Japan - Cheap Holidays from Co-op Travel

Japan Travel Guide

It is only comparatively recently that Japan came out of the shell of its isolation, but the country of pink cherry blossoms and genteel geisha girls has made up for lost time. There are few people in the western world who have not driven a Japanese car, eaten sushi or played on a Nintendo or Sony game console.The nation of Japan consists of an island archipelago stretching from northeast to southwest off the coast of mainland China, Russia and Korea, separated from its Asian neighbours by the Sea of Japan. Between 1639 and 1859 Japan elected to cut itself off from trade or traffic with the rest of the world, except for some marginal contact through the southern Kyushu island ports. Since opening up its doors once more, just 150 years ago, the densely populated islands have developed in leaps and bounds and much of the country is now covered by sprawling neon-lit cities and the world's most sophisticated public transport networks.Modern it may be, but Japan still retains plenty of its mystical oriental charm. From the intricacies of etiquette demanded in social situations, to the minimalist décor behind rice paper screens, Japanese culture is alive and well and cannot be ignored, which makes a visit to Japan a fascinating experience.The modern metropolises are dotted with numerous ancient shrines and temples; the countryside is riddled with hundreds of volcanoes and hot springs overlooking pastoral paddy fields; parks are festooned with rigidly raked white gravel Zen gardens or coated with layers of lilac and cherry blossom.Japan's islands are mountainous in the interior - 75 percent of the country's landmass is made up of mountains - and most of the people are tightly packed within the limitations of the coastal plains, particularly on the main island of Honshu. Tokyo, the capital and largest city, situated on Honshu's east coast, has a population of 12 million. Despite this seething mass of humanity Japan is well ordered. Everything runs on time, and crime levels are almost non-existent. It is still possible to find beautiful vistas and wide empty spaces in the countryside, and when you are forced to mingle with the urban throngs you will find the Japanese to be charming, courteous and friendly to foreign faces.

Japan Travel Guide

Need To Know

Money:

The currency is the Japanese Yen (JPY), which is equal to 100 sen. Major credit cards are accepted in the larger hotels and stores, but most Japanese operate with cash. Cash and travellers cheques can be exchanged in banks, post offices and currency exchange bureaux. Banks are usually open Monday to Friday 9am to 3pm. Travellers cheques offer the best exchange rate and are best taken in US dollars. ATMs do not accept all credit and debit cards; only the international ATMs in post offices, airports and some major stores.

Time:

Electricity:

Electrical current is 100 volts, 60Hz in the west (Osaka, Kyoto, Nagoya, Hiroshima); 100 volts, 50Hz in eastern Japan (Tokyo, Sapporo, Yokohoma). Flat two- and three-pin plugs are used.

Language:

Japanese is the official language. Most Japanese people will have studied English at school, but few can speak it well or understand what is said to them.

Health:

No vaccination certificates are required for entry to Japan. There have been recent outbreaks of the deadly bird flu, but no human infections have been reported. Travellers to Japan are unlikely to be affected, but live animal markets and places where contact with live poultry is possible should be avoided, and all poultry and egg dishes well cooked. Medical facilities are very good, but medical assistance in Japan can be very expensive and visitors have to pay the whole cost up front. Travellers should ensure that they have adequate medical insurance before travelling. The possession of Vicks inhalers and other common medications used for allergies and sinus problems are banned under the strictly enforced anti-stimulant drugs law, and visitors are advised to check with the Japanese embassy if in doubt.

Tipping:

Tips and bargaining are not expected in Japan, however a service charge of between 10 to 15% is generally added to hotel and restaurant bills.

Safety:

The vast majority of visits to Japan are trouble-free. It is generally a very safe country with low levels of common crime, and is stable, highly developed and modern. Travellers should, however, still be vigilant about personal safety and belongings. Typhoons are common particularly from June to October and travellers should take note of storm warnings along the coastal regions if travelling during this period. Japan is in a major earthquake zone, and earthquakes of varying sizes occur very frequently.

Customs:

The Japanese are formal and reserved and visitors are expected to behave politely. Their system of etiquette is one of the most complex in the world, with a strict code of conduct for almost every situation. It is important to avoid causing 'loss of face' by insulting or criticising someone in front of others. Bowing is the customary greeting. The possession of common prescription, or over the counter medicines, particularly for allergies and sinus problems, are forbidden under Japanese law, and it is highly advisable to check with a Japanese embassy before travel.

