The app that rewards its walkers continues its global expansion!
Known as the "Land of the Rising Sun" due to its geographical position and mythology (the legendary sun goddess, Amaterasu, is considered the ancestor and founder of the Japanese imperial family, which still sits on the throne today), Japan is renowned for captivating Westerners.
Its traditions have managed to remain intact over time, despite the various historical conflicts that could have threatened them. Its rich and diverse culture and varied landscapes make it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.
Why is Japan an ideal place for walking?
The Japanese place great importance on harmony, order, and tranquility. These same qualities are found in its landscapes and also in its philosophy. Given that stress caused by studies and work is a major societal problem in the country, walks in nature are a source of autonomous therapy for many residents. Due to Shintoism, the most important philosophical and religious current in Japan alongside Buddhism, nature is perceived as a divinity in itself.
Paradoxically, the country is recognized abroad through the prism of Tokyo, the capital of the country and a symbol of urban expansion, with more than 14 million inhabitants and 43 million in the Greater Tokyo area. It even became the most populous urban area in the world in 2018!
Of course, outside of Tokyo, the Land of the Rising Sun has many places preserved by nature, making them ideal places for walking!
The Philosopher's Walk in Kyoto
The main island of the Ryukyu archipelago, a group of Japanese islands in the East China Sea north of Taiwan, Okinawa offers a wide variety of landscapes, atmospheres, and viewpoints.Its economy is mainly based on its many assets and activities unique to the region, such as snorkeling, hiking, and other water activities. There are exceptional places to discover such as the Churaumi Aquarium (the largest aquarium in the Japanese archipelago), the Shikina-en Royal Garden, the Yanbaru National Park, Shuri Castle, and the Gyokusendo Cave, which stretches over 5 kilometers! All this is crowned with white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters offering the perfect setting for a good walk.
Shiretoko National Park
An UNESCO World Heritage Site (since 2005), Shiretoko is one of the best-preserved ecosystems in the world. The park is located in the Hokkaido region, in the northern part of the country, and offers breathtaking landscapes of mountains, forests, lakes, and wild coasts. The place is also very popular with hikers, especially the Shiretoko Goko Five Lakes trail, one of the most accessible hikes for everyone. Note: To avoid attracting wild animals, it is always prohibited to bring food with you on hikes. Only water is allowed!
In Taoist philosophy, which comes from China but is deeply rooted in Japan, there is a saying: "A journey of a thousand miles always begins with a single step."