Two-minute guide to Japan

It’s not hard to get hooked on Japan, its ancient rituals, fascinating heritage and welcoming nature. It has one of the most well-preserved cultures in the world, set against backdrops of snow-capped mountains and intricate temples all accessible by efficient public transport. But despite all this it is a country which doesn’t shout about its incredible opportunities for authentic travel, choosing instead to keep them hidden for those who make the effort to seek them out. Responsibletravel.com’s 2 minute travel guide helps unwrap the authentic Japan.

From the mountains of Sapporo, to the bright lights of Tokyo, hiking or people-watching, tourists must immerse themselves in Japanese culture to really understand it.

Ryokan, traditional inns, are a great option for travellers wanting a real authentic experience in more rural areas. Sparsely furnished rooms are spread with tatami mats, with a low table for drinking and eating home-cooked meals, and each Ryokan will usually have its own elaborate baths.

_{Tea Ceremony – Beatrice Murch}
These inns give an insight into customs, food and hospitality traditionally given to travellers since the early 17th Century and are a great way to ‘be’ Japanese, just for a short while.

As a volcanic country, it is not surprising that bathing in hot springs is an important part of Japanese culture and no authentic holiday to the country is complete without a dip in one of the multitude of onsen, or hot baths.

There are lots of rituals to be followed and etiquettes to respect, so if in doubt ask before bathing in public. But dipping a toe into Japanese culture is not only reserved for its waters.

There are opportunities a-plenty for travellers to experience authentic culture across the country, from taking sushi-making lessons from a master, participating in a paper-making workshop, watching a sumo-wrestling match, donning a kimono, learning the rituals and rules of bowing or simply sharing some sake with your friendly hosts.  

Escaping its famous cities and heading out into the rural Japan reveals a myriad of pilgrimage routes, hiking trails and mountain paths, which blend ancient traditions, distinct heritage with stunning landscapes.

And with mountains and forests making up over 70% of the country, taking a hike through Japan’s history is one of the best ways to get a feel for the landscape. The Nakasendo and Kumano Kodo Trails are particularly recommended.

The former is an historic byway, once used by feudal lords to travel between the then powerful Kyoto and Edo, now Tokyo. It is, quite literally, a walk through Japanese history and tradition, with stops in rural villages along the way. The Kumano Kodo Trail, an ancient pilgrimage route takes walkers past important shrines, and through the cypress-filled mountains around Kyoto.

It is a perfect escape from the city and an insight into rural Japanese life and the country’s fascinating history.

_{Kumano Kodo Mountains – Jennifer Murawski}

Japan’s lesser-known islands are also perfect places to escape the beaten tourist trail and discover a more traditional, relaxed pace of life. Alongside the 4 main islands making up the country, Hokkaido, Honshu, Shikoku and Kyushu, there are 6000 other idylls to be discovered.

And beach-lovers shouldn’t discount Japan at all, sub-tropical Ishigaki and the stunning Kerama Islands will add white sands and clear turquoise waters to a cultural break.

For more information on finding authentic, underrated experiences in Japan take a look at responsibletravel.com’s 2 minute travel guide: http://www.responsibletravel.com/holidays/japan