Business:

Business in Japan can be highly formal and greetings are usually rather ritualistic due to the hierarchical society; a third party introduction is useful. Central to doing business in Japan is the notion of 'Kaizen', which represents the drive for constant improvement. Japanese business culture is very formal in dress sense and conduct.When exchanging business cards, receive with both hands and an attitude of respect. Always greet in order of seniority, first by bowing and then offering a handshake. A polite bow is customary; the more senior the person, the deeper the bow. Expect silence in meetings and don't be surprised if a business associate goes silent and closes his eyes in a meeting - it indicates reflection. As with many Asian countries, it is important to avoid being too direct, while still illustrating sincerity and honesty. When deflecting difficult or embarrassing questions, vague forms of expression are key.Relationship building is central to business culture in Japan. Meetings often include excessive small talk as a means of building rapport. Calm, introverted and humble personality types garner respect. However, sober activities are suspended during social activities. Evening drinks with business associates is an important part of solidifying business relationships in Japan, and whatever happens during the evening drinks, is never repeated or spoken about during business hours.Business cards are exchanged often, using both hands. It can be useful to have cards printed with both English and Japanese, and one should present the card with the Japanese side facing the recipient. English translators are vital when conducting business in Japan as Japanese tends to be the language of business. Office hours start at 8am and finish at 6pm throughout the week. Business wear is formal and gifts, although not expected, but are appreciated. Small items branded with your company's logo are generally well received.

Duty Free:

Travellers to Japan over 20 years do not have to pay duty on 3 bottles of alcoholic beverages; 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars or 250g tobacco, or a proportionate mix of these (non-residents are permitted twice the amount); perfume up to 59ml; and gifts and souvenirs to the value of ¥200,000. Prohibited items include all types of firearms and ammunition, narcotics, pornography, meat products, counterfeit money, all plants and vegetables with soil, fresh fruit, vegetables, and plants or parts thereof.

Communications:

The international access code for Japan is +81. The outgoing code depends on what network is used to dial out on (e.g. 001 for KDD) followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0011 for the United States). City/area codes are in use, e.g. (0)3 for Tokyo and (0)82 for Hiroshima. Local calls can be made from any public phone, but only some allow international calls. Telephone cards are sold at kiosks and from vending machines. The local mobile phone operators use technology that is not always compatible with international networks, but 3G has roaming agreements with most international networks, and local handsets can be hired from the airport and various other locations. Internet cafes are widely available.

Japan Travel Guide

Japan Attractions

Ueno Zoo

Description:

The oldest zoological garden in Japan, Ueno Zoo is one of Tokyo's most popular attractions for children and adults alike. Boasting exotic animals such as giant pandas, polar bears, Indian lions, Sumatran tigers, wolverines and gorillas, children of al ages will love this zoo. It also features a Small Mammal House, Reptile House and even a petting zoo where children can meet Okapis and aye-ayes, two very rare species. Zoo guides offer 45-minute tours twice a day.

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9-83, Ueno Park, Taito-ku

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03 3828 5171

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www.tokyo-zoo.net/english/ueno/main.html

Tokyo Imperial Palace

Description:

Japan's Imperial Palace is regarded as the heart and soul of Tokyo, standing on a huge site that still bears the remains of Edo Castle, stronghold of the Tokugawa shogunate. The present palace was completed in 1888 and is still home to the emperor of Japan. The palace is off-limits but its grounds and surrounds provide a much-needed green open space for the city with Higashi Gyoen (East Garden), site of the Edo Castle keep, open to the public. On January 2nd and December 23rd each year visitors are able to enter the inner grounds and see the Imperial family make public appearances from the balcony. Guided tours of the palace are offered, but are only in Japanese, although an English pamphlet and audio guide are provided; these must be reserved in advance through the Imperial Household Agency. In spring the gardens are awash with colour when the cherry blossoms are in bloom, particularly along the castle moat.

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Yasukuni Shrine

Description:

To the north of the Imperial Palace lies the controversial Yasukuni Shrine, built to commemorate the Japanese war dead and now regarded as home to the souls of about two and a half million who perished in conflict, mostly in the Pacific War of World War II. Soldiers fought in the knowledge that their spirits would find rest and honour at Yasukuni in the after-life. The shrine has caused controversy for various political reasons over the years since it was built in 1869 in honour of supporters of the emperor, killed in the run up to the Meiji Restoration. More recently, with regard to the country's constitution that requires the separation of State and religion, cabinet ministers have been criticised for attending anniversaries of Japan's defeat in World War II held at the shrine. The shrine is confined behind a huge steel torii gate, opening onto a long avenue lined with gingko and cherry trees. The Worship Hall itself is a simple Shinto style building. North of the shrine is the Yushukan Museum, containing war memorabilia, some of which is disturbing and thought-provoking such as the human torpedo and kamikaze suicide attack plane.

