Name: 24 reasons to visit Japan in 2024
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24 reasons to visit Japan in 2024

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Skip to main contentJapan was voted the best country in the world in the 2023 Readers' Choice Awards. Here, resident foodie and travel connoisseur Tokyo Halfie explains 24 reasons why you should visit Japan in 2024.With a rich cultural heritage that eloquently integrates tradition and innovation, Japan is full of juxtapositions. After a two-year entry restriction that was lifted earlier this year, international travellers are flocking back to explore the splendours the country has to offer.The diverse landscape unveils its ever-changing tapestry of colours, from the delicate pink sakura cherry blossoms in the spring to the vibrant fiery gradation of koyo autumn foliage. The seasonal transitions are beautifully mirrored in its remarkable dining scene, featuring shun-no-shokuzai (seasonal ingredients).From the vivacious festivals in cities to serene onsen hot springs in the countryside, there are boundless possibilities for discovery.First and foremost, Tokyo has some of the best restaurants in the world, from casual rustic walk-ins to globally acclaimed omakase spots. Chefs dedicate their lives to mastering techniques with their shokunin spirit – the virtue of seeking perfection in their craft. Intricately prepared dishes are served with impeccable service, stemming from the tradition of omotenashi – a deep-rooted psyche of taking care of guests.The country offers various cuisines, ranging from traditional genres (sushi, tempura, and kaiseki) to progressive and experimental fusions. The appreciation for the change in seasons is often ingrained in any genre, featuring domestically sourced fresh produce – Japan’s diverse landscape offers a wide variety of local vegetables, seafood and meat throughout the year. Each region will have their local speciality, whether it be seasonal ingredients or kyodo ryori (literally translating to ‘regional cuisine’).Sake literally translates to ‘alcohol’ in Japanese – rice wine is technically referred to as nihonshu. The beverage was initially brewed in Shinto shrines, and has held a sacred place in the country’s culture. Its production process encapsulates centuries of craftsmanship, carefully blending premium rice, pure water, yeast, and koji fungus. The mountainous terrains provide mineral-rich natural waters, with each water source greatly influencing the character and flavour notes of the final product.With flowers emerging after a cold winter, spring represents “new beginnings” in Japan (including the school year, which starts in April). The first sakura, or cherry blossom, appears in the southern islands, and the phenomenon moves its way northwards. There are over 600 types of sakura trees across the country with varying shades of pink. Petals gradually unfold outwards until reaching their peak mankai (full bloom) for a mere few days.Summer marks the matsuri festival season, with each region hosting their annual bon-odori (traditional communal dance) or hanabi-taikai (fireworks convention). Many will attend wearing a yukata, a lighter and more casual version of a kimono. Generally, yatai vendors can be found at these celebrations, serving a variety of street food including yakisoba (stir-fried noodles with soy and oyster sauces) and ringo-ame (candy apples).As temperatures gradually decline following the scorching summer, the renowned koyo or autumn foliage begins in mid-September in Hokkaido. Leaves transition from shades of green to a breathtaking gradation of red, orange and yellow. The peak season in Kyoto is generally around mid to late November when many visit the stunning zen gardens at Buddhist temples and their colouring momiji (Japanese maple) trees.Contrary to the grey British winters, the Kanto region (including Tokyo) is usually dry and crisp this time of year, with higher chances of blue skies. Snow can be enjoyed in the mountains, hosting world-renowned ski resorts such as Niseko and Hakuba. It is also the best season to enjoy the onsen (hot springs) at serene Ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) – even snow monkeys can be found bathing in the wild at Jigokudani Monkey Park.The Japanese capital is the epitome of paradoxes – the organised chaos of the Scramble Crossing in Shibuya is just one of many examples, with thousands of pedestrians crossing simultaneously. The tranquil Meiji-Jingu Shrine is located next to the pop-culture epicentre Harajuku; the Imperial Palace and pristinely trimmed trees are within walking distance from the bustling business district in Marunouchi. From the early-morning fish market in Toyosu to late-night cocktails in Roppongi, Tokyo is a city that never sleeps.This historic city was once the capital of Japan for over 1,000 years, from the 8th to 19th centuries. It is home to over 3,000 Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines, 16 of which are registered as UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Sites. From the magnificent Kinkakuji Temple (also known as the “Golden Pavilion”) to the incredible Kiyomizu-dera Temple, there is an abundance of extraordinary monuments. The Arashiyama bamboo forest and the red gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine also top many bucket lists.The largest prefecture in Japan is also the northernmost island, renowned for its natural wonders. The diverse landscapes and surrounding oceans provide an affluent range of fresh ingredients, including seasonal seafood and vegetables. From blissful spring walks in colourful flower fields to powder-skiing in the winter mountains or slurping miso ramen at the local hole-in-the-wall to tasting delicacies, the region offers myriad activities.Hokuriku is located along the Sea of Japan on the northwestern side of the country’s main island Honshu. The local delicacy Kobako-gani (female snow crab) can only be eaten between November and December, the most popular months to visit Ishikawa and its capital Kanazawa. For those seeking an artisanal experience, Fukui prefecture is rich in craftsmanship, including handmade knives, Echizen washi paper and pottery.In the south of Japan, eight prefectures make up the Kyushu region. The Hakata district in Fukuoka is famous for its casual bites, which are referred to as B-kyu gurume (literally translating to “B-grade” gourmet). The regional ramen here is prepared with a tonkotsu pork-based