Exploring Japanese culture and its traditions

Japan is the land of golden-roofed temples, wood and gardens of unparalleled refinement. Majestic Shinto shrines nestled in greenery or Buddhist temples in the heart of cities... religions coexist harmoniously, marking Japanese territory with great elegance.

Whether you arrive on the archipelago at Narita airport in Tokyo (code TYO) or at Kansai International Airport in Osaka (code KIX), you'll have the opportunity to discover all the riches of Japanese culture.

Why does the Japanese archipelago fascinate?

It's an archipelago that has built its culture over millennia. Japan is synonymous with refinement, culinary art, Asian exoticism and natural wonders. From the snowy and airy slopes of the Japanese Alps to the fascinating history-paved alleys of Kyoto, Japan presents itself as modern and futuristic like Tokyo.

While playing with its Asian charms, between Kabuki (theater) and hanami (cherry blossoms), between ryokan (traditional accommodation) and Onsen (thermal baths). Japan promises to immerse you in a strange and enchanting world. Discover this extraordinary country by booking a flight to Tokyo or a connecting flight to Osaka.

Be a true Tokyoite in Shibuya!

Center of Japanese fashion and entertainment for Tokyoites, Shibuya remains an essential stop during your stay in Tokyo. At the exit of Shibuya station, notice the mythical crossroads, the Hachiko crossing, pulsing day and night with traffic lights and thousands of pedestrians, one of the busiest intersections in the world.

At this same station, an emotional touch has been established with the famous Hachi-ko statue, in tribute to the dog Hachi. Today, this place has become the emblematic meeting point of Shibuya. Finish your stroll by passing through Takeshita-dori, a 400-meter pedestrian avenue where trendy Tokyo youth parade in front of fashionable shops.

Blend into the crowd in Shinjuku

Welcome to Tokyo's transportation nerve center! At once a business district, nightlife hotspot and shopping destination, Shinjuku is truly the beating heart of Tokyo.

Here, impressive skyscrapers that breathe modernity have harmoniously settled on this part of the city. Shinjuku is also known for its station, the busiest in the world with over 3.5 million passengers per day.

A true giant anthill, your chances of getting lost seem quite probable, but don't worry: most signs are written in English. Why not try the experience?

Dotonbori Street "The Times Square of Osaka"

Renowned for being Osaka's Times Square thanks to its gigantic illuminated signs, Dotonbori is unquestionably an Osaka must-see. A popular street ideally located in the Namba district, Dotonbori is a true tourist quarter that never seems to sleep.

It promises shopping and entertainment in abundant boutiques and shops.

Don't forget to appreciate the numerous Japanese specialties, takoyaki, okonomiyaki, which make this district's gastronomic reputation.

The imposing and majestic Osaka Castle

Built at the end of the 16th century, destroyed during battles then renovated in the 1930s, Osaka Castle has preserved its charm from the Edo period and remains one of the city's symbols.

Built on a hill, in the heart of the city's most beautiful park, enjoy a harmonious stroll and appreciate this magnificently preserved Japanese architecture. In spring, the castle park offers one of Osaka's most beautiful cherry blossom displays.

Note: Osaka is connected to Tokyo by the Shinkansen (high-speed train) in only 2h30, ideal for combining both cities in the same stay.

Kinkaku-ji and Ginkaku-ji, emblematic temples

Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) is covered in gold leaf and classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion) is renowned for its Zen gardens and peaceful atmosphere.

Practical tip: visit early in the morning to avoid crowds.

Gion District: Traditional, geisha and maiko

Kyoto's historic district, Gion still remains faithful to its traditions today. As beautiful by day as by night, it's harmoniously occupied by numerous machiya, traditional-style wooden houses. It's also in Gion that you'll encounter Geishas, these refined artists whose mastery of dance, music and tea ceremony constitutes an art in its own right.

In spring or autumn, don't miss the Geisha show: a unique performance, rich in song and color, that will mark your stay in Japan well beyond your return.