Japan. Enjoy your time in the land of the rising sun. Interesting facts.
22:24 Japan. Enjoy your time in the land of the rising sun. Interesting facts. | |
 Japan is a study in contrasts and contradictions. Many Japanese corporations dominate their industries, yet if you read the financial news it seems like Japan is practically bankrupt. Cities are as modern and high tech as anywhere else, but tumbledown wooden shacks can still be spotted next to glass fronted designer condominiums. On an average subway ride, you might see childishly cute character toys and incredibly violent pornography - sometimes enjoyed by the same passenger, at the same time! Japan has beautiful temples and gardens which are often surrounded by garish signs and ugly buildings. In the middle of a modern skyscraper you might discover a sliding wooden door which leads to a traditional chamber with tatami mats, calligraphy, and tea ceremony. These juxtapositions mean you may often be surprised and rarely bored by your travels in Japan. The National language of Japan is Japanese, although Japan has no Official Language. Most Japanese under 40 have studied English for at least 6 years, but the instruction tends to focus on formal grammar and writing rather than actual conversation. As a result, outside of major tourist attractions and establishments that cater specifically to foreigners, it is rare to find people who are conversant in English. Reading and writing tends to come much better though, and many younger Japanese are able to understand a great deal of written English despite not being able to speak it. If lost, it can be practical to write out a question on paper in simple words and give it to someone young, preferably high school or college students, who will likely be able to point you in the right direction. It can also be helpful to carry a hotel business card or matchbook with you, to show a taxi driver or someone if you lose your way. Take comfort in the fact that many Japanese will go to extraordinary lengths to understand what you want and to help you, and try to pick up at least basic greetings and thank yous to put people at ease. The combination of Japan’s mountainous territory and the length of the archipelago (covering about 20° of latitude) makes for a complex climate. Most of the country is located in the northern temperate zone, which yields four distinct seasons. In addition, there are significant climatic differences between Hokkaidō in the north, which has short summers and lengthy winters with heavy snowfalls, and the southern islands, such as Okinawa in Nansei-shotō (Southwest Archipelago), which enjoy a subtropical climate. In the winter months (December to February), cold, dry air-masses from Siberia move down over Japan, where they meet warmer, moister air-masses from the Pacific. The resulting precipitation causes huge snowfalls on the side of the country that faces the Sea of Japan. The Pacific Ocean side of Japan receives less snow but can still be quite cold, while the big cities of Honshū like Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya and Kyoto have winters with highs in the single digits or even low teens and lows a few degrees above zero (Celsius). The odd January or February day will be colder, but these cold snaps usually don’t last. The summer months (June to August) are dominated by warm, moist air currents from the Pacific, and produce high temperatures and humidity throughout most of Japan (with the blissful exception of Hokkaidō). In the early part of summer, usually mid-May to June, there is a rainy season lasting a few weeks that starts in the south and gradually works its way northward. Although it can be inconvenient, this rainy season is not usually a significant barrier to travel. August, September and October is typhoon season, which can make travel in Okinawa, the Izu-shotō and Ogasawara-shotō difficult. In contrast to the extremes of summer and winter, spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) in Japan are comparatively mild. Rainfall is relatively low and the days are often clear. These are, without a doubt, the very best times to visit the country. Japan has one of the world's best transport systems, and getting around is usually a breeze, with the train being overwhelmingly the popular option. Although traveling around Japan is expensive when compared to other Asian countries, there are a variety of passes that can be used to limit the damage. In Japanese cities, a place's address is useful for mail, but it's nearly useless for actually getting there. Most places are described in terms of the walking distance from the nearest train station, and relative to local landmarks. Business cards very often have little maps printed on the back to make navigation easier (at least if you can read Japanese). In addition, many train stations have maps of the local area that can help you find a destination if it is reasonably close to the station. Japanese cuisine, renowned for its emphasis on fresh, seasonal ingredients, has taken the world by storm. The key ingredient of most meals is white rice, usually served steamed, and in fact its Japanese word gohan