Hiroshima and the neighbouring island of Miyajima are both world famous but for very different reasons: one for the atomic bomb and its atrocities, and the other for its peaceful shrine amid the waves. 

Hiroshima and its region: between shrine and memorial

Nature has always played an important role in Japanese culture, and the tradition survives with the celebration of the arrival of spring by observing the cherry blossoms. Here is some advice about this festival, the hanami, and the best places to observe the trees in full blossom.

Go to see the cherry trees in Tokyo

Hokkaido is a hiker's paradise, thanks to its majestic, wild mountainous landscapes.
 Its national parks provide stunning views as well as a wealth of plant and animal life.
 Some are very isolated and difficult to access, but offer, nonetheless, a great sense of freedom.

Hiking in the stunning countryside of Hokkaido


Japan has numerous hidden treasures. Here are my top 10 most beautiful places to visit, but also the most interesting.

Top 10 places to visit in Japan

Tokyo

Tokyo Metropolitan Central Wholesale Market

Shiba-Shimbashi

Odaiba

Shinjuku is home to one of the busiest stations in the world! In the evening, this district of Tokyo remains lively and colourful.

Asia

Japan

Shinjuku

Europe

Central America

Africa

North America

South America

Middle East

Oceania

I really loved the colours of Shinjuku. You'll see them everywhere, from the advertising hoardings to the skyscrapers or even on the vending machines! It is exactly what you'd expect to see in Tokyo during a <a href="/japan/">trip to Japan</a>. Yet, the fragile border between tradition and modernity is still apparent. In parallel to the effervescence of the avenues are the small streets, where you can still see the tangle of electrical wiring and typical bars – where the Japanese might invite you to come in for a glass of sake. In any case, the contrast of Shinjuku really struck me! A few tips: try not to get lost in the endless flow of passengers from Shinjuku station and don't hesitate to take a shortcut by entering a building at random!

Shinjuku Vacations

Visit Shinjuku

Shinjuku: How to get there?

Shinjuku: See when to go ?

Shinjuku: For how long?

Shinjuku: What to see nearby?

Japan: our articles for your vacations