Where Tradition Meets Tomorrow
It’s no wonder that Japan is at the top of a great many bucket lists. It’s a place where ancient tradition and cutting-edge modernity exist side by side, allowing sightseers to spend the morning sipping matcha in a centuries-old teahouse, the afternoon soaking in a volcanic hot spring, and the evening strolling under the pulsing neon billboards of a major metropolis. Whether you’re inspired by the Zen stillness of the cherry blossom groves or energized by anime culture, Japan has something to offer everyone. Here are 20 reasons why so many dream of visiting The Land of the Rising Sun:
1. Cherry Blossom Season
One of the most iconic images of Japan is the traditional cherry blossom groves, transforming cities and the countryside into a sea of pink and white in spring. Traditional flower-viewing parties called Hanami draw tourists from around the world to the most popular viewing sites in Kyoto, Tokyo, and Mount Yoshino.
2. Unique Street Fashion
From Harajuku’s colorful subculture to Shibuya’s high-end innovators, Japanese fashion has swept the world, even influencing popular fashion retailers like Uniqlo with its understated creativity. Fashion trends in Japan fuse traditional influences like kimono and samurai aesthetics with niche subcultures and futuristic, punk inspirations.
3. World-Class Sushi
Home to some of the most seasoned masters of the craft, Japan’s sushi culture is more than a traditional dish; it’s an art form drawing foodies in from across the world. Whether it’s conveyor belt (kaitenzushi) or theatrical omakase (chef’s choice) style, the seasonal varieties of fish and local specialities in Japan have something on offer for every palate.
4. Ancient Temples
Many of the ancient Buddhist temples in Japan are still active, blending history with living spirituality. These temple gardens often reflect Zen aesthetics, combining clever use of space and natural materials like wood and stone to infuse the beholder with a sense of peace and tranquility.
5. Politeness of Locals
Politeness goes far beyond bowing and saying “arigato” to encompass all aspects of daily life in Japan. Trains are quiet and clean, service workers are humble and accommodating, and talking on the phone in public is frowned upon. Apologizing for the slightest infraction is common practice, and expressions of gratitude are frequently offered with great sincerity.
6. Advanced Technology
You haven't experienced advanced technology until you've sat on a Japanese toilet: heated seats, music, a gentle bidet spritz. Beyond the bathroom, Japan has managed to integrate old world charm and modern tech seamlessly, with ancient cities ablaze with lights and advanced entertainment, with innovative vending machines selling every item imaginable.
7. Scenic Countryside
Outside of the iconic cities, life continues at a slower pace. Within the tea fields and rice paddies are UNESCO heritage villages of jaw-dropping beauty, their bamboo groves offering a rustic charm. Regional festivals tied to farming and the changing of the autumn foliage draw travelers in from October to November.
8. Onsen Hot Springs
All bathing follows a very specific ritual: wash first, soak, and perhaps most importantly, no swimsuits. Although there are thousands of volcanic hotspots within Japan, not one is identical to the next as each spring has its own unique mineral content. Many springs are located next to traditional inns offering secluded sanctuary, with vistas overlooking riversides and snowy mountainscapes.
9. Efficient Transportation
The Shinkansen is one of the safest and fastest high-speed rail networks in the world. Not only are the trains fast, but they are also efficient and timely. If a train is delayed by even one minute, the conductor will often apologize to passengers.
Mitchell Ng Liang an on Unsplash
10. Anime Culture
Anime studios like Studio Ghibli are world-renowned and have captured the universal imagination through animated film and television. Otaku culture exerts a tremendous influence on popular culture in America, and cosplay events and themed stores abound in many major cities.
11. Historic Castles
When you think of Japan, you might not think of its castles, but Japan's castles served both as military fortresses and symbols of its ruling elite’s power. Many follow familiar styles with white plaster walls, curved tile roofs, and strong stone foundations. Inside, ancient samurai armor often sits on display, family relics of a bygone era.
12. Vibrant Festivals
During the festival of Matsuri, Shinto deities are celebrated alongside seasonal changes and regional local legends. Portable shrines are hoisted up by enthusiastic participants and carried through the streets as onlookers cheer and sing while firework displays fill the sky above.
13. Samurai Lore
These elite warriors of antiquity served feudal lords under a strict ethical and civil code. Ninja museums and obstacle parks offer interactive experiences for people curious about this ancient way of life, and sword-making traditions persist in some places like Seki city.
14. Snow-Covered Mountains
Boasting over 500 ski resorts, including some Olympic venues, Japan has world-class powder snow that is light and dry, offering perfect skiing conditions. Not only are the ski resorts first class, but they are often located next to volcanic springs, where you can relax and unwind after a long day on the slopes.
15. Japanese Tea Ceremony
Influenced by Zen monks and refined over the subsequent centuries, Japanese tea ceremonies bring an element of gravitas to tea drinking. Every detail is accounted for and intentional—from the placement of the bowl to the water temperature to the etiquette of one guest towards another.
16. Art and Architecture
Traditional Japanese crafts such as ceramics, calligraphy, and bonsai continue to inspire contemporary generations, while modern movements like manga, anime, and Superflat have made a global impact across cultures. Japanese art emphasizes a fusion of modern and traditional influences, seeking harmony and elegance in simplicity.
17. Convenience Stores
Japanese convenience stores, called Konbini, are not remotely comparable to our typical gas station convenience stores in America. Equipped with Wi-Fi and household bill payment services, they also offer full meals, gourmet coffee—cherry blossom lattes being a particular highlight—and freshly baked goods, rotated seasonally.
18. Theme Cafes
From Hello Kitty to Sailor Moon, themed cafes deliver a charming blend of scripted cuteness that appeals to a wide range of fandoms. Beyond pop culture, many of these cafes also cater to animal lovers, offering supervised interaction with owls, cats, and even capybaras—blurring the line between eatery and informal zoo.
19. Shopping Districts
Japan is a discerning fashionista’s paradise, offering vibrant districts catering to a wide array of tastes and budgets. From the high-end luxury boutiques and flagship stores in Tokyo’s Ginza to the quirky subculture district of Shibuya, there’s something for everyone whether you’re interested in trendy outfits or limited-edition streetwear.
20. Spiritual traditions
With its exotic blend of Shinto, Buddhism, and local customs, the rich traditional landscape of Japan has captured the Western imagination in film and literature for decades. Among the shrines and temple gardens, robed monks often stroll in quiet reflection, having dedicated themselves to a life of balance and mindfulness.
