The Best of Japan By Nicki

As my time in Japan draws to a close, I have decided to share a small list of my favorite travel spots in Japan. And what a better time to do so then now; May, the month better known for its   week long travel during Golden Week. Although the holidays celebrated during this week are not particularly special to me, I do value the idea of Japan creating national holidays that focus on its’ traditional culture. For me, Golden Week becomes the time to enjoy exploration (in wonderful   weather) before the rainy weeks and hot and humid summer come. Because traveling outside of  the country is astronomically expensive, this can be a good time for the people of Japan to discover what makes this country a place of wonder and tradition.

The places I have listed below (in no particular order) have brought me so much joy, love, and appreciation for this country. I will definitely miss everything that makes Japan such a wonderful place to live, work, and travel in. I hope this list encourages you to go out and explore your country, which is filled with so many wonders, before it becomes too unbearably hot to do so.

Miyajima, Hiroshima: This place has the most spectacular view of the Seto Inland Sea from the top of Mt. Misen. It is also well worth to stay till evening to witness the amazing sunset on the water, illuminating Miyajima’s famous o-torii with its golden rays.

Nara Park, Nara: This vast park is the best park to go exploring on a bike, see the most stunning  Buddha, and get harassed by numerous deer along the way.

Nikko National Park, Nikko: Ancient and beautiful shrines/temples are nestled in this magnificent forest. The best time to go is in the fall due to its beautiful fall foliage.
Arashiyama, Kyoto: One of the bests in the city to just walk around and explore traditional Japan. Here you can wander through one of the most famous bamboo groves, walk through a traditional village with old-style thatched roofs, and enjoy a windowless train ride through the hills and forest of Kyoto on the Sagano Romantic Train.

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