Address:

3-1-1 Kadunkita, Chiyoda-ku

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(03) 3261 8326

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Website:

www.yasukuni.or.jp

Edo-Tokyo Museum

Description:

Tokyo's museum dedicated to detailing the city's history, art, culture and architecture through the medium of visual displays is an impressive, not to be missed attraction. Edo was the old name for Tokyo from its foundation in 1590 when it became the seat of Tokugawa Ieyasu, the first shogun. Exhibits include a replica of an ancient Kabuki theatre, maps, photographs and portrayals of the lives of the city's merchants, craftsmen and townspeople in days gone by.

Address:

141 Yokoami, Sumida-ku

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(0)3 3626 9974

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Website:

www.edo-tokyo-museum.or.jp

Akihabara

Description:

Tokyo's electronic wonderland has become world-renowned. In a small area near Chuo-dori Avenue, west of Akihabara Station, are clustered more than 250 electrical appliance and electronics shops, many of them now dealing in computer hardware and software, where expert staff can answer queries and visitors can browse through the showrooms of major manufacturers. There are duty-free shops and various events to draw attention. The suburb has been specialising in electrical equipment since the 1940s and is now regarded as the world's biggest and best electrical equipment enclave.

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www.akiba.or.jp/english/index.html

Senso-ji Temple

Description:

The Asakusa neighbourhood of Tokyo draws visitors to admire the city's oldest temple, Senso-ji, founded in AD628 with a quaint legend attached to it. The story goes that two young brothers fishing in the nearby river netted a golden image of Kan'non, the Buddhist goddess of mercy, and were inspired to enshrine it in the temple. The statuette is still inside, but never shown to the public, though pilgrims flock here every day seeking the favour of the goddess. There are also numerous festivals associated with the shrine, and a hugely popular firework display is held on the Sumida River every summer. Tourists enjoy the visit to the temple mainly because the approach is a colourful pedestrian lane, Nakamise Dori, lined with shops and souvenir stalls. Nearby, the Demboin Garden is a good spot to grab a break from the city crowds.

Address:

2-3-1 Asakusa Taito-ku, Shitamachi (downtown)

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(0)3 3842 0181

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Tokyo Disney Resort

Description:

Plenty of fun is to be had for the young and young at heart at Tokyo's Disney Resort, virtually a carbon copy of the theme park found in California in the United States. The resort consists of Disneyland Park and DisneySea Park, along with several hotels. Visitors can expect attractions like the Jungle Cruise, Space Mountain and Toontown, which are all included on this huge site.

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(045) 683 3333

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www.tokyodisneyresort.co.jp

Tokyo National Museum

Description:

Close to Ueno Station, enclosed in the Tokyo Metropolitan Imperial Gift Park, the National Museum boasts the largest collection of Japanese art in the world. Exhibits range from antique kimonos and delicate pottery to woodblock prints and archaeological finds. The vast collection is displayed on a rotating basis with at least 4,000 artefacts visible at any time, so the museum always has something new to offer. The museum consists of five different buildings containing numerous galleries, so one needs sufficient time to do it justice. The Imperial Gift Park also contains some other cultural institutions, including a zoo, the Metropolitan Art Museum, Bunka Kaikan Cultural Hall, the Western Art Museum and the National Science Museum.

Address:

13-9 Ueno Park,Taito-ku

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(0)3 3822 1111

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Website:

www.tnm.go.jp

Mount Fuji

Description:

The dormant volcano of Mount Fuji, 62 miles (100km) southwest of Tokyo, has been revered since ancient times and no exploration of Japan is complete without visiting the mountain that is known fondly as 'Fuji-san' by the locals. Its symmetrical 12,388-foot (3,776m) cone towers and snow-crowned summit have become as symbolic of Japan as the country's own flag.The closest town to the volcano is Fuji Yoshida, from which buses leave frequently for Fuji's 'fifth stage' (the usual jumping-off point for hikes up the mountain) from outside the train station. There are six trails to the summit, of which the Kawaguchiko Trail is the easiest, being quite manageable even by children and the elderly as long as they have stamina and good shoes. Overnight huts are available. Official climbing season is from 1 July to end of August - in winter snow makes the ascent too dangerous.

