Introduction to Japan

Introduction to Japan : Contrasts

Japan is a country of contrasts. When standing in the neon-filled commercial hubs of Shinjuku or Shibuya, it’s hard to imagine the lush scenery, verdant landscapes and zen-like retreats that make up most of the country.

Modern Japan looks ahead for its place in the world, always building, renewing and innovating. However, order, ritual and ceremony are still at Japan’s heart.

Introduction to Japan : Tradition and Ceremony

Traditional Japanese martial arts, tea ceremony, flower arranging, calligraphy, culinary arts and even social interaction grew from this sense of order and method. Look for shop assistants elaborately counting your notes or rail staff solemnly checking the platform before departure. You’ll see that ceremony is second nature and influences almost every aspect of the culture.

The nation maintains its connection to nature and ceremony through its temples, art, traditions, festivals and its fresh, local food. The country only opened its doors to trade in the mid-19th century and then absorbed foreign influence rapidly. Yet there remains a traditional spirit in all aspects of life; each time you visit will be a little different but it will always be uniquely Japanese.

Below you’ll find some videos which we feel perfectly capture this alluring combination of ancient and modern. They showcase Japan’s natural beauty, along with the vibrance of its cities:

For more basic information about travelling to Japan, read our Know Before You Go page or simply explore some of the links in the sidebar on the right hand side of this page.