How to Plan a Tour on a Japan Trip

Observe Japanese architecture by planning a tour to Japan.

Japan is a centuries old Asian country composed of more than 3,000 islands. The island country is joined by various bridges and tunnels and is rich with cultural history and natural scenic splendor. Planning a tour of Japan is a terrific way to experience the various facets of Japan, from the magnificent Mount Fuji to the glamor of modern city life.

Instructions

1. Stay in a centrally located area. Japan is home to thousands of towns, cities and regions. Lodging in a hotel in Tokyo, for example, puts you within walking distance of its many city attractions, such as Imperial Palace, the White House of Japan. Lodging in a city like Tokyo also centrally locates you to many restaurants and makes travel to and from the airport a breeze.

2. Hire transportation. The inner-connected world of Japan requires lots of road travel. Consult a bus tour operator about tour packages that take you to and from the sights. Prearrange bus tours if necessary. Many tours have pick up and return spots throughout Tokyo, making them easy to find.

3. Visit sacred sites outside of Tokyo. Take a bus to the northern island of Kyushu or Hokkaido, a southern island. These are home to many attractions including ancient Shinto shrines and temples. Learn the history of the majestic Torii entrance gates of Shinto shrines or view Shimenawa, cross-patterned straw rope laced around sacred temple monuments.

4. Visit other Japanese cities. Take a tour bus to Nagasaki and Hiroshima and learn the history of how these locales were obliterated and eventually rebuilt after atomic bombs were dropped on them to end World War II. During the winter, travel to Sapporo, a northern city on the island of Honshu, for a skiing adventure.

References

• World Guides: Japan
• Japan Guide: Shrine Info