrated foot many on with enjoyed easily be can area dotted The shops. and is temples Kyoto, central hs sts Apy o a emt s ay as in days many as permit a advance aspossible. for Apply sites. these visit to Agency Household Imperial the from obtained Arashiyama The etr Koo otis ut fr h tuit - tourist the for musts contains Kyoto Western Arashiyama and and yaj temples Ryoanji district, only 20 min. by train from train by min. 20 only district, Maiko ©CityofKyoto Te brilliant The .

13 Sightseeing in Japan, Japan, in Sightseeing a Safe Country Safe a Japan is well known for its safe cities, but to understand just how safe ithave to really visit the is, country. Women you can really walk safely almost anywhere on their own, at any time of day or night. It's not unusualsubway alone, toand seesleeping on kidstrains seemsriding likethe national thepastime! Unattended belongings lying in a bar or restaurant are Nearly rarelyeveryone interferedhas a storywith. about the lost time their wallet they and it was either returned to them by the police or they went back a few days later to the place they contentslost intact.it andBut thatfound afforddoesn't itto mean be stillyoucareless. can there,The rules apply samein Japan commonsenseas anywhere else. Take care of your things, and be aware of around you. Have a safe trip! what's going on ■ Yakushiji Temple Look! Nara Park Nara Park , where the Kasuga Grand contains a collection Todaiji Temple is popularly known as Deer Kofukuji Temple, founded in 710. Nara Park erected in 768 one— of the most famous , 42 km. (28 mi.) south of Kyoto, is an older The World Heritage Sites designated by UNESCO Another attraction is the colorful But perhaps the most famous of Nara's many (Kyoto, and Otsu Cities) including Kinkakuji The major tourist attractions are clustered around The Todaiji Temple and 7 other temples and shrines. Temple and 16 other temples and shrines. Horyuji Temple, 45 min. by rail from Nara Sta., is To the west lies • Historic Monuments of Ancient Nara includes • Buddhist Monuments in the Horyuji Area [Nara] • Historic Monuments of Ancient Kyoto Todaiji Temple Nara Nara Sta. capital of Japan, and wasJapan's also arts,a majorcrafts, cradle literature, mention industry. of and culture not to Park for its resident tame deer. Park for its resident Many valuable Buddhist statues are exhibited in the National Treasure House,storied pagodaand which nearbyis mirrored isPond. in athe five-Sarusawa not only superbly beautiful but one of the most Shrine Shinto shrines in Japan. Thebuildings vermilion-lacquered createsurrounding greenery. Some a 1,800 beautifulstonestand lanterns in the contrastshrinelanterns precincts are to suspendedcorridors. theand 1,000 from metal the eaves of its of Buddhist art with pieces from every period. of Buddhist art with ancient attractions is Great Buddha of Nara sits. The Daibutsuden, where the Great Buddha is housed, is world's largest wooden structure. claimed to be the important temples in Japan. The temple, the oldest intact temple complex in Japan, was founded in 607. Around 40 buildings make up the complex, and are said to be the world's oldest wooden structures.

14 These are the varied faces that constitute this constitute that region. faces varied the are These industry. modern that developed highly coast with Pacific thrives the to way the all lifestyles, traditional and older nation's the of much retains which coast Sea Japan the Alps," "Japan the of peaks soaring the have you Here Japan. of center geographical the in almost lies Chuburegion The ulig cletd rm h Mii eid 16 - (1868 of period museum Meiji the 1912). from outdoor collected impressive buildings an is , existing oldest fortress. Japan's castle, white-walled its for been knownforitsTokoname-yakipottery. long has Nagoya, from train by min. 40 , Also popular. highly are plates souvenir small priced Reasonably visitors. to experience hands-on making ay hp a wl a suis feig pottery- a offering are studios there as well town as the shops many Throughout kilns. local many Nagoya &Vicinity Chubu rdcr i Jpn el nw fr t ptey and pottery its for known well Japan in producers pottery largest the of one is Nagoya, from rail by min. Nagoya. surrounding environs the in found Tokugawa the by down family. handed articles 10,000 Museum Art stands city The clan. Tokugawa the for the headquarters of center Castle the the Nagoya and Near ware, arts other and lacquer handicrafts. cloth, tie-dyed industry, "-zome" porcelain Japan's and streets of of center the as noted is region The boulevards. wide network fine a with town, castle old an is Nagoya city, largest fourth Japan's Shin-Osaka. from hr. 1 and Tokyo from express super Shinkansen aoaCastle , 30 min. by rail from Nagoya, is famous is Nagoya, from rail by min. 30 Inuyama, Nagoya uem Meiji-mura Museum nme o ptey rdcn cnes a be can centers producing pottery of number A Explore Japan is 366 km. (229 mi.), or 1 hr. 50 min. by min. 50 hr. 1 or mi.), (229 km. 366 is s el ot a ii a i hue over houses it as visit a worth well is oiial a eiec ad military and residence a originally , aot rd from ride hour 1 about , Tokugawa , 30 Seto, Side Trips from Nagoya a port town famous for its for famous town port a completely is shrine main rebuilt every20years. The Shinto all Japan. of in venerated shrines most the is Nagoya, from magnificent seacoast. its along fisheries pearl numerous as well as Shrine overnight stayasfamily-runinns. "gassho- or thatch-roofed an offering some farmhouses, traditional zukuri"-style steeply its for famous world- is Shirakawa-go Japan, old the of reminiscent Village Shirakawa-go town's the long-standing traditionofthefinestincraftsmanship. museums embodying crafts small of traditional to variety devoted a after including attraction with attraction, dotted whole museum-like, The is Japan. town old of atmosphere retains the of Takayama much Alps. Japan valley a the in by situated surrounded town castle old an is Nagoya, cultured. Island to visit Pearl a up pass Don't worship. of spot Shinto sacred a is and rope, giant a by linked islets Old HousesinSan-machiSuji,Takayama , 20 min. by rail or 40 min. by bus from Ise, is Ise, from bus by min. 40 or rail by min. 20 Toba, The , 2 hrs. 10 min. by limited express from express limited by min. 10 hrs. 2 Takayama, s-hm Ntoa Park National Ise-Shima h. 0 i. u rd tks o t mountainous to you takes ride bus min. 40 hr. 1 , about 1 hr. 30 min. by rail by min. 30 hr. 1 about Shrine, Grand Ise wee ers ee is artificially first were pearls where , Nsld n rrl setting rural a in Nestled . "Wedded Rocks," "Wedded k Resor Ski ResorResort, abr te s Grand Ise the harbors ,Nagano t, Nagano Mikimoto a pair of pair a

15 is a magnificent, Noto Peninsula Prefecture, 1 hr. to 2 hrs. from Tokyo, is Northeast of , the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route Sado Island, 1 hr. by hydrofoil from Niigata, is the Tateyama Kurobe Alpine Route Kurobe Alpine Route Tateyama Tateyama Japan Sea Coast one of the world's snowiestattracts areas large and, numbersas winter. such, of skiers throughout the fifth largest of Japan's islands, and is home to many small rice farms nestled betweenmountain chains. its twin parallel projects into thefeatures a Japan diversified geography. The outer Sea.coast is Itscharacterized by its ruggedness while the inner coast long coastline is rich with bays and inlets with numerous photogenic fishing villages. mountain-sightseeing route Tateyamawinding Sta.its inway Toyamafrom PrefectureToyama-Chiho of theRailway local and center passingof the Northern Japan throughAlps to its theterminus in Omachi in .superb view of One3,000-m-high canclass mountainsenjoy the from conveniencea of a cable car, bus,trolley bus. ropeway and , Chubu- in the city of are a series of Kenrokuen Garden Japan Alps in central Nagano City has been Eiheiji Temple, celebrated as one of the became world-famous as the host for the empleemple The World Heritage Site designated by UNESCO The prevailing practices of drama, tea The mountains of the [ and ] Zenkoji Temple Nagano Kanazawa, 3 hrs. by limited express from Nagoya A 1 hr. 30-min. train ride from Kanazawa via It was founded by Priest Dogen (1200 - 1253), who The main donjon of • Historic Villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama Zenkoji TZenkojiZenkoji Temple T volcanic peaks running from north to south through the central and widest part of . They are often compared to the Alps of Europe in ruggedness and beauty. The Northern Alps form the core of National Park. Sangaku (Japan Alps) 1998 Winter Olympics.superb skiingIts in highlandwinter and walking and trekking. summer is ideal for areastheir refreshingly offer cool Other Areas Other ceremony, and flower arranging among the citizens came about asunbroken peace awhich their ancestors resultenjoyed from ofthe 17ththe to long19th centuries.period of or Osaka, originated as a castlemuch of the flavor of those early feudal times. town that retains Matsumoto is nicknamed the "Crow Castle" because of its black walls. The castle was built during the Age of Civil Wars, and therefore it features,has little yet decorativeshines with beauty. a simple and masculine highly revered for 1,400 years as a primary center of Buddhistic faith. Its national treasure. imposing main building is a created in 1822, lies in the center of the city, and is Mito and Korakuen Garden in . takes you to headquarters of the Soto sect of Zen Buddhism. known as one of the three most beautiful landscape brought Zen Buddhism to Japan from China. gardens in Japan, along with Kairakuen Garden in

16 that enlivens thevisitoraswell. energyeven today, creating veryaand vitality distinct its by specialcharacterized is Kansai such, atmosphere As times. olden since Japan in commerce of capital the as prospered has region Kansai The n dcmns eae t te oooi aiy and family Osaka oftheold. Toyotomi the Toyotomi to related by objects documents art and historical 1586 many contains in original, the of copy a built fortress, five-storied present The Japan, Hideyoshi. in largest more. Kansai Japan Osaka include attractions, Aquarium urban in trendiest the The area theater. puppet Bunraku of origin played animportantroleinthecity'sprosperity. have which streets, busy many its under crisscross that canals of emptying network a has River Osaka Bay, Osaka Yodo into the of mouth the at Situated and city Japan. western for hub industrial and commercial the third-largest Japan's is Tokyo, from air by rae rvds gipe no h diy ietl of lifestyle daily the into glimpse a provides arcade shopping its along walk A shrine. local the to visitors Umeda the localresidents. rud md Sa, a a ubr f modern of number a has Sta., Umeda around ore. r pplr sk dse sc a "yaki- as such dishes Osaka popular the Try to caters gourmet. truly Osaka table), the of delights in the over-indulgence of joy for epicurean reputation (the its "kuidaore" of Worthy shoppers. and visitors with teaming always are which arcades underground h Mii etrto bgn n 88 A iy f hills, of city A 1868. in began Restoration Meiji the hotpot), (globefish "fugu-nabe" meat), (grilled niku" epr wih a dvlpd t rpd ae since pace rapid a at developed has which seaport piece ofboiledoctopus),among many,manyothers. a containing dumpling (baked "tako-yaki" and "sushi" onions), and pork deep-fried (skewed "kushi-katsu" , 3 hrs. by Shinkansen super express or 1 hr. 1 or express super Shinkansen by hrs. 3 Osaka, As a classical city, it is very proud of its being the being its of proud very is it city, classical a As The absolute highlight is highlight absolute The o etranet n sopn, o' ms the miss don't shopping, and entertainment For Explore Japan is a must for visitors as an emerging center of center emerging an as visitors for must a is TM a olwo bsd hm pr, n many and park, theme based Hollywood a , 3 mn b ri fo Oaa i a major a is Osaka, from rail by min. 30 , and and KAIYUKAN Namba itit. md, centered Umeda, districts. and and , once the once Castle, Osaka o osipr and worshippers to catering by prospered long has which Street Shopping Tenjinbashi the is noted Nearby a scholar. Sugawara, Michizane to dedicated lies end its At center. civic the is River, of Yodo the streams between divergent delta small nvra Sudios Universal Nakanoshima Temmangu Shrine, Temmangu sk Bay Osaka o a on , located in in located into theeveninghours. is well city port great this of view night famed way the enjoy who visitors the of throngs with bustles It development. Across evening. Harborland the in up residential enclavethatisgreatforstrolling. foreign fascinating a along harbors Kobe , Yokohama, main with Japan's of One backdrop. the city's form that that foothills Rokko the walkways down and and up wind paths narrow many has Kobe annually. 1 by visited pilgrims is million at monastery meals The prices. vegetarian of and reasonable temples, lodgings 120 offer 53 over of which comprised is monastery the Daishi, the Buddhism, of Kobo sect Shingon the of exponent by great 816 in Founded Osaka. from of summit the at monastery here isnottobemissed. original visit treasures—a the national and as walls buildings—preserved alabaster—plastered past leading grounds castle the through paths twisting its With nation. the in found be to castles beautiful most TheSacred SitesandPilgrimageRoutesintheKii • HimejiCastle [Hyogo] • For a different unforgettable experience, stay at the at stay experience, unforgettable different a For , soaring 108 m., is beautifully lit beautifully is m., 108 soaring Tower, Port Kobe Mountain Range [] The WorldHeritageSitesdesignated byUNESCO nte mjr trcin n etr Jpn is Japan western in attraction major Another a el eegn waterfront emerging newly a , Nachi Waterfall City. City. iei Castle Himeji ©Kobe Convention & Visitors Association oeHarborland Kobe Harborland , a 2-hr. rail ride rail 2-hr. a Koya, Mt. s n o the of one is Kobe The Inland Sea/

The "Shimanami-kaido" route recently opened connecting the main islands of Honshu and Shikoku with seven magnificent bridges. The highway and bridge route over the Inland Sea unfolds with fantastic views interwoven by the blue sea dotted with ships and boats of all sizes, and the picturesque small islands. Giant Whirpools, Naruto Coast accentuates the tourist attractions of Shikoku The Inland Sea, or Seto-Naikai, is bounded by the Island. Access has become very easy since direct three main islands of Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu. bus services began operating recently between the Crossing from Honshu to Shikoku islands has now major cities in the on the Honshu side become extremely easy and enjoyable thanks to the and those on Shikoku. series of seven bridges, including the Seto Ohashi, Takamatsu, 1 hr. by train from Okayama, is the Akashi-kaikyo Ohashi and Shimanami-kaido bridges. main gateway to Shikoku from Honshu, and a Boats and ferries also travel to Shikoku island from convenient starting point for traveling around the the cities of Osaka, Kobe, , Onomichi, and island. Takamatsu has many attractions worth Wakayama. seeing. Ritsurin Park is one of the finest traditional gardens in this area. It was laid out about 350 years ago on the site of a villa owned by the .

