Japan

It is not that far way in history when Japan came out of its self-made isolation, but this country of gentle geisha girls and blossom of pink cherry made up for the lost time. Almost everyone in the western world have driven a Japanese car, tried sushi or played on a GameBoy or Playstation in the resent years.
The country of Japan is an island archipelago stretching from north to south following the coast of mainland Asia, owned by China and Korea and separated from them by the Sea of Japan. Japan’s islands are like mountains in the sea - 75 % of the country’s land is made up of highlands - which also means that most of the people are packed within the limits of the coastal plains, especially on the main island of Honshu.
Between the years 1639 and 1859 Japan cut itself from trade and traffic with the rest of the world, except for some scarce contacts through the southern ports of Kyushu island. After opening up its doors, only some 150 years ago, this heavily populated islands developed in leaps and bounds and this resulted in most of the country covered by sprawling neon-lightened cities, connected with the world’s most organized public transport network.
As contemporary it may be, Japan still keeps plenty of mystical oriental charm. Starting from the etiquette expected in social contacts, up to the minimalistic décor behind the rice-paper walls, Japanese culture is very alive and cannot be underestimated, making the visit to Japan a wonderful experience. The modern metro-cities are marked with a conglomerate of ancient shrines and temples; while the countryside is riddled with may volcanoes and hot springs overlooking pastoral paddy fields; parks are overwhelmed with white gravel Zen gardens or covered with carpets of lilac and cherry blossom.
Tokyo - the capital and largest city is situated on Honshu island's east coast, with population of some 12 million. Despite this mass of humanity Japan remains very well ordered. Everything is running on time, and crime levels are unbelievably low. It is possible to find beautiful views and wide empty spaces in the countryside, and even when you are forced to mingle with the urban mess you find that Japanese are quite charming, courteous and friendly.
Places worth visiting outside of Tokyo in Honshu are Nagoya, Osaka and several other big cities so if you have just a couple of weeks, you must limit your trip to only this island. The city of Kyoto is also a must see here.
Hokkaido island in the north is good for outdoor activities and partying. It is fast becoming world known as a powder snow destination for skiers and boarders. An average year here sees well over 10 m. of powder snow fall - with up to 15 m. falling in one season in places like Niseko and Rusutsu.
Sapporo is the capital of beer in Japan and home to the world famous Ice-Sculpture Festival, held in the first weeks of February. In the Summer there are two other  festivals - Yosakoi - a noisy dancing event and the Beer Festival which sees Odori Park (site and of the Ice/Snow Festival) turned into many blocks of beer gardens.
Travel warning: following the massive devastation caused by the earthquake and followed tsunami that struck Japan on March 11 2011, we are recommending that travelers check reliable travel advisory before deciding to travel in certain areas of Japan, especial the areas of the nuclear power-plants of Fukushima.