Honshu is Japan's largest and most populated island, containing capital city Tokyo, iconic Mount Fuji and the Japanese Alps. With the thriving urban atmosphere of the world's largest city and areas of natural wonder nearby, Honshu holidays provide standard Japanese fare such as sushi - plus a few surprising cultural gems!
Honshu Holidays: Travel essentials
Travelling to and around Japan's largest island is quite easy. For arrivals by plane, there is the Narita International Airport. Once on the island, there are many trains and buses which serve the towns around Tokyo and within the city itself. Tokyo´s extensive transportation network can be confusing, though signs are often in English. The city and its environs can differ greatly in climate - as Honshu´s weather depends on the terrain. However, note that typhoon season is September, island-wide. The time zone is GMT+9.
Honshu Holidays: Tokya and beyond
In Tokyo, the temples of the Asakusa district. Sensōji is Japan's largest Buddhist temple, and nearby is Kaminarimon, or "Thunder Gate", featuring a huge lantern and statues of gods. First constructed in 942, the Thunder Gate has been destroyed numerous times, with the current version dating back to 1950. Tokyo has many commercial centres for shopping, eating and enjoying modern, urban Japan. Check out the dazzling Shinjuku district, with bustling shops and exciting nightlife.
Get an urban perspective on the island´s boundless nature by visiting the viewing platforms in the highest spot in Tokyo, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government building located in Shinjuku. From here, travellers can view Mount Fuji and beyond, and begin dreaming up their nature excursions! Visiting Mount Fuji itself is only advised in July and August. However, in the surrounding Fuji-Hakone-Izu National Park there are many trails, such as around the Fuji Five Lakes. For food, back in Tokyo, enjoy a sushi breakfast at the Tsukiji Fish Market or an evening check out the buzzing karaoke bars.
