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Insider Japan: How to Get Even More from Asia's Most Enigmatic Destination
Like a riddle wrapped in an enigma, Japan has the capacity to confuse and delight. Both familiar and resolutely alien to visitors, it has adapted and perfected aspects of modern western society while retaining its unique millennia-old traditions.
INSIDER JAPAN
HOW TO GET EVEN MORE FROM ASIA'S MOST ENIGMATIC DESTINATION
Like a riddle wrapped in an enigma, Japan has the capacity to confuse and delight. Both familiar and resolutely alien to visitors, it has adapted and perfected aspects of modern western society while retaining its unique millennia-old traditions. This blend is a brand of accessible exoticism that hits the sweet spot for inquisitive travelers. It helps to have some insight into the country's myriad quirks and Remote Lands is expert at opening a window upon Japan to first-timers and return visitors alike. Here are a selection of Travelogues designed to enhance your knowledge and appreciation of one of the world's most unique and rewarding destinations.
LET PHOTOGRAPHY SKILLS BLOSSOM
Mount Yoshino, home to over 30,000 cherry trees
The essence of classic Japan can be found in its amazing landscapes. The country is blessed with yearlong beauty and the spring blossom of the cherry tree is one of nature’s finest works of art. Sakura hanami (flower viewing) has been a tradition in Japan for over a millennium. The delicate blooms have acquired a poetic symbolism of the transience of beauty (and the beauty of transience). Photographers from around the world journey here in springtime to snap sakura shots — and not only in places you may expect like Kyoto but across the country from Tohoku to Shikoku. Here are some pro tips on how to capture the season in its full glory.
READ MOREGET PAST FIRST BASE AT A BASEBALL GAME
Koshien Stadium, Osaka
Baseball is Japan's most popular sport and attending a game can be quite the experience for newcomers: balloons, bento boxes, beer backpacks, and even cheerleaders. Baseball fans here are both obsessive about their team and respectful of the opposition. And whether you're a sports fan or not, going to a baseball game in Japan is not to be missed with a rich tradition filled with rivalries and eccentricities to dive into.
READ MOREHEAVYWEIGHT KNOWLEDGE OF SUMO
Clash of the titans
Sumo is another integral plank of Japanese culture with a history dating back over 1500 years. Originating as a form of Shinto ritual, it has developed into a professional sport in the modern era, although aspects of ritualism remain such as the use of salt to purify the ring and ceremonial hand-clapping to call attention to the deities. Attending a sumo match is a major highlight of exploring Japan, and a thrill for the seasoned and the uninitiated alike. Nevertheless, it always pays to know what you are getting into before watching your first bout.
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THE INNS AND OUTS OF A RYOKAN STAY
The onsen at Gora Kadan
Originating in the 17th Century, during the Edo period in Japan, ryokans are traditional inns that once served travelers along the country’s ancient postal routes such as the Nakasendō and the Tōkaidō. Many such establishments still serve such a functional purpose today, while others are wonderful examples of high-end minimalist design. Amenities vary from traditional futons to more luxurious thick mattresses on platforms. Some feature onsens and all offer kaiseki dining. Here’s our guide to staying in a ryokan, and whether it's right for you.
READ MOREDISTILL YOUR APPRECIATION OF JAPANESE WHISKY
The Suntory Hakushu distillery
Japanese whisky’s rising pedigree has bred some of the world's finest single malts and blended spirits. Japanese whiskies are crafted in the Scottish style — delicate and perfumed with honeyed sweetness. One regularly hears them described as being smooth, but that is doing them an injustice. Light sherry and floral notes feature, and sometimes they have been peated for a smoky style. Adding to its impressive array of amber nectar are the peregrine pleasures of the Land of the Rising Sun — its wonders, its bucolic scenery, and its careful utility. Here’s how to imbibe across the country.
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