Top 10 reasons to love Japan
It seems like the whole world’s been swept up by the Japan craze – and for good reason. With an avant-garde capital, pulsating with raucous karaoke bars and quirky cosplayers, an awe-inspiring countryside, engrossing traditions, and an obsession with etiquette – what’s not to love?
To celebrate the launch of Be More Japan, our fascinating journey through the sights, sounds, quirks and wisdom of Japan, we’ve compiled 10 incredible experiences across this intoxicating country:
Staying in a Ryokan
These guesthouses provide the ultimate Japanese experience. Don a yukata (kimono), indulge in a communal bath and savor a home-cooked meal, washed down with plenty of sake.
Fast trains
When Japan launched the shinkansen in 1964, they left the rest of the world in the dust. Silently speeding at 200 mph (320 km/h), you'll feel as if you're already in the future.
Riotous festivals
Don’t let its introvert reputation fool you – Japan hosts some raucous celebrations. Expect loin-cloth-clad revelers, sumo wrestlers, and tantalizing scents drifting from stalls.
Fantastical castles
From the imposing fortresses of the Warring States Period, such as Kumamoto Castle, to Himeji-jo’s graceful donjon, Japan’s castles seem straight out of a fairy tale.
Sake
Made from a large-grain rice and koji (yeast), sake gets its rich flavor from its unique fermentation process. Hot in winter, or cold in summer, it’s the perfect thirst quencher.
Historic Kyoto
With 1,600 Buddhist temples and more UNESCO-listed World Heritage Sites than any other city on earth, the majestic city of Kyoto is an absolute must for any culture vulture.
Relaxing in an onsen
As one of the most active volcanic regions in the world, in Japan, onsen are everywhere you look. Wash away your troubles in one of these bubbling pools.
Cherry blossom season
Each spring, as the cherry blossom front sweeps northwards, the Japanese population indulges in one of its all-time favorite pastimes: hanami – picnicking under blooms.
Karaoke nights
Everyone from giggling teens to suit-clad businessmen belt out tunes in soundproof booths. Grab your earplugs, have your song at the ready, and enjoy the ultimate singalong.
Sushi
You’ll find this dish on the menu at swanky Michelin-starred eateries and neighborhood dives. Get your chopsticks at the ready to sample sushi at its most authentic.
Be More Japan
Whether you're dreaming about your first journey, revisiting the trip of a lifetime or simply in love with all things Japan, Be More Japan will transport you to this fascinating country.
Dive into the thrilling and serene world of Shinto monks, street food vendors, anime characters, Okinawan centenarians, technological innovators, J-Pop megastars, ancient philosophers, onsen dwellers and so many more.
There are so many ways to fall in love with Japan. It's home to one of the world's most unique cultures: a perfectly balanced celebration of past traditions; the vibrancy of now and the need to look fearlessly into the future.
From architecture to martial arts; from ramen to robots; kawaii to Kusama; ikigai to ikebana; towering skyscrapers to shrines - Be More Japan uncovers the art and creativity behind modern Japanese living through its kaleidoscope of contrasting places, people and practices.
With beautiful design throughout and with each page alive with facts, history and inspiration, Be More Japan invites you to absorb a little Japanese wisdom into your daily life.
Find out more about Be More Japan here
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