Skiing in Japan has the added attraction of being able to explore other areas of this fascinating country. We highly recommend spending a little time in Tokyo, Kyoto, or both.

Tokyo

This huge city of over 12 million people is often thought of as intimidating and bewildering. Yet, despite its size it feels safe, clean and in the side streets and amongst the older buildings, strangely ordered and peaceful.

We recommend taking a bus tour around some key sites. These can include the Imperial Palace, the Tokyo Tower, Asakusa Kannon Temple, Tsukji Fish Market as well as the central neighbourhoods of Ginza, full of fashionable shops, and Akihabara, electronics town.

Although this is a little touristy, it will give you a good introduction to what the city offers and without having to travel around yourself. After that, it is up to you – the city caters for every whim and fancy.

Kyoto

The capital of Japan from 794-1868, Kyoto is brim full of history. This is evident in the city’s impressive Buddhist and Shinto temples, shrines and gardens as well as its museums.

A day bus tour of Kyoto will take you to a selection of these, including Rokuon-ji Temple Garden home of the Golden Pavilion (pictured above), Nijo Castle and the Ryoan-ji Zen garden of 15 rocks placed on raked gravel.

A wander through the central district will bring you up to date with modern Japan – its oddly-dressed teenagers, stacking car parking systems and pachinko game parlours. A stay in the Granlira Hotel, located within the vast, modern station complex is recommended.