Of course. A Japan Hiroshima holiday is possible for tourists from all across the world and we believe that it is a place you should definitely visit.

Yes, definitely. The radiation levels are back to normal in Hiroshima and they have been this way since the latter part of 1945. So, there is absolutely no risk to your health in terms of radiation.

Absolutely! Hiroshima may have a devastating past but it is definitely worth visiting to remind ourselves about the horrors of war and to educate ourselves about the devastating impact of an atomic bomb. It is also worth seeing how far this absolutely beautiful city has come since then.

Two days would be the ideal amount of time to visit both Hiroshima and Miyajima. We recommend visiting both places on your Japan holiday.

You can get to Hiroshima by plane, shinkansen (bullet train), local trains, bus or car.

Each year, Japan has sixteen national holidays all of which are public holidays.

Furthermore, usually, if a national holiday falls on a Sunday, the following Monday is automatically turned into a holiday. Similarly, if a day is jammed between two national holidays, then that day is also turned into a holiday.

Most sightseeing areas and shopping complexes are filled with crowds of people during these consecutive holidays. So, if you are someone who enjoys sightseeing and shopping comfortably and peacefully, we suggest checking the Japanese calendar online and avoiding these holidays.

Throughout the year there are many Japanese traditions associated with holidays, ceremonies, special occasions and life in general. Listed below are four of Japan’s most popular traditions followed on four holidays.

1. Mamemaki Bean Throwing on Setsuban.
   Setsuban is a Japanese holiday that is celebrated on the eve before spring. On this day, as a tradition, parents across Japan put on an ‘oni mask’ and try to scare their children. The children in return throw roasted soybeans to try and scare off the demons.
2. Toro Nagashi on Obon (The festival of the dead in Japan).
   Toro Nagashi which translates to ‘flowing lanterns’ is a traditional Japanese ceremony that involves floating paper lanterns on a river to represent the souls of loved ones they have lost. It is associated with Obon – the festival of the dead. Obon is a time of year where the Japanese believe that the spirits of their departed loved ones return to the world.
3. Hatushi Sunrise.
   Hatushi which means ‘first sun’ is the Japanese tradition of waking up to see the first sunrise of the New Year. This is usually followed by a big traditional Japanese breakfast with the entire family.
4. Koinobori to celebrate Children’s Day in Japan.
   Koinobori are carp-shaped windsocks that the Japanese use to celebrate Children’s Day. Millions of Koinobori are placed by rivers and in front of homes of families with children in late April.

Summer in Japan is usually from June to about August or mid-September, depending on the location. This season is one of the liveliest seasons in Japan despite being hot and humid.

Truth be told, Japan is one of the most expensive Asian countries. That being said, it can also be affordable if you plan properly and make smart choices. A tip to obtain affordable prices on flights and accommodation for your Japan holiday would be to book in advance.

There are a few essential requirements when planning a holiday to any destination. Here is a guideline covering some of the main things you need to know when planning a trip to Japan.

1. Take time to read a few travel guide books and blogs to educate yourself about Japan and its culture.
2. Choose your season carefully.
   Spring is the most popular season in Japan because it is also the ‘Sakura’ or cherry blossoms season. During summer, many festivals and firework displays are happening in all parts of Japan. Autumn is a lovely time for tourists to visit attractions that are famous for natural beauty. Winter in Japan is to be spent dipping in a hot spring enjoying the many illumination events.
3. Book tickets in advance for popular tours and activities.
4. Get the expertise of local tour guides to enhance your experience and discover hidden areas.
5. Learn about their culture and the do’s and don’ts.
6. Make a flexible itinerary and ensure that you leave adequate time at each stop so that you won’t have to rush around.
7. Learn some basic Japanese words and phrases.
8. Find out the unique things and mementos you can buy in Japan.
9. Make sure to include a mixture of traditional, modern and natural experiences in your itinerary.
10. Be mindful of what you pack for Japan.