Japan, also known as the Land of the Rising Sun, is a charming island nation in East Asia, surrounded by the Pacific Ocean. It is a fascinating country, rich in centuries-old traditions, yet also forward-looking and technologically advanced. Two cities that perfectly showcase Japan's eclectic character are Tokyo and Kyoto—respectively, the symbols of modernity and ancient history.
Tokyo, the capital, is a modern city where the skyline is dominated by the skyscrapers of Shinjuku and the futuristic world of Odaiba, a completely artificial island where shopping reigns supreme. Among the many malls, you can even admire a miniature Statue of Liberty and the Rainbow Bridge, inspired by New York’s Brooklyn Bridge. Don’t miss an evening in the Roppongi district, a hotspot of Tokyo's nightlife, or a stroll through Harajuku, considered Japan’s answer to Fifth Avenue, full of trendy shops. And finally, a step back in time: the ancient district of Asakusa, where time seems to stand still among imperial gardens and a colorful, enchanting natural landscape.
Kyoto, on the other hand, represents the more traditional and classic side of Japan, exuding an ancient and historical charm. It is the city of samurai and geishas, temples, and meditation—a mystical place. Days here are spent visiting the Golden Pavilion and the Silver Pavilion, admiring the Ryoan-ji Zen gardens, contemplating Tofuku-ji (and the ancient Byodo-in structures), or immersing yourself in the enchanted Arashiyama Bamboo Forest. Once you've seen the two main cities, you'll be spoiled for choice when it comes to smaller destinations. Nikko and its shrines, Kamakura and its temples, Kanazawa with its gardens and historic districts, Nara, Osaka, or perhaps the beautiful island of Hokkaido. To explore all of Japan's wonders, you’d need at least a year. But the culture, etiquette, nature, and marvels of both past and future will stay with you forever.
LANGUAGE: Japanese. Other languages are not widely spoken, though you may find some English in tourist areas.
RELIGION: The most common religions are Shinto and Buddhism.
TIME ZONE: Japan is 7 hours ahead of Italy during daylight saving time, and 8 hours ahead during standard time.
CLIMATE: Japan’s climate varies: it is cold in the north, with snow and ice prevailing in winter, temperate in the central regions, and almost tropical on the southern islands. Rainfall is abundant almost everywhere, and between summer and autumn, the country often experiences heavy rains and typhoons. The climate is influenced by monsoons: cold northwesterly winds in winter and warm, humid tropical air in summer.
DOCUMENTS: A passport with at least three months' validity remaining is required. A visa is only necessary for stays longer than 90 days.
CURRENCY: The official currency is the Yen.
Curiosity
The Japanese place great importance on etiquette, especially at the table, and there are precise rules to follow if you don’t want to risk offending your fellow diners. When seated at the table and about to eat, the Japanese say "Itadakimasu," which literally means “I humbly receive.” It’s similar to “Enjoy your meal,” but only those seated at the table say it—never someone who isn’t sitting down to eat. So, if you see Japanese people already eating, avoid saying “Itadakimasu,” or they may think you’re asking to be invited to join them.
When toasting, the Japanese say "Kampai," the equivalent of “Cheers.” Avoid saying “Cin cin,” as in Japanese, “chin” is a slang word for male genitalia and may be offensive.
They eat using hashi (chopsticks), and there’s no fixed order to courses; all dishes are served at once, and everyone is free to start with whatever they like. If the dish includes broth, it is customary to drink it directly from the bowl—and slurping loudly is actually a sign of appreciation! The same goes for noodle soups: first, use chopsticks to eat the noodles, slurping them loudly, and then drink the broth from the bowl.
Our advices
TO READ: "Japan at a Glance – A Guide for Curious Travelers" (Kappa Edizioni), a very useful book, full of illustrations, perfect for those who want an overview of Japanese customs and culture or are planning a trip.
TO WATCH: Memoirs of a Geisha. Based on a true story. A girl is sent to Kyoto to learn the art of the geisha and, through countless challenges and hardships, manages to become the most celebrated geisha in the city.
TO LISTEN TO: Traditional Japanese music is primarily vocal rather than instrumental. It can be divided into two main categories: recited music and sung music. An example of recited music is Yukar, while a more recent example of sung music is J-pop, or Japanese pop music.
TO EAT: Sushi is undoubtedly synonymous with Japan. It’s the country’s most famous dish worldwide, and while Japan is much more than sushi and sashimi, trying it in its native land is a must.
Other typical dishes to try include:
- Dobin Mushi, a soup served in a teapot, often made with fish, mushrooms, or bamboo shoots, usually accompanied by a slice of lemon.
- Donburi, a traditional and homemade dish made by cooking chicken in dashi broth with soy sauce and sake. At the end of cooking, beaten eggs are added, and the mixture is served over a bowl of hot rice.
