Japan Hotels

Japan is a land of extremes, of ancient history and high-tech gadgets. Sushi, sake, sumo, samurai, geishas, gardens, bonsai, karate, kabuki and Zen are just some of the world-renowned icons of Japanese culture.

Tokyo Tower
Japan’s tallest building resembles the Eiffel Tower, yet at a soaring 333 metres, it is 13 metres taller than the Paris monument. There are two observatories offering spectacular panoramic views of Tokyo and Mount Fuji on a clear day. Also inside the Tokyo Tower, is the Tokyo Tower Wax Museum, the Mysterious Walking Zone and the Trick Art Gallery, offering children and parents hours of amusement.

Wan Nyan Fureai Park (Hokkaido)
This pet park in Sapporo is an ideal place to take pet-loving children. There are 180 four-legged stars here, including 80 different breeds of cats and dogs. They love to be spoiled. Of course the animals have their own agenda, but they usually enjoy affection and may agree to sit on your or your child's lap. There is also a store that sells pet-related souvenirs. Everything purchased here contributes to the upkeep.

Yokohama Science Centre
A recommended place to take children of all ages and interests, the museum is divided into five fun and educational sections: Space Captain, Space City Yokohama, Space Gym, Space Laboratory and Space Theatre. The exhibits are "hands-on," and the interactive games, videos and planetarium show will provide a very nice outing for the entire family. Opening hours are Tuesday-Sunday 9:30am-4:30pm.

Yume-no-shima Tropical Greenhouse Dome (Tokyo)
If you were wondering where Tokyo grows eucalyptus trees to feed the koala bears in the zoo then look no further - this is the place! The greenhouse is an educational rain forest replica, offering a peaceful escape from the city and an interesting outing for the family. Address: 3-2 Yumenoshima, Koto-ku, Tokyo.

The Hakata Dontaku Minato Matsuri (Hakata Dontaku Port Festival) takes place in Fukuoka City on on May 3rd and 4th. It is a traditional and ancient festival with a history of over 760 years. In this event, participants in traditional costumes parade the streets while banging shamoji, (wooden rice spoons). It is one of the largest festivals held in the middle of Golden Week, attracting around 2 million people.

Kairakuen Garden is most famous for its three thousand plum trees and hosts an annual plum blossom festival from 20 February to 31 March 31. This garden is located in Mito, about one hour northeast of Tokyo by train. In addition to 100 varieties of plum trees, the garden features a bamboo grove, cedar woods and the Kobuntei, a traditional Japanese style building.

Banks: Open Monday–Friday 09:00-15:00 Closed weekends & holidays
Post Offices: Open Monday–Friday 09:00-17:00 Closed weekends & holidays. Some main post offices are open seven days a week.
Department Stores and shops: Open every day 10:00-20:00. Most department stores are closed for two to three weekdays per month.
Museums: Open every day 10:00-17:00. Most museums are closed on Mondays.
Business Offices: Open Monday-Friday 09:00-17:00 Closed on weekends & holidays.