Japan, like you have never seen before | The wonders of Japan 🇯🇵

Welcome to Japan. Silent, mysterious temples, ancient forests and volcanic landscapes, and tropical islands with glowing coral reefs. Japan's landscapes extend far beyond what many people associate with the country. Between colourful flower fields, over 10 million cherry blossom trees, and wildlife that truly surprises, an island realm full of contrasts unfolds. Today we bathe together with snow monkeys in hot springs, dine our way through one of the most diverse cuisines in the world, and discover the mystical Zen gardens of the Land of the Rising Sun. Japan consists of 14,000 islands, though only a small number of them are inhabited. Most cities are concentrated along the coastline, as around 70% of the country is covered by mountains. The tallest of these, and at the same time a volcano, is Mount Fuji, rising to almost 4,000 metres. Japan lies on the so-called Pacific Ring of Fire, one of the most seismically active zones on Earth, which means that over 100 active volcanoes are found here. The seasons transform the country again and again. In spring, millions of cherry blossom trees turn Japan into a sea of pink and white. Summer brings glowing flower fields, dense green forests, and tropical heat on the southern islands. In autumn, entire mountain landscapes turn deep red and orange, while winter buries northern Japan under metres of snow. Scarcely any other country changes its face so dramatically throughout the year as Japan. Japanese cuisine also impresses with its diversity and precision. From narrow street food alleys in Osaka to the refined kaiseki cuisine of Kyoto, food plays a central cultural role in Japan. Fresh fish, handmade ramen, wagyu beef, and sushi have long been famous worldwide, yet every region has its own specialities and traditions. It is not only about taste, but also about aesthetics, the seasons, and perfection down to the smallest detail. Japan's culture unites millennia-old traditions with the modern life of the present day. Among silent temples, red shrines, and zen gardens, rituals that have shaped the country for centuries are preserved. Kimonos remain part of festivals and special ceremonies, while tea ceremonies, geishas, and Buddhist temples are deeply intertwined with Japan's history. At the same time, matsuri festivals, lantern-lit streets, and old wooden houses reflect a culture in which spirituality, aesthetics, and discipline continue to play a special role. The journey through the land of the rising sun begins at the far southwestern tip of Japan, right on the edge of the western island chain. Here, the Kagoshima region often forms the transition between the mainland and the tropical island worlds of the south. The city lies on the island of Kyushu and combines urban life with immediate closeness to nature. The region is characterized by dense vegetation, active volcanoes, and a landscape that feels noticeably wilder than many other parts of Japan. Immense crater landscapes and hot springs serve as a reminder that Kyushu is highly volcanically active. At the same time, numerous waterfalls and dense forests hide between the mountains, lending the region an almost subtropical feel. Above the bay rises the volcano Sakurajima, whose plumes of smoke still define the image of Kagoshima to this day. From here, ferries and journeys set off to remote islands such as Okinawa or Yakushima, venturing into a completely different tropical side of Japan. The latter island is one of Japan's most extraordinary natural places. The island is almost entirely covered in dense rainforest, and thanks to the humid climate, ancient cedar trees grow here, some of them several thousand years old. Mist drifts through the thicket, moss covers stones and tree trunks, while waterfalls plunge down from deep within the mountains. Particularly well-known is the Shiratani-Unsuikyo Forest. Its moss-covered paths and overgrown woodland are regarded as the inspiration for the landscapes of the Studio Ghibli films. The atmosphere feels still, almost unreal, as if the forest itself were alive. Many trails lead through ancient cedar forests. While hiking, one not infrequently encounters wild monkeys and Yakushima deer, which underscores the unspoilt nature of the island once more. The island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and shows our planet from a side that has almost disappeared. From here, we continue to Okinawa, which differs greatly from the rest of Japan both culturally and scenically. Here, where Karate originally emerged, is one of the five Blue Zones, regions with a particularly high concentration of centenarians. This is attributed to a combination of a healthy, conscious lifestyle and fresh air. The island group lies far in the south of the country, and was for centuries part of