Olympics Be Damned: 5 Reasons to Travel to Japan Today

Truthfully, there are a million reasons to visit Japan. Fascinating culture, delicious food, one-of-a-kind architecture, anime weirdness, did we already mention food? The list is endless.

With the recent cancellation of the 2020 Japanese Olympics, many are holding off until next year. Even though the games have been postponed a full year, there’s still plenty of reason to visit the bustling island this year.

2021 Olympics Japan: Unforgettable Places to See

There are too many places to see in Japan, and for tourists, that’s always a good thing. From the crowded streets of Tokyo to the culturally rich city of Kyoto, almost every major city in Japan offers enough to keep you interested for centuries.

Kyoto is simply one of the most breathtaking places on Earth, with an array of shrines and temples surrounded by an overabundance of nature. Just imagine the most beautiful park you’ve ever been to, mix it with a bustling city, and then soak it in every color from a crayon box; that’s Kyoto.

While you’re in the country don’t forget to see Japan’s largest active volcano, Mt. Fuji. It’s a pretty easy place to spot as it looms over all of Japan. Mt. Fuji is considered one of Japan’s three sacred mountains; the site is the country’s tallest peak coming in at 3,776 meters.

And you can’t talk Japan without mentioning Tokyo — but it needs little introduction. Lush gardens, unforgettable food, and quite possibly some of the best architecture in the world are just some of the many reasons you have to stop by Tokyo while you’re in Japan.

2021 Olympics Japan: Public Transportation Is World-Class

Public transportation isn’t the most tantalizing reason to visit a country, but Japan takes public transit to another level.

The bullet trains and subway systems in Japan make the New York City Metro look like a third-world country. Even better, trains are always on time (and sometimes even early).

Planning on how to get around locally when traveling is often an overlooked aspect. Uber or car rentals are fine and dandy, but both vary in terms of quality, price, and overall stress inflicted upon you.

In Japan, you can look forward to reducing stress and cutting back in the number of dollars you’re sinking into getting around.

2021 Olympics Japan: Food, Food, Food

Japan offers some of the best ramen, sushi, udon, Yakiniku barbecue, tempura, ice cream… and yeah, I think you get the point.

Realistically you can just pop your head into any random hole-in-the-wall joint and you’re likely to be served some of the tastiest food you’ll ever have the pleasure of trying. And while you’re there, don’t sell yourself short with just restaurant-type food.

The desserts provide some truth in the statement “they’re to die for,” and make sure to try everything and anything matcha-flavored (especially the ice cream). And if you didn’t know, matcha is a type of green tea that is crazy delicious and surprisingly healthy.

Plus don’t forget snacks like “Kit Kats”, which in Japan are available in an insane amount of different flavors, including strawberry, cinnamon cookie, cheesecake, oh, and even wasabi.

Japanese Culture Shock!

The term “culture shock” was created specifically for Japan. That said, its weirdness is what makes it one of the greatest places on Earth.

Everything from advertisements to everyday grocery items is all drenched in a surreal cuteness. You’ll find that arcades are packed with children and adults alike (perhaps no longer the case due to COVID-19). If all that wasn’t enough, have fun using a toilet that talks back to you.

Sure it can be a bit flustering at times visiting a place that feels like a distant planet. But continue to stay open-minded and you’ll realize Japan’s uniqueness is one of its best qualities.

The people are incredible! And Final Thoughts

When talking about a country, the people are seldom a point for bragging about. Just look at New York; it’s a bit difficult to praise the taxi-driver who flipped you off after almost running down a poor old lady in the street. Japanese people, on the other hand, are likely the kindest people you’ll ever meet.

That weird, unique culture we just talked about, it’s probably one of the most respected throughout the world. It’s why people get furious when foreigners come to the country to make a mockery of the culture.

It’s like each one of them is willing to be your best friend even after you’ve just met them! They’re so happy, so polite, and above all, genuine in the way they treat you and each other.

In a way, it’s almost unreal and it’s probably one of the best reasons to visit Japan. So what are you doing here? You don’t need the Olympics; pack your bags, and make sure to thank me later.