"Shimanami-kaido" Route

The Inland Sea, blessed with superb seascapes and a mild climate, is remarkably calm, peaceful and Ritsurin Park beautiful. Over 600 islands are scattered over an , the largest city in Shikoku, is a 2hr. area of 8,200 sq. km. Walking or cycling along the 40min. limited express train ride from Takamatsu or "Shimanami-kaido" route (60 km. in total length) is a one-hour boat trip from Hiroshima or Kure. highly recommended if you wish to fully enjoy the is one of the nation's best- scenic splendors of the Inland Sea. The "Shimanami- preserved. Also Dogo Spa, 20 min. by rail from kaido" provides an ideal sightseeing route as the Matsuyama, is one of the oldest in Japan. seven bridges link the six smaller islands lying Kochi, 2hr. 20min. by limited express train from between Honshu and Shikoku. The richly diversified Takamatsu, is the prefectural seat of the rich farming coastal scenery is an interesting kaleidoscope of the land and fisheries along Shikoku's central southern many small ports, fishing villages, fields, and coast. Its southwestern coast is designated a farms found among the gentle island slopes. national park and offers a variety of outdoor The Naoshima Cultural Village on Naoshima Island attractions from scuba diving to whale watching. in the Inland Sea can be reached in about 1 hr. 30 Prefecture can be reached from the min. from Okayama by train, ferry and car. The Kansai region in approximately 2 hrs. 30 min. by "village" features a fine contemporary art museum and express bus. Its capital, the city of Tokushima is its architecture is a harmonious blend with the island's famous for its Awa-Odori dance festival held every serene natural environment. summer. Naruto, 40 min. by train from Tokushima Shikoku Island consists of four prefectures, and City, is noted for its giant whirlpools in the narrow each prefectural seat was at one time a castle town. Naruto Straits. For an exciting, closer look at these The natural beauty illustrated by the picturesque whirlpools, book a ride on a pleasure boat. Inland Sea Coast and the dynamic Pacific Ocean

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18 Japan. the in nestle old of best flavorthe the of and scenery nostalgic of quest in visit to hamlets place the is and This mountains. villages fishing Seaside towns. and villages exquisite and serene butsmall with punctuated regionis Chugoku The until allnuclearweaponsareabolished. extinguished be to never Cenotaph, Memorial the of front in burns Flame Peace the Here devastation. the to relating objects and photographs a of collection large displaying Museum Memorial Peace the contains bombing. atomic II War World Osaka. The present city emerged from the ashes of the e fr l. h etr iln, ih n ra f 0 sq. 30 of area an with island, entire The all. to for see you takes Miyajima-guchi, from ride boat min. 40min. museums. Of these, these, Of several has a museums. get town. to exquisite canals this of tile- flavor its willow-fringed with and quarter houses roofed merchant's old the narrow of the streets Stroll Okayama. from ride train 15-min. a by reached is new, the with blended naturally and who clan Okayama the spent 14longyearstocompleteit. of lord feudal ruling the by 1700 the in created is was masterpiece garden here this round, Garden attraction main Korakuen The Island. Shikoku and region Chugoku the to gateway a is Shin-Osaka, Sea Japan the San-in, Coast. and Coast, Sea Inland the Sanyo, of areas two the into split is Honshu, of island Chugoku iaia Island Miyajima on exhibitareimpressive. Japanese masterpieces art The fine antique Oriental and sculptures. folkcrafts and world- paintings of famous collection great a contains It remarkable. Shrine , 1 hr. by Shinkansen super express from express super Shinkansen by hr. 1 Okayama, , a former castle town, is reached in reached is town, castle former a Hiroshima, Twenty-five min. by train from Hiroshima and a 10- a and Hiroshima from train by min. Twenty-five , where the past is beautifully preserved beautifully is past the where Kurashiki, main the of end western the at situated Chugoku, Explore Japan y hnasn ue epes rm Shin- from express super Shinkansen by and and ild ih lwr al year all flowers with Filled . tuuhm Shrine Itsukushima hr msu o Art of museum Ohara Peace Memorial Park Memorial Peace a must- a , 1hr. is music isplayedonancientJapaneseinstruments. Sacred back. and side mainland the on visit shrines other to journey boat a on taken is Itsukushima the occasion, this On August. or July in Kangen-sai is dramatic most the but year, the throughout here held is are festivals colorful sea Many shrine. the of landmark the the of out rising gate wood camphor red A sea. the on floating be to appears structure the corridors whole tide high by at so water, the over connected out stretch are which buildings shrine Beauty. The Scenic of Place Special a and Special Site a Historic as government the by designated is km., of youngwomanworshippers. in nationwide numbers large attracting thus famous bliss, marital of support is here enshrined deity The grand the by splendor. solemn own its in stands building years, sanctuary Backed thousand few Japan. a in stretching shrines history oldest the of one is and style architectural its for famed is Sta., Izumoshi Shimane of seat the Prefecture. as well as destination, and tourist hub distribution major a is city The Shinji. Lake joins Lagoon the where point the at situated the discover to and rainduringthenight. winds morning by created surfaces the their on patterns in beautiful early dunes the the of portion a is city in north the to The km. 5 located dunes sand the for noted Prefecture. of seat the is Osaka, The townisalsowellknownforitsHagi-yakipottery. is anenjoyableexperience. lanes peaceful the touring Just atmosphere. tasteful old-time of Meiji and calm, a exudes which town, the around there and here the found be in number can shrines and A temples residences, resulting events Restoration. led prominent who many of samurai birthplace the in is rich Hagi town castle history. old an is Sta., Shin- •Iwami Ginzan SilverMineanditsCultural Landscape •Itsukushima ShintoShrine [Hiroshima] •Hiroshima PeaceMemorial (GenbakuDome) Hagi [Shimane] [Hiroshima] zm Tih Shrine Taisha Izumo Tottori The WorldHeritageSitesdesignated byUNESCO (Higashi-Hagi Sta.), 1 hr. 10 min. by bus from bus by min. 10 hr. 1 Sta.), (Higashi-Hagi 4 r. 0 i. y iie epes from express limited by min. 20 hrs. 4 , 2 r. rm otr b lmtd xrs, is express, limited by Tottori from hrs. 2 , a-n agn ainl Park National Kaigan San-in Korakuen Garden 1 mn b tan from train by min. 10 , Visit .

19 Lake (cauldron) and grounds and "Okama" Mt. Bandai Castle © Prefecture , , 1 hr. 40 min. by from Akita are famous winter ski resorts. is 30 min. by limited express from Aomori. In mountain range. The Zao Shirakami-Sanchi Mountains, extending over the Zao The World Heritage Sites designated by UNESCO The The city of , about three hours from Tokyo Aizu Wakamatsu, the castle town of Tsuruga Castle, Hirosaki Kakunodate, 45 minutes from Akita by Shinkansen, is The •Shirakami-Sanchi Mountains [Aomori and Akita] • [Iwate] "Okama" of Mt. Zao"Okama""Okama" of Mt. Zao of Mt. Zao ancient dwellings are openNebuta Festival, held toin August, is thefamous as a public.festival The representativecity's of the country as a wholethrongs of revelers from all over. and attracts early May every year, isShinkansen, home to the Kanto Festival region. another great summer festival in the Tohoku in August, a historic town dotted storehouses.with samuraiThe samurairesidences residences museumsand now serve as and experience old-style Japan. restaurants, allowing visitorsby Shinkansen, offers visitors onsen and winter skiing in to the is around 2 hrs. 30 min. from Tokyo by Shinkansen and JR limited express. Nearby surrounding areas come alive with cherry blossoms in full bloom on some 5,000 cherry trees. prefectural borders between Aomori and Akita, is a vast woodland of primeval beech forest, thusuntouched part of retainingthe world of an nature. "Mini Shirakami" hiking course is found nearby. is a mystical lake brimming with emerald water. Don't miss it. , , the ruins . Lake , 2 Oirase Valley Matsushima, which can be and the cooler than in the southwest. ℃ , a 30-min. bus trip from central built in 1109. The temple's Konjikido, Towada-Hachimantai National Park , 2.5 hrs. by limited express or Aomori The gateway to the Pacific Coast area is The northern portion of the main island of Honshu is A must-see in the city of Aomori is the ancient Hiraizumi, a 1 hr. 30-min. train ride from Sendai, was Oirase Gorge called the Tohokurefreshingly region. The weathercooltemperatures some 10 inis alwaysthe highlands with summer Rustic hot springs are everywhere in Tohoku and large numbers of "onsen" lure lovers from throughout Japan. All these hot springs values areand, knownas such, forhave theirserved places since times of old. as medicinalhot-spring cure hrs. by Shinkansen super express from Tokyo. Sendai serves as a base for trips to reached in 40 min. by rail. Matsushima is reputed to be one of the three most beautiful placesscenic in bayJapan. isThe dotted witharound the bay on a pleasure boat is recommended. hundreds of islets. A tour originally modeled on Kyoto and is the site of the noted Chusonji Temple or Golden Hall, houses 11 images of Buddha, and was 30min by Shinkansen from Morioka is a starting for point trips to Tohoku core of the Towada, in the center of the park, is one of the most originally coated with black-lacquer and gold plate. provides refreshing views of the crystal-clear stream as well as waterfalls, large and small. picturesque lakes in Japan. At its eastern shore, the Aomori. Dating back about 4,000 to 5,500 oneyears, ofit is Japan's largest-scalecommunities. Unearthedruins articles ofand Jomon-periodreproductions of of Sannai-Maruyama Oirase Valley stretchesmeandering along the forgorge fringed 14by densekm. woods, A promenade, The Tohoku region offers attractions —a outwardly rustic diversein appearance yet range of with a richcombination of a colorful natural world, friendly and deepand ingenuous people, ambiance. with explosive festivalssummer and Itexcitement that is culminate region's short summer season. And so very much a in the more ...

20 © InternationalTourismandConventionAssociation Honshu, offers a mild climate, lush green lush formations. climate, mild volcanicmysterious a and springs, hot countryside, offers Honshu, of island main the of southwest located Kyushu, etrs oh ihad n sahr hot-spring seashore and highland both features resorts. resorts. dropped onHiroshima. uut , 95 tre as fe te is was first the after days three 1945, 9, August on blast atomic the of spot exact the commemorate Puccini's for setting the of opera, MadameButterfly. reminiscent scenery century-old century-old Church Catholic Temple bomb atomic second the of dropped onJapanduringWorldWarII. target the also was f aa' scuin rm 69 o 89 Nagasaki 1859. to 1639 from seclusion Japan's of period the during shogunate Tokugawa the by trade foreign to open port Japanese only the was Nagasaki There years. are about150kilnsinthearea. 400 over of history a with pottery its ancient courtculturecanbefound. Japan's to related finds archeological many , Kyushu/ the "now" of Asia. At At Asia. of "now" the showcases it as visit a worth well is Art, Fine Asian intriguing The Asia. of the rest with exchange international of point strategic a as emerged has city the years, recent In Kyushu. to Shinkansen gateway by rail the hrs. is 3 Shin-Osaka, from and express super air by hrs. 2 or Tokyo the Portugueselandedherein16thcentury. It neighbors. when West the with contact of point first the also was sophisticated more its by culturally was influenced on, century fourth the from Kyushu, Oura CatholicChurch , 6 hrs. by Shinkansen super express from express super Shinkansen by hrs. 6 Fukuoka, , 1 hr. 20 min. from Hakata, is well known for known well is Hakata, from min. 20 hr. 1 Arita, ne, pesn 2h. rv fo Nagasaki, from drive 2-hr. pleasant a Unzen, Primary attractions in the city include include city the in attractions Primary Nagasaki eas o is rxmt t Kra n China, and Korea to proximity its of Because Explore Japan aaai ec Park Peace Nagasaki , known as the Chinese Temple, the the Temple, Chinese the as known , t Unzen Mt. lvr Mansion Glover is a base from which to visit visit to which from base a is a ainl raue ad the — and Treasure National — a a atv vlao cnit of consists , active an , Dazaifu I i as ntd o its for noted also is It . uuk Msu of Museum Fukuoka 2 mn b cr from car by min. 20 , a li ot to out laid was Sofukuji Unzen Oura . Castle Kumamoto include spots tourist Major Sta. Hakata from express by persecution the Shogunatein1638. against a struggle their in now last here their stand is made who district the of Christians the to reconstruction, a relating documents and records displaying museum, donjon, Its stood. hot springwaters. different many the enjoy one and from another to hopping bath public Try Japan's of resorts. one spring is hot this greatest that proof — eloquent 100 over there baths, spring hot public to comes it When air. the into mud throw and loudly detonate which of active most the ponds, mud bubbling its for famous is town, spa a , Kyushu. of coast eastern the on world's the Aso, Mt. as largest volcaniccaldera,andMt.Kuju. such volcanoes includes to gateway a also m.). m.). being highest the peaks, three Usuki Sekibutsu, Oita Mt. Aso , 15 min. by train from train by min. 15 Spa, Beppu Kumamoto Shimabara s 0 i. y hnasn super Shinkansen by min. 30 is is where where is and s-uu ainl Park National Aso-Kuju . Kumamoto is Kumamoto Park. Suizenji ©Y. Shimizu Canal City,Fukuoka hmbr Castle Shimabara A RamenStand, Fukuoka Fugendake , is situated is Oita, (alt. 1,360 (alt. which , once