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55 572 0259 (Fuji Visitor Centre)

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Kamakura

Description:

The city of Kamakura, about 30 miles (50km) southwest of Tokyo at the base of the Miura Peninsula, was the political powerhouse of Japan in the middle ages and the seat of government for most of the 13th century. Because of its historic importance Kamakura boasts numerous monuments, temples and shrines of interest to tourists. As an added bonus the city sports some sandy beaches and good hiking trails in the nearby wooded hills. Kamakura's many sights are too numerous to detail individually, but most important of them all is the Great Buddha. This bronze statue of the seated Amida Buddha is located in the grounds of the Kotokuin Temple, and standing at almost 44ft (13,35m) high, it is the second largest Buddha statue in Japan after that found in the Todaiji Temple in Nara. The Kamakura Great Buddha was cast in 1252 and was originally contained in the temple hall. A tidal wave (tsunami) washed away the temple in the late 15th century, but the Buddha prevailed and since then has stood in the open.

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www.kamakuratoday.com/e

Yokohama

Description:

While visiting Japan's largest city, Tokyo, it is quick and easy to pay a visit to the country's second largest metropolis as well: Yokohama can be reached in less than 30 minutes by train from Tokyo, lying south of the capital. The main reason for visiting Yokohama is to marvel at its futuristic new city centre, and perhaps take a stroll through Japan's largest Chinatown. Yokohama's Chinatown, entered through four colourful gates and teeming with restaurants and shops, was developed after the city became one of the first Japanese ports to be opened to foreign trade after generations of isolation ended in 1859. Chinese traders flocked to the city, establishing a cultural neighbourhood. Minato Mirai is the new central city area around the harbour, characterised by the Landmark Tower, rising to 971ft (296m). Visitors can ride to the tower's observation deck in the world's second fastest elevator, travelling at 41ft (13m) a second, for a view that on a clear day stretches as far as Mount Fuji.

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(0)45 441 7300 (Tourist Information Center, Yokohama Station)

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www.city.yokohama.lg.jp/en/

Kyoto Imperial Palace

Description:

Japan's imperial family lived in the Kyoto palace from 1331 until 1868 (when they moved to Tokyo), and today visitors can view the furnishings and delicate decorations on guided one-hour tours of the city's Imperial Palace. It is necessary to reserve a tour in advance by calling at the Imperial Household Agency office in the Kyoto Imperial Park, which surrounds the palace. To join a tour you need to produce your passport.

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(0)75 211 1215

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To-ji

Description:

To-ji, with the tallest pagoda in Japan, was the Buddhist temple founded in 794 as guardian of the then young capital city's welfare. Today it stands about 10 minutes walk to the south of Kyoto Station, drawing curious tourists to admire in particular its five-storey pagoda, which was rebuilt in the mid-17th century. During the span of centuries a treasure trove of statuary, calligraphy and paintings has been collected at the temple, now housed in the various historic buildings making up the temple complex. The statues include a six-metre-tall Senju Kannon (thousand-arm Buddhist Goddess of Mercy) carved in 877. A well-known flea market is held on the 21st of every month.

Address:

1 Kujo-cho, Minami-ku

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(0)75 671 9612

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Website:

www.toji.or.jp (Japanese only)

Golden Pavilion (Kinkakuji)

Description:

One of Kyoto's most popular attractions is to the north of the city. The Golden Pavilion (Kinkakuji) is a three-storey pavilion covered in gold leaf, glittering in the waters of a calm pond. Kinkakuji was built in 1397 as a retirement home for Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, who lived there in luxury until he died in 1408, after which the building was converted into a Zen temple. In 1950 a mad monk burnt the pavilion down, and it was not rebuilt until 1955. Today it is covered in gold leaf five times thicker than the original coating, and presents an awesome sight. A short walk from the pavilion is Ryoanji, Japan's most famous Zen rock garden, laid out in the 15th century. A veranda overlooks the garden in which 15 rocks are set among raked white pebbles.

Address:

1 Kinkaku-ji-cho Kita-ku, Kyoto

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www.shokoku-ji.or.jp (Japanese only)

Sanjusangen-do

Description:

The temple of Rengeoin in eastern Kyoto is better known by its popular name of Sanjusangen-do, and houses an amazing sight. Inside the longest wooden building in Japan stand row upon row of life-sized statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy, carved from Japanese cypress in the 12th and 13th centuries. There are 1,001 statues altogether. The statues surround the large, central figure of a seated Kannon, carved in 1254 in the Kamakura Period.

