Ancient Japan mixed with the hi-tech world, has many wonderful places which represents the cultural aspect of the country. Dating back from the stone age temples, beautiful traditional Japanese gardens to advanced technological structures and infrastructure in the modern Japanese cities, Japan is a country of contrasts. For the adventuresome traveler to the story lovers, the lovers of culture and traditions, the lovers of history, architecture and many more, there is much to talk about in the landmarks of Japan.
1. Tokyo Tower: The Symbol of Modern Japan
Towering majestically in the middle of the city of Tokyo, Tokyo Tower is One of the important landmarks that depict the reconstruction and development of Japan after the World War II. Similar in shape to the Eiffel Tower erected in France this orange and white colored structure provides breathtaking look at the tremendous city space. It observation decks give a good contrast between the old part of Tokyo and Tokyo of the future. Another unique feature of the tower is that at night/was beautifully illuminated with a particular beautiful light which makes one decide to visit it in the evenings.
2. Kyoto’s Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion): A Glimpse of Serenity
Kyoto, the former capital of Japan has many temples and one of the most fascinating is Kinkaku-ji often referred to as the Golden Pavilion. This Zen Buddhist temple has been plated with gold and situated beside a rather still pond making it look almost futuristic. The gardens and plants around the temple are well-trimmed and well manicured and combined with the serene atmosphere make it an excellent place to sit and ponder or take photographs.
3. Fushimi Inari Shrine: A Journey Through Red Torii Gates.
For instance, the Fushimi Inari Shrine located in Kyoto with thousands of yellow depending red torii gates that stretch all the way up Mount Inari is one of little wonder that Japan is among the most popular tourist destinations globally. This Temple is oriented to the Shinto god of farmer’s rice; the winding gates over the forested trails make it enticing. The rest of the route is connected with a beautiful sightseeing of Kyoto from the top, and such a hike is a kind of a physical and spiritual practice.
4. Mount Fuji: Japan’s Majestic Icon.
Mount Fuji which is the tallest peak and perhaps the most famous mountain in Japan towers above the country. This mathematically excellent cone-shaped volcano has become the symbol of the Japanese landscapes’ beauty and culture. Climbers who wish to reach the top of Mount Fuji or onlooker who just want to gaze at the beauty of this towering mountain will definitely feel the powerful effect of Mount Fuji. Fuji Five Lakes area and Hakone around are beautiful and provides number of recreational activities.
5. Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park: A Tribute to Resilience
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park is a moving park of remembrance of the victims of the atomic bombing of August 1945. The park has the Hiroshima Peace Memorial also known as Atomic Bomb Dome in the middle which was left undestroyed as a warning. The museum and the other monuments in the park sent the message of peace and reconciliation and a meaningful somber reflection on the strength possessed by people in face of adversity.
6. Nijo Castle: A Glimpse into Feudal Japan
As one of World Heritage sites in Japan, location in Kyoto, Nijo Castle gives the visitor a feel of feudal Japan. Construction of the castle began in the year 1603 and served as the living place of the shogun; it boasts of beautiful and intricate carvings and paintings, has a picturesque garden and has what is known as the nightingale floors that emit a bird-like chirping sound whenever anyone steps on them, their design being a secret alert meant for the residents in case of an invasion. The center-piece is the castle which has an architectural design that offers a lot of information on our historical past.
7. Akihabara: The Electronics and Otaku Mecca
In Japan, Akihabara can be described as popular district in Tokyo which is considered to be the heart of electronics and otaku. Video arcade, neon light, electronics stores on the second third, and anime stores during the night on the fourth third characterize this part. Main attractions of Akihabara district consist of the huge store Yodobashi Camera, and number of cafes dedicated to anime and manga. It is one of the best places to feel and taste Japan’s modernity and the youth culture.
8. Himeji Castle: Japan’s Most Spectacular Castle
Regarded as one of the most beautiful and well-preserved ones in Japan, and it is one of the best examples of the traditional Japanese castle architecture. This beauty of a castle was called the ‘White Heron Castle’ thanks to its white exterior and has elaborate defence mechanisms and beautiful gardens, and is a World Heritage Site. There is a main keep of the castle which is surrounded by the series of moats and walls; this gives the visitor a panoramic view of the samurai age of Japan.
9. Shibuya Crossing: The World’s Busiest Intersection
It is a well known traffic signal junction, which exists in Tokyo and is popular due to the large number of pedestrian cross over. When traffic light turns red, hundreds of persons come from all directions, and this is done in a seemingly unorganised but organised manner. The crossing is surrounded with enormous billboards and neon signs that denote the modern and active life of Tokyo. It is for any person who has a desire to see how amazingly active current Japan is as a society.
10. Roppongi Hills: Tokyo’s Modern Metropolis
Roppongi Hills is one of those large-scale new buildings in Tokyo that reflects the Japanese approach to developing new solutions. This structure comprises of luxury apartments, commercial offices, a museum and a novel observation deck which provides a bird’s eye view of Tokyo city. From art, Roppongi Hills also presents the Mori Art Museum, which displays the works of contemporary art both the Domestic and the international, meaning that this building also brings together both modern architectural capability, and art.
Conclusion
There are many things to see in Japan, its landmarks
have all kinds of history, ranging from the ancient, to the post-modern. They
range from the spiritual and serene temples in Kyoto to the high energy of the
city of Tokyo to name but a few. From the mountain beauty of Fuji to shell
shocked Hiroshima the tourist sites of Japan always offer an educational and
entertaining experience. So, gather your things together and go and explore the
outstanding sights which shape this mysterious country!
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