Japan is considered to be one of the most frequented travel destinations in the world. The country consists of a unique fusion of modern and traditional architecture while the best in technology and the most historical temples are 2 extremes that you can clearly witness. Here are the top 5 Tourists attractions that you should consider visiting if you are traveling to the country on vacation for the first time.
Mount Fuji – 3776 meters in height, Mount Fuji is Japan’s highest mountain and is without a doubt the country’s most natural and iconic landmark up to date. The volcanic cone is symmetrical in every possible angle making it one of the most unique creations of nature. It is estimated that over 200,000 people climb this mountain annually while the best season to do so is between the months of July and August. The Mount is visible mainly because of its geographical location which is a plain ‘Kanto’ that surrounds Tokyo. The best times to view the mount are the winter months.
Mount Fuji Japan
The Golden Pavilion – Known as one of Japan’s most visited sites due to its magnificent beauty, the Kinkaku-ji or the Temple of the Golden Pavilion is surrounded by beautiful ponds and pine trees. The temple which is associated with Zen Buddhism has a proud history that dates back to the late 1300’s. However, the structure that stands today is just over 50 years since it was burned down by a Buddhist monk. The site is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site while a visit to Kyoto which is Japan’s cultural capital would not be complete without seeing the Golden Pavilion.
The Golden Pavilion
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial – This site is a tribute to the many lives that were lost during the atomic bomb attack which took place in Hiroshima on the 6th of August, 1945. The Hiroshima Peace Memorial is set in a park and also features the Genbaku Dome which is the only building left standing in the proximity when the atomic bomb was dropped. The other structures and surroundings were rebuilt erasing the brutality of the entire day that claimed many lives.
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial
Kamakura – Kamakura which is known as the great Buddha consists of an outdoor Daibustu and a floating tori. This is a massive outdoor statue and it is a representation of Amida Buddha while the statue is over 13 meters in height. The statue dates back to the mid 1200’s while the original structure included a wooden temple.
The Great Buddha Kamakura Japan
Himeji Castle – Considered to be the best existing masterpiece when it comes to Japanese Castle Architecture, the Himeji Castle was fortified to fight off enemies during the feudal period initially.
Himeji Castle
The castle which has been slightly rebuilt during the centuries has survived the gruesome bombings of the World War II and is frequently seen in a number of foreign and local movies. The castle which is nicknamed as the White Heron Castle is surrounded by pine trees and cherry blossoms. The Himeji castle is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
