IT’S A KNOWN FACT that Japan is one of the most highly industrialized countries in the world. One striking quality of its cities, and the whole country, is the beautiful fusion of traditional and modern architectural design. What makes it a must-visit country is that you can still enjoy nature and reminisce about the past even in a highly urbanized city like Tokyo.

This 2016, you may want to put Japan on your bucket list and make sure to visit its top five attraction sites.

Mount Fuji

Photo from domania.us.

For many, Mount Fuji is the first thing that comes to mind when they think of Japan. Your trip would be incomplete if you miss it or at least a glimpse of it. At 12,388 feet or 3,776 meters, it is the highest mountain in the country, well known for its exceptionally symmetrical cone. Around 200,000 people, 30 percent of them foreigners, climb Mount Fuji every year, and it usually takes three to eight hours to reach the top.

Golden Pavilion

Photo from geoventurer.wordpress.com.

The Golden Pavilion, or Kinkakuji, is a Zen temple in the northern part of Kyoto. It’s very popular because the temple’s top two floors are covered in gold, and there’s rich history behind the gold leaf. It was built many centuries ago as the retirement villa of shogun Ashikaga Yoshimitsu, and when he died in 1408, the villa was transformed into a Zen temple exclusive to the Rinzai sect. Today, tourists visit to learn about its unique architectural design, too. There’s also a tea garden where you can sip a warm, healthy cup of tea while enjoying the view and the breeze.

Arashiyama Bamboo Grove

Photo from asia-foodtravel.com.

Kyoto is one of the areas in Japan where you can visit plenty of awesome attractions, and the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove is a great example. Take a walk all by yourself or with friends, and enjoy a serene moment with the tallest grass on earth. We know, this is luxury for busy Metro people. Okay, don’t start packing yet.

Tokyo Disneyland

Photo from parkeology.com.

Whether you’re a kid or not, Disneyland will give you an unforgettable experience. Tokyo Disneyland has seven themed lands: World Bazaar, Toontown, Tomorrowland, Critter Country, Fantasyland, Adventureland, and Westernland. It’s a great place to bring out the child in you once more.

Shibuya

Photo from japantimes.co.jp.

Shibuya is one of the busiest and best-known towns in Japan. It’s undeniably a great place for entertainment, with numerous casual fashion shops, specialty shops, restaurants, and department stores. Among the extremely popular stores are Seibu Department Store, Tokyu Department Store, and Parco, and you’ll surely find something that perfectly fits your fashion style.

A country that became known to us through the bombings of Nagasaki and Hiroshima, Japan is surprisingly a beautiful country where you can enjoy natural and man-made attractions.

Now you can start packing. Just make sure to secure a visa. Good news for Filipino residents: getting a visa for Japan is now easier.