The Blurb On The Back:
Make the most of your time in Japan.
From the sleek, neon-drenched hubbub of cities like Tokyo, to the more laidback charms of rural Shikoku or rugged Hokkaido, Japan is enthralling – a fascinating mix of ancient and modern, ethereal and other-worldly. With opulent imperial palaces, calm Zen gardens, cutting edge galleries and boisterous festivals around almost every corner, the Rough Guide To Japan helps you get to the heart of this captivating country. Illuminating writing and in-depth listings give you the lowdown on trendy shopping districts, stunning hikes, traditional inns and where to sample the finest sushi and sake on offer.
- Stroll the tranquil Philosopher’s Path in Kyoto.
- Hit Niseko’s slopes for stellar skiing and snowboarding.
- Immerse yourself in one of Beppu’s many famed onsen.
- Go tropical in Okinawa at one of Taketomi-jima’s beaches.
- Absorb the tradition and pageantry of a kabuki performance.
( The Review (Cut For Spoilers): )
The Verdict:
If you’re looking for a general introduction to Japan, this is a good starting point but it’s not a book to take with you – it’s too heavy and the maps aren’t good enough. I’d recommend using it to do your research and then preload specific sites and maps onto a phone or tablet so that you can get around more effectively. Note that Rough Guides issued a new version in September 2014, which I’d suggest checking out instead of this.
From the sleek, neon-drenched hubbub of cities like Tokyo, to the more laidback charms of rural Shikoku or rugged Hokkaido, Japan is enthralling – a fascinating mix of ancient and modern, ethereal and other-worldly. With opulent imperial palaces, calm Zen gardens, cutting edge galleries and boisterous festivals around almost every corner, the Rough Guide To Japan helps you get to the heart of this captivating country. Illuminating writing and in-depth listings give you the lowdown on trendy shopping districts, stunning hikes, traditional inns and where to sample the finest sushi and sake on offer.
- Stroll the tranquil Philosopher’s Path in Kyoto.
- Hit Niseko’s slopes for stellar skiing and snowboarding.
- Immerse yourself in one of Beppu’s many famed onsen.
- Go tropical in Okinawa at one of Taketomi-jima’s beaches.
- Absorb the tradition and pageantry of a kabuki performance.
( The Review (Cut For Spoilers): )
The Verdict:
If you’re looking for a general introduction to Japan, this is a good starting point but it’s not a book to take with you – it’s too heavy and the maps aren’t good enough. I’d recommend using it to do your research and then preload specific sites and maps onto a phone or tablet so that you can get around more effectively. Note that Rough Guides issued a new version in September 2014, which I’d suggest checking out instead of this.