21 , , Sogenji Market, OkinawaMarket,Market, Okinawa Okinawa Okinawa, the most popular of built during the reign of King Shosei. or Gate of Courtesy, the second gate which was originally erected more than 450 The World Heritage Sites designated by UNESCO The main island of of the Ryukyu [Okinawa] Smaller islands around the main island boast some • Island [] •Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom Local Dishes of KumamotoLocalLocal Dishes of Kumamoto Dishes of Kumamoto Beautiful Sea, OkinawaBeautifulBeautiful Sea, Okinawa Sea, Okinawa Temple years ago and is the mausoleum of the former kings of Okinawa during the Shurei-no- Ryukyu Dynasty; and of the Okinawa Senseki (Old Battlefields) Quasi-National Park, consists of monuments dedicated to the spirits of the more than 200,000 World War II war dead. of the world's most crystalline seawaters and finest coral reefs, providing a marine playground for divers and tourists. dedicated to the ancestralthree godsdeities believed of the toImperial be thefamily; the Okinawan islands, is located 2 hrs. 30 min. by air from Tokyo, and 2 hrs. 15 min. from Osaka (Itami). It is a favorite visitor destination owing to its historical past, its coral reefs, emerald seas, sunny skies, and subtropical vegetation. The islands reverted to Japan in 1972 after being occupied by from the the end Unitedof World StatesWar II. Tourist sites in the prefectural seat, include Aoshima Island, a Haniwa Park, Nichinan Nichinan Kaigan Quasi- is 1.5 hrs. by Shinkansen super , one of the most celebrated hot-spring Kagoshima One hour by train from Kagoshima-Chuo Sta. is , Miyazaki 3 hrs. by limited express train from Oita, Yakushima Island, 40 min. by air from Kagoshima Takachiho Gorge, Miyazaki Takachiho Hot Sand-bathing, Ibusuki is a favorite vacation spot. National Park, extending for about 100 km. along the seacoast south of Miyazaki, is the foremosthighlight. Its principal attraction is tourist tiny islet densely palms. covered with biro or betel-nut express from Hakata. The cityattractions, abounds in historicscenic sites,dominated by Sakurajima, an active volcano. and hot springs and is Ibusuki resorts in Japan. Located at the southernmost tip of the Satsuma Peninsula, it owes its popularity in part to its lovely white sandy beach and lush subtropical vegetation. A unique form offered here and is a great way to relax. of hot sand-bathing is Airport, is home to a primeval forest of cedars"Yaku-sugi" dating backoutdoor activities can be enjoyed, including mountain thousands climbing,of years.valley trekking, Many canoeing and eco tours among others.

22 its mountains, highlands, rivers, lakes, the sea, and itsazureskies. the lakes, rivers, highlands, mountains, its — content heart's your to land extensive this of whole the Enjoy paradise. nature's — flowery belts of narcissi,lavenderandcosmos. at nuaig xas o fed fr exquisite form fields of expanse undulating vast A summer. early in fields lavender its for celebrated to you brings train local by trip hr. 1 Another h. 0 i. y iie epes rm . from express limited by min. 30 hr. 1 in itself. attraction great a is bustle and hustle lively market's ih rs fs ad eeals Sml wthn the watching Simply vegetables. and fish filled fresh stalls with and shops small 360 its thronging alike visit is the morning market with buyers and onlookers and buyers with market morning the is visit scenic with along city the haven formanydayvisitorsaswell. popular a is It Sapporo. from trip short a only is Spa, resort spring hot popular The history. city's every Building viewers Tower attracts the monument, historical Sapporo's February. Festival Snow Sapporo Park Odori cultural, island's its neatlylaidoutcheckerboard-likestreets. the is by marked is city The and center. political and economic, Osaka and Tokyo natural in abounds still splendor. times, olden in as and on, today, century 18th the from settled aggressively shaped Goryokaku fortress is a principal attraction in attraction principal a is fortress Goryokaku shaped star- The view. night splendid its for noted town port Islands, gracethelake'scenter. Nakanoshima the dubbed islets, wooded thickly Four freezes never and blue, over. deep is soaring water among The tucked cliffs. lake caldera beautiful a is Hokkaido another popular Hokkaido tourist spot. is a is Hakodate spot. tourist Hokkaido popular another For Former Hokkaido Government Office BuildinginSapporo Office HokkaidoGovernment Former The circular caldera circular The , 1 hr. 20 min. by bus from Sapporo, from bus by min. 20 hr. 1 Shikotsu, Lake The city's main thoroughfare is the flower-adorned the is thoroughfare main city's The Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost main island, was island, main northernmost Japan's Hokkaido, Sapporo Hakodate Explore Japan e okioGover Hokkaido mer HokkaidoGover s h ara gtwy o okio from Hokkaido to gateway aerial the is wee h itrainly popular internationally the where , acsil b tan rm ooi is Aomori, from train by accessible , in central Hokkaido can be reached in reached be can Hokkaido central in ajis msu ehbtn the exhibiting museum a adjoins , mn Of nment Of Lake Toya Lake . Well worth a worth Well Hakodate. Mt. ieBidn nSapporo in Building fice BuildinginSapporo is another highlight. another is Jozankei Furano Clock acig wiewtr atn, osbc riding, much more. much, horseback so and ballooning, hot-air trekking, whale rafting, woodland and white-water dolphin outdoor include of watching, array Attractions extensive an activities. with lover nature will remainalifelongmemory. marshland, spectacular this through way its weaves which River, the down Canoeing sanctuary. here is the the is here highlight greatest The lakes. nature, crystalline pristine with of dotted world eastern a In find you Sapporo. area from Hokkaido express limited by hrs. unforgettable truly a and experience. generations all of visitors among popular highly is setting natural grand Furano Driving through the flowering fields of Furano in this in Furano of fields flowering the through Driving •Shiretoko [Hokkaido] Skiing , the largest city in eastern Hokkaido, is 4 is Hokkaido, eastern in city largest the Kushiro, okio a ad f edn ntr, rvds the provides nature, verdant of land a Hokkaido, The WorldHeritageSitedesignated byUNESCO uhr Marshland Kushiro Clock TowerBuilding Rafting hc i a wildlife a is which

23 600 to district in ￥ weekday take out deli 100 and up per ￥ Akihabara twice a year, selling " are constantly growing in bargain sales 1,500 and up per person. Sushi lunches ￥ is not at all expensive except at a limited 500. Even more reasonable breakfast menus at reasonable prices ranging from 100. 100-yen shops can be found near train ￥ Shopping 100-yen shops ￥ " Shopping, entertainment and business districts Sushi Japanese retailers, especially department stores, 900. Set menus, either western- or Japanese- The basement of department stores is usually the For consumer electronics, the stations and in shoppingsmall districts. souvenir You may tableware and many other items on sale. itemsfind there such as Japanese are filled with restaurantslunch which offer style, are available in 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. generally from around abundance. Lunch time is ￥ hold large-scale ● ● ● than shops. are available at some ● ● ● food floor, offering a rich variety of selections and lunch boxes - inexpensive. deliciousSelect one or as two welland enjoy your as own lunch at a nearby park. ■ number. A wide rangearticles for daily use of- are all itemssold at a uniform price - fromof foods to plate. At other sushi shops, a set-menu sushi meal run about can be enjoyed at around ￥800 and up. number of high-grade restaurants.zushi" shops With (serving"kaiten- couple smallof bite-sized plates pieces ofeach conveyor sushi belts), sushi withoncosts only a a rotating Tokyo is the first place you should visit. An amazing variety of consumer electronics can be found here. Get off the train at Akihabara Sta. on JR's , and you'll findvolume salescountless outlets and shops,electronics standing side by side. partsincluding shops, seasonal products goods suchat remarkable discount asprices. If you clotheshappen andto visitsundry a department store duringsale period, you'll such be impressed a with bargainthe number of price tags on display at "30%Usually, off" the and bargain"50% saleoff." seasons and July. are in January can cities and regions. Northern Tohoku, Narita, " and similar cost-saving offers excellent value and and fast food establishments 1-day Pass Japan Rail Pass (Museum Guide, Handy Guide and Map), Dining Welcome Card (Culture Card) (Culture Card Welcome Transportation Listed here are some lucrative tips for the JR's The card comes with a guidebook for you as an Concentration of Meanwhile, in large population centers like Tokyo Dining out in Japan is not necessarily "expensive" Kobe, Kita-Kyushu, Fukuoka The card is information availablecenters in each region and through freethe following website. of chargehttp://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/arrange/essential/wel at local come.html Kagawa Prefectures overseas visitor todiscounts Japan andto enablespecialmuseums, sightseeingyou services attractions, toshopping getareas,at artrestaurants, galleries, accommodations facilities. and Although transportationcalled the Welcome Card, there are also places where you can receive discounts by of the card. presenting a web page printout instead This card, in many varieties, is currently available in Tokyo often be found around train stations, which offer convenience for the foreign visitor traveling around Japan. Especially recommended is the "Japan Rail Pass 7 Days." At a price about equivalent to a round trip on the ShinkansenTokyo andsuper Kyoto, express it Japan for seven days. travel on JR lines throughout allowsbetween the bearer unlimited and Osaka, " tickets are available.transportation in the respective areas' Theymain systems offer unlimitedof intra-city localtransportation for a specified periodtime. By ofeliminating the trouble of frequently buying tickets, using such ticketstravelers who is wish to very move around convenient within a limited area for and within a limited period of time. For details, please refer to page 34-35. ● ■ ■ ■ inexpensive mealsHamburger and insandwich ashops there not casual to mention, are atmosphere. specializing Japanese-stylein "gyudon" (rice topped with cooked fast food shops, though, like in most countries, it tends to be a bit budget-minded traveler in Japan. in traveler budget-minded beef and sauted onions), "tendon" (rice topped with tempura), and soba or udon noodles. These fast more expensive while traveling. Delicious as well as food establishments generally offer meals at less reasonably-priced dining can be enjoyed if you keep the following tips in mind: Tips for Budget Travelers Budget for Tips Look!

24 ac 15 March decorating anddisplayingminiaturedolls. by home at celebrated girls for Festival country. the 3 March the nightof12th. on peak its reaches torches pine of light flickering the in performed rite solemn A Nara. Temple, Todaiji of March 1-14 Festivals and Events trees burst into bloom SPRING ee r ol sm eape o mjr Japanese major of festivals fromalistthatisalmostuncountable. of examples some Listed only Japan. are sources in here somewhere year, greatest the day throughout every virtually place country's take Festivals the enjoyment. of one of be source great a well may been Japan of festivals the all, Above enjoyment. long has feature is climatic climate its and This changes. zone seasonal distinct four by characterized temperate the to belongs ou ad utr. ueos lwr etvl are festivals flower everywhere. Numerous mustard. iris, and camellia, lotus of blossoms are plentiful shapes. Particularly and varieties of panoply rainbow stunning throughout the land. the celebration in human and rebirth nature for of time name a is spring Japan, northern of trees the from fall blossoms cherry the flowering when last May, of days last the to debut, blossoms hie n aa tgs 100ya-l classic 1,000-year-old a stages Nara in Shrine udit epe, n ommrto o Buddha's of birthday. commemoration in temples, Buddhist April 8 entertainers. apprentice "Maiko" by presented dances Japanese 1-30 days) April 15 (for Tournament, Osaka. Mid-March dance. Cherry Blossoms From the first days of March, when flowering plum flowering when March, of days first the From pigie n aa ltrly en foes i a in flowers, means literally Japan in Springtime Festivals and Events of the Four Seasons h Jpns acieao fr h ms part, most the for archipelago, Japanese The aa asr o Foa Fsias n all in Festivals Floral or Matsuri Hana — Hina Matsuri or Doll Festival throughout Festival Doll or Matsuri Hina tu Mtui Fsia) f Kasuga of (Festival) Matsuri Otaue Miyako Odori or Cherry Dance, Kyoto. Dance, Cherry or Odori Miyako Omizutori or Water-Drawing Festival Water-Drawing or Omizutori The plum and cherry eod Sumo Second aae f lre otbe hie ad oe than more and 100 smallerones. shrines portable large 3 of parade a featuring Shrine, Asakusa of Festival Matsuri Sanja 3rd Sun.,previousFri. &Sat.ofMay Kyoto, featuringaparadeof ancientboats. May of Sun. 3rd of procession over 1,000armor-cladmen. spectacular a by Highlighted Nikko. 17-18 May portable shrinesareonparade. of Dozens odd-year). every (held Tokyo in Mid-May Tokyo days) 15 (for Mid-May features amagnificentpageant. 15 May Gifu. (UntilOctober15) 11 May spring wind. the in rippling streamers carp flying colorful for Noted 5 May kites. opponents' their of strings cut and try to kites huge fly 3-5 May TTakayama Matsuri o Matsuri Aoi Matsuri kym Matsuri akayama Matsuri hlrns a truhu te country. the throughout Day Children's Aoi Matsuri or Hollyhock Festival in Kyoto in Festival Hollyhock or Matsuri Aoi Kite Battles, in . Competitors Hamamatsu. in Battles, Kite omrn fsig n h Ngr River, Nagara the on fishing Cormorant Kanda Matsuri of Kanda Myojin Shrine Myojin Kanda of Matsuri Kanda Grand Festival of Toshogu Shrine in Shrine Toshogu of Festival Grand Mifune Matsuri on the Oi River, Oi the on Matsuri Mifune Third Sumo Tournament, Sumo Third gods onhorseback. legendary of parade a features Fukuoka in Dontaku Hakata May 3-4 floats. decorated of parade a featuring Nikko, of in Shrine Futarasan Matsuri Yayoi April 16-17 floats. gorgeous of parade a in with Takayama, Shrine Hie of Matsuri Takayama April 14-15

