Carol in a kimono. David in a Samurai yukata.
10 Reasons to Visit Japan (and Why We Fell in Love)
Our recent journey through Japan was part of a reward trip hosted by Cadence Travel, and though we arrived with high expectations, the country surprised us in all the best ways.
From Tokyo’s shimmering skyline to the tranquil temples of Kyoto and Nikko, we found ourselves deeply moved by the people, places, and cultural traditions we encountered.
Japan stirred something in us — something that lingers still — and today we want to share 10 of the many reasons we fell in love with this extraordinary country.
1. The Grace and Politeness of the Japanese People
There is a quiet dignity in the way the Japanese interact with others. Whether it was the bowing concierge at the Ritz-Carlton, the monk guiding us through a Zen garden, or the simple smile from a shopkeeper in Kyoto, we were struck again and again by the country’s culture of respect. It wasn’t forced — it felt sincere. And it left a lasting impression on us both.
2. A Deep Respect for Tradition
A traditional tea ceremony in Tokyo — green tea served by a woman in kimono.
We were honored to take part in a traditional tea ceremony, hosted in a historical teahouse hidden amidst Tokyo’s modern skyline. Every gesture — from the placement of the bowl to the quiet sipping — echoed centuries of tradition. In temples, we witnessed rituals that were both mysterious and beautiful. Japan doesn’t just remember its past — it reveres it.
3. The Art of Presentation
Every meal in Japan felt like a work of art. Even simple dishes were presented with thoughtful elegance. At one kaiseki dinner, the arrangement of seasonal ingredients was so delicate we almost didn’t want to disturb it. Whether it was bento boxes on a bullet train or breakfast at the Ritz, we were reminded that beauty matters — even, and perhaps especially, in the smallest details.
4. Spiritual Spaces That Stir the Soul
There are places in Japan that make you stop and breathe. The mossy stillness of Nikko’s sacred groves. The raked lines of Ryoan-ji’s famous rock garden. The sound of chanting monks at sunrise. These weren’t just photo ops — they were invitations to slow down and reflect. In a world of noise, Japan offered us silence, and that may have been the greatest gift of all.
5. Wearing History on Our Sleeves
In Kyoto, we had the opportunity to dress in traditional attire — kimonos for the women and samurai-style robes for the men. What could have felt like a tourist gimmick turned out to be deeply moving. Wearing these garments around the hotel and to dinner connected us more intimately to Japanese culture. We weren’t just observing Japan — for a brief moment, we were participating in it.
Carol wearing a floral kimono
6. A Feast for the Senses
From sizzling skewers in narrow alleyways to the clean, delicate taste of Dassai 39 sake, Japan was a delight for the palate. One of our favorite memories was a guided sake tasting — educational, social, and delicious. Even the convenience stores were full of fun surprises. Japan reminded us that food isn’t just fuel. It’s joy, community, and discovery.
7. Modern Marvels Beside Ancient Wonders
Nowhere else have we seen a 13th-century temple standing gracefully beside a glimmering skyscraper. Tokyo’s futuristic skyline and Kyoto’s wooden tea houses exist in harmony, not competition. The teamLab Borderless digital museum blew our minds with light and motion — and the next morning, we were barefoot in a Zen garden. That balance is pure Japan.
8. A Nation Built on Harmony
Harmony isn’t just an idea in Japan — it’s everywhere. In how trains glide into stations exactly on time. In how shoes are removed before entering a restaurant or home. In how gardens are designed to frame nature, not control it. We were constantly reminded that thoughtful living — even in a city of 30 million — is possible.
Hanging with the geiko and maiko in Kyoto
9. Moments of Whimsy
Carol posing behind sumo statues. Jet-lagged cartoons. Learning that someone shabu-shabu’d their bacon. Japan gave us unexpected laughter at every turn. It’s a country that embraces both reverence and playfulness — a reminder that travel should include both wonder and joy.
10. A Journey That Changed Us
Japan didn’t just offer beautiful sights — it offered perspective. We came home with a deeper appreciation for silence, intentionality, and grace. In many ways, the journey invited us to slow down and be present. And that’s something we hope to carry with us long after the jet lag fades.
Our Preferred Travel Partners
We proudly represent some of the world’s finest travel brands offering immersive journeys to Japan—by land, by sea, and by small-ship yacht or expedition. Whether you’re seeking luxury cruising, small-group exploration, or boutique adventure, these trusted partners deliver unforgettable experiences:
Ocean Cruises
- Viking Cruises: Elegant, small-ship cruises with included excursions and a destination-focused approach.
- Silversea Cruises: Ultra-luxury voyages with butler service, fine dining, and all-suite accommodations.
- Regent Seven Seas Cruises: All-inclusive luxury cruising with complimentary shore excursions and exceptional service.
- Oceania Cruises: Renowned for its cuisine and culturally rich itineraries ideal for food-loving travelers.
Small-Group Land Journeys
- Tauck: Seamlessly guided land tours with exclusive access, local insight, and first-class accommodations.
- Abercrombie & Kent: Custom-crafted small-group journeys and tailor-made experiences led by expert local guides.
Yacht & Expedition Cruises
- Windstar Cruises: Intimate, small-ship voyages offering immersive port experiences and personalized service.
- The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection: Boutique all-suite yacht cruising with curated excursions and signature Ritz-Carlton hospitality.
- Lindblad Expeditions–National Geographic: A rare expedition sailing exploring Japan’s imperial past and vibrant coastal culture—ideal for travelers who crave education, photography, and adventure.
ASK ABOUT OUR COMPLIMENTARY VIP PERKS
How to Plan Your Own Journey to Japan
Japan is not a place to rush. Whether you’re drawn to the cherry blossoms of Kyoto, the snow-covered temples of Nikko, or the neon energy of Tokyo, we recommend traveling with purpose and curiosity.
We’d love to help you experience the best of Japan — from luxury accommodations to authentic local experiences — with the care and insight we bring to every journey.
For more information or to plan your own journey to Japan, please call Roaming Boomers Travel Services at (480) 550-1235 or use our convenient online information request (click here) and we’ll reach out to you.
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This article was written with the aid of Perplexity AI, Grok, or ChatGPT. Roaming Boomers Travel Services is an independent affiliate of Cadence and a Virtuoso® member. CST#201120-40
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