Activities

Many of Japan's national parks have hiking routes. Around Tokyo, the

popular hiking areas are Nikko and Chichibu-Tama National Park. There are

good but isolated hikes in Gumma prefecture and in the Kansai region of

Nara. To experience a Japan that few foreigners see, head for the

mountainous, less populated Central Alps. Skiing is normally possible from

December to April. The majority of resorts are on the island of Honshu,

but there's also great powder skiing on Hokkaido. The Okinawan islands in

the far south-west of Japan are popular diving destinations. Cycling is

most popular in the less hilly coastal regions, although intrepid cyclists

have been known to ride up Mt Fuji! Golf equals prestige in Japan. If you

want to set foot on a green, a fat wallet and corporate clout are handy

assets. Green fees usually start at around US$100 a day.


Economy Facts

GDP: US$3.15 trillion
GDP per head: US$24,900
Annual growth: 1.3%
Inflation: -0.7%
Major industries: High-tech electronic products, motor vehicles, office

machinery, chemicals
Major trading partners: USA, Hong Kong, Taiwan, South Korea, Germany,

China


Currency

Yen (¥)
Relative Costs

Meals

Budget: US$5-8
Mid-range: US$8-25
Top-end: US$25 and upwards

Lodging

Budget: US$25-35
Mid-range: US$35-70
Top-end: US$70 and upwards


Source: http://www.yahoo.com

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