Japan

NATURE, CULTURE, FOOD AND UNMATCHABLE TECHNOLOGY!

Japan is one of the world’s most mind altering destinations. The neon overdrives of Tokyo and the tranquil Shinto shrines of Kyoto. Mount Fuji dominates the Hakone region, while unbelievably picturesque bamboo gardens draw you to Arashiyama. Osaka is always on the list of visitors. The nation shows off its snow covered peaks, volcanic lakes, hot springs & pristine beaches in every direction.

Not to be missed

Cooking Class
Kyoto, Japan
Be it making something as simple as Tofu, preparing miso paste or learning to set the table, cooking classes in Kyoto will surely be an enlightening experience.
Be it making something as simple as Tofu, preparing different types of miso paste, or learning to set the table, cooking classes in Kyoto will surely be an enlightening experience. Haru Cooking Class, a family run establishment offers a sneak peek into a humble and happy Japanese abode. Pick your dishes, learn to prepare them in the company of experienced home cooks, and whip up a classy Japanese meal.

Must Dos

Spectacular scenery, Shogun mausoleums, hot springs and even curious monkeys await you at Nikko, the mountain city regarded by the Japanese as the epitome of beauty.
Visit Hiroshima or Nagasaki. Both cities have well documented museums chronicling the war.
Have a peep into a Sumo wrestler stable to watch the huge fighters train and understand the complexity of Sumo life & rituals.
You can’t miss Mt. Fuji. Add a visit to the Hakone Open Air Museum to make it extra special.
Offer your prayers at the great outdoor Buddha at Kamakura in the picturesque Kanagawa surroundings.
Stay at a Ryokan or inn. It’s a great value for money.

Gion, with its traditional wooden machiya houses is the wellspring of Geisha culture. People flock here to see these exquisitely attired women go about their day. For more quality time with this cultural icon of Japan, book yourself into an Ochaya or teahouse.

Known as the Hanami, viewing the Cherry Blossom is a celebration itself. And Japan’s cultural capital Osaka prides itself on offering the best views & the most joyous parties. The top two spots are the Osaka Castle grounds - Osaka-Jo Koen Park and the private grounds of the Osaka Mint, which is open only for a week. But there are over 175 types of Cherry trees within its confines!

Bamboo gardens are so quintessentially Japanese, that you will be spoilt for choice. But the 2,000 Moso-bamboo packed garden at Hokokuji Temple is our recommendation for its size, beauty, tranquility and accessibility. Zen gates, manicured gardens, scented flowers and the stately bamboos create an unforgettable atmosphere.

If you missed the Hanami, no worries, Japan has lots more to offer. Chrysanthemums dominate autumn, while peach blossoms, violets & camellias fight for attention during spring. There are several viewing sites near Tokyo.

Japan will amaze you with its choice of Michelin starred restaurants, themed cafes, roadside stalls and pure vegetarian monasteries. And remember, the Japanese invented aesthetics in food presentation.

Try Umenohana for Japanese style veg options, Valentino for Italian, Mandarin Palace for Chinese & Nishimura for Japanese style sandwiches, coffee & tea

in Kobe. Tokyo too can delight the traveling vegetarian with superbly crafted dishes at Vegetable Sushi Potager, Gonpachi, Ciao Bella & Deva Deva café!

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