broth, and served with thin noodles. Other local favourites include mizutaki (chicken hotpot), gyoza (dumplings) and mentaiko (spiced pollock roe).Once nearly-abandoned fishing islands in the Seto Inland Sea, Naoshima, along with Teshima and Inujima, were transformed into ‘art islands’ over the last few decades. Museums and art displays can be found all around the islands, including the iconic yellow pumpkin sculpture by the legendary Yayoi Kusama. The Art House Project renovated seven kominka old houses into interactive exhibitions; the Chichu Art Museum by celebrated architect Tadao Ando and the Lee Ufan Museum are also not to be missed.Trending StoriesA temperate rainforest stretches across the sub-tropical island, which is another UNESCO World Heritage. Many travellers trek through the moss-covered forest to appreciate the 25.3 metre-high Jomon-Sugi, the oldest Cryptomeria tree that is believed to be a few thousand years old. The enchanted national park is also said to be the inspiration for the acclaimed animation film Princess Mononoke by Studio Ghibli, which is also known for creating My Neighbour Totoro.Beautiful white sand beaches can be found on the tropical islands of Okinawa. Some of the most-visited include the Honto main island, as well as Ishigaki and Miyako islands. Snorkelling and scuba diving with tropical fish in the clear water are popular activities in the summer – those with luck may even encounter turtles, manta rays, or even sharks. In more urban areas, Ryukyu architecture including castles and fortresses are scattered throughout.The majestic and symmetrical form of Mount Fuji captures the essence of nature’s grandeur and is even visible from Tokyo on a clear day. Its spiritual presence can be enjoyed throughout the seasons, with cherry blossom trees adorning its surrounding forests in the spring to the snow-capped peak in the winter. The tranquil Ashinoko Lake in Hakone is a favoured destination to enjoy picturesque views of the symbolic mountain.With over 100 active volcanoes, Japan has thousands of onsen hot spring locations. Whether it be at a rustic town bath or a luxurious traditional ryokan, visitors can soak in mineral-rich waters to relax and rejuvenate. There are several unwritten rules when bathing – the most important etiquette is to shower before entering fully unclothed (swimsuits are generally prohibited) for sanitary reasons.Trending StoriesThe architecture in Japan blends history and modernisation, with ancient landmarks coexisting alongside futuristic skyscrapers. Many temples and shrines date back over a thousand years, whilst high-rises continuously emerge with innovative designs (including Azabudai Hills, a multi-year project still in progress as of autumn 2023). Tadao Ando is one of the country’s most notable architects, often featuring concrete in his minimalistic and spacious structures.Japan has a flourishing contemporary art scene, led by internationally celebrated artists including Yayoi Kusama, Takashi Murakami and Yoshitomo Nara. Their avant-garde works can be discovered at galleries and museums around the country. Polka dots and infinity rooms by Kusama redefine perception, while Murakami blends pop culture and traditional Japanese motifs with vibrant flower-like characters. Nara’s wide-eyed characters evoke both innocence and rebellion with timeless charm.The Japanese calendar is rife with festivals, celebrating each season with traditional rituals. In the spring, friends and family gather at ohanami picnics to admire the fleeting beauty of cherry blossoms; bamboo branches are covered with colourful tanzaku paper during the Tanabata star festival in the summer. Mochi offerings are made during the tsukimi autumn moon festival, and snow festivals in the winter showcase ice sculptures.The nation takes great pride in its incredible public transport system, which is widely known for its reliability and punctuality. The Shinkansen bullet trains operate frequently, swiftly transferring passengers across the country at speeds of up to 300 km/h. Subways and trains, which are most pleasant outside commuting hours, arrive on time by the minute. Those travelling from abroad are able to apply for the Japan Rail Pass, which offers unlimited travel on specified rail lines for a set period of time.The country’s reputation for exceptional cleanliness extends far beyond its tidy streets, reflecting a culture deeply rooted in respect. There is a sense of communal responsibility to keep public areas clean for others, stemming from early years in the classroom where students partake in cleaning routines. Furthermore, it is customary in Japanese homes to remove shoes before entering. Travellers may find limited access to rubbish bins outdoors – the norm is for one to take home their own trash.Trending StoriesJapan consistently ranks as one of the safest countries globally, with impressively low crime rates. Cash found on the street is typically handed to the police (totalling a few billion yen every year, or several tens of millions of pounds), simply out of goodwill – a testament to a society that profoundly honours integrity. It is also not uncommon for children to commute to school unsupervised. The trust in the community is demonstrated in the heartwarming show Old Enough!, which follows kindergarteners adventuring on errands alone for their first time.The commitment to customer service is second to none, attributed by politeness and attention to detail. The omotenashi culture wholeheartedly embodies hospitality, proactively anticipating the needs of guests. From hotel concierge to staff at shopping malls, visitors are regularly welcomed and attended to with pristine care. Bowing is an example of the inherently embedded mindset of humility, a respectful gesture that is ingrained in society.

Skip to main contentJapan was voted the best country in the world in the 2023 Readers' Choice Awards. Here, resident foodie and travel connoisseur Tokyo Halfie explains 24 reasons why you should visit Japan in 2024.With a rich cultural heritage that eloquently integrates tradition and innovation, Japan is full of juxtapositions. After a two-year entry restriction that was lifted earlier this year, international travellers are flocking back to explore the splendours the country has to offer.The diverse landscape unveils its ever-changing tapestry of colours, from the delicate pink sakura...

24 reasons to visit Japan in 2024

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