the independent Ryukyu Kingdom. To this day, that difference is felt in language, architecture and traditions. Between glowing coral reefs, tropical shoals of fish and crystal-clear water, a unique underwater paradise unfolds. In particular, the waters around the Kurama Islands attract divers and snorkelers from all over the world. At the same time, castle ruins and memorials tell of the turbulent history of the region, especially of the Second World War, which struck Okinawa hard. Miyako-jima is known for some of the clearest waters in the country. Iconic beaches stretch along the coastline, and, with their white sand and turquoise water, rank among the most beautiful beaches in Japan. Above the sea, long bridges run between the islands of the region, most notably the Ikema Bridge, connecting Miyako-jima with the small island of Ikema. From there, a wide view opens over coral reefs and brilliantly blue water. Ishigaki Island lies far in the south of Japan, closer to Taiwan than to Okinawa. The island belongs to the Yaeyama Islands and is known for its tropical landscapes and intensely colored coastlines. In particular, Kabira Bay, with its emerald green water, is one of Japan's most celebrated natural scenes. Coral reefs surround a landscape that offers ideal conditions for diving and snorkeling. At the same time, forested hills reach close to the coast, lending Ishigaki a wild, natural atmosphere. Ishigaki feels almost like the end of Japan, a place far removed from the country's metropolises, which perfectly rounds off the chapter on southwestern Japan. Now we travel back to the mainland, to the vastly underrated west of Japan. Here, in one of the most significant regions, ancient castles, spiritual temple mountains, and modern cities of millions reveal just how diverse this country is. We journey once more to the north of Kyushu Island, more precisely, to Beppu. The city is one of Japan's most famous onsen destinations. Onsen towns are Japanese spa and thermal resorts known for their hot springs. That becomes clear the moment you arrive. Hot steam rises from the ground everywhere, between buildings, along roadsides, and from small channels. The city has one of the highest levels of geothermal activity in the world and feels almost volcanic in places. Particularly well-known are the so-called Hells of Beppu. These are coloured thermal springs and geothermal landscapes whose water is partly boiling or an intense shade of blue or red. These sites serve less as places for bathing and more as spectacular natural phenomena. At the same time, bathing in hot springs is simply part of everyday life here. Public bathhouses, traditional ryokans, and small outdoor onsens are spread throughout the entire city. Many travellers come to Beppu precisely for this relaxed atmosphere. Hiroshima still carries the memory of one of the most pivotal events of the 20th century. On August 6th, 1945, the first atomic bomb in history was deployed here. Large parts of the city were destroyed and tens of thousands of people died within seconds. Today, however, Hiroshima no longer stands only for destruction but also for peace and reconstruction. At the heart of the city lies Hiroshima Peace Park. Wide paths, memorials, and quiet green spaces commemorate the victims of the bomb. An eternal flame burns in the park, which is to be extinguished only when all nuclear weapons have disappeared. Thousands of paper cranes are laid there every year as a symbol of peace. Particularly well-known is the ruin of the former industrial hall whose steel dome partially survived the attack. It was deliberately preserved and became a symbol against war and nuclear weapons. Despite its history, Hiroshima today feels surprisingly modern, vibrant, and open. It is precisely this contrast that makes the city so special. Miyajima lies directly off the coast of Hiroshima and is regarded as one of the most spiritual places in Japan. The small island is best known for the famous Itsukushima Shrine whose red torii gate appears to float on the water. Especially at high tide, the impression arises that the gate rises directly out of the sea. On the island, tame deer roam freely through the streets and temple grounds, lending Miyajima an almost peaceful, timeless atmosphere. Himeji Castle, further east, is considered the most beautiful and best-preserved samurai castle in Japan. Because of its white exterior, it is often called the White Heron as its roofs and walls evoke a bird in flight. The complex was originally built in the 14th century and later developed into a vast fortress with a complex defensive system. Winding paths, hidden entrances, and massive walls were designed to confuse and stop attackers. Unlike many other castles in Japan, Himeji survived wars, earthquakes, and bombardments almost unscathed. Today, the castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and counts among the national treasures of the country. Especially during cherry blossom season, some of Japan's most iconic images are created around those white walls. The castle stands not only for military history but also for traditional Japanese architecture, precise, harmonious, and remarkably well-preserved to this day. Before we travel to the two metropolises that provide the transition into central Japan, another spiritual treasure of Japan awaits us in Koyasan. Koyasan lies deep in the mountains south of Osaka. The remote temple town was founded in the 9th century and developed into the centre of Japanese Buddhism. Particularly well-known is the Okunoin Cemetery, a long path through the forest lined with thousands of moss-covered gravestones and stone lanterns. Especially in mist or rain, an almost otherworldly atmosphere emerges here. What makes it truly special, however, is the opportunity to spend the night in the temples here. Visitors learn how monks live, including meditation and vegetarian food. Here, the everyday life of a Buddhist way of living becomes tangible. A cultural experience that is unique to this place. A little to the north awaits the culinary capital of Japan. This is not, as many think, Tokyo, but Osaka. The city is even often referred to as Japan's kitchen because food holds a particularly high status there, which is especially evident in the street food. Above all, takoyaki, small dough balls filled with pieces of octopus, crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside. Okonomiyaki, savoury pancakes with cabbage, meat or seafood, prepared right on a hot griddle. Kushikatsu, deep-fried skewers of meat, vegetables or fish. We could go on forever. But Osaka is not only about cuisine. This city is one of the most vibrant in the country. In particular, the Dotonbori district embodies this image perfectly. Huge neon signs are reflected in the canal water. Restaurants jostle tightly together, and everywhere the smell of street food rises into the streets. Yet Osaka possesses not only modern city life. Rising up right between skyscrapers is the historic Osaka Castle, which played a central role during Japan's unification period. Parks, shrines and traditional shopping streets serve as a reminder that Osaka has been an important trading centre for centuries. Culturally, too, the city differs noticeably from Tokyo. The people are often considered more direct and humorous. The nightlife feels more laid back, and the streets livelier. The Shinsekai district in particular shows a mixture of retro atmosphere, pop culture and urban chaos. At the same time, Osaka is an important starting point for trips to Kyoto, the historic capital at the heart of the Kansai region. Kyoto was the capital of Japan for over a thousand years, and is still regarded today as the cultural heart of the country. While other cities lost their historic face through wars, fires or the rapid modernization of the 20th century, much in Kyoto has been preserved. 1,600 Buddhist temples, over 400 shrines, narrow alleyways and traditional wooden buildings still define the townscape. From small wooden houses the scent of tea drifts up. For Kyoto is closely linked to the Japanese tea ceremony, a centuries-old tradition in which every movement is executed with deliberate care and control. This attitude seems to run through the entire city. Much feels slower, more reserved, and almost timeless. Among Kyoto's most famous sites is the Fushimi Inari Taisha. The shrine is famous for its thousands of red torii gates, which form tunnel-like passages leading up the mountain. The paths wind through patches of woodland, past small shrines and stone fox figures, which in Shintoism are regarded as messengers of the deity Inari. Especially in the early morning hours, when only a few people are about, an almost mystical atmosphere arises here. The red gates seem to go on endlessly, making the entire path feel almost surreal. Another landmark of Kyoto is the Kinkaku-ji, the Golden Pavilion. It reflects quietly in the water of its garden pond, while its upper stories are entirely covered in gold leaf. Surrounded by trees and meticulously designed garden landscapes, it counts among the most famous temples in Japan. In the west of the city lies the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Tall bamboo stalks rise densely side by side into the sky, while narrow paths wind through the green. Wind moves the plants gently back and forth, producing a soft sound that makes it one of Kyoto's most iconic natural sights. Kyoto is particularly famous, however, for the Gion District. Between traditional wooden buildings, narrow alleyways, and small lantern-lit restaurants, the past seems to have remained visible to this day. Gion is regarded as the center of