Japan

The delicate pink blooms of cherry blossom, the symbol of peace and beauty, reflected in the glass of a gleaming skyscraper - the perfect metaphor for the harmonious blend of dazzling modernity and exceptional natural beauty that defines Japan.

This is a country where the iconic vision of sublime Mount Fuji is matched by superlative, neon-lit cities, where wonderfully gowned geisha represent the customs of a bygone era and sharply attired business men offer a tantalising glimpse of the future.

On the one hand Japan is a land of sultry volcanoes, ancient temples, mist-shrouded shrines and colourful pagodas set against a brilliant blue sky. On the other hand, it is a fast-paced wonderland of futuristic cities and state-of-the-art technology epitomised by the sleek, bullet-fast trains.

It is precisely this blend of the ancient and the contemporary, the past and the future, that makes Japan so enticing. While the bright lights of buzzing metropolises offer Japanese pop culture, amazing shopping, fine dining and trend-setting nightlife, time honoured traditions are widely embraced.

Discarded fortunes flutter on strings like bunting, draped above shrines, secluded Buddhist retreats offer sanctuary and spiritual enlightenment and traditional tea ceremonies are graced with the presence of enchanting geisha girls.

Mother Nature has bestowed her wonders as generously as the prolific, cultural treasures of man. From snow-capped mountain peaks to crystalline lakes, from voluptuous green pastures to immaculate coral reefs, Japan's landscape is utterly magical.

Nothing can prepare you for just how exhilarating Japan is, so dive right in and discover it for yourself.