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Shichijo Dori

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(0)75 525 0033

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Gion

Description:

Most visitors to Japan are fascinated with the traditional Geisha: white-faced kimono-clad women specially trained to entertain and spoil men in a soothing setting. Kyoto boasts one of the most famous Geisha districts in the country, a neighbourhood of plain wooden buildings to the east of the Kamo River known as Gion. There were once thousands of Geisha and maiko (apprentice Geisha) performing their genteel tasks in this area. Today the number has dwindled to a few hundred, but visitors who stroll the Hanami-koji street at sunset, past teahouses and restaurants, will probably catch a glimpse of one or two en route to the geisha houses in their clattering wooden shoes. The geisha houses themselves are strictly off-limits to anyone not properly introduced and invited, but from behind the paper screens you will hear the strains of music and laughter. While geisha-spotting in the Gion district, take in the Yasaka Shrine with its many paper lanterns, and the Minamiza Kabuki Theatre.

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www.pref.kyoto.jp/visitkyoto/en

Kiyomizu-dera

Description:

The 'Pure water temple', Kiyomizu-dera, is one of Japan's most celebrated temples, founded in 780 and associated with Nara Buddhism, the oldest sect in Japan. The temple's main feature is the lovely view afforded of the wooded hills of eastern Kyoto from its terrace. Below the terrace is the spring from which the temple got its name; visitors can sample the water, which is said to have healing powers. Nearby is an interesting three-storey pagoda, and the Otawa Falls. The approach to the temple along Kiyomizu-michi or Gojo-zaka is steep and narrow, the streets lined with stores specialising in local sweets, pottery and the inevitable souvenirs. Behind the temple is the Shinto Jishu Shrine, dedicated to the god of love.

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(0)75 551 1234

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www.kiyomizudera.or.jp

Katsura Imperial Villa

Description:

Considered to be the finest example of pure Japanese architecture and garden design, Katsura Rikyu, built in 1645 by Prince Toshihito, is beautiful in its simplicity. The buildings are constructed of entirely natural materials and consist of a moon-viewing pavilion, an imperial hall, teahouse and the wooden villa itself. The garden is designed for leisurely strolls with surprises around each turn of the path, from stone bridges and lanterns to ponds and manicured trees.

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(0)75 211 1215 (Imperial Household Agency)

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Nara

Description:

The city of Nara, 26 miles (42km) south of Kyoto, could be regarded as the place where Japan's culture was formalised. The city, originally called Heijo, became the first permanent capital of the country in 710. Although its capital status only lasted for 74 years, they were years that entrenched and enshrined Japan's arts, crafts and literature. Nara flourished as a political and cultural centre and thus was blessed with numerous temples, shrines, pagodas and palaces, which today attract locals and foreigners intent on glimpsing historic Japan. Most of Nara's historic treasures are contained in a vast park which has been designated a World Heritage Site, making sightseeing easy and pleasurable. Highlights are Todaiji, the huge temple that contains Japan's largest Buddha statue, and Horyuji, the temple containing the world's oldest wooden structures.

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www.city.nara.nara.jp

Inokashira Park

Description:

Inokashira Park is a tranquil oasis amidst the bustle of Japan's capitol city. The park contains a temple dedicated to the goddess of love, a petting zoo and aquarium, and is lively with musicians, artists and street performers. One of the more popular attractions in Inokashira Park is the Ghibli Museum, featuring displays on popular animated films from the studio of the same name, including Spirited Away and Howl's Moving Castle. Inokashira Park is very crowded in the spring when the cherry blossoms are flowering.

Address:

Gotenyama 1-chome, Kichijoji-Minami-cho 1-chome, Musashino City

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0422-47-6900

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Peace Memorial Park

Description:

Around the epicentre of the atomic bomb explosion in Hiroshima in 1945, a complex of buildings and monuments has been erected in the Peace Memorial Park to commemorate the earth-shattering event. It is dedicated to the promotion of world peace. Central to the park is the only remaining city building damaged in the blast. It was formerly the Industrial Promotion Hall, but is now known as the Atomic Bomb Dome and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park also contains the Peace Memorial Museum, featuring exhibits that graphically portray the horrible effects of the bomb on the city and its citizens. Between the museum and the dome stands the Memorial Cenotaph containing a stone chest, inside which is a list of all those killed in the explosion or who died subsequently from the long-term effects caused by radiation. The Cenotaph also houses the peace flame, which will burn until nuclear war is no longer considered a threat to humanity. Other monuments contained in the solemn park include the Statue of the A-Bomb Children and the Atomic Bomb Memorial Mound that contains the ashes of tens of thousands of unidentified victims.

