Explore Japan in summer 2020

The torii of Itsukushima shrine on Miyajima island

The torii of Itsukushima shrine on Miyajima island

Laurent Gence

Far from the crowds, explore Japan from the inside

Japan has closed its borders to many countries and the most popular sites are now deserted. This is a perfect opportunity for the lucky ones living in Japan or who can travel and explore these places and cities during this quiet time.

The essential Tokyo and Kyoto, but also lively Osaka or the peaceful Kanazawa and Takayama, await you with open arms.

Kyoto, guardian of ancestral arts

In Kyoto, the alleys with a thousand and one stories have never been so empty, giving the ancestral city an atmosphere of yesteryear and highlighting all its charm. Stroll through old Kyoto and explore the districts of Gion and Higashiyama or in the legendary lane of Ponto-cho.

The iconic sites of Kyoto await you: the legendary water source of the Kiyomizu-dera temple, the Arashiyama bamboo grove, and the red torii of the Fushimi Inara shrine, all the celebrated places of Kyoto have never been so deserted!

Higashiyama

Higashiyama

J.R.

Takayama in the Japanese Alps

For a breath of fresh air, discover Takayama and its heritage still unknown to most travel guides.

A small town in the heart of the Japanese Alps mountains, this ancient fortified town built in the 16th century has kept its old charm with its streets lined with wooden houses and its many traditional craft stores.

And the city hides unexpected riches: its historic district Sanmachi-Suji also called Little Kyoto, the red Nakabashi bridge, the temples of Higashiyama Teramachi or the village museum Hida-no-sato. It is the perfect destination for a relaxing weekend and those who want to make new discoveries!

Takayama

Takayama

photozou

Kanazawa and Ishikawa Prefecture

Explore feudal Japan in Ishikawa prefecture and its capital Kanazawa. Very powerful during the Edo period, the cultural and architectural riches of Kanazawa rival those of the capitals Tokyo and the ancient capital Kyoto.

The city is famous for its many historic districts which have stood the test of time. Immerse yourself in traditional Japan for an unforgettable stay!

  • The magnificent Kenroku-en Garden, one of the three most beautiful gardens in Japan,
  • The old tea districts Higashi Chaya, Kazue-machi and Nishi Chaya, where there are houses of geishas and craftsmen's stores.
  • The streets of the Nagamachi district, where it is possible to visit the ancient residences of the samurai warriors.
Kenrokuen Garden

View of the Kenroku-en garden pond.

DR

Tokyo, between tradition and modernity

The Japanese capital is normally the number one destination for overseas visitors, but today it finds an atmosphere that had not been known to it for decades ... Tokyo returns to it's residence and its few travelers. This is an opportunity to rediscover the most popular places in a new light.

Visit the Meiji Jingu Shrine, the Asakusa religious complex, or take a stroll through the Imperial Garden in Shinjuku.

Take a stroll in the trendy districts of Shibuya, Harajuku and Shinkuju, in the very chic district of Ginza or in the peaceful alleys of the Yanaka district.  

Read more: Our Tokyo travel guide

Senso-ji

Senso-ji

Wikimedia Commons

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