also means "meal". Soybeans are a key source of protein and take many forms, notably the miso soup served with many meals, but also tōfu bean curd and the ubiquitous soy sauce. Seafood features heavily in Japanese cuisine, including not only creatures of the sea but also many varieties of seaweed as well, and a complete meal is always rounded out by some pickles. One of the joys of getting out of Tokyo and traveling within Japan is to discover the local specialties. Every region within the country has a number of delightful dishes, based on locally available crops and fish. In Hokkaido try the fresh sashimi and crab. In Osaka don't miss the okonomiyaki stuffed with green onions and the octopus balls. While you may be better off heading for France or Italy for high end fashion, when it comes to casual fashion, Japan is hard to beat. Tokyo and Osaka in particular are home to many shopping districts, and there is an abundance of stores selling the latest fashion, particularly those catering to youths. Just to name a few, Shibuya in Tokyo and Shinsaibashi in Osaka are known throughout Japan as centers of youth fashion. The main problem is that Japanese shops cater to Japanese-sized customers, and finding larger or curvier sizes can be real challenge. Japan is also famous for its beauty products such as facial cream and masks, including many for men. While these are available in almost every supermarket, the Ginza district of Tokyo is where many of the most expensive brands have their own shops. Japan's main contribution to jewelry is the cultured pearl, invented by Mikimoto Kōkichi in 1893. The main pearl growing operation to this day is in the small town of Toba near Ise, but the pearls themselves are widely available — although there is little if any price difference to buying them outside Japan. For those who insist on getting their hands on the "authentic" stuff, Mikimoto's flagship store is in the Ginza district of Tokyo. As tha land of the rising sun is one of the most developed countries there're many modern hotels there where you can enjoy your time. Look the bests ! 1. InterContinental Tokyo InterContinental Tokyo Bay combines urban convenience with expansive panoramas of one of the great cities of the world. Here in this exceptional environment, youll be welcomed with the same distinctive hospitality made famous at InterContinental Hotels and Resorts worldwide. Offering a generous 40 square meters of floor-space, each of 339 guest rooms affords a spectacular view of the river or the bay. Every bathroom is fitted with a glass-enclosed shower booth and deluxe rooms even provide a view of the bay from the bath. If work is on your agenda, special rooms with a full array of business functions are also available. Club InterContinental Floors offer a rare combination of spectacular views and attentive, personalized service. A dedicated reception desk on the 20th floor ensures seamless check-in and check-out, while meeting rooms and other facilities support international business needs. A selection of stunning suite rooms are also located on these floors. The hotel occupies a prime location, only a short distance from major business, shopping, and entertainment centers. JR rail service, subways and the Tokyo Metropolitan Expressway provide convenient access to Haneda Airport and other important transport hubs. A walkway connects the hotel to Takeshiba Station, and the popular Odaiba area, Tokyo Big Site, and the new Shiodome development are all within minutes. The famed Ginza shopping district can be reached in 10 minutes by car. Prices $190-$380. 2. Ritz Carlton Tokyo he Ritz-Carlton Tokyo opened its' doors to guests for the first time on March 30th, 2007. Absorb the international culture of Tokyo's Roppongi District, the city's entertainment, diplomatic and business hub. Here, the latest trends in food, fashion and luxury retail coexist with the ancient temples and ruins nearby. The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo lets you revel in it all from a room atop one of the most dramatic skyscrapers in Tokyo. Occupying the top nine floors and the first three levels of the 53-story Midtown Tower(248m), the tallest building in Tokyo, The Ritz-Carlton, Tokyo features - 360-degree panoramic vistas of Tokyo including Tokyo Tower and Mount Fuji; 248 elegantly appointed guest rooms and suites; Magnificent sky lobby on 45th floor; Two sensational restaurants, lounge & bar, cafe & deli; 21,528-square-foot/ 2,000-square-meter Spa & Fitness by ESPA on 46th floor; and State-of-the-art event facilities including a dedicated Wedding Chape. Prices $180-$350.  3. The St. Regis Osaka The St. Regis Osaka. Meticulous and discreet personal service is flawlessly delivered by carefully noting and recalling your preferences from preceding visits. The St. Regis butler and a dedicated staff bring virtually every request and whim to brilliant fruition. At once elegant and glamorous, our world-class specialty dining and wining tempt with epicurean delights as the exclusive Remède spa pampers luxuriously. For spectacular events, our Sky Lobby boasts magnificent vistas and an unforgettable ambience. Outstanding in decor and finishing, our 160 guest rooms and suites are the most expansive and luxuriously appointed living spaces in Osaka, complete with the impeccable grace of our signature St. Regis Butlers providing flawless, bespoke service. Prices $150-$360. 