25 July 14 Nachi Shrine Himatsuri or Fire Festival, Nachi- Katsuura features the bearing of torches 12by white-robed giant . July 1-15 Gion Yamakasa Hakata in Fukuoka peaks on the 15th with a parade of giant floats. July 1-31 Gion Matsuri,largest Kyoto, festival the dates back theto in Gorgeously 9th bedecked century. Grand Fireworks Display over Awa Odori Folk Dance Festival in Daimonji Bonfire on the hills Kanto Matsuri Festival in Akita, Matsuri of Temmangu Shrine Nebuta Matsuri Festival in Aomori Hanagasa Matsuri in Yamagata, with Hanagasa MatsuriHanagasaHanagasa Matsuri Matsuri Yume-Minato Festival, Hiroshima Hiroshima Festival, Festival, Yume-Minato Yume-Minato August 12-15 Tokushima. The entire city resounds with singing and dancing day and night. August 16 overlooking Kyoto. traditional floats parade through the main streets. traditional floats parade through the Last Sat. of July the in Tokyo. July or August Kangensai Music dances. Hiroshima, featuring court music and Festival of in July 24-25 in Osaka features a parade of boats bearing portable shrines on the Okawa River. August 1-7 (August 2-7), and Neputa Matsuri Festival in Hirosaki (August 1-7), with papier-mache dummies set on floats. parades of enormous Augustlighted 3-6 featuring a parade of lanterns. bamboo poles hung with many lighted young men balancing longAugust 5-7 a dance paradewearing oftraditional somestraw hats with10,000 colorful flowers. artificial townspeople ©Yamagata Prefecture Bon Fourth Sumo Tournament, Chagu-chagu Umakko or Play time in the land of land the in time — Play Sanno Matsuri of in Tokyo (for 15 days) Tanabata or Star Festival throughout Japan. Tanabata or Star Festival throughout Summer throughout Japan culminates in large- Summer is the season of fireworks. Almost every Summer is the season of rice planting, as well as Kanto Matsuri, Akita scale festivals, many with folk dancing,"Bon odori" dance meetings for the recreation of local as well as residents, friends and visitors. night, communities enlivening the night skies. firework displays colorfully around Japan stage lively being the time of country. The total green cherry leaves, maples, oaks greeneryand throughoutchestnuts thein mountaindeeper tintsforests of evergreen contrastpines, while sway gently throughout the land. shoots of bamboo thewith delicate the Mid-July Mid-June features a procession of portable shrines through the year. other every District, Akasaka the of streets busy 2nd Sat. of June Festivals and Events and Festivals Horse Festival in Morioka where colorfully decorated horses are on parade. July 7 SUMMER nature Nagoya. July 13-15 (or August in many areas) Festival throughout the country. Religious rites are held in memory of the dead. Bon odori folk are offered to comfort their souls. dances ©Yasufumi Nishi

26 ea Srn i Koo s n o te he grandest three festivals ofKyoto. the of one is Kyoto in Shrine Heian by 22 October escorted palanquins of armor-clad retainers. parade a with Nikko, 17 October Temple inTokyo. xiiin a Mii hie n Aaua Kannon Asakusa and Shrine Meiji at Exhibitions Mid-November - Mid-October climax onthe15th. etvl f asbr Srn i Hmj rahs its reaches Himeji in Shrine of Festival 14-15 October procession offeudallordsalongthecitystreets. Mid-October Shrine isnotedforitsparadeofcolorfulfloats. 9-10 October Nagasaki featuresadragondanceofChineseorigin. 7-9 October days) 15 (for Tournament, Tokyo. Mid-September in Shrine Kamakura. Hachimangu Tsurugaoka at place takes 16 September Festivals and Events harvest time AUTUMN — Tinted leaves and hyateu sos hc co u aon the around up country. crop which shows cultural functionsaroundthecountry. even and meets neat, sports festivals, in frequent of day time to A rows. out hung or stacked soon and is the grain cut the areas, and gold, rural to turn In fields rice many harvest. of of season The carpets in color. mountainsides and hills yellow, its and paint bronze that gold, crimson, of hues vivid in crisp daysofitsdistinctautumn. cool, the enjoying is Japan of most October by there, t Fuji Mt. Fuji Autumn in Japan brings swirls of changing leaves, changing of swirls brings Japan in Autumn While the summer linger into September here and here September into linger summer the While Festivals and Events of the Four Seasons ae cod as trn t te many the to throng also crowds Eager Autumn Festival of Toshogu Shrine in Shrine Toshogu of Festival Autumn ia Mtui r etvl f rs of Eras of Festival or Matsuri Jidai uci etvl f ua hie in Shrine Suwa of Festival Kunchi Takayama Matsuri of Hachimangu of Matsuri Takayama Yabusame or Horseback Archery Horseback or Yabusame aoa iy etvl ih a with Festival City Nagoya ek Mtui r "Roughhouse" or Matsuri Kenka Chrysanthemum t Sumo 5th iiig a fr hlrn gd , ad in 7 and 5 3, aged guardian gods. the by them children given health good their for of appreciation day visiting 15 November days) 15 Tournament, Fukuoka. Mid-November(for Shrine inKantoRegion. Mid-November faithful reproductionofafeudallord'sprocession. 3 November isfamousforitsparadeofcolorfulfloats. 2-4 November embedded torches along approachestotheshrine. of rows long features Kyoto, in 22 October ia Matsuri Jidai Matsuri itiy rde Y Bridge, Kintaikyo Bridge, YYamaguchi hcig-a (7-5-3) Shichi-go-san (7-5-3) amaguchi Fire Festival of Yuki Shrine, Kurama, Shrine, Yuki of Festival Fire Shichi-go-san (7-5-3) is the shrine- the is (7-5-3) Shichi-go-san amo yrtu n aoe s a is Hakone in Gyoretsu Daimyo Tori-no-ichi, or Rake Fair of Otori of Fair Rake or Tori-no-ichi, knh o Krtu hie in Shrine Karatsu of Okunchi it Sumo Sixth

27 Eyo or Hadaka Matsuri emple, Miyagi)emple, Miyagi) New Year's Day Coming-of-Age Day National Foundation Day Vernal Equinox Day Day of Showa Constitution Memorial Day Greenery Day Children's Day Maritime Day Respect-for-the-Aged Day Autumnal Equinox Day Health-Sports Day Culture Day Labor Thanksgiving Day The Emperor's Birthday Lantern Festival of Kasuga Setsubun or Bean-Throwing Kamakura Matsuri in Yokote, th (Rinnoji Tth (Rinnoji T Bonden Festival in Yokote, Akita. National Holidays National Monday becomes a holiday. sandwiched between national holidays, it also becomes a holiday. ■ Note: (1) When a national holiday falls on Sunday, the following (2) When a day (except for Sundays and the above) is January 1 2nd Monday in January February 11 March 21 (or 20) April 29 May 3 May 4 May 5 3rd Monday in July 3rd Monday in September September 23 (or 22) 2nd Monday in October November 3 November 23 December 23 Winter Scene in the North (Rinnoji Temple, Miyagi) Winter Scene in the North (Rinnoji Temple, Winter Scene in the NorWinter Scene in the Nor Look! Note: All information is based on data as of October 2012 and subject to change without notice. is February 3 or 4 Festival is observed at leading temples country. across the February 3 or 4 Shrine, Nara. February 15-16 Akita. Snow houses enshrining the God of Water are erected. February 17 Dozens of Bonten, symbol of the God of Creativity, men. are carried by young 3rd Sat. of February Saidaiji Temple, Okayama. (naked festival) at First Sumo Snow Festival in Snow Festivals in Grass Fire Ceremony on Mt. Hagoita-ichi (Battledore fair) of On-matsuri of Kasuga Shrine in Okera Mairi of in Namahage in Oga Peninsula, Akita New Year's Day. From the first to third, Dezomeshiki or the New Year's Parade Season of snowy of — Season ear's Dayear's Day Numerous events and fairs also take place On the other hand, in the northern regions, various Except for the extreme north, winter in Japan is not New Year's Day New YNewNew Year's Y January 6 of Firemen in Tokyo with acrobatic stunts on top tall ladders. of Mid-January (for 15 days) Tournament, Tokyo. 4th Sat. of January Wakakusayama, Nara. Early February for 7 days Sapporo, Hokkaido. The most famous snow festival in Japan with many huge, elaborate snow and ice Asahikawa, and other cities in Hokkaido. Nara, featuring a masquerade procession. December 17-19 Festivals and Events and Festivals December 15-18 Asakusa Kannon Temple in Tokyo. December 31 Kyoto. Sacred fire ceremony. December 31 Pref. Men disguised as devilscalls to houses with children. make door-to-door January 1 almost all companies, factories and businesses are closed. Families celebrate the New special Yeardishes, enjoyingwearing their best kimono or dress,and visiting shrines and templeshealth and happiness for the year. to pray for good pleasure WINTER throughout Japan in connection with the New season, Year which is the most important annual day for the Japanese. festivals related to snow and ice are andheld. Tourists residents sculpturesalike andenjoy participate customs and events. huge insnow the andseason's ice rural overly severe, and is skies. sunshine and blue usually tempered by warm sculptures. Early or Mid-February

28 Museums &Art Galleries Overview xiis crnlg o Jpns oen ie art fine modern Japan's masterpieces. of chronology a exhibits of natural historyexhibits. and history scientific historic, entire plus art, the Japanese of traditional overview comprehensive a gives collection extensive Its 1872. in established, Museum the which of museums, national the experience that illuminatethenationanditspeopleasawhole. Japanese the of microcosms represent exquisite museums its in museums. contained many masterpieces its in artistic and crafts artifacts, archeological display the Indeed, on copiously and are detailed accomplishments artistic profound private museums. and public numerous in available now is and years, Daimyo royalty, of hundreds for of merchants wealthy and lords) (feudal collections private the through and houses treasure been temple and has shrine in preserved heritage visiting artistic while rich nation's whirl The the Japan. on constantly you music keep to options Western of lacks to no are there genres, drama all of concerts Noh the of Oriental symbolism mysterious the From modern. and classic Tl o Gni itr Srl" a ainl treasure); national (a Scroll" Picture Genji of "Tale Museum Gotoh the few, a just name To art. fine traditional Japan's of works invaluable preserve which private, and public its collectionofBuddhistsculpture. now and vicinity, the in contains examplesofJapaneseartfromallperiods. temples from other and treasures sculpture paintings, the around created extensive an collection. with space exhibition largest s Japan’ Ukiyoe, TokaidoHiroshigeArtMuseum Perhaps at the pinnacle of Japan's museums stand museums Japan's of pinnacle the at Perhaps The newly opened newly The The In Tokyo, there are numerous art museums, both museums, art numerous are there Tokyo, In The The its as well as history recorded long Japan's both entertainment, of range full a offers Japan The The Entertainment Nara National Museum National Nara ainl uem f oen r, Tokyo Art, Modern of Museum National yt Ntoa Museum National Kyoto n eo ak a te is t be to first the was Park Ueno in oss aog t cleto, the collection, its among boasts, National Art Center, Tokyo Center, Art National is noted especially for especially noted is Tokyo National Tokyo a originally was has hs olcin wih ihihs h wrs of works the houses over1,300 woodblockprints. highlights which painter, Ukiyoe foremost Japan's Utagawa, Hiroshige collection, This relics. samurai other and armor swords, costumes, Noh in ait o cneprr at ok. n Ibaraki exhibitions featuringcontemporaryart. In works. Mito Tower Art at Center Art art the Tokyo, of north the to Prefecture contemporary of a houses variety which building Bauhaus-style elegant an Art Contemporary of The art. contemporary for exhibitions The Gallery abroad. and both the Japan from masterpieces art scale, contemporary of in range Tokyo kind Art, its Contemporary of largest such, As Japan's of One on. so and media thoughts, lifestyles, world. up-to-the-minute those country's the the await in interested of are Japan who in distinct rest museums of art the contemporary to transmitter a as creativity emerging recently built in1933andholdsvariousloanexhibitions. Museum Art Teien The models. large-scale using Museum The museums. distinctive of types other painting. Art of Museum Memorial Ota and textiles; and pottery as such use daily Museum Crafts the paintings; contemporary the of living; Museum traditional on based items Art of Museum Suntory the China; and Japan both from pottery and paintings Arts of the Museum are: visiting worth relaxing Also tastefully atmosphere. a in art fine of works appreciate to visitor the allowing garden, Japanese a have also museums two These artifacts. ceremony tea features the and Edo-Tokyo Museum The Tokaido Hiroshige Art Museum Art Hiroshige Tokaido n h ram f otmoay ie r, aa is Japan art, fine contemporary of realm the In also are there art, fine traditional aside Putting Tokugawa Art Museum Art Tokugawa Hatakeyama Memorial Museum of Fine Art Fine of Museum Memorial Hatakeyama fe sered i hlig "new-concept" holding in spearheads often features the history and lifestyles of Tokyo, of lifestyles and history the features ih fcs n euiu cat for crafts beautiful on focus a with ih t cleto o calligraphy, of collection its with pcaiig n oen and modern in specializing s gnie r dc structure deco art genuine a is in Tokyo's district is district Shinagawa Tokyo's in etrn atqe ie art fine antique featuring oy Oea iy Art City Opera Tokyo rsns n extensive an presents is known for its unique its for known is of Nagoya specializes Nagoya of oy Metropolitan Tokyo pcaiig Ukiyoe specializing of Pref. Shizuoka of Hara Museum Hara Contemporary uem of Museum aa Folk Japan Yamatane Edo-Tokyo Idemitsu Ukiyo-E

