Japan – They’re not only famous for their anime

1     Mount Fuji

Mount Fuji is the tallest standing mountain in Japan, at 3,776 meters high sitting at the boarders of Shizuoka and Yamanashi. Quite often Mt. Fuji has been used as a subject in literature and paintings becoming a world renowned symbol of Japan. There are “checkmark points” if you’ve made plans or are planning to climb Mt. Fuji. At the foot is Fujisan Hongu Sengen Taisha Shrine – a place that celebrate the “Yabusame Festival” during May, consisting of samurai performances-

2     Awaji Island

Awaji is well known for its beautiful flowers that bloom whilst in season, and their fine beaches both on the east and west coasts. Nowadays, a lot more tourists come here cycling around the island, visiting the beaches, watching a puppet theatre, or doing something a bit more traditional, such as visiting the water temple, or going to an Onsen (hot spring) to relax.

3     Meiji shrine /Himeji Castle

The Meiji Shrine has a strong connection to its history, it is dedicated to the spirits of the Emperor Meiji and his wife Empress Shoken. The original shrine was destroyed during the Second World War but was rebuilt shortly after. Two tori gates stand at the entrance to the shrine, passing beyond this point is considered to be a sacred place. The shrine features beautiful scenery including; inner garden, treasure house annex, the treasure house, and a kaguraden. The Meiji Shrines holds multiple festival every year; Meiji Jingu’s spring festival, fall festival, sumo grand champion ceremony, national foundation day, and prayer ceremony for agricultural fertility.

4     Nara Park

Nara Park is a large park sitting in Central Nara, and is the location of many of Nara’s main attractions including; Todaiji, Kasuga Taisha, Kofukuji, and Nara’s National museum. The Nara Park is home to hundreds of free roaming deer, considered in Shinto (one of Japan’s main religion) to be the messengers of Gods, and the deer became a symbol of the city. Deer crackers are for sale near the part and visitors are allowed to feed the deer.

5     Harajuku

Harajuku, a very popular fashion and shopping district in Tokyo. However the Harajuku fashion is repeatedly confused for cosplay (costume playing), hence a bridge near Harajuku station has become a cosplaying area. Here many young Japanese dress in costumes to look like their favourite rock stars or anime characters. The food, or clothes offered in this area tend to be cheaper as well, as it attracts the young people, or just ones who are low on money but want to spend something decent for themselves.

- Jessica