When the idea of a Japan issue first came up, it sounded fascinating, especially since its content would be educational for me. Despite all my travels, I’ve had no experience with the land or culture. I am indebted to my assistant Kim, who has just returned to the U.S. after 10 years of living in Japan, for her knowledge and love of the land that inspired this issue. After reading this month’s articles, I am longing to experience this diverse and fascinating land for myself.

While many of us think of Japan as modern Tokyo, this issue will open many eyes to the less-heralded wonders of this geographically small country and its emphasis on traditions and history. Because these traditions can reach back thousands of years, they serve to bridge the generations.

This means the Japanese hold ancient arts in great esteem. In fact, the country gives the title “Living Treasure” its most revered and respected artists who keep alive the ancient traditions of this island nation. "The Roots of Japan's Artistic Elegance Lie in Its Revered Folk Art Traditions," is a brief introduction into this fascinating world where the old arts are respected and handed down from one generation to the next. Absolute Asia's  great numbers of tours focusing on Japan’s artistic legacy and culinary creations, makes it the perfect “Pick of the Month”.

History stands proud among the shrines, gardens and architectural accomplishments of rural Japan. To experience a simpler way of life that is alive and even thriving amidst a booming modern culture, we have a great article, "The Journey to Old Japan Reveals Country’s True Character." Delightfully informative, this article is a fascinating introduction to Japanese traditions and history. Describing the highlights of Cross-Culture Inc. yearly Japan tour, this unique itinerary includes the yearly blessing of the children at Kasuga Taisha Shinto Shrine.

For a westerner’s view on the synergistic balance of religion and daily life in contemporary Japan, Kim Scranton relates her experiences during her residency on Miyajima Island in Hiroshima Bay, home to the Shinto shrine at Itsukushima, this month’s World Heritage Site. "The Irony of Japan's 'Practical Religion'", includes an adorable picture of her children’s blessing at Kasuga Taisha.

Offering a detailed look at the melding of traditional and contemporary Japanese life, Wilderness Travel presents a 14-day “Temples, Treasures and Teahouse Tour.” The tour includes an in-depth walking tour of Kyoto’s spiritual and natural delights, as well as other highlights of Japan’s traditional side. Shogunate castles in Osaka, nature’s splendors in the Japanese Alps and a visit to the country’s holiest mountain are a few of the highlights on this trip.

Both the mountains and valleys of Japan await the intrepid wander in two off-the-beaten-track experiences. Geographic Expeditions' “Up and Down the Japan Alps” offer easy touring and moderate hiking in the dazzling peaks of the northern Alps. Adventure Center offers a walking trip along the “Nakasendo Way,” a thousand-year-old route between Imperial Kyoto and the feudal capital of Edo (later renamed Tokyo). Rambling through the Kiso Valley, this trip visits several of the old towns of this lovely region.

If you prefer tasting to trekking, immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Japan with Immersia's InFocus trip, “Zen of the Palate.” This tour introduces the traveler to the wonders of Japanese cuisine, from predawn sushi and mama-san’s home cooking to a traditional tea ceremony and an elegant geisha-hosted farewell dinner. Shop, eat and discover the subtleties that make Japanese cuisine  unique.      

Japan packs in thousands of years of history, art and culture in an area slightly smaller than California. Such a variety of possible experiences awaits the traveler that no matter what your key interests are – culinary, nature, history or art – you can find a unique trip to match your imagination.

I hope this issue opens your imagination – as it has mine – to the wonders that await travelers in this small sea-bound nation. I am looking forward to pinning a new destination on my map early next spring, probably just around cherry blossom time!

Sayonara