29 in , the Kabuki- Tokyo's Shimbashi Ritsurin Park Kanze Kaikan in Tokyo. Kita Nohgakudo. In the Hosho Nohgakudo in , was originally a pleasure National Bunraku Theatre of Kanazawa in Ishikawa , the Also in Ginza is the drama is a highly stylized stage art ) Osaka Nohgaku Kaikan. Noh, on the Kairakuen is an elaborate form of puppet theater: Noh in and Theater is Japan's secular classical drama, Kenrokuen Shinjuku Gyoen , while the National Theater of Japan near in Ginza, which stages plays throughout the year. Japan's This classic art form is performed in Bunraku Elsewhere across the country, notable gardens The best venue for Kabuki in Tokyo is the Kabuki NohNohNoh The theater is closed until spring 2013 due to with 700 years of history. Richlyrooted in ancient symbolic,Shinto rites and Nohis performed is on a stage which is roofed like wear a masks, Shintoand movement is shrine.highly stylized, Actorswhile the costumes are usually rich and gorgeous. National Noh Theater Kanze Nohgakudo, and the Kansai region, Noh is staged at the with vivid makeup, spectacular costumes and sets, plus dramatic action that dancing, and even actors includesflying from and to the stage sword-fighting, over the audience. Kyoto and the other hand, is perhaps best appreciated at open-air, torch-lit performances at temples. za ( reconstruction. Classic Performing Arts Performing Classic Embujo the Imperial Palacecompanies. occasionally hosts touring park of the Imperial family. ground of include Prefecture, Korakuen three-quarter-lifesize wooden and porcelain figures are manipulatedtogether with narration to byShamisen accompaniment. three puppeteersBunraku is performed at working in Osaka and National Theatre in . and Osaka Higashi Kinkakuji and in Kyoto is an in with its rich collection of in is Ginkakuji , , while the large now public and the famous rock garden of being especially exquisite Hama Rikyu Garden in Osaka is important due to its , Miho Museum The Museum of Oriental Ceramics, Nijo Castle , which specializes in priceless antique Japanese gardens, which excel in the creation of In Tokyo, recommended gardens include Kyoto is particularly rich in gardens, with those of As for traditional fine arts in the Kansai region, the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art, Adachi Museum of Art Kenrokuen, KanazawaKenrokuen,Kenrokuen, Kanazawa Kanazawa Gardens Fujita Art Museum rich collection of antique fine arts.that Note, however,it opens celebrated onlyare in springOsaka and autumn. ceramicsAlso from China and Korea, and the well known for both its superb painting. and its collections of modern Japanese Japanese gardens Kanazawa, in , is also renowned for its architectural design as well as for the world’s foremost contemporary art. Municipal Museum of Art Chinese, and Japanese antique fine art works. The Oyamazaki Villa Museumimpressive of Art masterpieces villa on exhibit in atmosphere. a The relaxing structure and serene features placingmasterpieces ancient art offrom around the Japaneseworld. Note, however, potteryit fine artcloses during winter. and Temples, Ryoanji Templeexamples. symbolic miniaturelandscapes within the restrictionsreplicas of a few hundredmeters of or entireless, are seasEvolvingrenowned from or aroundthe sponsorship the rulingworld.of a highlyclass refinedand the Shintoism,principles of Buddhism Japanesecombinations and of plants, sand, gardenswatercelebrate and rock thethat arebeauties artistic ravishing of form. natureNumerous gardensin aare grounds of temples, and many are centuries old. structuredfound on the Koishikawa Korakuen Gyoen Garden © Ishikawa Prefecture Tourist Association and Kanazawa Convention Bureau

30 Modern Performing Arts mrse te uine ih t avant-garde its The with females. theater audience by performances uniquetoJapan. dance the "Buto" played impresses celebrated all are internationally roles many where performances male attracts brilliant its company, enjoy who people musical all-girl unique dance concerts and opera. The The opera. and concerts City Opera advance. in well reserved be to that have popular tickets so are Some In stage. on constantly country. are world the the around from across artists top especially, cities Tokyo, various in enjoyed Look! eln we you stay ataRyokan! when casual feeling and free informal dress. also wear women and men both , and elegance. grace of sense a it wearing person the gives it occasions. impractical, considered sometimes Though formal on principally nowadays worn ■ Modern performing arts, such as as such arts, performing Modern Entertainment Kimono While staying at a at staying While lae no its enjoy Please Traditional Costume , , Yukata musicals is the traditional dress of Japan, and it is it and Japan, of dress traditional the is is a state-of-the-art full-scale hall ideal for ideal hall full-scale state-of-the-art a is or , , , plays Kaga-Yuzen, Ishikawa and and aaaua Troupe Takarazuka ballet opera a as be also can " , Tokyo Buto a , " some ofthemajorschoolsandinhotels. at Chanoyu of demonstrations in participate possibly and see can you Today, samurai. ruling the among popular very originally was that refinement spiritual Arita-yaki yaki yaki yaki English. schools in instruction numerous offer which of are many Ikebana, teaching There nature. of aspects and various the symbolizing at aims and form of precision simplicity emphasizes Ikebana ceremony, tea the of art Buddhist the to related Closely arranging. The Arts Ceramics and Porcelain fulfillment. own his/her designing and shaping experience can shops beginner the museums, even where classes pottery-making and pottery have centers production region; Kanto the producing numerous are famous most the centers, Among years. subsequent in industry pottery Japan's of rise the to momentum own further its gave which porcelains of firing with in town succeed the Arita saw each century 17th The country, style. distinctive the around centers producing ceramic to rise gave it (1333-1573), period Japanese than than Japanese oiaeCatCenter Craft Noritake CraftCenter TTea Ceremony aCeremony ea Ceremony The art of tea, or tea, of art The Among its indigenous arts, few are more typically more are few arts, indigenous its Among s hny bgn o ped n h Muromachi the in spread to began Chanoyu As and and and Kutani-yaki Shigaraki-yaki Hagi-yaki and and Karatsu-yaki Ikebana Seto-yaki in the Chugoku area; Chugoku the in , is an aesthetic cult of cult aesthetic an is Chanoyu, in the Chubu region; Chubu the in in the Kansai region; Kansai the in o te r o flower of art the or , , , Mashiko-yaki Tokoname-yaki n ysu These Kyushu. in Imari-yaki, Kiyomizu- (ware) in (ware) , , Bizen- Mino-

31 is , the offers Shibuya Kabukicho Roppongi Roppongi Akasaka, the youthful, with its dazzling neon-lit Ginza Shibuya, and the more raucous Discotheques and clubs are common and well- " "Karaoke (singing along with recorded music) is In Tokyo, the best locations for a lively evening of GinzaGinza Christmas Illuminations in Roppongi HillsChristmasChristmas Illuminations in Roppongi Hills Illuminations in Roppongi Hills upscale and elegant one of the most popular forms of nightlife in Japan. Generally, a Karaoke establishmentnumber of compartments, each consistsreplete with Karaoke of a equipment. A compartment at group a reasonable price to enjoy of singing whileguests drinking andcan eating. even occupyoffer Manya selection of popular songs Karaoke you can sing housesa in English. good food, drink andinternationally-flavored entertainment includedistrict theof signs, the more sophisticated crowded in Shinjuku. frequented in all majoryoung and young at heart. In Tokyo, cities, particularly many byhigh-class venues for theadults, while a dancing Mecca of the young. ©Y. Shimizu Dancing offers Tokyo Series , you can be a Sunrise Tour Tokyo Dinner Cruise Special Night " are Japanese-style pubs serving beer,

with dinner, Japanese and western-style cuisine.

Izakaya " The range of entertainment available in Japan's No visitor needs to go thirsty in Japan. In addition Kyoto Kabu-renjo : "Miyako Odori"KyotoKyoto Kabu-renjo : "Miyako Odori" Kabu-renjo : "Miyako Odori" "Izakaya" or Japanese-style Pub to western-style bars in the cities, traditional drinking spots include: Japanese ,beverages cocktails asand establishmentswell other of asthis typealcoholic casualare all midnight.going meals.strong till Drinking Step"liveliness." Prices are naturally very reasonable. into one and experience the guest at a tea ceremony,Tempura dinner and finishing up by enjoying followedvarious by Zen-Stylekinds of traditional Japanese performing arts in the Gion Corner. In Kyoto, by joining by Japan Travel Bureau offersnightlife tours. In Tokyo, reasonably priced you an approximately 150 minute cruise Bay on cities is so vast that visitors may best sample by joining them a night tour. In Tokyo, Where to Drink to Where

Night Tours Night Nightlife

32 n' eeg, s el s aig datg o an of advantage taking as well as energy, one's to Go stroke. single a with wood or bricks of stack poets tegh Akd i epcal valued especially is Aikido strength. opponent's trainees andexpertsalike practice. the thick a through break can expert Karate a foot, or hand the of blows into energy of concentration the in Trained arms. carrying from forbade rulers mainland The swords. bamboo with another one sn a opnn' srnt t oes own one's to event. medal strength The Olympic an now is Judo opponent's advantage, an using and leverage of principles on Based internationally. devotees among popularity enjoys now and Japan in eeoe b Oiaa paat wo their whom peasants Okinawan by developed Kendo. Hall Budokan assail armor lacquered and padding cotton heavy in Traditional Sports Sports several majorsportstotheworldatlarge. contributed has Japan arts, martial various its in And, lc t se uo uis riig a wl as well as training, pupils Judo occasional exhibitionboutsbyexperts. see to place in Fukuoka. November in and Nagoya, in July in Osaka, in March in Tokyo, in September and May January, in held are that itsdevoteesdelightindebating. strategies and thrusts holds, of vocabulary and entire an rules intricate involves Sumo ground. the to or ring the from other the forces wrestler one when won shrines. Shinto at two days which in ring dirt during holy hard-packed single a on of Consisting practiced and was festivals originally which wrestling as much as feeling national Japan's Sumo ©JapanAssociation Aikido Kendo Judo Six tournaments annually, each lasting for 15 days, 15 for lasting each annually, tournaments Six Sports of all kinds enjoy great popularity in Japan. in popularity great enjoy kinds all of Sports Karate mn hm-rw sot, oe represents none sports, home-grown Among Entertainment aa Krt Association Karate Japan - Kodokan often enormous often ©Japan SumoAssociation is a martial art of self defense which was born was which defense self of art martial a is aa uoAssociation Sumo Japan is another martial art based on concentrating on based art martial another is is a form of fencing in which opponents clad opponents which in fencing of form a is a f epnes obt was combat, weaponless of form a , in Tokyo is the best place to observe to place best the is Tokyo in riig etr n oy i a good a is Tokyo in center training - men meet, a Sumo match is match Sumo a meet, men n oy t watch to Tokyo in , a form of form a Sumo, Nippon mn is olwr a a a o mitiig and maintaining The of fitness. way physical increasing a as followers its among og soitd ih h picpe o Zen of be sometimes principles can the contests viewed attemples. archery with Buddhism, associated the and Long refinement competition. for is it as spiritual concentration of development individual for much center inTokyo. ih wle em big pnoe b major by the is game sponsored a being see to place favored most the Tokyo, teams In corporations. twelve with developed, well is baseball Professional birthplaces. respective their from teams the of support in fanatical near- becomes Japan around from everyone Almost the Stadium at gather prefectures, respective their representing champions Schools, teams. high-school senior among tournaments summer and spring level national- the are popular Especially sport." "national their it consider also Americans that hear to surprised Contemporary Sports n pwru atvt, sn tupt, rm and drums trumpets, other noise-makinginstruments. using activity, powerful and unique a is team baseball professional favorite your for Cheering attractions. City Dome Tokyo of grounds ©TOKYO DOME Baseball Game Judo ©Kodokan Baseball Japanese archery, Japanese ©Kodokan Kodokan n yg Peetr ad i fr victory. for vie and Prefecture Hyogo in is so popular in Japan that many fans are fans many that Japan in popular so is oy Dm Stadium Dome Tokyo , is considered to be as be to considered is Kyudo, Aikikai oae i the in located s n Aikido an is Koshien

