Turkey
Turkey is a treasure trove of diverse cultures and history, located on the bridge between Europe and Asia. The country's ancient ruins, gorgeous mosques, rich food culture, and still-shining Blue Flag-certified beaches combine to fascinate visitors. Turkey's global popularity is proven by the fact that it is expected to attract approximately 62.26 million foreign tourists in 2024, achieving a record tourism revenue of $61.1 billion (approximately 9.2 trillion yen). A variety of experiences await you, from historical and cultural heritage to natural landscapes, such as the San Sultan Mosque in Istanbul, the strange rock formations of Cappadocia, and the Mediterranean resorts of Antalya.
Furthermore, Turkey's competitiveness is supported by the abundance of tourist facilities and cultural diversity, and it maintains a top position in the global market. From the traditional dish baklava to the cityscape of Istanbul and the natural beauty of 622 national parks - here you can "walk through history, taste culture, and enjoy the sea and sky" on a journey.
Istanbul
Istanbul is a world-leading tourist city where history and modernity coexist, located in the heart of Turkey on the border between Europe and Asia. The city, which has more than a thousand years of history from ancient Rome to Byzantium and the Ottoman Empire, attracts visitors with its world heritage sites, gorgeous mosques, and lively markets.
First of all, the Hagia Sophia Mosque and the Blue Mosque are must-see spots that give a sense of the beauty of architecture and the weight of religious history. Hagia Sophia is a 6th century structure, and its windows and mosaics depict the transition from a Christian cathedral to an Islamic mosque. Meanwhile, the Blue Mosque is characterized by its celadon tiles and six minarets, and the surroundings are filled with silence during prayer times.
At Topkapi Palace, you can explore the treasures and harem rooms that symbolize the glory of the Ottoman Empire. You can also enjoy a spectacular view of the Sariyer district on the European side and Uskudar on the Asian side on a Bosphorus cruise.
If you want to feel the city's lively atmosphere, we recommend the Grand Bazaar, one of the world's largest indoor markets, or the fragrant Spice Bazaar. A variety of traditional crafts and spices will stimulate your senses. If you want a panoramic view from high above, you must see the night view from Galata Tower.
You can also escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere of the Princess Islands or be impressed by the art paintings of the Kaliye Mosque.
Istanbul is the gateway to Turkey, where you can experience both the depth of history and the diversity of modern times, and is truly the "crossroads of East and West."
Cappadocia
Cappadocia is a World Heritage site located near Ankara in central Turkey, with a mysterious landscape that seems out of this world. The fusion of history and nature, woven by the strange rock formations called "Chapurs" formed by ancient volcanic activity, underground cities, and rock-cut churches, leads visitors to a dream world.
First, at Goreme National Park, you can see a spectacular view of reddish-brown rocks towering into the sky, and the view from a hot air balloon in the early morning is a popular experience where you can see a fantastic view in one go. Also, from Uchisar Citadel, you can see the entire view of Cappadocia, which is a masterpiece.
Cappadocia is also attracting attention as a historical heritage, and there are underground cities built as hideouts by ancient Christians, such as Ozkonak Underground City and Devren Valley, and murals of churches carved into the rocks that still live on today. In addition, the mystical scenery of Hanefye Valley and the unique rock formations of Pasabag allow you to experience the artistic creations of nature.
Cultural experiences are also abundant, with restaurants dotted around offering traditional Turkish cuisine, baklava, and local wine. In particular, at the pottery workshop in Avanos, you can experience making your own pottery using the red soil of Kapadokya, creating a memorable masterpiece.
In Kapadokya, also known as an "extraterrestrial landscape," you can fully enjoy nature, history, and the warm hospitality of the locals.
Antalya
Antalya is a Mediterranean port city located in southwestern Turkey. It is a tourist destination known as the "Treasure Chest of the Mediterranean" with its warm subtropical climate, rich nature, and ancient ruins. Founded in the 2nd century BC by King Attalus II of the Attalid dynasty, the city's name comes from "Antalya" and flourished as a trading hub from ancient times to the Middle Ages.
The city's iconic spot, Kaleici (Old Town), is characterized by a historic streetscape of stone buildings and narrow alleys, and you can enjoy a contrasting atmosphere with the blue sea of the Mediterranean. In addition, there are many famous places where you can feel the breath of history, such as Hadrian's Gate, Duden Waterfall, and the ancient cities of Aspendos and Perge in the vicinity.
Don't miss the natural beauty. Konualti Beach and Lara Beach have Blue Flag-certified white sand and crystal clear waters, where you can enjoy sunbathing and water sports. Duden Waterfall is particularly popular for its dramatic scenery that flows from the pool into the Mediterranean Sea, and in the summer it is crowded with tourists enjoying barbecues by the waterfall.
The food culture is also attractive, with fresh vegetables and fruits grown in the fertile soil of the Taurus Mountains, as well as Mediterranean cuisine's representative meze and seafood. Antalya is the "pearl of southern Turkey," where you can enjoy ancient history, Mediterranean relaxation, and active experiences all at once.
