Japan

Synopsis

Lonely Planet's Japan is your passport to the most relevant, up-to-date advice on what to see and skip, and what hidden discoveries await you. Explore over a thousand temples in old imperial capital Kyoto, relax in one of the onsens scattered across the archipelago, and sample the breadth of Japan's sublime cuisine; all with your trusted travel companion. Get to the heart of Japan and begin your journey now!

 

Inside Lonely Planet's Japan Travel Guide:

Up-to-date information - all businesses were rechecked before publication to ensure they are still open after 2020's COVID-19 outbreak

NEW top experiences feature - a visually inspiring collection of Japan's best experiences and where to have them

What's new feature taps into cultural trends and helps you find fresh ideas and cool new areas

Pull-out, passport-size 'Just Landed' card with wi-fi, ATM and transport info - all you need for a smooth journey from airport to hotel

Planning tools for family travellers - where to go, how to save money, plus fun stuff just for kids

Colour maps and images throughout

Highlights and itineraries help you tailor your trip to your personal needs and interests

Insider tips to save time and money and get around like a local, avoiding crowds and trouble spots

Essential info at your fingertips - hours of operation, websites, transit tips, prices

Honest reviews for all budgets - eating, sleeping, sightseeing, going out, shopping, hidden gems that most guidebooks miss

Cultural insights give you a richer, more rewarding travel experience - history, people, music, landscapes, wildlife, cuisine, politics

Over 150 maps 

Covers Tokyo, Mt Fuji, The Japan Alps, Honshu, Kyoto, Kansai, Hiroshima, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Shiko-ku, Kyushu and Okinawa 

 

The Perfect Choice: Lonely Planet's Japan, our most comprehensive guide to Japan, is perfect for both exploring top sights and taking roads less travelled. 

 

Looking for just the highlights? Check out Best of Japan, a handy-sized guide focused on the can't-miss sights for a quick trip.

 

About Lonely Planet: Lonely Planet is a leading travel media company, providing both inspiring and trustworthy information for every kind of traveller since 1973. Over the past four decades, we've printed over 145 million guidebooks and phrasebooks for 120 languages, and grown a dedicated, passionate global community of travellers. You'll also find our content online, and in mobile apps, videos, 14 languages, armchair and lifestyle books, ebooks, and more, enabling you to explore every day. 

 

'Lonely Planet guides are, quite simply, like no other.' - New York Times

 

'Lonely Planet. It's on everyone's bookshelves; it's in every traveller's hands. It's on mobile phones. It's on the Internet. It's everywhere, and it's telling entire generations of people how to travel the world.' - Fairfax Media (Australia)

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Summary

Chapter 1: The Land of the Rising Sun

* Japan is a series of islands located in the Pacific Ocean.
* It has a diverse geography, ranging from mountains to forests and coastlines.
* The climate is temperate, with four distinct seasons.

Real Example: The iconic Mount Fuji is a symbol of Japan's natural beauty and cultural significance.

Chapter 2: A Rich History

* Japan has a long and complex history, dating back to prehistoric times.
* It has experienced periods of isolation, war, and rapid economic growth.
* Today, Japan is a highly developed and prosperous nation.

Real Example: The Nara Period (710-794 AD) was a time of great cultural and artistic achievement, as evidenced by the magnificent Buddhist temples built during that era.

Chapter 3: Japanese Culture

* Japanese culture is unique and multifaceted.
* It emphasizes tradition, respect, and harmony.
* Japanese art, literature, and music are renowned for their beauty and sophistication.

Real Example: The tea ceremony is a traditional ritual that embodies Japanese values of hospitality, mindfulness, and aesthetic appreciation.

Chapter 4: Economic Powerhouse

* Japan is one of the world's leading economic powers.
* It has a highly developed manufacturing sector, as well as a strong service industry.
* Japan is known for its innovative technology and high-quality products.

Real Example: Toyota, Honda, and Sony are some of the most recognizable Japanese brands in the world.

Chapter 5: Food and Cuisine

* Japanese cuisine is world-famous for its freshness, variety, and exquisite presentation.
* Sushi, ramen, and tempura are just a few of the many dishes that have become popular globally.
* Japanese culinary traditions place a strong emphasis on seasonal ingredients and healthy eating.

Real Example: The Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo is the largest seafood market in the world, offering a vast array of fresh seafood for local consumption and export.

Chapter 6: People and Society

* The Japanese people are known for their politeness, kindness, and hard work.
* Family, education, and social harmony are highly valued in Japanese society.
* Japan has a low crime rate and a long life expectancy.

Real Example: The Japanese concept of "omotenashi" (hospitality) is exemplified in the warm and welcoming service provided in Japanese businesses and establishments.

Chapter 7: Travel and Adventure

* Japan is a popular tourist destination for its unique culture, stunning scenery, and myriad attractions.
* Visitors can explore historic temples, modern cities, and breathtaking national parks.
* Traditional festivals and events offer a glimpse into Japanese customs and traditions.

Real Example: The cherry blossom season (sakura) is a time of great celebration and beauty, when parks and streets become adorned with vibrant pink blossoms.