The island nation of Japan between the North Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Japan is a fascinating blend of Eastern promise and Western excess. There is plenty for the tourist to do, from shopping and visiting ancient temples to theme parks, skyscrapers and traditional festivals.

A military dictatorship from 1603 to 1854, Japan was cut off from the rest of the world and its unique culture flourished. Quick to embrace industrialisation and electronics, Japan became a rich nation and, following WWII, a staunch ally of the West. The country still has a figurehead emperor, but the real power lies in its elected government.

Tokyo, Japan's capital, is a dizzying mass of soaring skyscrapers, flashing neon lights and shops. The Japanese are known for working immensely hard, but also for partying and the bars are varied and lively. The region of Tokyo houses approximately 12 million people and is crowded and always awake. Tokyo is a shopper's paradise, with cutting-edge electrical goods, fashionable clothes and more traditional items on sale in its vast malls.

Japan has thousands of Buddhist temples, most of them intricately constructed and very beautiful, with the best examples in Kyoto, Nara and Kamakura. The country has festivals in all regions and for every season, ranging from energetic and colourful parties to more reserved affairs. A visit to a Japanese traditional theatre is world's away from the Western experience, with very precise gestures, movements and costumes. The most popular forms are serious Noh theatre, energetic Kabuki and Bunraku puppetry.

For those seeking relaxation, Japan's thousands of hot springs have spawned resorts, known as onsens, where guests can take advantage of a range of spa treatments and bathe in hot, mineral-rich waters. Traditional sporting events, such as sumo wrestling, the many excellent theme parks, with gravity-defying rides, world-class museums and delicate Japanese art will also keep visitors entertained.

If there is time, a trip to the dreamy Japanese mountains is an exotic experience. The haunting cloudy peaks and the lush green vegetation offer a picturesque backdrop to drink local sake, watch wildlife, walk, purchase luxurious silk goods, and observe ancient Japanese customs.

Japan's cuisine, in particular its small and intricate sushi dishes, is famous the world over. The food is lightly cooked or not cooked at all, so that everything retains its flavour and freshness. Japan is packed with excellent restaurants, from fast food outlets to fine dining, and the vibrant bars are a must, particularly the famously bizarre karaoke venues.

Flights to Japan are still relatively expensive because of the immense distance from the UK to the islands and a holiday there will not be cheap. Japan does, however, have a range of interesting accommodation options and those with a tight budget can stay in a hostel or one of the unique capsule hotels, where rooms only provide enough space to sleep. Outside the cities, travellers can opt to stay at ryokan, or traditional Japanese inns, and some Buddhist temples also provide accommodation. The spring, with its rich greens, cherry blossom and balmy weather is probably the most beautiful time to visit Japan, though the lively autumn colours are also a seasonal delight.

Once in Japan, getting around the islands and cities is relatively easy, as the country has one of the world's most hi-tech transportation systems in the world. Many Japanese speak in English and are keen to practice and once travellers become accustomed to the formal systems of politeness, Japan is welcoming and charming.