Japan Sightseeing

Tokyo's Imperial Palace
Gain access to generally off-limits parts of the Imperial Palace grounds by joining a tour (www.kunaicho.go.jp/eindex.html). Otherwise, the East Gardens (Higashi Gyoen) are open year round without prior booking.  

Asakusa-Kannon Temple
The temple Senso-ji, also known as the Asakusa Kannon (the nucleus of Asakusa), is one of the most traditional parts of Tokyo, and hub of the raucous old shitamachi (low city). The bustling approach to the temple, lined with colourful gift shops, is highly memorable.

Kamakura
This coastal town, one hour south of Tokyo, was the seat of Japan's medieval feudal government, and is full of historic sights. Highlights include the giant bronze Great Buddha and colourful shrine Tsurugaoka Hachiman-gu.

Mount Fuji
From July to early September it's possible to climb Mount Fuji, Japan's highest mountain at 3,776m (12,388ft) tall. You won't be alone, as in high season there are queues along several parts of the route (www.city.fujiyoshida.yamanashi.jp).

Hokkaido
This northern island was for a long time Japan's ‘Wild West', and it still retains a distinct pioneer feel. Hokkaido is home to the last of Japan's indigenous Ainu people, and the remnants of their distinct culture.

Kyoto
Don't miss the capital of Japan for over 1,000 years, Kyoto. Founded in AD794, Kyoto's sights include the Golden Pavilion (Kinkakuji), the Zen rock garden of Ryoanji, Kiyomizu Temple and the medieval Nijo Castle. The historic Gion geisha district makes a wonderful afternoon wander.

Nara
One hour south of Kyoto, Nara was also once a royal capital. See the Great Buddha of Todaiji Temple, the world's largest wooden structure at 57m (187ft) high, and the sacred deer in Nara Park.

Osaka
Japan's third largest city is renowned for its abundance of excellent restaurants, historic castle (an excellent reproduction of the original) and the performing arts of kabuki and bunraku. The city's Dotonburi area is particularly vibrant after dark. 

Theme Parks
Universal Studios Japan (www.usj.co.jp) in Osaka, and Tokyo's Disney Resort (www.tokyodisneyresort.co.jp), are both enormously popular with families. Even better is the delightful Ghibli Museum, Mitaka (www.ghibli-museum.jp) based on the animated movies of Studio Ghibli. Advanced booking is necessary.

Miyajima
Near Hiroshima is the gorgeous island of Miyajima, where a famous red Shinto torii gateway seemingly floats on the sea at high tide. Attractions include the Itsukushima Shrine, the tame deer, and the cable car up the central mountain for panoramic views.

See Contact Addresses for further tourist information.