Japan's geisha culture. Geishas and maikos, young geisha apprentices, still live and work here, mastering traditional arts such as dance, music, and tea ceremonies. For many visitors, Gion embodies the classic image of Kyoto. Once a year, the city is additionally transformed by the famous Gion Matsuri. The festival is one of the oldest and most celebrated in Japan, and has been held for over a thousand years. Huge floats move through the streets, traditional music rings out, and thousands of people appear in yukatas and kimonos. Although Kyoto often feels calm and restrained, during the Gion Matsuri, a completely different side of the city shows itself. Lively, loud, and full of energy. High above the city also rises the Kiyomizu-dera, the Temple of Pure Water. The temple is one of the most significant structures in the country, and is famous for its large wooden veranda, which was built without the use of nails. From there, a wide view opens over the rooftops of the city, all the way to the surrounding mountains. Especially in spring and autumn, when cherry blossoms or red maple trees surround the temple grounds, Kiyomizu-dera ranks among the most impressive places in Japan. But Kyoto does not end at the city limits. To the north of the prefecture lies Ine-no-Funaya, one of Japan's most unusual villages. Traditional boathouses stand directly on the water, their ground floors having once served as garages for fishing boats. The houses appear to grow almost directly out of the sea, and lend the small settlement a very special atmosphere. Just a short train ride away also lies Nara, Japan's first permanent capital. Temples, enormous Buddha statues, and freely roaming deer shape a unique townscape. Many travelers combine Kyoto and Nara, as both cities are deeply connected to Japan's cultural and spiritual history. While Kyoto is more strongly associated with elegance, tradition, and aesthetics, Nara often feels quieter and more unspoiled. This region of Japan embodies, like almost no other place, the idea of traditional Japan. Among temples, shrines, bamboo groves, and old wooden alleyways, the past seems to have remained perceptible to this day. Somewhere between past and present, an open-air historical museum with festivals, cuisine, and everyday life reveals itself here. Before we travel to the largest city in the world, we cross through the heart of Japan one more time. Instead of vast metropolises, mountain landscapes, remote villages and centuries-old trade routes dominate here. The region is shaped by the Japanese Alps, a mighty mountain range that isolated many places from one another for a long time. One of the best-known sites in the region is the Kenroku-en in Kanazawa, regarded by many as the most beautiful landscape garden in Japan. It was designed over several centuries by samurai rulers. Small ponds, stone lanterns, bridges and carefully shaped trees create a landscape that looks different in every season. The garden represents the Japanese idea of harmony between nature and design in its most celebrated form. A little further east, deep in the mountains, lie the historic villages of Gokoyama and Shirakawa-go. Both are UNESCO World Heritage Sites and are known for their traditional gassho-zukuri farmhouses with steep thatched roofs. The roofs were specifically designed to bear the enormous masses of snow in the region. Many of these houses are several hundred years old. Especially in winter, when snow covers the villages and warm lights glow from the houses, they look almost like something from a fairy tale. The region was long hidden away in the mountains, which shows how people lived here for generations in a secluded mountain world. Not far away lies Takayama, one of the most tradition-rich cities in central Japan. The old town, with its dark wooden buildings, small sake breweries and narrow alleyways, still evokes the Edo period today. Unlike modern large cities, the historic townscape here has been largely preserved. Even deeper in the Japanese Alps lies Kamikochi, one of the most spectacular natural areas in the country. The valley is surrounded by high mountains, traversed by clear rivers and dense forests. Many consider Kamikochi the most beautiful alpine landscape in Japan. No buildings, only mountains, wooden boardwalks and mirroring water surfaces that reflect the surrounding peaks. Among the most celebrated traditions of central Japan is also the onsen culture. One of the most famous places for this is Kusatsu Onsen. Like Beppu, the town lies in a volcanic region and counts among the most celebrated thermal resorts in Japan. Unlike Beppu, Kusatsu is more understated and resembles a classic, almost fairy tale, onsen town. Hot water flows through small channels running right through the center, while steam rises from public bathhouses. In particular, the