What can a budget tourist see in Japan? The main attractions of Tokyo. Why should you visit the Land of the Rising Sun?
Japan as the most prominent tourist center in Asia
Japan has been a closed state for a long time, so unique traditions, styles of architecture, and unique culture have developed here, with no analogs in the world. In addition, the Land of the Rising Sun has made an enormous push in technological development over the past few years so that you can take a trip to the future here. On the site http://countryhelper.com/, you can learn more about this beautiful country and build a route according to your preferences.
A few words about Japan
Japan is a small island nation in the Pacific Ocean with a beautiful history and culture. The capital is Tokyo, but many natural and cultural attractions are outside this. The official currency here is the Japanese yen, which is several times cheaper than the US dollar, so in general (not counting the flight cost), a budget tourist will be able to see all the sights here.
For a resident of Europe or the United States, any city in Japan is a landmark, as they are architecturally and culturally very different from those you are used to. In addition, we advise you to visit a local circus or a performance that you can remember for a lifetime.
Attractions Tokyo
Tokyo, as the capital of the country, has a considerable number of different attractions. The first thing that surprises visitors is the technological development of the city. The fact is that more than 6 million people are crowded in a tiny area, so there is no place for full-fledged parking lots or supermarkets that we are used to in our country. In addition, people here spend most of their time at work, so they strive to simplify life as much as possible with the help of various gadgets. So, everyone who checks into a hotel gets a culture shock.
Fushimi-inari Shrine
It is the main shrine of Tokyo, which was built before the appearance of the capital itself. It was founded in 711, but in the 15th century, the main building was built here. It is a vast temple complex located at the foot of the hill. Hundreds of paths lead to a thousand mounds for individual worship.
The main symbol here is the fox, which symbolizes cunning and wisdom in Japan. Since ancient times, these animals have been revered, as they fight well with rodents that destroy crops.
The peculiarity of the temple is a large number of torii that make up the various corridors. Gradually they rise to the top, where the most ancient shrine is located.
It will be challenging to see this attraction in one day, as each trail leads to a new mini-attraction.
Sakura gardens
In Japan, there is a unique holiday – cherry blossoms. It is a natural symbol of the country. When these cherry trees bloom, they decorate cities all over the country. These days, many festivals are organized, solemn processions take place, and an atmosphere of happiness reigns in the air.
The main problem is that it is challenging to predict cherry blossoms, as it is highly dependent on weather conditions. In addition, the flowering time of these trees is concise, so it is challenging to book plane tickets.
Tsukiji Fish Market
What can you see at the fish market? Japan is one of the few countries where the fish market has become a natural attraction. It is located in the heart of Tokyo, and several tons of fresh fish and seafood are processed and sold here daily.
Several popular cafes and restaurants cook fish and seafood according to old recipes on the market territory. Nowhere else in the world can you taste such fresh seafood delicacies.
Sagano Bamboo Forest
Kyoto is a huge modern city with a lot of skyscrapers. Here is a vast bamboo forest, which covers an area of 16 square kilometers. It is under the protection of UNESCO. To see the whole forest, you should rent a bike, as it will be challenging to see it on foot.
The highest bamboo here is 40 meters, and the stems make musical sounds during the wind. There is a small lake in the middle of the forest, and some beautiful temples are on the way.
What can you see outside the capital?
Outside of Tokyo, there are also a considerable number of attractions. Among the most famous are:
- Snow monkeys in hot springs (Nagano);
- Mount Fuji (Honshu Island);
- Himeji (Honshu Island);
- Nara City (Honshu Island);
- Toshogu Shrine (Nikko City);
- Hiroshima Peace Park (Nakajima District);
- Itsukushima-jinja Temple (Hiroshima Prefecture) and many others.
Although Japan is a small island country, it is impossible to see this in 2 weeks of vacation. Here you can arrive at different times of the year and find new, unusual sights that deserve attention.
Kitchen features
Since Japan is an island nation, fresh fish and seafood are never a problem. But meat (pork or beef, chicken), the country’s inhabitants can afford only on major holidays (for example, on New Year’s or birthdays).
The diet here also includes local fruits, vegetables, and root crops. Rice is the hallmark of Japanese cuisine. Sushi, noodles, and flour products are made here or boiled to fish.
Among the dishes that you should try are:
- Shabu-shabu;
- Kaiseki;
- Unagi;
- Okonomiyaki;
- Gyoza (Gyoza).
The local cuisine is very different from what you are used to in everyday life, but it is worth a try. Here you can meet unusual flavor combinations and learn how to cook new dishes from your usual products.