Address:

1-2 Nakajima-cho, Naka-ku

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Museum: (0)82 242 7798

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www.pcf.city.hiroshima.jp/index_e2.html

Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art

Description:

Hiroshima boasts the first public art museum in Japan devoted exclusively to contemporary art. The museum is housed in an interesting building designed by Japanese architect Kurokawa Kisho, based on the shape of a Japanese warehouse (Kura). The building is set high on a hill in Hijiyama Park, famed for its cherry blossoms and splendid city views. The museum itself contains the works of established and up-and-coming Japanese artists. For those not familiar with Japanese art the museum has provided information books on the individual artists represented, written in English. There is also an outdoor sculpture garden to enjoy.

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Hijiyama Koen

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(0)82 264 1121

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www.hcmca.cf.city.hiroshima.jp/web/main_e/index.html

Hiroshima Castle

Description:

Hiroshima's original castle, built in the late 16th century, was totally destroyed in the atomic blast but has been reconstructed as a perfect reproduction of the original. The castle houses a museum detailing the city's history and the historic feudal system. The exhibits include some models of ancient Hiroshima and the castle.

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21-1 Motomachi, Naka-ku

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(0)82 221 7512

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www.rijo-castle.jp/rijo/main.html

Miyajima

Description:

The romantic little island of Miyajima lies about eight miles (13km) off the mainland in the Seto Inland Sea. Apart from being scenically beautiful with steep wooded hills, the island is famous for its Itsukushima Shrine featuring a massive red wooden torii (gate). The shrine is partially built over water, and was founded in the 6th century. During high tide the shrine stands in the ocean, which is particularly picturesque when the building is illuminated at night. The rest of the island makes for great hiking opportunities, particularly in spring when the many cherry trees are in bloom. Deer roam free and monkeys chatter in the woods.

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(0)82 944 0008

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Sandankyo Gorge

Description:

The erosion of the limestone plateau in the northwest of the Hiroshima prefecture has left a beautiful deep gorge, stretching for about 11 miles (18km), full of primeval forest, waterfalls, monkeys, unusual rock formations and the Onbashi Bridge, the largest natural bridge in Japan. Sandankyo Gorge is a favourite route for hikers.

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Kukuoka Castle

Description:

Fukuoka's castle is in ruins, but it is still a favourite spot for tourists to congregate (mainly for the view). Built by the feudal lord in days of old, it was composed of 47 turrets of various sizes. Today the Otemon gate, Tamon turret and a few walls remain.

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Shofukuji Temple

Description:

The Shofukuji Temple was the first Zen temple to be built in Japan. It was founded by the father of Japanese Zen, Eisai, in 1195. In the temple grounds are the remains of two other ancient temples, Jotenji and Tochoji.

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6-1 Gokuso-machi, Higashi-ku

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(0)92 291 0775

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Fukuoka Asian Art Museum

Description:

Fukuoka's Asian Art Museum is housed in a new complex in the Shimokawabata district of Hakata Ward, in the heart of the city. The museum houses a collection of more than 1,000 works including paintings, sculptures, prints and handcrafts. It also serves as a centre for art education.

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Riverain Complex, 3-1 Shimokawabata-machi, Hakata-ku

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(0)92 263 1100

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Website:

faam.city.fukuoka.lg.jp/eng/home.html

Kushida Shrine

Description:

One of Fukuoka's best-known shrines is Kushida, founded in 757. It is situated in the heart of ancient Hakata with a huge gingko tree, said to be 1,000 years old, shading its forecourt. The shrine honours the grand deity, Ohata Nushina-mikoto, and was built during the Heian Period for the common people. Today it is very much enjoyed by locals and visitors alike during the summer's major event, the Hakata Gion Yamakasa Festival. On the last day of the festival the Kushida Shrine becomes the starting point for the Oiyama fun run when hundreds of young men clad only in loin cloths carry heavy wooden shrines through the streets along a set route, vying to clock the fastest times. The shrine itself contains several items of interest, particularly the Eto Arrow plate bearing carvings of the Chinese zodiac and a brace of anchor stones, recovered from the harbour, that were once attached to ships of the Mongolian invasion fleets.

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1-41, Kamikawabatamachi, Hakata-ku

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(0)92 291 2951

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Dazaifu

Description:

In the northern part of Kyushu Island in south-western Japan lie the ruins of Dazaifu, a city that during the 1st century was the seat of Government for the island and first line of defence against threat from the East Asian countries. The walled city once stood in open fields, but now the ruins on the southern slopes of Mount Ono are surrounded by modern Dazaifu, and the valued historic site has been turned into a park. Apart from the interesting ruins, Dazaifu also boasts one of Japan's most important shrines. The Dazaifu-tenmangu Shrine is dedicated to a great scholar named Sugawara Michizane, who died in the year 903 and subsequently became revered as a deity because of his wisdom. The shrine is now a place of pilgrimage for students from all over the country, especially when examination season comes around. The approach to the shrine is lined with teahouses specialising in a local rice cake delicacy, which is believed to keep illness at bay.

