A Short Guide To Walking holidays and singles activity holidays In Japan

Reasons to visit Japan!

Here is a short guide to walking and activity holidays in Japan and how to get the most out of your time there. Japan is a country of contrasts, with fascinating history, scenic landscapes and ultra-modern cities. You can enjoy the culture and the cuisine provided by the friendly people.

From the tranquil Zen gardens to the vibrant city of Tokyo, Japan has so much diversity to offer. Getting to Japan couldn’t be easier, with flights from all major cities every day. The road and rail systems are modern and efficient, allowing the traveller to traverse the country from town to town with ease.

Things to do and see in Japan

Japan offers the opportunity to participate in walking holidays that explore temples, shrines and gardens. One of the most popular attractions is Tokyo’s Imperial Palace, where the grounds are made up of beautiful gardens to walk in. Temples and shrines are abundant in the ancient city of Kyoto, where guided tours take in the splendour. The Chubu Sangaku National Park can be used as a base to visit the north Japanese Alps, with walks through birch and pine forests, crossing rivers along the way. Skiing amongst gorgeous scenery is highly recommended for the active visitor.

Kiyomizu Temple (© Y.Shimizu/© JNTO)

Skiing resort Niigata (© JNTO)

Souvenir shop Tokyo (© Yasufumi Nishi/© JNTO)

Mt.Fuji and Motosuko (©Akira Okada/©JNTO)

Japan has two famous mountains that often appear on a hiker’s itinerary during their visit to Japan. Mt. Fuji is the country’s famous, highest mountain and stands at 3,776m. Mt. Yarigatake is Japan’s fifth highest mountain at 3,180m and is also known as the Japanese Matterhorn. Both these mountains provide quite a stern test for hikers and are not for the faint hearted.

Whilst in Japan don’t miss out on the opportunity to visit the exciting shops in the big cities. You won’t be short of opportunities to pick up an unusual souvenir in Tokyo. The capital’s nightlife is also not to be missed, if you can organize a group to sample the bars and clubs.

It would be difficult to visit Japan and not be fascinated by Japanese culture. There is a mixture of old and new, but the two extremes live alongside each other with ease. The country’s cuisine is an important element. Dishes include fresh seafood and seasonal, regional specialities, washed down with the local beer or sake.

Whether you are looking to holiday with a group or you are planning to book  singles activity holidays, it really doesn’t matter in Japan. If you are travelling alone, there is so much to see and do that you won’t feel alone for long. The people are welcoming and helpful in giving directions and advice.

As with any holiday, planning is the key. Know where you want to go and what you want to see in advance. Visit the official websites that give the most up to date and accurate information and you are certain to have the holiday of a lifetime.

In conclusion, Japan has something for everyone. History buffs will be content, whilst sporty travellers will enjoy the snow scene in the Alps or river rafting in the Iya Valley. If you want your trip to coincide with the cherry blossom season, April and May are the months to come.

Special thanks to JNTO (Japan National Tourism Organization)

Author Profile:

Adriana Frederick has written many articles about walking holidays and singles activity holidays for travel websites and specialist Japanese journals. She is passionate about Japanese culture and history.

Gion Kyoto (©JNTO)

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