Japan is a land of captivating natural beauty, steeped in rich history, time-honoured traditions, and warm hospitality. Its culinary scene, renowned worldwide, has positioned Japan as a global epicenter of gastronomy, attracting food enthusiasts eager to explore its diverse and exquisite offerings. From vibrant cities to tranquil countryside, Japan’s breathtaking landscapes and unique cultural experiences create an enchanting destination that leaves a lasting impression on every traveller.
Tokyo: Japan’s dynamic capital is a dazzling fusion of ultramodern cityscapes and pockets of traditional culture. From world-class shopping and dining to historic districts like Asakusa and serene temples and gardens, Tokyo offers something for everyone. Despite its vast urban footprint, the city surprises with peaceful green spaces scattered throughout.
Kyoto: Often referred to as the cultural heart of Japan, Kyoto is home to over 1,600 Buddhist temples, 400 Shinto shrines, and 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites. Visitors can explore exquisite gardens, traditional tea houses, and the iconic Sagano Bamboo Grove, where the sound of the wind through bamboo creates a uniquely tranquil experience.
Shirakawa-go: This UNESCO-listed mountain village is famed for its gassho-zukuri farmhouses, with steeply thatched roofs designed to withstand heavy snowfall. Visiting in winter is especially magical, as the snow-covered scenery turns the village into a living postcard from Japan’s past.
Kanazawa: A former castle town rich in history and artistry, Kanazawa is best known for Kenrokuen Garden, one of Japan’s most beautiful, and its well-preserved samurai and geisha districts. The city also embraces modern culture with attractions like the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art.
Takayama: Nestled in the mountains, Takayama offers a glimpse into Japan’s Edo-era heritage. Its beautifully preserved Old Town features centuries-old merchant houses, sake breweries, and cafes. The city’s biannual Takayama Festival is among Japan’s most spectacular traditional celebrations.
Japan is a year-round destination, with each season offering something unique. Spring (late March to early April) is famous for cherry blossoms, a peak travel time marked by beautiful but crowded scenes across Honshū. Autumn (September to mid-December) brings clear skies and colourful foliage, making it another favourite season to visit. Winter (January to March) is cool in most regions, with snowfall in the mountains ideal for skiing. The rainy season falls in June and July (excluding Hokkaidō), bringing occasional downpours and high humidity. Avoid travelling during Golden Week (late April to early May), Obon (mid-August), and New Year (late December to early January), as these are peak domestic travel periods when accommodation and transport are heavily booked.
Currency: Japanese Yen (JPY)
Language: Japanese
What makes it special: Japan captivates with its ancient tradition and futuristic innovation. From centuries-old temples and tranquil gardens to buzzing cities and cutting-edge design, it’s a place of remarkable contrasts. Whether you're marvelling at cherry blossoms, soaking in a mountain onsen, or enjoying an omakase sushi meal, Japan delivers unforgettable experiences across all interests.
Social customs: Respect and subtlety define Japanese etiquette. Greetings are formal and often involve bowing. In social settings, removing shoes when entering homes or certain restaurants is expected. At the dining table, wait to be seated, avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice, and try a bit of everything offered. Communication tends to be indirect, passive expressions and modest behaviour are appreciated. Silence during meals is common, as is avoiding loud conversations in public. Small gestures of politeness go a long way in showing respect for local customs.
We have had a number of our Travel Designers visit Japan. Donna visited Japan in 2024 and you can read more about her adventure here. Michelle Sutton also has recently been, see her account below!
My journey through Japan in February was a fascinating mix of old and new, nature and city, with something to engage every age group. We travelled through Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Nara and Osaka, and each place offered its own unique rhythm and charm. Winter temperatures ranged from 0 to 15°C, so packing layers was essential, especially since indoor spaces were often warm. I’d highly recommend arranging an arrival transfer and a local guide, just having someone help with navigating the rail pass and exploring early on made all the difference. Shinjuku was a great place to stay for train access, and Tokyo's energy was infectious, from the chaos of Shibuya Crossing to the peacefulness of traditional streets in Asakusa. A big highlight for me was TeamLab Planets, a modern art sensory experience that you absolutely need to pre-book.
In Hakone, although we missed out on the views of Mt Fuji due to weather, we loved the intricate local crafts and the quirky Hakone Open Air Museum with its Picasso Gallery. Kyoto was equally unforgettable, especially the beautiful old streets of the Higashiyama District and the Fushimi Inari Shrine with its famous red torii gates. I was also really moved by our visit to Nara, where sacred deer roam freely, and we saw the incredible Todaiji Temple housing the world’s largest bronze Buddha. In Osaka, I joined a street food walking tour that was one of the highlights of my trip, delicious, informative, and filled with quirky surprises like retro arcades and themed onsen hotels. Throughout the journey, I loved the onsen experience (even the public ones!), the regional food specialities, and the unexpected mix of warmth and efficiency that defines Japan. I’d go back in a heartbeat.
