Giappone : le tre Perle

About the destination: Tokyo is the capital of Japan and one of the largest urban area in the world. Tokyo is the financial center of Japan and a blend of high-technology and tradition. Tokyo is huge and a well-organized modern city. The city landscape of Tokyo consists of temples and shrines, quiet nature reserves, historical buildings, futuristic architecture and neon lights. The core of the city includes Chiyoda and Chuo. This area features the impressive Imperial Palace, the national government buildings, the famous shopping area of Ginza, Tsukiji fish market, Akihabara electronics market and the historic Tokyo Station. The quiet neighborhood of Asakusa has some must-see attractions such as the Sensoji Temple, the Nakamise-dōri shopping arcade, and the Golden Poo. Nearby is the Ueno area, including the Ameyoko market. A perfect spot to shop for traditional gifts and see a great Buddhist temple. Another major attraction of the city is the Meiji Shrine, located in Shibuya. Tokyo is a unique city that has something for everyone, busy shopping areas, famous nightlife, historical sights, quiet parks, and amazing scenery.

About the destination: What to see in Hakone? The easiest way to see Mount Fuji is from the train along the Tokaido line between Tokyo and Osaka. If you take shinkansen from Tokyo in the direction of Nagoya, Kyoto and Osaka, the best view is from the Shin-Fuji station on the right side of the train 40 or 45 minutes from Tokyo. But the clouds and the poor visibility of Mt. Fuji are habitual so it is difficult to see it clear. There is better visibility in winter and during the first hour of the morning and afternoon. The best areas to see are the Five Lakes region (Fujigoko) north of the mountain or go to Hakone where there are also thermal water resorts. Mount Fuji is officially open for climbing during the months of July and August. Hakone (箱根) is part of the Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park located less than 100 Kilometers from Tokyo. Famous for its spas thermal springs, possibility to practice sports and the views of nearby Mount Fuji. Hakone is one of the most popular destinations among Japanese and tourists looking for a break from Tokyo. Hakone has been one of the most famous spa cities in Japan for centuries. Hakone-Yumoto at the entrance to Hakone near Odawara is the most famous spa in Hakone for its history, water quality and its numerous baths and inns. But there are many more besides this along the shore of Lake Ashi. Visitors can enjoy them in a public bathhouse or ryokanes that are open for both their guests and tourists who want to enjoy them. But tourists will have to pay to use between 500 and 2000 Yen (guests can use them for free). Below is a selection of bathrooms that are open to the general public

About the destination: For over a thousand years Kyoto was the capital of Japan and it is probably the best preserved of all its cities. It’s a beautiful vibrant city where modern life meets old traditional Japan. The city is surrounded by the mountains of Western Honshu and is a perfect base when visiting the Kansai region. The city is rich in heritage sites and culture, it has a great variety and number of restaurants and is fairly easy to navigate around. Its rich culture and heritage permeates from each and every architecture and customs. Kyoto has thousands of temples and shrines, including the spectacular golden Kinkaku-ji, Ryoanji with its Zen garden, the popular Kiyomizu-dera, Sanjusangendo with its life-size statues of Kannon and the more tranquil Tenryu-ji in Arashiyama. Also in Arashiyama, there is the famous Bamboo Grove. A wonderful thing to do in Kyoto is a walking tour of Gion, one of the main Geisha districts. Its wooden buildings and lamps create the perfect ambiance. Kyoto is one of the greatest historical cities in the world, filled with temples, shrines, teahouses and imperial residences. Kyoto is a city steeped in culture and heritage it’s a must for anyone with an interest in Japanese history and culture.