Few countries have had a more significant pop-culture and technology-innovation impact on the world than Japan. But despite its image as a cloistered society, Japan is more than happy to share its rich heritage and fascinating modern-day culture with all who care to visit.
With its nearly symmetrical conical peak and ever-present dusting of snow, Mount Fuji--the iconic symbol of Japan and the country's tallest mountain -- is located on the main island of Honshu about 100 kilometres south-west of Tokyo. Intrepid tourists who make the three-to-eight-hour ascent to the dormant volcano's 3,776-metre summit are rewarded with one of the most breath-taking high-altitude views in the world.
Japan's second tallest man-made structure, Tokyo Tower, is a 330-m. tall observation and communications structure built in the style of France's Eiffel Tower. Two observatories are located at 150 and 250 m. metres, respectively, providing amazing vistas of the glimmering capital.
Kinkaku-ji, or Temple of the Golden Pavilion is a major tourist draw located in Kyoto. The gold-leaf gilded building--which inspired Yukio Mishima's 1956 novel The Golden Temple--dates back to the late 14th century, but was burned to the ground in 1950 before it was rebuilt as an exact copy of the original.
Sumo wrestling is Japan's sporting passion, and tourists can get in on the action of this ancient national pastime at Tokyo's Ryogoku Kokugikan Sumo Hall. Sit amid wildly cheering crowds as the corpulent competitors batter and shove one another with their massive bulk, while cheering spectators hurl their seat cushions into the ring after particularly heated matches.
Located on the outskirts of Nagano, the Jigokudani Monkey Park is home to the famed hot springs that steam and bubble during the winter months. But the park's main attraction are the wild Snow Monkeys who venture out from the frigid surrounding woodlands and descend the steep cliffs to bathe and frolic in the spring's warming waters.
The Todaiji Temple in Nara holds the dual distinction of being the world's largest wooden building as well as home to the largest bronze Buddha. Numerous artefacts of Japanese and Buddhist historical significance dot the surrounding gardens, which are teeming with wildlife. In fact, the local population of deer are allowed to roam the grounds as "messengers" of the Shinto gods.
Other capital highlights include Roppongi nightlife district in central Tokyo, with its multitude of restaurants and entertainment venues. Another Tokyo district that appeals to shopping fans, Ginza is home to high-end brand outlets and retail stores unmatched for opulence and luxury. Meanwhile, the National Museum of Nature and Science offers a plethora of interactive installations covering space exploration, nuclear energy and "bikecology" (Man and Bicycle). (Don't miss the talking robot!)
Finally, for those with souvenir aspirations that go beyond the standard T-shirt or Mt. Fugi paperweight, Daimaru department store near Tokyo subway station offers a wide range of authentic local garb. The 10th floor is where you'll find a huge selection of fine, made-to-order kimonos (at prices that will make the average tourist think twice). Also available are all manner of traditional accessories, including obi (wide belt worn with kimono), hair combs, toe socks, thong sandals, purses and fans along with men's and women's yukata, (lightweight cotton robes) that are sure to impress the folks back home.