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Mount Aso

Description:

The composite active volcano of Mt Aso lies almost in the centre of Kyushu Island and boasts the world's largest caldera, stretching 11 miles (18km) from east to west and 15 miles (24km) from north to south. Inside the caldera are five volcanic peaks, with one of them, Naka-dake, still being active and regularly emitting smoke and ash. The rest of the landscape inside the caldera is green and grassy, grazed by cows and horses and inhabited by about 50,000 people in several towns and villages, seemingly unphased by living inside a volcanic crater. In the town of Aso there is a museum dedicated to the volcano. Visitors can watch large screen presentations about Aso and the associated geology, in addition to viewing a live image from a camera positioned at the active crater site.

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Telephone:

(0)96 734 2111

Email:

Website:

Nagasaki

Description:

The beautifully situated port city of Nagasaki lies at the southern end of Kyushu Island, 95 miles (152km) southwest of Fukuoka. Nagasaki was open to the world for centuries between 1639 and 1859 while the rest of Japan was secluded from foreign contact by governmental decree. The exposure to foreign cultures has left the city with a sophisticated and liberal air that makes it popular for tourists, enhanced by the many attractions in the city itself and surrounding prefecture. Feudal castles, samurai houses, smoking volcanoes, hot spring baths, rugged offshore islands, beautiful beaches and friendly people are all here to be enjoyed. The most important site in the city is the Peace Park (Heiwa Koen), commemorating Nagasaki's darkest hour on 9 August 1945, when a nuclear bomb intended to be dropped on the Mitsubishi Shipyards exploded instead over the Urakami district, killing 150,000 people. A black stone column marks the blast's epicentre, alongside the Atomic Bomb Museum.

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Hokkaido Ainu Centre

Description:

The Ainu people with their unique culture have lived on the island of Hokkaido for hundreds of generations. The Ainu Centre in Sapporo details the history and culture of the island's indigenous people using interesting exhibits and demonstrations.

Address:

7F Kaderu 2-7 Bldg., N2 W2, Chuo-ku

Postcode:

Telephone:

(0)11 221 0462

Email:

Website:

www.ainu-assn.or.jp/english/eabout07.html

Historical Village

Description:

The impressive and entertaining outdoor museum village, depicting Hokkaido life in days of old, is situated in Sapporo at Atsubetsu Ward in a corner of the Hokkaido Nopporo Forest Park. The site features restored or recreated buildings from the Meiji and Taisho periods, and includes edifices like the old Sapporo railway station, old Otaru newspaper company buildings, fishermen's cottages, mountain villas and the like. Horse-drawn trolleys run through the village and in winter horse-drawn sleighs carry visitors around the site.

Address:

Konopporo 50-1, Atsubetsu-chyo

Postcode:

Telephone:

(0)11 898 1000 (recorded information)

Email:

Website:

www.kaitaku.or.jp/info/info.htm

Sapporo Beer Museum

Description:

If you are here for the beer, which is possible because Sapporo beer is known throughout the world, then a visit to the beer museum in the historic Sapporo Brewery building is a must, together with a tour of the brewery itself, which, of course, ends with a tasting. The red brick brewery building has been home to the Sapporo Beer Company, third-largest beer producer in Japan, since 1876. One-hour tours are conducted at 15-minute intervals every day throughout the year; however these are in Japanese only. It is possible to book in advance and request an English interpreter.

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Postcode:

Telephone:

(0)11 731 4368

Email:

museum@sapporobeer.jp

Website:

www.sapporobeer.jp (Japanese only)

Mount Moiwa

Description:

Fondly known as Sapporo's 'backyard ski resort' Mt Moiwa offers 11 different courses for all grades of skiers from beginners to advanced. Most are well lit to enable visitors and locals alike to enjoy the fun of night skiing, taking in the breathtaking view of the city as they fly down the sparkling slopes under the stars. The mountain will be closed to visitors until Autumn of 2011.

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Telephone:

(0)11 581 0914

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Noboribetsu

Description:

The famous hot-spring resort of Noboribetsu Onsen is situated inside the Shikotsu-Toya National Park. The spa is one of many found in Hokkaido, but being closest to Sapporo is very popular. Hot mineral springs gush out about 10,000 tons of water a day, said to have healing properties for a range of disorders. The resort is also known for its 2,000 cherry trees that make a stunning sight in spring.

