6 Contrasts You Can Only Experience in Japan
Reading time: 4 min
6 Contrasts You Can Only Experience in Japan
Reading time: 4 min
6 Contrasts You Can Only Experience in Japan
Reading time: 4 min
6 Contrasts You Can Only Experience in Japan
In Japan, high-tech innovation and deeply rooted tradition blend seamlessly. Ancient temples stand side by side with neon-lit skylines, and opposites merge in a single glance. Visually, culturally, and gastronomically, Japan constantly surprises with the unexpected. Let yourself be drawn into this fascinating tension between old and new, chaos and calm, minimalism and sensory overload.
From Crowded Crossings to Tranquil Gardens
One moment you're swept up in the sea of people crossing Shibuya’s famous intersection, the next you're strolling through a peaceful Edo garden where every rock and tree seems perfectly placed. These extremes from overwhelming noise to serene stillness capture the essence of both modern and traditional Japan. It’s in this constant contrast that the country reveals its soul.
From Modern Subcultures to Timeless Elegance
In Tokyo's streets, worlds collide. A geisha with her white face paint and graceful movements crosses paths with a group of gothic lolitas who look like they’ve stepped out of a manga. These cultural contrasts define Japan, where bold subcultures thrive alongside centuries-old customs. It’s a place where the past and future live side by side.
From Traditional Hospitality to Futuristic Efficiency
A night in a ryokan, complete with tatami mat floors, a steaming bath, and a tranquil tea ceremony, stands in stark contrast to the ultra-modern capsule hotel experience, where every inch is optimized for efficiency. Yet both are unmistakably Japanese: marked by attention to detail and genuine respect for the guest. No matter where you stay, you gain a unique perspective on the culture.
From High-Tech Cities to Untouched Nature
Hop on the Shinkansen, Japan’s bullet train, and glide effortlessly from Tokyo’s cutting-edge skyline to snow-covered peaks in the Japanese Alps, the iconic silhouette of Mount Fuji, peaceful fishing villages along the Seto Inland Sea, or Hokkaido’s rugged wilderness. Along the way, enjoy fresh sushi, savor grilled robatayaki, and unwind in steaming onsens. Every stop offers a new side of Japan’s rich and varied landscape.
From Ancient Faith to Ultra-Modern Lifestyles
In the shadow of a futuristic skyscraper, you might suddenly stumble upon a quiet Shinto shrine, where a businessman pauses to bow, clap, and pray for good fortune. Japan may be a technological leader with robots, smart toilets, and AI everywhere, but daily life remains steeped in rituals and symbolism. Ancient kami (spirits) live on in a society racing into the future.
From Michelin Stars to Railway Street Food
Japan has more Michelin stars than any other country, with chefs dedicating their lives to a single perfected dish, and quiet thirteen-course omakase sushi experiences. But just down the street, beneath a rattling train line, you can stand and enjoy a steaming bowl of ramen or a skewer of yakitori surrounded by chatter and sake laughter. Japanese cuisine is both high art and comforting simplicity, and both are equally unforgettable.
Recommended for you
Grand Tour Japan
Tour - 17 days
A Taste of Japan & Kawaguchiko
Tour - 8 days
Must-See Places in Japan: Our Map
Japan is a dazzling blend of ultra-modern and ancient. From neon-lit cities to misty temple valleys, this "must see" map guides you through the jewels of the Land of the Rising Sun.
6 Must-See Extensions to Extend Your Japan Trip
Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka make up the classic core of a first trip to Japan.
A tailor-made quote?
Wish a detailed tailor-made quote? We gladly assist you with your travel plans, thus prepare your ideal tailor-made trip and calculate a detailed price proposal in no time. No hidden costs and entirely to your liking.
Visit our travel shops
Need more info, assistance to tailor your trip or the latest tips by our experienced Travel Designers? Pop in at one of our travel shops or make an appointment now. We will be delighted to set aside time for your travel plans.
Over 100 Travel Designers
all over Belgium are eager to assist you
Year after year Connections sends its Travel Designers to all corners of the world in order to be able to advise you even better when mapping out your trip.
No destination is too foreign or far. Find out who they are here and feel free to contact them!
Why choose Connections?
Because we are travellers, just like you. Always looking for exciting experiences, fascinating encounters and new horizons. Because we are 100% Belgian and can assist you in your own language. Because we make it our personal mission to lift your travels beyond your wildest imagination. Because life is more intense when you travel, really travel!
More about ConnectionsThe twinkle in the eye
Do not expect conformity from us. We are always looking for those extra ingredients that make your trip truly special. We swear by intense experiences.
Over 100 Travel designers around the country
Meet the Connections crew in our Travel Shops located all over Belgium. All of our Travel Designers are looking forward to meeting you and welcome you with open arms.
+35 Years on the road
We've been paving our way for a while. Travelling with Connections means choosing 'peace of mind'. Everything perfectly arranged, excellent service, certainty and reliability.
Always by your side
We're here whenever you need us! Available via our website, our travel shops, our customer service center and via our mobile travel agents.