Imagine immersing yourself completely in nature – feeling, smelling, hearing, seeing everything around you. This isn’t about hiking or doing some intense workout, it’s about just… being. This is what the Japanese call ‘shinrin-yoku’, or as we know it, forest bathing. Born in the 1980s in Japan as a remedy against the stresses of urban life, this practice has since been embraced worldwide. And for good reason – it’s like a spa day for your soul, and it’s shown to reduce stress, amplify immunity, and make you feel better overall. Continue Reading
2024 is approaching, and it’s time to start planning your dream vacation. If you’re wondering where to go to create lifetime memories, this list has got you covered. From tropical paradises to iconic cities, these destinations offer a variety of experiences that cater to all sorts of travel preferences. Here are the best vacation destinations for 2024 that you should consider for your next getaway. Continue Reading
When you announce that you’re traveling to Japan, so many people say the same thing. “What are you going to eat?” The food in Japan is legendary. So much so that most of it has been exported. People love Japanese food across Asia and into the Western world. Even Peru has its own brand of fusion.
Japan is a country that takes everything they do seriously. While you are sure to take in some ancient culture, modern greatness, and a discipline unlike anywhere else, this striving for excellence doesn’t stop at the food. Food is a big deal in Japan, and they take it just as seriously as they take everything else. Continue Reading
Japan offers a unique blend of the traditional and the contemporary. It boasts of a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Today, several structures of the past co-exist with modern achievements in technology and architecture. Japan also has the world’s lowest crime rate, making it an ideal place for tourists. To experience a tour of Japan, you must visit the following places.
1. Mount Fuji
The most well-known landmark in Japan, Mount Fuji is the highest mountain peak in the country. Millions of people climb the mountain every summer as an act of pilgrimage that concludes with watching the sunrise from the summit. Many of course choose to just view the mountain from a distance or from the comforts of their vehicle as they speed past it.
2. Imperial Palace, Tokyo
The most beautiful landmark of the country, the Imperial Palace with its wonderful 17th century parks surrounded by moats and walls, is on the bucket list of every traveller. Visitors can see fine views of the palace and the renowned Nijubashi Bridge well-known for its watery reflection.
3. Hiroshima Peace Memorial
It is a haunting tribute to the people who lost their lives when the atom bomb was dropped on Hiroshima on 1945. Located in a park, the memorial features Genbaku Dome, which is the lone structure left standing after the bomb was dropped.
4. Jigokudani Monkey Park
It is a well-known hot spring area in the country. Visitors can see boiling water seeping out of the frozen ground. The place is famous for the presence of wild snow monkeys that descend from the forests and the cliffs surrounding the spring to sit in the warm water and return to the forests in the evening.
5. The Kiyomizu-dera Buddhist Temple
Situated in Eastern Kyoto, it is an ancient temple that dates back to the year 798. There is an indoor waterfall that keeps the structure in harmony with nature. Visitors can enjoy the artwork, talismans and shrines of the temple while here.
6. Himeji Castle
The castle is considered the best existing example of Japanese architecture. The temple has been rebuilt several times through the years and reflects the different design periods. The castle is seen in several local and international films.
7. The Great Buddha of Kamakura
It is a massive outdoor representation of Amida Buddha, one of the most well-known Buddhist figures of Japan. Made of bronze, the statue is around 40 feet high and weighs almost 93 tons. It dates back to 1252 and although it was originally kept in a small wooden temple, the structure is now placed in the open air.
8. The Todaiji Temple
The structure is a great feat of engineering. It is the largest wooden temple in the world and is home to the largest bronze statue of Buddha. Set amidst beautiful gardens, the area holds several artefacts of Buddhist and Japanese history.
Japan offers a beautiful experience for the traveller looking to explore the vibrant land. So why not head there for your next vacation?