1. Japan
Land of the Rising Sun

2. Fast Facts capital: Tokyo population: 127,368,088 (July 2012)
languages: Japanese
ethnic groups: Japanese 99%; other 1% (Korean, Chinese, Brazilian)
religions: observe both Shinto and Buddhist 84%; other 16%
total land area: 377,835 km2 ; total water area: 3,091km2
land elevation: -4 m (below sea level) to 3,776 m (Mt. Fuji)
government: constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary gov’t.
currency: Yen (1 CAD = JPY)
Japan’s economy experienced a major slowdown starting in the 1990s after nearly 30 years of unprecedented growth
today, Japan is a major economic power in Asia and around the world, and is a loyal ally of the US

3. Japan for the Tourist!
All foreign visitors are required to have a valid passport. To stay for a period of three months or less, Canadians do not need a visa.
Be aware of cultural customs and traditions (ie. sitting on the floor, bowing, taking off your shoes, speaking Japanese, using restrooms, accommodations, bathing, eating, blowing your nose, etc…)
Booking tours and/or hiring a tour guide is definitely recommended.
Use the local transportation – one of the world’s most highly developed systems – just study it a little before.
If you want to experience the spirit of Japan, be sure to check out its various festivals, its traditional performing arts, its exotic cuisine, its relaxing hot springs, its unique art, its beautiful gardens, its rich museums, its exciting theme parks, and its upscale shopping.

4. Accommodations in Japan
POD HOTELS

5. Japan is divided into newly designated “theme regions” that showcase different aspect of Japanese scenery and culture.
This makes it easier for the tourist to see as much of Japan as possible!

7. SPEAKING JAPANESE... yes – “hai” where – “doko” no – “iye”
what – “nani”
please – “onegai”
thank you – “arigato”
your welcome – “doi tashi mashito”
excuse me – “sumi masen”
good morning – “ohayo gozai mas
good afternoon – “konni chiwa”
good bye – “sayonara”
where is the toilet – “tole wa doko desuka”
meal blessing – “itta daki mas”