From the world's busiest intersection to the most serene hot springs, modernity and tradition mingle in Japan. Experience the natural wonder and rich culture of a country unlike any other with Moon Japan. Inside you'll find:
Flexible itineraries including a two week 'Best of Japan' and a week in and around Tokyo
The top sights and unique experiences: Wander the shrines and temples of Ueno-koen park and stop in Tokyo National Museum for world-renowned Japanese art. Learn about samurai heritage in Sanmachi Suji or zazen meditation at the Buddhist temples of Kyoto, and get an unforgettable lesson in 20th century history at Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park
Outdoor adventures: Hike the trails of Mt. Fuji or the river-filled valley of Kamikochi and relax in a communal onsen hot spring. Ski or snowboard at a world-class resort, surf in the Pacific off the coast of Shikoku, or dive along the coral reefs of Okinawa
The best local flavors: Feast on ramen or an elaborate spread of sushi, sample fresh seafood at the world's largest fish market in Tokyo, and drink your way through the famed beer scene in Sapporo
Honest insight from American expat and longtime Tokyo local Jonathan DeHart
Full-color, vibrant photos throughout
Detailed maps and useful tips for navigating public transportation
Focused coverage of Tokyo, Mt. Fuji, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Kansai, Hiroshima and Miyajima, Okinawa, Tohoku and Hokkaido, Shikoku and Kyushu, and more
Helpful resources on Covid-19 and traveling to Japan
Thorough background information on the landscape, wildlife, history, government, and culture
Handy tools including health and safety tips, customs and conduct, and information for female and senior travelers, families, travelers with disabilities, and more
With Moon's practical advice and insider tips, you can experience the best of Japan.
Read on for a brief excerpt from the book…
Dusk falls on Shibuya, where trendy Tokyoites amass at the world’s busiest crossing. The walk signal turns green and a scramble ensues, resembling a human pinball machine. Meanwhile, in the ancient capital of Kyoto, a geisha’s wooden clogs make a distinct clicking sound as she whisks along the cobblestones of Pontocho alley.
Tradition and modernity have a unique way of mingling in Japan. Kyoto, and on a slightly smaller scale Kanazawa, on the western coast of Central Honshu, are treasure troves of traditional culture, from temples to tea ceremonies, though the rush of tourists reminds you that the present is never far away. Hypermodern Tokyo and Osaka are urban dreamworlds of pop culture, cutting-edge technology, quirky fashion, and contemporary art, but traditional theater performances of kabuki and Noh, and serene parks, temples, and gardens allow you to find pockets of Zen even in the heart of the urban metropolis.
The food is another study in contrasts. Whether it’s a sidewalk ramen stall in Fukuoka, a countryside izakaya (Japanese pub) in a hamlet in the Japan Alps, or a sushi spread in Hokkaido, Japanese cuisine deserves all the praise that it gets. A deep sense of craftsmanship, as well as connoisseurship, informs Japan’s fastidious attention to detail in everything from sword-making techniques and whisky production to DJ bar sound systems tuned to pin-drop perfection.
Japan’s natural wonders exert as much pull as its culture. For a country of its size, the range of terrain is striking—from the sweeping vistas of Hokkaido and the Japan Alps of Central Honshu, to the mist-shrouded peaks of Shikoku and the volcanoes of Kyushu in the south. This landscape means access to hiking and hot springs year-round, and skiing in winter. The string of islands southwest of Kyushu, the largest being Okinawa, add a dash of subtropical spice, including world-class beaches and scuba diving. And when cherry blossoms blanket the entire country in soft pink petals every spring, friends throw hanami (flower viewing) parties under the colorful branches.
Above all else, the hospitality of the people—from dark-suited office workers striving to power Japan Inc., to robotics whizzes, renegade chefs, purple-haired punk rockers, and teens seeking transcendence by dressing like their favorite anime characters—is what makes a trip to Japan special. The Japanese have a history of dusting themselves off and rebuilding after setbacks, from the ashes of World War II to the aftermath of the March 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami. Most recently, the COVID-19 pandemic dealt a blow to Tokyo’s Olympics, which were delayed for a year and were the world’s first without spectators. Yet, as the haze of the pandemic slowly lifts, there’s a buzz of optimism in the air, and Japan is eager to welcome back visitors to fall under its subtle spell.
— Excerpt from Moon Japan