central yubatake, a large wooden system for cooling the thermal water, defines the image of the town. Kusatsu showcases a way of life that has been cultivated in Japan for centuries. Only a few hours away is also the famous Jigokudani Monkey Park. The remote mountain region is world-famous for its snow monkeys. Japanese macaques that warm themselves in natural hot springs during winter. Especially in the cold months, when thick snow covers the forests and icy temperatures sweep across the valley, the animals gather in the steaming onsen pools. As snowflakes fall on their fur and warm water vapor rises into the cold air, some of Japan's most iconic nature images are created here. The monkeys move entirely freely through nature and have grown accustomed to the hot springs over decades, enabling a unique encounter with Japan's fauna. Rising up between mountains and plains is also Matsumoto Castle, one of the most beautiful castles in Japan. In contrast to Osaka and Himeji, it has a dark exterior and is therefore often called the Crow Castle. The 16th-century complex is one of the few originally preserved castles in the country. Especially the contrast between the black walls and the snow-covered mountains in the background makes Matsumoto a striking historical gem. The region also possesses some of the best-preserved ancient trade routes in Japan. In particular, Narai-juku, as well as Magome and Tsumago, still show the appearance of the historic post towns of the Edo period today. In former times, merchants, samurai and officials travelled these routes between Kyoto and Edo, present-day Tokyo. The small settlements along the route preserved their traditional wooden buildings, inns and stone paths to this day. Power lines and modern advertising have been largely removed in order to preserve the historic atmosphere. Above all these landscapes finally rises one of the most famous landmarks in Asia. Mount Fuji. With its almost perfectly symmetrical shape, the volcano has shaped the culture, spirituality and identity of Japan for centuries. For many people, Japan's highest mountain is regarded as a sacred place. Countless artists, poets and painters immortalized it across generations in their works, making it a symbol of the entire nation. Regardless of the season, regardless of the vantage point, Mount Fuji offers a perfect photographic subject at any time. Around the volcano extends the region of the Fuji Five Lakes. In the still lakes, the snow-capped peak is reflected almost perfectly in the water, creating a near-surreal atmosphere. Nature and relaxation, that is precisely what makes central Japan so special. Between traditional villages, dense forests and immense mountain landscapes, a tranquility arises that is rarely felt in any other region of the country. Welcome to the East. Welcome to the largest metropolitan region in the world. Welcome to Tokyo. An incredible 37 million people live in the Greater Tokyo Area. The city often feels like its own universe. Vast, fast and full of contrasts. Between skyscrapers, neon lights and packed railway stations, centuries-old temples, quiet gardens and traditional residential districts exist simultaneously. The best-known spot is surely the Shibuya Crossing, a symbol of modern Japan. The moment the lights turn green, thousands of people move simultaneously from all directions across the road. Enormous screens glow above the buildings, music pours from shops and advertisements flicker through the night. In the evening especially, Shibuya feels almost overwhelming. Nevertheless, the district possesses a special energy that many people immediately associate with Tokyo. Not far away lies Shinjuku, one of the densest and most vibrant districts in the city. Skyscrapers rise densely side by side into the sky, while small bars, narrow alleyways and restaurants lie hidden beneath them. The Shinjuku skyline is one of Japan's most famous. From observation platforms, a view opens over a seemingly endless sea of buildings stretching to the horizon. Yet right between these high-rise buildings also lies the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, a surprisingly tranquil spot within the megacity. Large green areas, small lakes and traditional garden layouts create a striking contrast with the surroundings. Especially during cherry blossom season, the park is one of the most famous hanami spots in Tokyo. People sit beneath flowering trees, eat together and celebrate the arrival of spring. Another landmark of the city is the Tokyo Tower. The red and white television tower was originally inspired by the Eiffel Tower and has defined the Tokyo skyline for decades. Although more modern buildings, such as the Tokyo Skytree, are taller today, the Tokyo Tower retains a special significance to this day. Despite all its modernity, Tokyo also preserves its