We all know the picture, already commonplace, with Mount Fuji covered with snow, the cherry blossoms and maybe a girl wearing kimono siting in the foreground. This image symbolizes the way the Japanese see themselves. They never ceases to highlight that the old arts, crafts, traditions coexist in harmony with modern technology. No other country given the old cliche of tourist brochures as land of contrasts wears this label with such naturalness and elegance.
But maybe this is not so surprising. Coming in 1860 from the isolation imposed by its leaders for 300 years, the Japanese have made as much effort to modernize, as well on how to keep their cultural identity. Therefore, the real Japan can be a matter of personal preference, that can determine the itinerary: Tokyo multiculturalism or cultural areas such as Kyoto, the older and quiet roads in the west of the country. Depending on the season you can go biking, skiing, enjoying landscapes and bathe in hot springs. Wherever you go, you’ll always encounter one of the most fascinating countries and cultures in the world.