33 at the at Kitano at Tokyo International oji Garakuta-ichi & Kobo-ichioji Garakuta-ichi & Kobo-ichi (Nomi-no-ichi) (Nomi-no-ichi) Tax-free Shopping Tax-free Markets Flea Visiting Kyoto Toji Garakuta-ichi & Kobo-ichi Garakuta-ichi Kyoto TKyotoKyoto Toji T "Oedo Antiques Fair" "Kitano Temmangu Nomi-no-ichi" "Kyoto Toji Garakuta-ichi & Kobo-ichi" As long as they have their passport with them, Known as "nomi-no-ichi", flea markets are held in various parts of Japan. Taking place mostly in the grounds of temples and shrines, flea usuallymarkets open are from early morning to late afternoon. Items on sale range widely pricesboth in from— varieties extremely and inexpensiveexpensive antiques to tableware, cloths, souvenirfurniture and sundry goods, these items.markets also attract many foreigners. Just looking is Dealingfun. Get up a bit earlier in the morning and visit one. in old Famous flea markets are listed below: Forum. (1 min. walk from D5 Exit of Yurakucho Sta. Yurakucho of Exit D5 from walk Forum. min. (1 on JR Yamanote Line or Subway Yurakucho Line); –1st and 3rd Sun. of each month, 9 am 4 pm Temmangu Shrine in Kyoto (30 min. by bus from JR Kyoto Sta.); on the 25th day of each month ■ ■ ● ● ● tourists (short-stay visitors) who spend more than ¥10,001 in one day at licensed duty-freesuch as those at shops,major department stores in large cities, do not have to pay the 5% consumption tax. However, this doesconsumables not include such purchasesalcohol, ascigarettes, cosmetics,medicines, of film and batteries. Majorfoodstuffs, department stores generally with staff who speak English. duty-free counters have special South Gate of Toji Temple in Kyoto (15 min. walk from JR Kyoto Sta.); 1st Sunday of (Garakuta-ichi)every month and the 21st day (Kobo-ichi) of each month Look! Look! is available in indoor rinks in the major is big in Japan, with millions of skiers is a sport which is now a focus of explosive Skiing Skating In a country that manufactures a large percentage Soccer Snowboarding & SkiingSnowboardingSnowboarding & Skiing & Skiing popularity among childrenJapan. and young people in flocking to the major Honshuresorts and Hokkaido. in The thenation's mountainsski resorts very arewell developed, ofand compare favorably with the top regions ofRecently, the Europe, number of ski grounds that also the cater to U.S.snowboarding is increasing andas the sport Canada.gains in among young people. popularity especially Shopping of the entire world'sstructures itsconsumer entire nationalgoods, existencemarketplace, it is no andsurprise aroundthat shopping takes up thatthe a goodly proportionJapanese themselves love ofshopping, and look mostupon visitors'a visit to the big department stores in the major cities time. The as recreation. The stores encourage this by offering child-care service, giving away free food samples in their grocery markets and delicatessens, holding art shows and demonstrating native and foreign crafts. cities, as well as at excellent outdoor facilities in the and Hokkaido. wintertime in the north

34 ©EAST JAPANRAILWAY COMPANY Te as ant e sd n h Shinkansen More info.:http://www.japanrail.com the on used be "Nozomi" and"Mizuho".) cannot Pass (The Miyajima ferry. of theglobe. corners all to fly which carriers foreign-based a of host as well as Airways Nippon All and Airlines Japan airlines, main two its through service air international main the with Kobe ports onHokkaidoandKyushu. and Osaka provide Tokyo, link taxis boats and Buses ferry while cities, the in clock the around connections service. air developed well a domestic and system, highway national a is there addition, In destinations. possible all almost covers alone service rail The systems. transportation Japan Rail (JR) Pass Railways rvl n R ie ad fiitd ue ad h JR the and buses affiliated and lines JR on travel be must and unlimited bearer the gives It Japan. of outside bought visitors sightseeing to only is available Pass Rail The convenience. and value excellent h Tce Rsrain fie (" Offices as forlong-distancetravel. Reservation madoguchi Ticket the approach and station, each at machines vending the at lines local for tickets buy cities, Within service. of type and distance to according seat, varying charges with reserved and berth express, express, limited the and Line Yamagata the Joetsu Line. Line, Akita the Line, Sanyo the Nagano the Line, Line, Tohoku the The Line, Kyushu Tokaido the Line, Japan. the of of consists breadth for and network links length rail the reliable all highly almost and ultrafast provide stations at1.5-minuteintervalsduringpeakperiods. at stops making lines commuter Tokyo its on trains traveled heavily the with punctuality, extreme its for renowned is especially JR cities. larger the of many entire in operate which companies of variety a plus the country, covering companies railway six of group Shinkansen Japan has one of the world's most highly developed highly most world's the of one has Japan JR's long-distance services include super express, super include services long-distance JR's Railways in Japan include Japan Railways (JR), a (JR), Railways Japan include Japan in Railways n o cus its course of And For the visitor, JR's JR's visitor, the For Transportation n diin Jpn fes comprehensive offers Japan addition, In ) o tces f ifrn cass a well as classes, different of tickets for ") o "ult Trains," "Bullet or Shinkansen, aa Ri Pass Rail Japan Midori-no- offers additional incentivestotherespectivepurchaser. offer also They Island. Kyushu of all for PASS RAIL JR-KYUSHU and Airport International Kansai from Japan western for PASS RAIL JR-WEST Hokkaido, of island the except Tokyo from Japan northeastern for PASS EAST JR Island, Hokkaido for PASS RAIL Hokkaido convenience; and prices reasonable offer Regional Japan Rail Passes Pass Additional Benefit of Japan Rail More info.:http://www.jrhotelgroup.com offers aspecialdiscountrateatJRGroupHotels. JR Eastrailway lines JR Hokkaido railway lines ※Children aged6-11 ishalfpriceofabove.Under6:Free JR Kyushurailway lines JR West railway lines Flexible 4-day Flexible 4-day For the regional travelers, the following JR Passes JR following the travelers, regional the For ※Children aged6-11ishalfpriceofabove.Under6:Free o toe h pses Jpn al as JR Pass, Rail Japan a possess who those For alidity t i d i l Va 10-day aiiyKyushuRail Pass-NorthenKyushuArea,Ordinary Validity Validity y t i d i l Va y t i d i l Va y t i d i l Va alidity t i d i l Va 5-day 3-day 7-day 5-day 4-day 3-day 1-day 5-day 3-day 4-day 2-day 5-day 3-day 8-day 4-day 21-day 14-day Validity 7-day (age 26andover) Ordinary(age 12andover) ¥20,000 ¥32,000 ¥20,000 Ordinary JR West Kansai WIDEAreaPass,Ordinary JR West Kansai AreaPass,Ordinary ¥22,000 ¥19,500 ¥19,500 ¥15,000 JR West SanyoAreaPass, Ordinary ￥57,700 ￥45,100 ￥28,300 Ordinary Kyushu Rail Pass,Ordinary Hokkaido Rail Pass (age 12-25) JR EastPass ¥16,000 ¥25,000 ¥16,000 Ordinary ¥30,000 ¥20,000 ¥17,000 ¥14,000 ¥6,000 ¥2,000 ¥9,000 ¥7,000 ¥7,000 ¥5,000 ¥4,000 Green‹ 1stclass› Green (First-class) ¥30,000 ¥27,000 ¥27,000 ¥21,500 ￥79,600 ￥61,200 ￥37,800 ‹ 1stclass› ¥28,000 ¥44,800 ¥28,000 Green

35 2-day Ticket: ¥3,800 for adults, Economy Tickets Economy Enjoy Japan by Rail with with Rail by Japan Enjoy "Surutto KANSAI" With this ticket, one-day, unlimited rides on Tokyo With this ticket, one-day, unlimited rides on any of " Toei / Chikatetsu Ichinichi : Joshaken" : ¥730 for adults "Tokunai Pass": ¥730 for adults "One-Day Open Ticket": ¥710 Tokyo Metro This ticket allows one-day, unlimited rides on JR lines This ticket allows one-day, unlimited rides on JR lines This ticket allows 2-day or 3-day, unlimited rides on the : ¥1,580 for adults "Tokyo Free Kippu": ¥1,580 Station Narita Express "N'EX" Metro lines is possible. ¥1,000 for adults ¥1,000 Tokyo Metro and Toei subway lines is possible. ■ [In the Kansai Region] Kansai the [In ● ● ● ● ● within the Tokyo city limits, Tokyo asMetro wellsubway lines, as Toei on(metropolitan) anysubway of lines,the Toden (metropolitanTobasu (metropolitan bus service) lines. tram service) lines and within the Tokyo city limits. 3-day Ticket: ¥5,000 for adults 3-day Ticket: ¥5,000 train and bus lines, operated by 40 private transportation firms and public carriers. Additionalavailable, benefits are allowingalso thefacilities along the rail/bus lines at discount prices. ticket holder to use various [In Tokyo] [In Look! ©Y.Shimizu BusBusBus services are available in most large and lines are available in all major cities, and service is available in all cities, but can With some 90 airports serving domestic and Almost all stations have vending machines for Bus Subway Taxis, on the other hand, are also widely available Car Rental JR Yamanote Line overseas flights, Japan is highly convenient for air traveler. the provide prompt,Yamanote-sen efficient loop line inKanjo-sen transportation. Tokyoloop lineand bothits circle Osaka-the respective centerscities. In JR'sofTokyo, JR theirfares start from ¥130, subway fares at for ¥160 the Tokyo Metro and ¥170 for Toei (Metropolitan) lines, and both increase with the distance traveled. tickets and automatic ticket-checking their entrance/exit gates. machines at sometimes be aspeaking visitors to use. bit difficult for non-Japaneseand can usually deliverwritten in Japanese customersor on business cards. If to the red addresseslight in the lower left corner of the then windshieldthe cab isis free lit, and it can be flagged down. Be careful when approaching a taxi's left rear door: it is opened and closed automatically from within by the Intra-city Transportation Intra-city Domestic Airlines Domestic medium-sized cities as well as at airports and major train stations, with internationalrecognized. driver's licenses driver. ©Kansai International Airport Co.Ltd.

36 (Note) (Note) varies from season to season. Takayama, often Takayama, season. to season from varies which scenery mountain picturesque by greeted be iios t wr ot hi on tnrre fr visiting for first-time itineraries even own their out work travelers, to visitors, foreign help will routes model These mind. in holders Pass Rail Japan with comfortable and safe on developed. railways isboundtobeanunforgettableexperience. country well the also are Traveling areas own to their operating lines north within railway the Local in south. the Hokkaido in Kyushu from Japan, of islands 2. Chubu (Central Region) Route 1. The Very Best of Japan at the Japan Sea coastal region. On the way, you will you way, the On region. coastal Sea Japan the at arrives and Japan central mountainous the crosses admired as the "White Heron Castle"; Kurashiki and Kurashiki Castle"; Heron is "White ancient the which as admired Castle two Himeji the Nara; and Kyoto Park; of capitals National scenic Fuji-Hakone-Izu the in resort spring hot Hakone-Yumoto the are: attractions the Among every "must." true and a being each one with destinations, brimming celebrated is with It offer. to has Japan highlights tourist The JR rail network of trunk lines cover all the main the all cover lines trunk of network rail JR The Starting from Nagoya on the Pacific side, this route this side, Pacific the on Nagoya from Starting rsne blw r fu mdl ots designed routes model four are below Presented hs oe rue ersns h "ey et of best" "very the represents route model This Rail Traveling Model Routes The time shown as required for the Nara stopover is based on the assumption of visiting Nara Park, Kasuga Taisha Shrine and Todaiji Temple. ※ ◎ • • Hakone-Yumoto are privaterailways whereJapanRailPassisnot honored.Fareischargedseparately. You can go directly from Hiroshima to Tokyo by "NOZOMI" trains that Japan Rail Pass is not valid, and you must pay the basic fare basic the pay must you and valid, not is and theLimitedexpresscharge.Ittakes4hrs. Pass Rail Japan that trains "NOZOMI" by Tokyo to Hiroshima from directly go can You indicates thepossibilityofswitchingtourtoChuburegion. are privaterailwayswhereJapanRailPassisnothonored.Farechargedseparately. Hiroshima Hiroshima Kurashiki Hakone-Yumoto Tokyo Kyoto Kyoto Kanazawa Kanazawa Takayama 箱根湯本 Tokyo 金沢 金沢 高山 東京 27 min. 55 min. LOC SPX Hakone-Tozan LOC Himeji(2hrs.stay) Miyajimaguchi 1 hr. 35min. Hakone-Tozan LOC 14 min. 44 min. 15 min. 37 min. LOC RAP SPX SPX 1 hr. 55min. 1 hr. 55min. 1 hr. 25min. 15 min. 2 hrs. LEX LEX SPX LEX 10 min. BOAT Okayama(2hrs.stay) Miyajima(2hrs.stay) Nara(4hrs.stay) (Shin-Osaka) () 26 min. SPX (Odawara) (Maibara) (Maibara) (Nagoya) (Toyama) (小田原） (名古屋） (米原） (米原） n te ulm csl tw o Knzw are Kanazawa of proceed ontoKyotoviaMaibara. or Peninsula, Noto town the tour permits, time castle If "musts." sublime the Japanese," and the of home "spiritual the as to referred (富山） (Note) Inthefollowingmodelrouteschedules,SPX eto o ti bohr o JT' website JNTO's or brochure Japan" this (http://www.jnto.go.jp). "Explore of the to refer section please attractions, tourist specific of details For manner. enjoyable and efficient most the in destinations tourist primary the kaido route. proceed Shimanami- the may via Shikoku to you or Kyushu, of to further symbol Hiroshima, a From Hiroshima, peace. of world city gardens; the and finest Japan; in three places scenic most three the Japan's of one Island, Miyajima of one Korakuen the for Garden, celebrated Okayama Japan; old of flavor the with saturated townscape traditional its (Okayama) 10 min. excluding timerequiredfortransfers,etc. of transfer.Timesprovidedindicatenettimesforriding, train; andLOC,localtrain.Namesinparenthesesshowpoints Shinkansen superexpress;LEX,limitedRAPrapid BOAT 1 hr. 15min. SPX Miyajimaguchi 2 hrs.6min. (Odawara) 14 min. 45 min. 46 min. LOC 3 hrs SPX SPX RAP SPX 2 hrs.25min. 2 hrs.23min. (Nagoya) 23 min. 35 min. (名古屋） SPX SPX LEX LEX Hakone-Tozan LOC 27 min. 15 min. 2 hrs.23min. LOC LEX Hakone-Yumoto signifies Kanazawa Takayama Takayama Hiroshima Hiroshima Kurashiki Tokyo Kyoto Tokyo Kyoto Kyoto 京都 東京 金沢 高山 高山 英文「日本案内」/D再校 データ作成日：05/05/21 SE-01 37 弘前 東京 青森 札幌 函館 博多 長崎 熊本 別府 日光 東京 Tokyo Tokyo Nikko Beppu 松島海岸 Aomori Hakata Hirosaki Sappro Nagasaki Hakodate Kumamoto Matsushima Kaigan LOC 6 min. SPX 3 hrs. (新青森） (Shin-Aomori) SPX LEX LEX LOC SPX RAP LEX LEX 32 min. 30 min. 44 min. 67 min. 60 min. （新大阪） (Shin-Osaka) 3 hrs. 38 min. 1 hr. 49 min. 1 hr. 3 hrs. 14 min. ※ (盛岡）(盛岡） (仙台） (Sendai) (Morioka) SPX 2 hrs. 30 min. SPX 38 min. Matsushima, another onescenic places; of the city Japan'sof Aomori offering threea blend of mostage-old romanticism and moderncastle town of Hirosaki; and Hokkaido's excitement;Sapporo and the Hakodate cities island. attractions of this northernmost main as bases for enjoying the fine green and pure water"; Mt. Aso, the world's caldera-typelargest volcano, known asFire"; and Beppu, one of Japan's most representative the "Mountain of hot springs. LEX SPX 阿蘇 (鳥栖） (To s u ) (小倉） . 13 min. (Kokura) SPX 2 hrs. 3 min. 函館） 青森） 1 hr LEX 一ノ関 宇都宮） Aso(4hrs.stay) （ （ (Aomori) （ ※ 1 hr. 20 min. 1 hr. （新青森） (Hakodate) () 3 hrs. 14 min. (Shin-Aomori) Ichinoseki(2hrs.stay) ※ SPX 宇都宮） LEX 30 min. （ (Utsunomiya) 1 hr. 59 min. 1 hr. LEX LEX 仙台） （ (Sendai) LEX or LOC 1 hr. 14 min. 1 hr. . or 1 hr. 30 min. . or 1 hr. 1 hr. 41 min. 41 1 hr. ◇ 1 hr LEX SPX LEX LOC RAP 44 min. 51 min. 27 min. 30 min. 1 hr. 59 min. 1 hr. 青森 弘前 札幌 函館 東京 日光 別府 博多 長崎 熊本 広島 Tokyo Nikko Beppu 松島海岸 Aomori Hakata Hirosaki Sappro Nagasaki Hakodate Hiroshima Kumamoto LEX "Aso" connecting Kumamoto, Aso and Beppu is very limited in the number of services operated daily. Early morning departure LEX "Aso" connecting Kumamoto, Aso and Beppu You can go directly from Kokura to Tokyo by "NOZOMI" trains that Japan Rail Pass is not valid, and you must the Limited express charge. It takes 5hrs. pay the basic fare and from Kumamoto is recommended. From JR Aso Sta. to Mt. Aso's crater, 40 min. by bus, then 4 min. by ropeway. Fares are not included in the Japan Rail Pass. From JR Aso Sta. to Mt. Aso's crater, 40 min. Matsushima Kaigan • ※ ◇ This route, filled with attractions peculiar to This route is packed with visitor highlights that Option: A possible visit to Chusonji Temple, 22 min. by bus from Ichinoseki Sta. Or you can proceed directly from Sendai to Aomori without stopping over en route. It takes 3hrs. northern Japan, encompassesHokkaido regions. Must-see theplaces Tohokuinclude:presenting Nikko and a fantastic contrastnatural settingbetween and thecombined lush architecturalwith the impressive beauty of temples and shrines; include the diverse range of attractions offered by the extensive central/northern destinationspart ofcovered Kyushu.in this Majorroutelively aregateway Hakata,to Asia; theKumamoto, the "city of lush 3. Kyushu (Southern Region) Route Region) (Southern 3. Kyushu 4. Tohoku & Hokkaido (Northern Region) Route Region) (Northern & Hokkaido 4. Tohoku ※ (Note)