historic side. One of the oldest and most important temples in the city is Sensō-ji in the Asakusa district. The great red thunder gate already marks the entrance to an entirely different world. Behind it, traditional shopping streets lead to the temple grounds, past small shops, lanterns and street food stalls. Incense smoke drifts through the air, bells ring and visitors pray before the main hall. Equally significant is the Meiji Shrine. Although it lies in the middle of Tokyo, the place feels far removed from the noise of the city. Tall trees line the paths to the shrine and create an almost enclosed woodland landscape. The shrine was dedicated to Emperor Meiji, the figure under whom Japan began to modernise and open itself in the 19th century. It is precisely this connection between tradition and transformation that is reflected in the place itself. Tokyo is known, however, not only for temples and skylines, but also for its enormous importance in popular culture. This is particularly visible in Akihabara. The district is regarded worldwide as the centre for anime, manga, video games and technology. Huge advertising signs cover buildings, arcades extend across multiple floors and shops sell everything from retro consoles to rare collector's figures. A paradise for every video game and anime fan. Even more futuristic is Odaiba, an artificial island in Tokyo Bay that in recent years has become famous above all for one thing. TeamLab Planets. The interactive digital art museum combines light, water and interactive projections to create immersive spaces that completely surround visitors. Visitors walk partly barefoot through water and light installations. Mirrored floors, floating worlds of light and moving colours produce impressions that feel almost unreal. The combination of mirrors, projections and music creates an almost surreal atmosphere. Alongside all the modern impressions, nature also plays an important role in Tokyo. Especially during cherry blossom season, the atmosphere of the entire city changes. Places such as Chidorigafuchi or Ueno Park then rank among the most celebrated hanami spots in Japan. Hanami is the name given to the celebration of the cherry blossoms. Thousands of cherry trees transform paths and water surfaces into a sea of pink and white. People sit beneath the blossoms, celebrate together or stroll through the parks. Especially in the evening hours when lanterns illuminate the trees, an almost melancholic mood arises. Culinarily too, Tokyo is one of the most significant cities in the world. Nowhere are there more Michelin-starred restaurants, while at the same time small street kitchens and simple eateries define the everyday life of the city. Ramen in particular is deeply tied to Tokyo's identity. In narrow restaurants, people sit close together eating steaming bowls of noodle soup whose recipes have often been perfected over decades. Yet Tokyo also stands for luxury and precision. Premium Wagyu beef is one of the most exclusive specialities worldwide and is prepared in many restaurants almost as an art form. The A5 marbling of the meat represents the highest quality grade. The finest fat veins run through the meat, causing it to melt in the mouth. At the same time, street food remains an important part of the city's culture. In districts such as Asakusa or Shinjuku, small stalls sell traditional snacks, sweets or grilled specialities. It is precisely this mixture of perfection, simplicity and diversity that makes Tokyo's food culture uniquely distinctive worldwide. And of course, sushi. To this day, Tokyo is regarded as one of the most important sushi centres in the world. Particularly around the former Tsukiji fish market, a unique sushi culture developed over decades known for the highest quality and precision. Early in the morning, traders would auction off enormous tuna, while in small sushi bars right alongside, the freshest fish was being prepared. Despite all modernity, sushi in Tokyo remains closely tied to precision, craftsmanship and absolute freshness. Qualities that have made the city globally renowned as the capital of sushi culture. Tokyo has one major advantage over many other great cities. Here, you do not have to choose between old and new, between culture and modernity. Temples, nature, culture and cuisine merge on the smallest of spaces and create an extraordinary diversity that makes Tokyo a uniquely compelling travel destination. What makes Japan unforgettable is not only its beauty, but the combination of respect, perfection and unique culture. A journey through the Land of the Rising Sun, leaves impressions that long after returning home, still stir a longing for Japan. Thank you so much for watching. We hope you enjoyed today's video. If so, please leave a like and subscribe so you don't miss any more videos. Until next time.