Japan is one of the most popular travel destinations in the
world. It is a unique blend of traditional and modern, with many temples and
buildings from the past co-existing with modern achievements in architecture
and technology. Visitors can be immersed in Japanese history and culture one
day and get a glimpse of the future through technological developments the
next. Almost all of the historical sites are still used for their original
purposes while remaining open to the public. The natural beauty of Japan can be
seen all year. In addition, Japan has one of the world’s lowest crime rates
which makes it ideal for travelers. An overview of the top tourist attractions
in Japan:
10
Top Tourist Attractions in Japan
10.
Hiroshima Peace Memorial
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial is a haunting tribute to the
lives lost when the atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima on August 6, 1945. Set
in a park, the memorial features Genbaku Dome, the only building left standing
in the vicinity after the bomb dropped. This harsh reminder of a world at war
reminds visitors of the importance of human life and honors the victims so they
will never be forgotten.
9.
Jigokudani Monkey Park
Jigokudani Monkey Park is a famous hot spring area near
Nagano,. The name Jigokudani (meaning “Hell’s Valley”), is due to steam and
boiling water that bubbles out the frozen ground, surrounded by steep cliffs
and formidably cold forests. It is famous for its large population of wild Snow
Monkeys that go to the valley during the winter when snow covers the park. The
monkeys descend from the steep cliffs and forest to sit in the warm hot
springs, and return to the security of the forests in the evenings.
8.
Kiyomizu-dera
The Kiyomizu-dera Buddhist temple is located in Eastern Kyoto
and can be traced back as far as the year 798. An indoor waterfall fed from the
outside river keeps the temple in harmony with nature and not one nail was used
in construction. While locals used to jump off the edge to have a wish granted
(with a survival rate of 85.4%), modern visitors can enjoy the shrines and
talismans and artwork on display without risking life and limb.
7. Himeji
Castle
The Himeji Castle is considered the best existing example of
Japanese castle architecture. It was fortified to defend against enemies during
the feudal period, but it has been rebuilt many times throughout the centuries
and reflects the different design periods. It survived the bombings of World
War II and is frequently seen in domestic and foreign films, including the
James Bond movie “You Only Live Twice”. The white exterior and design give the
castle the appearance of a bird taking flight, earning the the castle the
nickname ‘white egret castle’.
6. Great
Buddha of Kamakura
The Great Buddha of Kamakura is a colossal outdoor representation
of Amida Buddha, one of Japan’s most celebrated Buddhist figures. Cast in
bronze, the Great Buddha stands at over 13 meters (40 feet) high and weighs
nearly 93 tons. The statue reportedly dates from 1252. Although it originally
was housed in a small wooden temple, the Great Buddha now stands in the open
air as the original temple was washed away in a tsunami in the 15th century.
5. Todaiji
Temple
The Todaiji Temple in Nara is a feat of engineering. It is
not only the world’s largest wooden building, it is home to the world’s largest
bronze Buddha statue. Surrounded by beautiful gardens and wildlife, the Kegon
school of Buddhism is centered here and the grounds hold many artifacts of
Japanese and Buddhist history. Deer are allowed to freely roam the grounds as
messengers of the Shinto gods.
4. Tokyo
Tower
The Tokyo Tower is a testament to the advancement of
technology and modern life. Inspired by the Eiffel tower design, it is the
second tallest man-made structure in Japan and functions as a communications
and observation tower. Visitors can climb the tower for unparalleled views of
Tokyo and the surrounding areas as well as visit shops and restaurants.
3. Tokyo
Imperial Palace
The Emperor of Japan makes his home at the Tokyo Imperial
Palace. It also functions as an administration center and museum to showcase
Japanese art and history. The palace is set on the ruins of older castles that
were destroyed by fire or war, and architects have honored the past by
incorporating design elements of the different eras into the modern palace. The
new palace is surrounded by traditional Japanese gardens and has many reception
and function rooms to receive guests and welcome the public.
2. Mount
Fuji
Mount Fuji is the highest mountain in Japan at 3,776 meters
(12,388 ft). The volcano’s exceptionally symmetrical cone is a well-known
symbol of Japan and it is frequently depicted in art and photographs, as well
as a popular tourist attraction for sightseers and climbers. An estimated
200,000 people climb Mount Fuji every year, 30% of whom are foreigners. The
ascent can take anywhere between three and eight hours while the descent can
take from two to five hours.
1. Golden
Pavilion
Kinkaku-ji or the Temple of the Golden Pavilion is the most
popular tourist attraction in Japan and Kyoto. The pavilion was originally
built as a retirement villa for Shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu in the late 14th
century. Unfortunately, the pavilion was burnt down in 1950 by a young monk who
had become obsessed with it. Five years later, the temple was rebuilt as an
exact copy of the original. Emphasis is placed on the building and surrounding
gardens being in harmony with one another. The pavilion is covered in gold leaf
which highlights the reflection of the pavilion in the pond and the pond’s reflection
on the building.
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