6 reasons why you must visit Japan

While there is no getting over our love for the ancient in Bali, the new-age of Europe, the charm of Sri Lanka and the mystique of Cambodia, it is time to explore. It is time to get that backpack out and have that journey of a lifetime, a trip to Japan. A place like no other, the country is starkly unique and welcoming; also hailed as the safest country in Asia, it might just be the vacation that you have been craving for.
This and more awaits you in Japan.

1. Sheer beauty
Japan is, undoubtedly, one of the most stunning countries in the world. When here, you do not need to be a DSLR-chugging photographer to get those postcard-like photos; the nation has an abundance of beautiful vistas. The visual treat starts from the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Mt Yohsino and Gion Geisha District to Fushimi Inari-Taisha and Shirakawa Village.
2. The cuisine
If you are keen to experiment with food, Japan is just the place for you. While the traditional cuisine is a surprisingly huge spread, you have the chance to gorge over curry doughnuts, Zaru soba, Omu rice and, of course, matcha! A great experience for food photographers as well.
3. Weirdly cool
Japan is a land of all things that can be clubbed as weirdly cool. This is a place to create those interesting travelogues that might just give you a bestseller. Here, you can choose from cafes that offer cuddles, watermelons that are square, a ramen noodle bath, more than 20 flavours of Kit Kat, sea lion curry and a lot more. Thank us later.

4. Cherry blossoms!
Think of Japan and you cannot avoid thinking of cherry blossoms. When in bloom, the flowers look like the prettiest blush that a country can put on if it was a person! Plan your trip around April and get ready to fall in love with a place like never before.

5. For the love of anime
If you are a fan of anime, Japan is your place. Here, you have anime-themed cafes, focussed on popular anime characters, games, merchandise and even dishes. Then, there’s the Tokyo Anime Centre, Asagaya Anime Street, Pokemon Mega Centre Tokyo, Kyoto International Manga Museum and a lot more.
6. Forest bathing
Yes, Japan is one of the first countries in the world to have forest bathing as a recognised activity. It is referred to as Shinrin Yoku, and the country has 62 healing forests for the same. It includes mindful meditation (mostly guided), aromatherapy and bouts of rejuvenation, while you cut off from the rest of the world and retreat into dense forests.