Why Japan?

Why Japan; you may be asking? Especially with so many other countries to visit, Japan itself is a standout destination. In fact, I have travelled across many countries and Japan still remains my no 1 favourite.

And with the recent weakening of the Japanese Yen (円), what better time to visit Japan than now! With that in mind, here are my top 5 personal reasons why you should visit Japan.

Table of Contents

1. Japan Offers a Variety of Attractions

It is fascinating to think that this small island features a variety of attractions that cater to many travelers. From ancient temples and shrines to eclectic maid cafe and pop-culture outlets to scenic mountain landscapes and stunning ocean views, Japan has it all.

While Japan’s big 3 cities (Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto) offer a plethora of attractions, there is so much more to explore in the countryside. Smaller cities and countryside towns offer much more authentic and quaint experience; presenting great opportunities for a road trip.

2. Japanese Public Transportation is One of the Most Efficient in the World

Despite having commuted in many public transportations around the world, I can admit 100% that Japan’s public transportation system is one of the most efficient, if not punctual in the world. The major cities across the countries are well-connected by the JR Rail bullet trains/shinkansen (新幹線) and the buses.

And attractions around the cities are well-connected by subways and buses. For example in Osaka, you can simply take the subways and it will get you to most of the major attractions. Where as for Kyoto, one can simply catch a bus ride to the attractions for a flat rate of 230 Japanese Yen.

And the best part of them; they are actually punctual (especially the trains). A train schedules to depart at 9.00 am will actually arrive at 8.59 am and then depart sharp at 9.00 am.

3. Japan is One of the Safest & Cleanest Countries in the World

It is an undeniable fact that Japan still remains as one of the most safest and cleanest countries in the world even in the 21st century. One can simply walk around the cities at midnight with ease. I recalled cycling during midnight just to grab a snack at a nearby Lawson convenient store without having to worry of any crime that could potentially occur.

And the streets are also remarkably clean from trash as Japanese citizens are one of the most disciplined in the world. Often times when they have a trash, they will keep it in their pockets and dispose it at the nearest bin. You could walk at the streets of Japan and found literally no trash on them.

4. Japan Features a Deep & Colourful Culture

It is no secret that the Japanese are experts in preserving their arts and culture; such as the colourful and intricate kimonos and the meticulous preparation steps for the tea ceremony. Same can be said for their delicacies and bento (弁当) meals that are carefully prepared and decorated extensively.

On the other hand, they are also responsible for some of the most innovative inventions. These includes the ever popular vending machines that are everywhere, the toy plushie claw machine/UFO catcher and square-shaped watermelons. Let’s not forget the variety of unique themed cafes such as maid cafes, ninja cafes and even a prison cafe.

5. Japan's Cherry Blossom & Fall Foliage

Apart from the natural beautiful landscapes, Japan is also blessed with the stunningly gorgeous cherry blossoms and fall foliage. This also happens to be one of my personal motivations to come back to Japan again and experience the blooming of the cherry blossoms and fall colours at different parts of Japan.

There is something amazingly unique and captivating of a scenery of a rustic castle or traditional building being decorated by the dreamy cherry blossoms or the vibrant fall colours in the background. This makes Japan a photography haven for those who love taking photographs such as myself.