Japan Rail Pass Now - Japan Travel Guide

Top 20 Experiences
Relax on Idyllic Beaches
Escape the bustle of the big cities to go island hopping across
the archipelago, with idyllic white sandy beaches where you
can surf, swim, snorkel or just soak up the scenery. Head south
to the island of Okinawa which are renowned for their scuba
diving.
Hit the Slopes
From the northern island to the Japanese Alps of Honshu, there
are more than 500 ski resorts scattered across the country.
Japan has made a name amongst “powder-hounds” for its
world-class snowboarding and skiing slopes, with Nagano and
Hokkaido being particularly popular for their majestic alps.
Cruise Through Drift Ice
Hokkaido’s Sea of Okhotsk coast stretches from Wakkanai to
the Shiretoko Peninsula and has become famous for its winter
drift ice. You can experience walking on these solid blocks of ice
in -6°C weather or jump aboard a sightseeing boat in Abashiri
Port to immerse yourself in this unique natural phenomenon.
Celebrate at Japan’s Festivals
Known as matsuri, festivals and national holidays are celebrated
throughout the year to highlight Japan’s cultural history or
honour religious deities. Coincide your visit with Kyoto’s Gion
Matsuri to witness its elaborate parades and floats, rug up for
Sapporo’s Yuki Matsuri (“Snow Festival”) or experience the
music and dance of Shikoku’s Awa Dori.
Sample Sake
Created by the fermentation of rice, yeast, koji mould and water, sake is Japan’s national
alcoholic beverage. This centuries-old tradition can be witnessed in distilleries across the
country, sampled in restaurants and izakaya pubs, or even bought at local supermarkets.
15 - Japan Travel Guide