Cherry blossom season in Japan is a must see and Spring is the time to see it. Why not explore this fascinating country to see the beautiful blossom filled scenery, indulge in the amazing food and discover more about the unique culture. If you want to celebrate the end of winter with the trip of a lifetime, or are just looking for some travel inspiration, sign up
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Okinawa
Renowned for its tropical climate, white sandy beaches, and unspoilt coral reefs, Okinawa is the domestic holiday destination of choice for the Japanese. One of the main draws here is the amazing underwater world, with world class scuba and snorkelling sites. Book onto a Canoe & Sea Turtle Snorkelling session for the chance to see some fantastic animals up close and personal in their natural habitat. After all that exercise discover the local cuisine, thought to be one of the reasons why there are so many centenarians in Okinawa. Also known as Ryūkyūan cuisine, a nod to the region’s historical past, a main staple is the vibrant purple sweet potato, try it in a beni imo tart. There’s also Goya Champuru, a stir-fried dish of bitter melon, tofu, egg, and pork belly. After all your adventures during the day kick back and watch the sun set from your family suite at ANSA Okinawa Resort.
Osaka
The second largest metropolitan area in Japan has just as much to see as it’s bigger brother Tokyo. Explore the castle and its grounds, carry out some retail therapy on Shinsaibashi-Suji Shopping Street, or simply get lost in the neon lights of the Dōtonbori District and hop along the almost unlimited street food stalls, bars, and restaurants. Stay right in the heart of the city at Hotel Cordia Osaka with rooms up to 50% off. If you want to take a breather from the fast pace of the city, take advantage of Tripbeat’s member preferred car hire rates and head out to Yoshino, regularly awarded the best cherry blossom in Japan, just an hour’s drive away. Climb the trail up Mount Yoshino for the perfect view of the over 30,000 trees as you breathe in the fresh mountain air.
Bathing in Beppu
Famous for its onsen (hot springs), Beppu is the spot in Japan for total rest and relaxation. Split into 8 major hot spring locations, called Beppu Hattō, and multiple baths at each location, travellers are spoiled for choice when looking for a place to soak and relax. There are strict procedures in place for guests, on things such as what you can wear and the
process of visiting a bath, but once you’ve got the rules, you’re free to soak to your heart’s content. Or if you just want to enjoy a regular pool then head to Resorpia Beppu. If going with a loved one, the Romantic Tour in Beppu, is perfect for local knowledge on where the best baths are, where to get the best pictures, and to learn more of the history of this unique city.
Nagasaki
A city steeped in a truly unique history. A walk through the Nagasaki Peace Park is essential for those interested in history, as is a sobering visit to the Atomic Bomb Museum to fully experience and learn about this dark chapter in the city’s past. Nagasaki is so much more than just this part of its history. As the only port open to the foreigners during the two centuries of national seclusion, it is a location unique to Japan. An influence of the trade that flowed through this one spot can be seen in the popular Castella Cake, imported from Portugal and still a local favourite to this day. To see the city in all its glory, take the ropeway to the top of Mount Inasa, best seen at night for amazing display of lights. And be sure to visit one of the many shrines or temples like the Suwa shrine or Sōfuku-ji Temple, for an authentic Japanese experience. For another magnificent overview of the city book your stay at the Luke Plaza Hotel.
Explore Japan
If you can’t decide where to go first or what to include on your itinerary, then why not let someone else do the legwork for you and book onto one of Tripbeat’s package tours, like the Japan One Life Adventure. Starting off in the capital Tokyo, you’ll be shown all the iconic sights and experiences by a professional guide as you progress through Japan. There’s sushi making in Tokyo, visiting temples in Kyoto, and to celebrate a great trip, karaoke in Osaka. The benefit of a Package Tour is that you have a professional guide with all the local knowledge about the best times to visit busy attractions, the best places to eat, and the best ways to get around. With a tour this good you’ll be sad to say sayonara!
From the perfect cherry blossom to beautiful beaches, Japan really is the perfect springtime destination. To find out more about the accommodation and activities mentioned above, or to discover even more fantastic discounts for your next holiday, sign up for free with our partners Tripbeat. Tripbeat is the easy-to-use online destination with unbeatable travel deals.
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