Japan Hotels

Japan is a country that consists of a number of islands in the North Pacific Ocean. Sea of Japan occupies the west of the country and reaches to Korean Peninsula.

The Japanese are very proud of their four season climate. The surrounding Ocean supports high humidity levels. This effect turns the winters towards mild. However hot and humid summers turn unbearable sometimes. Only Northern regions and high altitudes experience snow in winter. The spring and autumn weather is just lovely.

All throughout the history, Japanese were almost never disturbed by other nations because the land is somehow cut away from the rest of the world. In this secluded location, a very unique Japanese culture thrived. Even in todays modern world of global media networks and global trade, the authenticity of Japanese culture isn't spoiled much and still serves an unmatched mystical atmosphere. There is so much to see of this culture, so much to discover... It's not only the sights and monuments, the people's conception of the world around them, is immensely different from the rest of the world. At first, it feels weird to the outsider but as you spend time and try to discover the philosophy behind the customs and traditions, your mind will purely be blown away. This feeling really cannot be described but has to be experienced first hand. Still, we advise you to prepare for the culture shock before you set off to your vacation.

Manners, kindness and respect are very important in Japanese culture. A westerner, might think that they overdo it, but the consequences are enough evidence. The society is very peaceful and organized. Everyone does their jobs with utmost care and consideration. We all know how hardworking they are. On the other hand, some other aspects of life might feel rude or over complex to us. The directions on the walls or on the vending machines that supply everything (we mean EVERYTHING), even on a public toilet might give you a nervous breakdown. Try to think like a Japanese and act like a Japanese, or if both fails, communicate to a Japanese... English is not very known in this society overall, though most youngsters know enough for basic to conversations.

Almost all of the populace is of Japanese origin. As we mentioned earlier, this land has mostly been closed to outside influence. One exception is Buddhism. Traditional Japanese religion is called Shinto. It is an animist religion, putting emphasis on spirit of the land. Modern Japanese society however, combined Buddhism and Shinto together in their lives. Most people are not very pious and practice both Buddhist and Shinto in different periods of daily life. For example, Marriage ceremonies and festivals are mostly based on Shinto traditions whereas funeral ceremonies show more Buddhist influence. Shinto philosophy places utmost respect to the nature. The mystical atmosphere of Japanese temples and shrines in the middle of lush green gardens is an other-worldly experience. On the other hand, modern and high flowing cities too have preserved the traditional architecture. You might spot little old Japanese huts next to high rise apartments or office complexes, that is no surprise at all. Cities are very lively and possess that special aura combined with the superior technology. Shopping options are plentiful. We would highly recommend shopping for high quality electronics and casual clothing, though larger sizes on clothing may be hard to find. Young pop culture is very different in Japan. It is like a combination of tradition with global trends. Anime and Manga -if you are interested- displays very good examples to this fact. Game consoles and arcade saloons have turned into obsessions long ago. Another surprise would be the popularity of baseball.

The countryside of Japan is even more intriguing and spectacular than the urban districts. All of the islands are covered by emerald green. The oceanic views complete the already spectacular setting. The iconic Fuji mountain smiles from the clouds, coral reefs, ancient trails, need I count more?

Japanese cuisine is one of the most prospered ones of the world. To this day, the culture has shaped it into a unique blend of rice, seafood and fresh local ingredients. Of course rice is the main dish here, along with seafood. And as this land has very different conceptions of the world, seafood doesn't only include fish, many weeds are prepared in delicate ways too. Those who like trying new things will be astonished. Preparation of Sushi is an art that chefs dedicate their lives to.

Soybeans and Tofu is for the vegetarian, noodle is common. First thing to do of course, is to learn table side manners and how to use the chopsticks. Traditional green tea holds a very important place in daily life. Sake is the alcoholic beverage somehow fermented from rice.

Every moment of your stay in Japan will definitely be a unique experience for you. For those who like trying new things, Japan should be the obvious choice.