Stopover in Kyoto and Tokyo, Japan

With the promise of abundant snowfalls and deep dry powder, the resorts of Japan have quickly become the destination of choice for many Australian skiers and snowboarders. Not only is the skiing in Japan amazing, but for many the unique cultural differences adds an element of excitement to your holiday.

You would find it hard to match anywhere in the world. Although resorts like Niseko and Furano - with their traditional pensions, unique restaurants and onsen hot springs - give you a taste of Japanese culture, to obtain a truly memorable cultural experience we recommend you add a stopover in Tokyo and Kyoto.

Kyoto
Japanese culture dates back to 10,000BC and there is no place to experience Japanese unique heritage than the old national city of Kyoto. Fortunately Kyoto was left largely untouched during WWII with few bombings and a late removal from a possible nuclear target . Consequently Kyoto's 2000 Buddhist temples, Shinto shrines, palaces, gardens are intact resulting in what is one of the best preserved cities in Japan. Whilst there are literally hundreds of sites, here is a list of the must see.

Kinkaku-ji - Golden Pavilion
Orginally bulit in 1397, The Golden Pavilion is a three-story building on the grounds of the Rokuon-ji temple complex. The top two stories of the pavilion are covered with pure gold leaf. Kiyomizu Temple This world heritage listed building was originally built in 798 without nails. The temple takes its name from the waterfall within the complex. You are welcome to catch and taste the water as people have done for hundreds of years to obtain wisdom, health, and longevity.

Gion (Geisher District)
Gion is dotted with old-style Japanese houses called machiya, which roughly translates to "townhouse", some of which are ochaya or "tea houses". These are traditional establishments where the patrons of Gion - from the samurai of old to modern-day businessmen - have been entertained by geiko and geisha in an exclusive manner for centuries.The best time to visit Gion is at night where you will be treated Kyoto's famous restaurants whilst Geisha spotting.

Tokyo
Tokyo may not have the same old culture experiences of Kyoto, but it more than makes up for this as being one of the most vibrant cities in the world where old and new Japan meet perfectly.
Highlights of a stopover in Tokyo should include:

• A visit to the largest Shinto shrine Meiji Jingu and the most important Buddhist temple Sensoji
• Shopping in Tokyo - although expensive but a real treat
• An early morning visit to the Tsukiji fish market
• The view of Mt Fuji on the Tokyo horizon which in winter is a sight to behold!