4. Four Seasons Tokyo Prominently Placed In The Marunouchi Central Business District, Adjacent To Tokyo Station, Four Seasons Offers A Striking, Contemporary Setting Within The Landmark Glass-clad Tower Of The Prestigious Pacific Century Place. Minutes from the Imperial Palace and Ginza shopping, and linked to Tokyo Station, Four Seasons is a quiet, luxurious haven of just 57 spacious guest rooms and suites. Ultramodern in every detail -- from the polished minimalist decor to plasma TVs, egg-shaped bathtubs, an elite spa and gourmet dining. This 66-seat restaurant offers modern French cuisine in a setting overlooking historic Tokyo Station and the Rafael Vinoly-designed Tokyo International Forum. Two handsomely designed private rooms are available for exclusive meals, intimate social events and business meetings for up to 40 people. Prices $180-$390. 5. Imperial Hotel Osaka Imperial Hotel Osaka offers the atmosphere of flowers, foliage, and water highlighting its landscape. It is designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, located in the Osaka Amenity Park overlooking Kema Sakuranomiya Park. In spring the highlight of this riverside park is the blooming of cherryblossoms which draws throngs of admirers. In summer one of Japan's trio of festivals- Tenjin Matsuri- is held near the hotel affording guests the chance to experience a colorful uniquely Japanese celebration. Fine dining available at the famous French restaurant Les Saisons. Prices $200-$410. 6. Pan Pacific - Yokohama Creativity and personalised service are trademarks at Pan Pacific Yokohama. The luxury hotel is a contemporary urban oasis designed to refresh the spirit, with lush greenery, natural sunlight and spectacular views of Yokohama's waterfront as part of the Queen's Square Yokohama development. Pan Pacific Yokohama offers 485 guest rooms and suites, all thoughtfully appointed with an array of modern hotel amenities and offering comfort and relaxation in luxurious surroundings. The hotel's Pacific Floors provide a greater level of privacy and personalised services. Dining at Pan Pacific Yokohama is a gastronomic excursion through a world of culinary delights. The hotel's Queen Alice French restaurant will satisfy the most discerning palate, while innovative Italian fare can be enjoyed at Café Tosca together with an enticing selection of southern French and Californian cuisine. Award-winning Chinese cuisine is served at the hotel's award-winning Turandot restaurant in a setting of operatic fantasy. Culinary artistry and seasonal Yokohama specialities are the trademarks of Oshidori, Pan Pacfic Yokohama's Japanese restaurant. Pan Pacific Yokohama's ten versatile banqueting and reception rooms are beautifully appointed and offer elegant settings for every type of Yokohama business and social gathering and can accommodate up to 1200 guests. The hotel also provides a full range of audio-visual equipment and services. The Pan Pacific Yokohama Hotel is the ideal venue for weddings, with a chapel and Shinto shrine within the hotel. For relaxation, Pan Pacific Yokohama features Le Grand Socié Spa and Esthetic Salon, a well-known European spa, offering a range of beauty treatments, a hotel swimming pool, saunas and jacuzzi. Prices $185-$420. 7. The Peninsula Tokyo With the vision of The Peninsula Tokyo as a traditional Japanese lantern, the hotel is a shining landmark superbly located in the prestigious Marunouchi financial district, opposite the Imperial Palace and a three-minute walk from the shopping capital of Ginza. Modern and contemporary with Japanese accents, this gracious free-standing hotel offers 314 spacious guestrooms, including 47 suites. Each guestroom and suite blends traditional Peninsula standards of comfort and innovative technology with elements of Japanese heritage and culture. Taking the design brief "international in design, but Japanese by inspiration”, interior designer Yukio Hashimoto intertwines rich earth tone colors, woods, lacquer, marble and stone with design and functionality to create a luxurious living environment. The hotel’s sophisticated facilities include five unique restaurants, a modern lounge bar, two ballrooms, six elegantly designed function rooms, a wedding chapel, a Japanese ceremony room, a fitness center offering the latest equipment for weight training and cardio strengthening, and The Peninsula Spa with nine treatment rooms, separate changing rooms, saunas and relaxation areas for men and women, a 20 m / 66 ft indoor heated swimming pool, Jacuzzi, and outdoor terrace with views of the Imperial Palace Gardens. Completing the hotel are its two ballrooms, six elegantly designed function rooms and a team of meeting consultants that offer seamless service to ensure a higher level of creativity, convenience and efficiency for planning events of all types and sizes. Prices $190-450. | |
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