Spotlight: Japan

Japan is an island nation of stark contrasts. Experience Tokyo’s bustling districts glowing with neon signs in Shibuya, cutting-edge technology in Akihabara, and futuristic fashion in Harajuku. Travel by Shinkansen (bullet train) at nearly 200 miles an hour to explore the Zen gardens and bamboo groves of Kyoto that feature gold-leaf Buddhist temples and shrines, more than 10,000 torii gates, and meditative koi ponds. 
 
The seasonal changes to nature, such as sakura (cherry blossoms) in spring and brightly colored leaves changing in fall, are a stunning spectacle; however, there is so much more to this dynamic country. For art enthusiasts, visit Naoshima Island, renowned for its contemporary open-air art galleries. Delight your taste buds with a kaiseki meal featuring up to 15 courses of edible art. Sample freshly made soba ramen from a renowned food truck and marbled Kobe beef at a Michelin-star establishment. Finish with fresh sashimi with a skilled Sushi Master—carefully selected from Tsukiji—the most distinguished fish market in the world. 

 
Travel Sommelier can help you immerse yourself in a culture steeped in ancient rituals. Stay at exclusive ryokans (traditional inns) with tatami floors. Access private onsens (hot springs) and the rituals that come with this ceremonial soak. Participate in a traditional presentation of matcha, Sado (tea ceremony) with an artisan Geisha. Try your hand at ikebana, the art of making flowers come alive, or take in a Sumo match, Japan’s national sport. 

 
Discover your ikigai in the land of the rising sun ...