Japan is a treasure chest for special interest tours. A rich history thousands of years old has influenced all aspects of culture, creating a country that embraces modern technology in one hand, and balances this with time-honored customs in the other.
Japan is rich in tradition and arts, full of historical buildings, unique performing arts and action-packed festivals. Japan is also a nature-lover's paradise, offering everything from spectacular mountain ranges that challenge climbers to rivers that test anglers.
One of the major attractions of traveling throughout Japan is trying different local cuisines in every town you visit. While sushi is in fact a large part of Japanese heritage, myriad flavors from all around the world have contributed to Japan's robust foodie culture, attracting more and more culinary figures worldwide to try the new eastern hot spot. It should therefore come as no surprise that Tokyo is ranked the number one food city by Food and Wine magazine, not to mention the fact that Tokyo has more stars in the prestigious Michelin Guidebook than any other city in the world. From noodles to sashimi to indulgence French cuisine, Japan has the food to satisfy the most discerning of palettes, as well as the strictest of budgets.
Mt. Fuji is one of Japan’s icons for its perfect shape and snow-capped peak. Many visitors to Japan enjoy the view from the Hakone or Fuji-Goko (five lakes) areas. But have you ever thought of climbing it? Actually, it being a relatively easy climb, everyone from young kids to senior citizens can enjoy the experience. It takes about 6 hours to ascend and 3-4 hours to descend, originating from the 5th Station base point which you can reach by car or bus. When I say “relatively easy”, I do not mean it is not hard. You do not need special mountaineering knowledge or techniques, but you do need average physical strength and endurance.
Whatever the activity, rest assured that a soothing hot spring is never too far away. I can't wait to create my own special tour and open the treasure chest to the real Japan, where the people are warm and hospitable in welcoming visitors from all over the world.