Japan
Ancient culture and futuristic cities



Think Japan is just futuristic cities and advanced technology? Think again. Yes, Japan is home to Tokyo with all its gleaming lights, capsule hotels and robot restaurants, but there is also another side to this country, which teems with traditional culture. Travel around and you can stay in ancient ryokans (traditional inns), meditate with monks and explore beautiful countryside.
Japan’s varied geography means there is plenty to explore beyond its cities. More than two-thirds of the country is mountainous, with hiking and hot springs to soothe weary feet and plenty of snow for winter sports enthusiasts. Look out for wildflowers and cherry blossom in the warmer months and head to the southern islands for tropical beaches.
Wherever you travel in Japan, you’re assured of an excellent meal. One of the world’s great cuisines, Japanese food is seasonal, sourced from fresh, local ingredients and incredibly varied. Try ramen in Hokkaido, hotpot dishes in the north and sushi in coastal areas.
Off the beaten path in Japan
Experiencing the best of Japan beyond Tokyo
When people think of Japan, there are certain destinations that spring readily to mind. The futuristic skyline of Tokyo, the neon-lit streets of Osaka, the serene temples of Kyoto. These cities are fantastic places to visit – particularly on your first trip – but their rightful popularity can bring with it crowded attractions and high prices...read more
14 days
Japan’s Cities And Countryside Itinerary
12 day temples, teahouses and Tokyo itinerary
-
Tokyo
Tokyo has more Michelin-starred restaurants than any other city in the world, but it’s not just about famous restaurants and high prices... -
Kyoto
Kyoto is home to more than 2,000 atmospheric temples and shrines... -
Takayama
Little Takayama in Central Honshu is famous for its taste of rural Japan... -
Matsumoto
The alpine city of Matsumoto is famous for many things – it’s renowned for producing incredible art and artists, its beautiful setting in the northern Japanese Alps and for being the birthplace of soba (buckwheat) noodles, a Japanese delicacy... -
Hakone
Hakone is best known for its natural onsen (hot spa pools) and views of Mount Fuji... -
Kinosaki
Kinosaki is the archetypal onsen town — as well as being tourist-friendly... -
Himeji
Built in 1580, Himeji-jo has a legitimate claim to be Japan’s most magnificent castle... -
Takamatsu
The gardens of Ritsurin Park are one of Takamatsu main attractions and are the perfect place to relax... -
Osaka
Japan’s third-largest city might not be its prettiest, but it is one of its most welcoming... -
Hiroshima
While modern Hiroshima is a thriving, cosmopolitan city, it will always be known as the city destroyed by the world’s first atomic bomb... -
Iya Valley
The Iya Valley is a huge expanse of tree-lined mountains and deep river gorges, home to tiny villages, hot springs and great views... -
Kanazawa
Kanazawa is capital of the Ishikawa Prefecture and was largely undamaged by World War Two air raids, making it a great place to explore Japan’s historical architecture, such as the Nagamachi samurai district... -
Mt Fuji
...
Places to go in Japan
Japan Tours

Ancient Forts & Futuristic Cities
Tokyo, Mount Fuji, Hiroshima, Kyoto, Osaka & Kanazawa
15 daysFrom £3,015
Japan in a Nutshell
10-Day Japan Itinerary - Tokyo, Hakone & Kyoto
10 daysFrom £1,975Japan Travel Companies

