Reasons to Visit Japan
Modern and exciting cities make up much of the Japanese landscape, encapsulated by sleek bullet trains, flashing neon lights and dizzying skyscrapers. Scratch the surface to find hidden temples, preserved samurai quarters and local markets.
From delicate sashimi to prime grade steaks washed down with a local beer or a cup of hot sake, every mouthful you try in Japan will certainly be memorable and more often than not, delicious.
A stay in a Japanese ryokan inn is an unbeatable opportunity to experience true Japanese hospitality, including kaiseki cuisine, hot onsen baths and sleeping on a tatami mat.
Although the image of Japan is that of skyscrapers and flashing neon, most of the country is rural, rugged and mountainous, providing excellent walking and hiking in the summer and skiing in the winter.
Kyoto alone has over 1600 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto shrines paying homage to a number of different deities and gods. Enter the through the large torii gate and contemplate.
From tea ceremonies and flower arrangements to lavish Geisha attended kaiseki banquets, Japanese culture is the most refined and elaborate in the world.
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Hotel Bearmonte has excellent hot spring bathing facilities and is ideally located directly opposite the Visitor Centre and two minutes walk from the cable car station.
The Bearmonte hotel is of a much higher standard than anything else in the area. Rooms are in a comfortable western style (twin beds only) and the general atmosphere in the hotel is that of an American style mountain lodge, with lots of warm wood and roaring fires. As with most Japanese resort hotels the Bearmonte has excellent hot spring bathing facilities, and the package is inclusive of a very tasty buffet-style dinner and breakfast. The location is also spot on, directly opposite the Visitor Centre and two minutes walk from the cable car station.
The small town of Asahikdake Onsen sits at the foot of Daisetsuzan's highest peak, Mt Asahidake, and is the ideal location to base yourself while exploring this beautiful part of Japan.
Further reading:Tours in JapanWhen to GoHighlightsItinerary IdeasPlaces to GoThings to DoAccommodationAbout JapanCountry Guides
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