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Information on Japan and travel insurance for Japan from Essential Travel

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The beautiful nation of Japan offers a kaleidoscope of attractions, fascinating culture and cuisine as intricate as it is delicious. Furthermore, an ancient spirit lies under the brazen modernity of Japans cities.

As the capital of Japan, Tokyo is one of the most exciting cities in the world. Here, you can witness the big city bustle colliding with ancient customs. Shoppers from around the world are delighted with the selection offered by the districts of Roppongi, Akihabara and Shinjuku, with goods ranging from the latest fashion to state-of-the-art technological gadgets. Mount Fuji is an easy drive from the capital and has hiking trails to its summit.

Another must-see is the ancient city of Kyoto, which is famous for its 2,000 temples and shrines. Kyoto was the imperial capital between 794 and 1868, and remains the cultural and religious centre of Japan. Highlights here include: Katsura Detached Palace, Nijo Castle, Kyoto University (1897), and a fine assortment of museums. Additionally, a collection of 17 historic buildings in the Kyoto region were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The second largest city in Japan is Yokohama. The city centre is called Minato Mirai and is the location of a massive range of shops and restaurants, a maritime museum and an excellent museum of art. Another city worth visiting is Nara, which is a major Buddhist centre and was Japans capital during the 8th century AD. The main attraction here is the Great Buddha of Todaiji Temple, the worlds largest wooden structure.

Osaka is another large and prosperous city, and is home to countless superb restaurants, as well as an historic castle. Here, you can witness the performing arts of Kabuki and Bunraku.

Despite suffering devastation from the second atomic bomb dropped by the US in WWII, Nagasaki is a vibrant city today. The sombre A-bomb Museum and Hypocentre Park help visitors to keep in mind the horror of nuclear destruction. You can also visit Hiroshima, where the first atomic bomb was dropped, and the Peace Memorial Park here, along with its haunting museum, serve as reminders to this eventful day.

Noto-Hanto peninsula, to the north of Tokyo and Fuji, provides a view of traditional Japanese life, while the southern island of Kyushu offers charming beaches and amazing volcanic hiking trails in the Kirishima National Park. Hokkaido Island in the north, has a stunning landscape, offers good hiking and skiing and is home to Japans largest national park. ' '
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