38 sal cm ol a snls Ti o double-bed or Twin singles. rooms — as notmanythough— only arealsoavailable. come usually Business Hotels Western-style Hotels ovnety ls t tan ttos Cags will Charges rooms person; per ¥10,000 stations. to ¥5,500 train about average to close conveniently room expect — don't brethren service, forexample. upscale their amenities fewer than offer and smaller usually are hotels these comfortable, Japanese and clean Generally traveling businessmen. at mainly aimed will lodging are no-frills hotels business tourist ones, mid-sized major many all and in cities Found Hotels. cash-conscious Business are the appreciate, which network, your suit a travelagentbeforecomingtoJapan. that stay to places pocketbook. comfortable and clean find less- to sure nation's you're lodgings, the of types of taking publicized some a and out JNTO of search to from time some available attention advice the of extensive personal advantage taking and By inn. Japanese traditional comfort the enjoy or hotel, western-style a of comforts familiar the in stay to choose can You price. vary and style of terms accommodation in widely of Types Japanese. and style ag fo a o o ¥500 o 3,0 fr single a for with bath,and¥25,000 ¥30,000 to¥68,000 fora twinwithbath. to ¥15,000 of low a from range of interpretersandshoppinghealthcenters. any in services additional possible the with and pools, swimming conditioning establishment air TVs, heating, western including country, any as amenities consistently highstandardsofserviceandfacilities. Association in advance. English. speak will staff far book to best is it seasons, tourist peak in Especially the hotels, these In cities. larger all in represented well chains famous-name with All of Japan's cities have many western-style hotels, western-style many have cities Japan's of All It is advisable to book your accommodation through accommodation your book to advisable is It n fil rcn adto t te aa lodging Japan the to addition recent fairly One western- both accommodations, in abounds Japan o eape i Tko ros t is-ls hotels first-class at rooms Tokyo, in example, For same the have will hotels these of majority The the of hotels member 230 than More Accommodations uies oes r ms cmol found commonly most are hotels Business JA (tp/wwjhtlo.p) have (http://www.j-hotel.or.jp/) (JHA) aa Hotel Japan Ryokan also provided. is "yukata" called robe cotton white-patterned and blue out yourfuton.Thetypicalloungingwearofaryokan, lay then and table, your clear and return will maid your meal, evening the After room. guest a the in maid the by and served generally are ingredients, meals Ryokan found breakfast. simple locally delicious, of evening an room feast invariably Your meals, spring. two fact hot include in a will of are charge site the "onsen," on as built known ryokan resorts, hot-spring superb Numerous bathing. sex separate for generally "" on sleep bedding laidoutintheeveningbymaids. Guests screens. "" sliding are Doors the table. low single with a being furniture matting, of piece only "" rice-straw a traditional in with room A must. a is a ryokan isusuallyasinglelarge,undividedroomfloored inn, in night Japanese a or days, "ryokan," bygone of Daimyo elegant most Dinner Tax and Service Charge: or more. ¥15,000 at priced establishment an at stay who those establishment an at for ¥200 and stay ¥14,999 and ¥10,000 between at priced who those for night per person per person per ¥100 is ¥10,000 tax The meals. excluding night per above or at priced ryokan and hotels in stay who guests Japanese and international is alsoimposed. tax consumption 5% a and tipping individual of place For a stay in the same Japan as experienced by the by experienced as Japan same the in stay a For ot ykn il ae cmua bt, hc is which bath, communal a have will ryokan Most In Tokyo, "Accommodation Tax" that is levied on all on levied is that Tax" "Accommodation Tokyo, In eeal, 1-5 srie hre s de in added is charge service 10-15% a Generally,

39 Youth Hostels(http://www. in Japan, offering clean and simple places Even more off the beaten track are Buddhist Minshuku costs are usually from ¥6,500 to ¥8,500, Another unusual way to cut costs while traveling in Despite the name, there are no age limits on youth As befits their "home industry" status, minshuku offer There are some 320 FutonFutonFuton temples, some of which take in overnight guests. While temples, some of which take in overnight some temples willmeditation, others allowprovide the rooms simply as guestsspace for paying guests. to join in Zazen jyh.or.jp/) to sleep at very low rates. A number of them are open to the public, but others are privately run and require membership in Japan International Youth Hostel Federation. You can join the Youth Hostels, Inc.,latter either in your orhome country or through theits Tokyo national headquarters. hostel guests.accommodation, Compared however, regulations. with there A youth other arehostel meals. per person, without ¥3,000 many will forms moreusually cost of about Minshuku Accommodations Other Japan, as well as have surfacea of chancethe dailyto life get you're belowpassing check thethrough,into a is "minshuku." to The Japanese equivalent of guest-home type lodgings, minshuku businesses,are family-runwith the rented rooms being owners'part of own the home. They are oftenresorts found andin choicevacation spots,rates. and feature moderate considerably fewer amenities than strictly professional establishments. family style. which include two meals, usually served ©Japan Ryokan & Hotel Association . (http:// (http://www.ryokan.or.jp/) Japanese Inn Group Visitors to Japan are required to do the following In partaking of all that is considered elegant and There are some 55,000 ryokan in Japan, of which Although ryokan rates vary greatly, with a few very For the budget traveler, there are more than 80 inns When bathing in a Japanese communal bath, always Registration Procedure at Lodging at Procedure Registration Facilities: procedure when they check in at lodging facilities in Japan for the purpose of the prevention of infectious • To fill in their nationalities and passport numbers as well as their names, addresses and occupations on diseases and terrorism. the registration form. • To present their passports to be photocopied. (The proprietors of lodging facilities are obligated to keep the photocopies.) BathBathBath Japan Ryokan & Hotel Association Hotel & Ryokan Japan refined in gracious living in Japan, a stay in a ryokan requires following a few rules that differ from western hotels. For one thing, guests remove their shoes at the threshold of the innhallways. andThese slippersdon are slippersin guestrooms:turn leftwhile outside onlyinthe bareits tatami. allowed to tread on feet or stockinged feet are wash the body thoroughlybefore sliding into the bath proper, taking care atto wash the provided off spigotsall soap suds. Japanese baths are for soaking, not scrubbing, and are an ideal place chats for between warm, good relaxedfriends, family members or even total strangers. Japanese bathers will often alternate scrubbing with soaking to stretch out the pleasure and benefits of a hot bath as long as possible. 1,300 are quality establishments belonging to the japaneseinngroup.com)welcoming visitors from abroad. These inns are whichquite economical. also specializes in exclusive establishments charging high rates, charges are usually in the range ofperson, ¥12,000 including to ¥20,000two mealsper andservice charges. excluding tax and belonging to the ©Japan Ryokan & Hotel Association

40 ©Kagoshima PrefecturalTouristFederation by theway,isnotpracticedinJapan. Tipping, machine. vending a or counter cashier's the from either dish, each for tickets purchase to patrons ask restaurants priced modestly Some restaurants. different to floor basement or upper entire an devote often will which stores, department front larger in is meals their in dishes their of windows, orprovideamenuwithcolorphotos. replicas wax non- and For reasonable. plastic display restaurants some speakers, quite Japanese generally cooking, prices domestic of with plethora are and a here represent eating to congregate The sure that station. estabishments train drinking or subway any of vicinity the in walk a take variety, culinary of selection flavors food and textures. of cornucopia lipsmacking a to host is business, and finance of capital global a as status its befits as especially, Tokyo gourmets. discriminating best the its for cook of to Japan to come some have chefs world-class but noodles, the its to of basics "sashimi" of hearty joys subtle the from range that world's the of sensations one palate-tickling offers which cuisines, great developed Japan Japan. has in life only of Not pleasures great the of one is sun, Food in General " rdtoal peae. aig n aa i an is Japan in the restofyourlife. Eating is it as for fondly remembered and prepared. enjoyed be to experience food the the of for traditionally prepared sumptuousness are and Japan to variety visitors the first-time sampled few But shrimp. already batter-fried or fish have raw of pleasures will Many Japan world. to the more visitors around much appreciated become and years familiar recent in has cuisine sukiyaki Shabu-shabu Food, of all types and from every country under the under country every from and types all of Food, nte go pae o id esnby priced reasonably find to place good Another vast Japan's of surface the scratching begin To ne nw i te et ihr n h fr of form the in either west the in known Once Dining Out o te oe xtc " exotic more the or " sushi " Japanese ," © water aswelldifferences inbrewingprocesses. respective their and rice of quality make the on based tastes characteristic which country, the across region every in breweries sake local are There wine. fine-quality to similar taste a has more sake good on chilled, come drunk When body. the warms it "feelings" winter in and quickly the be up, can it warmed Because drunk times. alcoholic ancient Japanese since a been beverage has sake water, and rice with Brewed dishes. Japanese of variety a with or delicious variations. broth of hundreds a in available in are and sauce, either a in dipped served are They flour. wheat from Udon and flour buckwheat from made is Soba water, boiling of then dippedinasaucebeforebeingeaten. pot a in swished and chop-sticks crumbs. bamboo stick andgrilledoverhotcoals. a on skewered are vegetables and liver and meat, base seasoning the characterized bytheirrefinedsavor. as mushrooms and seaweed with fish and vegetables of composed mainly are dishes The Japan. in refinement culinary and sweeteggomelettearealsoserved. radish pickled Cucumber, prawn. and squid tuna, are ingredients common most The rice. vinegared of ball season andvegetables. in fish prawns, are used ingredients the Among flour. wheat and water egg, of mixture a with coated being vegetables, tofu andvermicelli. various with together beef sliced thinly Udon Sashimi isslicedrawfisheatenwithsoysauce. Among thetypesofcookingfoundinJapanare: ," or rice wine, goes extremely well extremely goes wine, rice or "sake," Japanese Soba Tonkatsu Sushi Shabu-shabu Sukiyaki Tempura Yakitori Ryori Kaiseki and is a small piece of raw seafood placed on a on placed seafood raw of piece small a is s ae p f ml pee o chicken of pieces small of up made is is prepared right at the table by cooking by table the at right prepared is is a deep-fried pork cutlet rolled in bread in rolled cutlet pork deep-fried a is Udon is food deep-fried in vegetable oil, after oil, vegetable in deep-fried food is is tender, thin slices of beef held by held beef of slices thin tender, is s eadd s h ms exquisite most the as regarded is are two kinds of Japanese noodle. Japanese of kinds two are

41

asumi-nasai. ore-wa nan-desu-ka?