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Tokyo Tower

Description:

This tower is modelled in the vein of the Eiffel Tower in France, only in true Japanese style, it is more colourful and serves a technological purpose. Tokyo Tower functions chiefly as a television and radio antenna. At 1,091 feet (332m), it is the tallest structure in Tokyo, in Japan in fact, and a great vantage point from which to take in the city. At the base of the tower, tucked snugly under its 'legs', is the four-storey Foot Town. Inside Foot Town visitors will find shops, restaurants, a wax museum, the Guinness Book of World Record Museum, an aquarium and the Mysterious Walking Zone, which is not as spooky as it sounds. It's a display of holographic technology and imagery. The top floor of Foot Town is an interactive art gallery, featuring optical illusions which can be manipulated by visitors.

Address:

4-2-8 Shiba-Koen, Minato-ku

Postcode:

Telephone:

03 3433 5111

Email:

Website:

www.tokyotower.co.jp/english/

Meiji Jingu

Description:

A hop, skip and jump away from the Harajuku Station, the Meiji Jingu is an easily accessible shrine and worthwhile stop in Tokyo. Built as homage to the Emperor Meiji and his wife, the Empress Shoken, this monument is located in a 175 acre (70ha) evergreen forest and consists of two main areas. In the inner Naien, a garden featuring shrine buildings and a treasure museum holding articles from the Emperor and Empress. In the outer cloister, the Gaien, the Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery presents murals depicting significant events over the Meiji rule. It also consists of a sports arena, the National Stadium, and the Meiji Memorial Hall, which was an important political meeting place during the Meiji era. Today traditional Shinto weddings are held in the Hall and newcomers to Japan are always intrigued when witnessing the unique Shinto wedding procession.

Address:

1-1 Yoyogi-Kamizono-cho, Shibuya-ku

Postcode:

Telephone:

03 3403 1171

Email:

Website:

www.meijijingu.or.jp/english/

Minamiza Kabuki Theatre

Description:

While there are many places in Japan from which to view Kabuki theatre, the Kyoto Minamiza Theatre is one of the principal venues for such performances and a major hub for the art form. The building itself is an architectural wonder, built in a traditional style in 1929, on the edge of the geisha district of Gion. Visitors can pay to see individual acts of plays of to see the entire performance. Because the theatre has become popular among tourists, an English voice-over explains the show to tourists.

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Website:

www.kabuki-bito.jp/eng/top.html

Monkey Park

Description:

Children visiting Monkey Park will be able to enjoy learning about monkeys while watching them run around freely. Their individual movements and characteristics also give away a lot about them and their personalities. Some smaller children might be scared of the freely roaming monkeys.

Address:

Mount Takao

Postcode:

Telephone:

(042) 661 2381

Email:

Website:

www.takaotozan.co.jp/takaotozan_eng1/monkey/index.htm

Kite Museum

Description:

This fascinating museum is an absolute must for any child who loves kites, or any adult who has ever flown a kite. The Kite Museum exhibits mainly traditional style Japanese kites, 'Edo Nishiki-E Dako' as well as other kites from around Asia. Kites are made from bamboo and a Japanese handmade paper called 'washi' which is surprisingly strong. Featuring over 3,000 kites, this museum is a must for all kite enthusiasts.

Address:

5th floor of Taimeiken Restaurant, 1-12-10 Nihonbashi, Chuoh-ku

Postcode:

Telephone:

(03) 3271 2465

Email:

Website:

www.taimeiken.co.jp/museum.html (Japanese only)

Joypolis Sega

Description:

A little boy's dream come true, Joypolis Sega will thrill and entertain children of all ages. Offering rides, games and much more, kids will be kept busy for hours on end in one of the world's most famous theme parks and enjoy rides such as Spin Bullet and games such as Halfpipe Canyon, Sky Cruising and Dinosaur King.

Address:

1-6-1 Daiba Minato-ku Tokyo

Postcode:

Telephone:

(03) 5500 1801

Email:

Website:

tokyo-joypolis.com/english/index.html

National Children's Castle (Kodomo-no-Shiro)

Description:

The Children's Castle is geared towards children of all ages and features a variety of activity rooms for kids to keep themselves entertained. With gymnasiums, playgrounds, climbing walls, artistic activities and much more to stimulate and educate children's minds.

Address:

5-53-1 Jingumae

Postcode:

Telephone:

(03) 3797 5666

Email:

Website:

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