Denizli Province
Denizli Province is located in southwestern Turkey and is a world-famous tourist destination known for Pamukalle and the ancient city of Hierapolis. The area is characterized by its UNESCO World Heritage-listed "white limestone terraces," and is also known as the "cotton castle" due to its mysterious landscape. The name comes from the way the white, silky calcium carbonate terraces pile up like snow, which is why it was called the "cotton castle." The ruins of the ancient Roman city of Hierapolis are also located on the site, and you can feel the history of the city's prosperity as a fortress city built in 190 BC.
The highlight of the tour is the experience of walking through the warm, clear hot springs (currently some access is restricted for protection). In addition, from the Pamukalle Theater on the hill above the city, you can see the theater, which retains the appearance of ancient Rome, and the surrounding white terraced fields, and enjoy the harmony of history and nature at the same time.
Bodrum
Bodrum is a fascinating port city located on a peninsula jutting out into the Aegean Sea in southwestern Turkey, where history and modern resorts blend together. It inherits the legacy of the ancient Greek city of Halicarnassus and is known for its stunning views of white houses and blue seas, making it a popular resort destination known by Westerners as a "Mediterranean paradise."
First of all, Bodrum Castle (Castle of the Knights of St. John) is a must-see spot. Built by Christian knights in 1404, it is a structure that has a history of functioning as a strategic fortress before the Ottoman conquest. The castle is also home to the Underwater Archaeology Museum, which displays remains of ancient ships and artworks, attracting tourists.
Historical attractions include the ancient amphitheater and Myndos Gate, where you can trace the hometown of Herodotus (an ancient Greek historian who was born in Bodrum). In the center of the peninsula, the old town, characterized by windmills and white buildings, spreads out, and just strolling through the cobblestone alleys will engulf you in an exotic atmosphere.
Don't miss the natural beauty either. Resort beaches with the clear waters of the Aegean Sea and white sand, such as Güvenlik Beach and Çinsar Beach, are crowded with surfers and windsurfers. The moment when the sunset reflects on the water's surface is particularly picturesque.
In summer, Bodrum is bustling with tourists from Europe, but you can also enjoy fresh seafood and Aegean cuisine in the city's restaurants, and in the evening, you can enjoy a lively nightlife in the bar district. Why not experience an extraordinary time in this place where ancient history and Mediterranean resorts coexist?
Trabzon
Trabzon is an ancient city located on the Black Sea coast in eastern Turkey, boasting a history of 5,000 years. Since ancient times, it has flourished as a key point on the Silk Road, and is known as the "Pearl of the Black Sea," where Eastern and Western cultures intersect. As a port town surrounded by the majestic Pontius Mountains, it is a tourist destination where history and nature live in harmony.
The symbol of the city, Trabzon Citadel (Castle of the Knights of St. John), is a stone fortress built in the 13th century, and conveys the medieval appearance with a view of the Black Sea. In addition, the nearby Samela Monastery is a popular spot where you can experience a spiritual atmosphere with its mysterious scenery of a 6th century rock-cut church built on a cliff.
Trabzon's charm is not limited to history. Its food culture, rich in the bounty of the Black Sea, is also distinctive, and you can enjoy a journey of tastes, such as the local specialty Surmenepide thick bread, seafood dishes unique to the Black Sea coast, and traditional hamsikoy-style risotto.
Trabzon, which also serves as a port city, is a place where you can experience a story that spans a thousand years by strolling through the ruins of the ancient Roman port and the old town where the Byzantine walls remain. Why not experience the hidden charm of the East in this city where the breeze of the Black Sea, the greenery of the mountains, and the depth of history blend together?
Fethiye
Located in the province of Mura in southwestern Turkey, Fethiye is a tourist city on the Mediterranean coast, known as “the best-kept secret of the Mediterranean” for its ancient and medieval history and the harmony of its turquoise waters and lush mountains. Built on the site of the ancient city of Thermesos, which dates back to the 15th century B.C., the city flourished as a strategic point for trade between East and West, and its historical heritage and natural beauty continue to attract visitors today.
The city's historical sites of note include the Tomb of Amyntas, a rock tomb built by the ancient Lycians, and the ruined Christian town of Kayakoi (Onijo), where the stone houses weathered over time after people left in the ethnic exodus of the 1920s. This is a spot where you can experience the "authentic stage of history. From the fortress of Feteshie (ancient Thermesos), the view of the blue sea and the white houses is breathtaking, and the ancient aspect of the city can be seen today.
The Dead Sea, with its crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches, is famous for its natural beauty. Paragliding offers spectacular views over the sea, cruises in the caves and islands of Feteshieh Bay, and the secluded Butterfly Valley (Kelebek Dagi) offers picturesque scenery.
The city's culture is also fascinating, and a stroll through the cobblestone alleys of the old town of Kaleiçi will reveal Otomanto period buildings and traditional handicrafts in the local markets. The city's restaurants are also popular for their “mide tava” (grilled mussels) and fresh seafood, a dish that takes full advantage of the bounty of the Mediterranean Sea.
Fethiye is a “time-traveling city” where ancient history and Mediterranean resorts coexist. Why don't you come and explore history, experience nature, and enjoy a relaxing resort lifestyle - an experience that can only be found in this city?