Chotto matte kudasai. K Komban-wa. Oy Sayo-nara. Ikura-desu-ka? kudasai. Kore-o Takai. Yasui. doko-desu-ka? Toire-wa Tasukete! Abu-nai!

075-371-5649 Tel.

03-3201-3331 Tel.

A ye.

There is no charge for their service as they are

They have earned the right to wear the program's Their services may be retained through the Japan

Throughout Japan, there are More than 80 SGG Tourist Information Center Information Center Tourist Tourist Just a moment, please. a moment, Just What is this? much? How I will take this. Expensive. Cheap. Where is the toilet? Help! out! Watch

Good evening. Good night. Good-b

stand ready to assist visitors from abroad. to assist visitors stand ready pigeon on a globe. badge with a white identifying (System-atized Goodwill Guide) groups comprisedmostly of students, housewivesengage andin a retireesvariety of who activities languageusing their skills.foreign Some groups a to go to needs only visitor the which for tour walking offer a free pre-set place at a date and certain time while pre-established to meet tourists on request. others are available volunteers. One is only travelexpected to expensespay for theirfacilities and as wellfor as youradmissions own, meals if you dine with them. and to pay tofor theirtourist Guide Association (Tel. 03-3863-2895 Fax. 03-3863- 2896) or Japan Federation of Certified Guides (Tel. 03-3380-6611 Fax. 03-3380-6609). A total of some 1,500 licensed guide-interpreters are registered with these organizations. Professional Guide-Interpreters Professional

Terminal 2 (Main): 2 (Main): Terminal 1 (Branch): Terminal 2001 by Japan National Tourist Organization. All rights reserved. reserved. rights All Organization. Tourist National Japan by 2001 R The Tourist Information Centers (TICs) of the Japan National National Japan the of (TICs) Centers Information Tourist The T by operated Centers, Information Tourist following the addition, In t .

Hajime-mashite O-genki-desu-ka? gozai-masu. Ohayo Kon-nichi-wa. Arigato. Do-itashi-mashite. Sumi-masen. Gomen-nasai. something) Do-zo.(when offering something) requesting Kudasai.(when Wakari-masu-ka? wakari-masu. Hai, wakari-masen. Ii-e,

Visitor Services Visitor While traveling in Japan, JNTO sponsors a Goodwill Guide Program, JNTO website can be a great help for getting The following systems and services are provided O Useful Japanese Phrases Do you understand? Do you I understand. Yes, I don't understand. No, Phrases Thank you. welcome. You're Excuse me. I am sorry. Please. Please. E Greetings do? do you How are you? How Good morning. Good afternoon. please take advantage nationwideof the information Network. Each Visit VisitJapan Information Offices ordinarilyare Japan locatedstations, at tourist sites or in the at railway heart of the city. You canout more about each information find http://www.jnto.go.jp/eng/ at: office arrange/travel/guide/voffice.html through which some 50,000 bilingual volunteers detailed information in preparing your travel itinerary before you depart for Japan. It provides a wide range of travel information in English and other languages via the Internet on transportation, accommodations, shopping and frequentlyevents. Information to information anytime. enable isyou updatedtoURL: http://www.jnto.go.jp access the latest Goodwill Guide Program Guide Goodwill JNTO Website JNTO Visit Japan Information Network Information Japan Visit so that foreign visitors who do not speak Japanese can enjoy traveling heart's content. Japan carefree and to their All category 1 to 3 tourist information offices display this symbol. All category 1 to 3 tourist information offices display Pronounce every syllable as in Italian and keep intonation rather flat. intonation rather as in Italian and keep syllable Pronounce every

42 te atoie mny xhnes A the At rate fluctuatesdailydependingonthemoneymarket. exchange The hours. office normal during exchangers. open counters are exchange currency money airports, international authorized other oes roa ad trs n ao cities. major in stores and Express, American as such cards credit International ryokan hotels, Traveler's Checks and Credit Cards Currency Customs Passport and Visa ¥10,000. and ¥5,000 Bank ¥2,000, ¥1,000, ¥500. are and denominations note ¥100 ¥50, ¥10, ¥5, ¥1, are Coins equivalent, you arerequiredtoreportthisCustoms. its or ¥1,000,000 of excess in payment of means other or currency transport you if However, beverages forpersonsaged19yearsoryounger. whose totalmarketvaluedoesnotexceed¥200,000. of ounces 2 (3) above the than other souvenirs and gifts (4) perfume; liquor; of each) c.c. (760 bottles 3 (2) cigars; 100 or cigarettes 400 or tobacco of grams 500 (1) free: duty in brought be the can items addition, following In officer. customs the by reasonable deemed are quantities and contents their as long as effects personal customs. on levied at be not will requested duty Customs be will a cases, declaration above the written In allowance. duty-free the of excess in articles in bring you when (2) or unaccompanied baggage; have you when (1) except: suffice or Embassy Japanese the from Consulate inyourcountry. or (http://www.mofa.go.jp/ Site index.html) Foreign Web of Official Ministry from Affairs obtained be can details for Visa activity. remunerative any in engage not do they required not as long is as temporarily Japan visa visit to A nationals many passport. valid a have o cn u yn t oeg ecag bns and banks exchange foreign at yen buy can You Traveler's checks are accepted by leading banks, leading by accepted are checks Traveler's h ui o crec i te e (niae a ¥). as (indicated yen the is currency of unit The currency. any out take and in bring can You alcoholic or tobacco of allowance no is There will effects personal your of declaration oral An must Japan enter to desiring visitors foreign Any Basics for Traveling in Japan ak Ts ht a b fud n Seven-Eleven in found be convenience stores. can that ATMs Bank the with Seven 15,000 some marked and Servce' ATMs ATM 'International Office Post 26,000 at some used be Major can cards cash and debit establishments. credit, foreign major these also at are JCB acceptable and MasterCard Club, Diners VISA, Haneda International Airport Narita International Airport Airport Access Connections 5470 25 19 41 36 1,630 30 85-115 85-110 60-155 75-110 60-90

43 ¥70 ¥90 ¥130 ¥230 Africa South America ¥70 ¥90 ¥80 ¥90 ¥50 ¥110 ¥190 All Japan North/Middle America Oceania Europe Middle East ¥70 ¥90 ¥90 ¥160 Asia Guam up to 50g up to 50g Destination Destination Complete services are provided for both domestic Meanwhile, the use of prepaid cards issued by several Dial 110 for the police and 119 to report a fire or to call Instructions on "How to use the phone" is pasted on gray AMDA International Medical Information CenterTel.03-5285-8088 Kansai Tel.06-4395-0555 Tokyo Tokyo Metropolitan Health & Medical Information Center within Tokyo) Tel. 03-5285-8181 (only for information Foreigners Tel. 03-3503-8484 You can make a direct overseas call from gray or IC card Metropolitan Police Dept. Counseling Service for Other useful telephone numbers are as follows: Other useful telephone There are green and gray color phones which accept ¥10 *Letters, up to 25g Postcards Postcards Aerograms *Letters, up to 25g coins, ¥100 coins and a magnetic prepaidphones accept only IC prepaid cards. A card.local call is ¥10 for IC card coins. you use ¥100 a minute and no change is given when phones and IC prepaid card-operated phones. phones that are marked withCard/Coin Telephone." "International & Domestic telephone companies (such as enables you to make domestic as well as international calls "Communication Card") on virtually all types of public telephones. Thesecards prepaid are available atstores. station kiosks and convenience an ambulance. For these numbers, one does not have to insert the usual ¥10 coin. If you call telephone, fromlift the a receiver and green push publicthe red button before dialing the number. In case receiver and dial the number. phones, just lift the of gray and IC card public Postal Service Postal 10 to 15% service chargeleading hotels, ryokan is and added higher-class restaurants. to the No billtip is atnecessary unless you request some special services. extra Emergency ● ● ● Telephones Public and international mail. *Rate for Regular Size (14 to 23.5cm long, 9 to 12cm wide, up to 1cm thick) Domestic Mail International Air Mail 2,780 3,290 1,200 1,940 80 1,200 28 56 76 2,070 55-70 50 Mie Kotsu Bus 85min. Tap water is safe to drink anywhere in Japan. The electric current for home use is uniformly 100 Individual tipping is not common in Japan, since a Central Japan International Airport (Centrair) Airport International Japan Central prong plugs only. Major hotels have hair dryers and other electric appliances available on a loan basis. restaurants. Mineral water is available at hotels, department and No Tipping No Electricity Drinking Water Drinking Useful Information Useful Kansai International Airport Airport International Kansai and 220 volts but their sockets usually accept two- volts, A.C., throughout Japan but there are two convenience stores, supermarkets and high-class Tokyo and other big cities have two outlets of 110 different cycles in use 50 — hertz in eastern Japan, and 60 hertz in western Japan. Leading hotels in

44 *Most museumsareclosedonMondays. storesareclosed2or3weekdaysamonth. *Most department areopendaily. *Some mainpostoffices Average Temperature &PrecipitationinMajorCities Key:"T"standsfortemperature,"F"Fahrenheit,"C" forcentigrade,"P"precipitation(inmm).Average ofyear1981-2010. Official Language: Official Capital: Population: Area: Land Total General Information Peak Travel Seasons General Business Hours in schoolsfromthe5thgradeon. we cneig n uut 5 Cek ih JNTO with offices fordetails. Check 15. August on centering and week 5 a May to — season festival 29 "Bon" (3) and and —weekends; April adjacent "Golden season (2) holiday holidays; travel Week" adjacent and 4 booking January to for 27 —December holidays Year New during Year- and (1) end year are: which the reservations, accommodation of times million. archipelago ofover6,800islands *Museums *Dept.Store *Post Offices Banks Offices Shops Naha Fukuoka Osaka Nagoya o y k To Sendai Sapporo Cities iios o aa sol b aae f h peak the of aware be should Japan to Visitors Basics for Traveling in Japan Key oy, ih pplto o sm 12 some of population a with Tokyo, 127 million 55-. 1 48715 892. 15. 18109 11.8 53.2 81 20.5 68.9 57 7.1 44.8 114 -3.6 25.5 261. 107 68 45 17.0 6.6 48 62.6 6.0 52 43.8 4.5 37 42.8 6.1 40.1 1.6 43.0 34.9 F C P T(C) T (F) 0m5m1a-p 10am-5pm 10am-8pm 10am-5pm 10am-8pm 10am-8pm 10am-5pm 10am-8pm 10am-8pm 10am-8pm a-p lsdclosed closed closed 9am-5pm closed closed closed 9am-5pm 9am-3pm ekasSat. weekdays Winter (Jan.) bu 3800 q k. an km., sq. 378,000 About Japanese; English is taught is English Japanese; Sun. &nationalholidays 052. 166 117 21.4 104 15.1 70.5 125 15.1 59.2 125 14.4 98 59.2 14.6 57.9 10.3 58.3 50.5 T (F) Spring (Apr.) C P T (C) São Paulo Mexico City Central &SouthAmericas Sydney Oceania J_c[:_\\[h[dY[ Moscow Paris London Geneva Frankfurt Europe by onehouratthosecitieshavingdaylight-savingtime.) world citiesisgivenbelow. (Thedifference decreases The timedifference betweenJapanandothermajor main religions. sweaters andjackets warm and suits wool topcoats, Feb.): – (Dec. Winter Nov.):sameasspring Autumn (Sep.– Aug.):lightclothing,shortsleeves Summer (Jun.– Spring (Mar.-May):lightweightjacketsandsweaters Seasonal Clothing Climate: Religion: weather dependsonwhereandwhenonetravels. the south, to north from km. 3,000 some for stretches 202. 179 22.2 72.0 842. 154 25.8 78.4 952. 204 26.4 79.5 132. 157 27.4 81.3 092. 278 27.2 80.9 402. 141 28.9 84.0 F C P T(C) T (F) Summer (Jul.) hnos ad udim r te two the are Buddhism and Shintoism eeal ml, u sne h nation the since but mild, Generally -12 -15 +1 -6 -8 -9 -8 -8 (for Tokyo & Vicinity) 59.4 742. 153 74 25.2 112 19.2 77.4 128 19.0 66.5 198 18.1 66.2 18.5 64.6 65.3 F C P T(C) T (F) Beijing i e p Tai Seoul Hong Kong Bangkok Asia, Near&MiddleEast oronto t n o r To San Francisco New York Los Angeles Chicago America North Autumn (Oct.) 52122 15.2 : -14 -17 -14 -17 -15 -1 -1 -1 -2 0

45 . 屈斜路湖 L.Kussharo 霞ヶ浦 水 戸 Mito L.Kasumigaura 男 鹿 Nansei Islands 南西諸島 Mt.Fuji 輪 島 Wajima 東 シ ナ 海 ナ シ 東 East China Sea Senkaku Islands 尖閣諸島 中海 L.Nakaumi 穴道湖 L.Shinji 北九州 (Kokura) Kita-Kyushu Map of Japan of Map