as “Formosa,” d Philippines in cial), Hakka, and ‘of the country. It ture. The main PE), it serves as (BR). composed of cause tea is one and green tea jout applying ting friends and atil July 31, 2020 Sapan (Nihon or Nippon), also known as the “Land of the Rising Sun,”is divided into eight regions: Kanto, Chubu, Hokkaido, Kansai, Kyushu, Shikuko, Chugoku, and Tohoku. Tokyo, the country's capital, is situated in the region of Kanto. The major gateways are Narita (NRT) and Haneda (HND) International Airports. The bustling capital of the country is the home to many of the most attractive tourist places such as: +t con: ing of luxury brands; + Ginza District, a shopping dist + The Imperial Palace, which serves as the house of the Imperial family; + Tokyo Skytree, the tallest skyscraper in Japan; and 4 Tokyo Disneyland and Disney Sea, which are popular theme parks in Tokyo. Japan has four seasons, which are spring, winter, summer, and fall. Each season is marked with spectacular sceneries. Spring (March to May) is the season to view the cherry blossom {sakuro). Winter (December to February) is the perfect time to visit Japan’s ski destinations and to experience onsen (hot spring). Summer (June to Mid-September) is the best time to observe Japan’s festivals, such as the Gion Festivat in Kyoto, a festival registered in UNESCO intangible cultural he ge list (https:/ fich.unesco.org). Fall (September to November) is a good time to see the country covered with colorful leaves. Japan's rich and interesting culture can be appreciated through their food, traditional arts and crafts, and temples and shrines. Ramen and sushi are among the popular Japanese foods. Sumo (Japenese-style wrestling) and Budo (Kendo) are Japanese martials arts. The country is also proud with their performing arts that have been listed in the UNESCO intangible cultural heritage. These are Noh (musical drama), Banraku (puppet theater), and Kabuki (dance drama) (Japan National Tourism Organization, 2016). Fushimi Inari Taisha Shrine, Motonosumi Inari Shrine, Usa Shrine, and Arakura Sengen Shrine are among the shrines in Japan dedicated to practicing Shinto, the country’s national religion. Temples such as Yama-dera temple, Zenkoji Temple, and Phoenix Hall at Byodo-in Temple, registered as world cultural heritage sites, are just a few of the Buddhist temples in Japan (Japan National Tourism Organization, 2016), It is important to note that when ting Japan, an individual is expected to be punctual. t can be observed that Japanese are formal in their introduction. Bowing is customary. Itis considered rude to use one finger in point for something, Use the whole hand instead. HAPTERIL ASIA. 35