No matter what motivates you to travel—an interest in history, cutting-edge technology, cuisine, ancient or contemporary architecture, nature, shopping, unique cultural pursuits, you name it—Japan has it all. From vibrant metropolises to rural retreats, from tropical beaches to lofty mountain peaks, from world-class hotels to traditional Japanese inns, Japan offers a wide range of destinations and diversions that appeal to both novice and seasoned travelers.

Who can forget the thrill of seeing Mt. Fuji for the first time, its perfect, cone-shaped symmetry rising majestically against a blue sky? Japan is famous for its shimmering cherry blossoms in spring, so ethereal it's heaven on earth, but equally stunning are its irises, wisteria, hydrangea, and many other blossoming plants and trees, not to mention its maples which blaze a fiery red across the country in autumn. Mountains beckon with hiking trails in summer and top-rated skiing in winter (Japan has hosted the winter Olympics twice), while Japan's hot-springs spas—among the most numerous and varied in the world—have been soothing aches and pains for more than 1,000 years.

Speaking of centuries, Japan's history is evident at every turn, whether it's a venerable Buddhist temple or Shinto shrine, a museum housing samurai swords or intricately detailed ceramics, or one of Japan's many festivals with its profusion of costumes, ancient rituals, and throngs of joyous crowds. Feudal-era castles still rise from their massive stone foundations, while Japan's exquisite gardens, many of them former noble-class retreats, are visual commentaries of what nature can achieve under generations of skilled master gardeners. Two of Japan's most famous forms of entertainment, sumo wrestling and Kabuki theater, are like time capsules to the country's past, so little have they changed over the centuries. Other cultural pursuits with strong historic ties include the country's unique forms of flower arranging and the tea ceremony. But for visitors, nothing conveys Japan's past better than the country's many traditional inns, renowned for their impeccable service, regional cuisine, and refined beauty.

Needless to say, Japan is also a modern country in every sense of the word, from its super-efficient Shinkansen bullet trains to its cloud-tickling skyscrapers, many of them housing sleek, world-class hotels with unparalleled service and astonishing views. Department stores are like microcosms of Japan itself, with everything from vast food emporiums and fashions by the world's leading designers to household items unique to Japan and traditional crafts. Indeed, Japan is a shopper's delight, whether it's at artisan shops that have been passed down from generation to generation or stores selling the latest in technical gadgetry. Lovers of fine cuisine will revel in Japan's varied styles of cooking, from tempura, sushi and teppanyaki to the feast of all feasts, kaiseki. What's more, all of Japan's provinces have their own local specialties, which can range from seasonal mountain vegetables and other delicacies to locally caught seafood. Gourmets seeking cuisines from many other countries will find these in Japan as well, whether it's a tiny French restaurant or one offering delectable Indian curries.

In short, the sky's the limit when it comes to experiencing Japan. The possibilities are endless.

Top 20 Ways to Immerse in Today’s Japan

20. Explore the Grandeur of Mt. Fuji on a Bullet Train The Shinkansen, or “bullet train”, is unmatched in design, comfort and speed. At 186 mph, these trains allow ease of intra-country transportation with the awe of futuristic design and amenities of first-class travel.

19. Experience Traditional Accommodations Stay overnight at a ryokan and experience the tranquil minimalism of Japanese luxury. Built with only 10-20 rooms, these “inns” pride themselves on impeccable service and cuisine that highlights only the finest seasonal delicacies.

18. Hit the Powdered Snow Some of the best powder in the world can be found in Japan’s mountainous terrain. With a season starting from early November and going through May, sports enthusiasts will have plenty of time to explore more than 550 ski slopes.

17. Scuba Dive in Okinawa If it’s a warmer climate you desire, look no farther than Japan’s southern-most island, Okinawa. Scuba dive in the 78-degree water to the Yonaguni Monument, a peculiar underwater ruins of pyramids, then explore the 9 UNESCO World Heritage sites throughout the island

16. Enjoy Relaxing In a Hot Spring Take a dip into the natural hot springs throughout Japan, considered the best in the world. The natural minerals of these onsen are thought to have restorative properties, preventing illness and bringing about the equilibrium of a healthy body.

15. Inspiring Architecture For thousands of years, Japanese builders have endeavored to incorporate the natural world into structures, an aesthetic that remains paramount even today. The architectural fusion of art and function can be experienced throughout Japan, especially in places such as Tokyo’s Roppongi district.

14. The Ginza District Did you know that Tokyo has more stars in the prestigious Michelin Guidebook than any other city in the world? Visit the Ginza district to taste everything from gourmet French cuisine, to kaiseki, a complete Japanese meal that changes with the seasons.

13. The Art of the Noodle Taste the warm miso broth of ramen at the Shin-Yokohama Ramen Museum in Yokohama. Some restaurant proprietors date their service back three generations, making this “food amusement park” a premier destination.

12. Sake of NiigaTA The mountainous region of Niigata is known as a world-class ski destination. But with over 90 sake breweries in the region, it’s also informally known throughout Japan as the “Sake Kingdom.”

11. Immerse yourself in the Beauty of Japanese Gardens Originally designed only for the feudal elite, Japanese gardens now instill peace in all who visit. Their colorful koi ponds, bubbling streams and meticulously groomed rock gardens will provide the senses with landscaped repose.

10. Learn the Ways of the Maiko Many people are familiar with the art of the Geisha, but few know that before they become one, they must study as a maiko for a 5-year period. In the legendary Gion district of Kyoto, dinners can be arranged where maikos will serve food, teach proper Japanese customs, and demonstrate traditional Japanese dance.

9. “OUT OF THE PARK!” Baseball may be America’s national pastime, but Japan has elevated the sport to the utmost importance. Cheer captains lead the crowd in fight songs as they jostle with food vendors selling bento boxes and hot dogs.

8. Marvel at Majestic Castles While the feudal system that ruled Japan has long disappeared, its gorgeous castles remain perfectly preserved. These ornate mega-structures of stone and wood are a beautiful reminder of the rich warrior history of Japan.

7. A Buddhist Escape It has been said the eyes of Buddha will endow nature on those who seek it. The Danjo Garan, located on the top of Mount Koya, is one of the best examples of this practice. Home to more than 100 temples and shrines, this sacred sanctuary has served faithful Buddhists since 816 AD.

6. Summer Festivals Summers in Japan bring warm weather, and festivities galore. Witness the spectacular luminance of Tokyo’s Sumida River Firework, or the 1,000 year-old Kyoto “Mobile-Art” parade, Gion Matsuri and the magnificent Awa Odori (dance) in Tokushima.

5. Experience the Beauty of Cherry Blossom Season A picnic underneath a tree. The sweet fragrance of cherry blossoms wafting through the air. The flowers illuminated pink by the vernal moon. This custom of “flower viewing”, or hanami can be enjoyed in the springtime coupled with local food, beer and sake.

4. Experience Theatre the Japanese Way Contrary to popular belief, Kabuki theater is not the only show in town. Whether it’s the bombastic dramatic styling of Noh, or the traditional adult-themed puppetry of Bunraku, Japanese theater will promise to give New York’s Broadway a run for its money.

3. Hiroshima is beaming with rich culture Explore the wealth of WWII history at the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum and the mystical nature of the Itsukushima Shinto Shrine.

2. Unleash your inner “Otaku” The vibrant colors and over-the-top caricatures of the anime and manga cartoon styles have delighted the world over. Inspiring film and video games alike, unleash your inner otaku at one of the many cultural fairs and conventions throughout Japan.

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