The Land Of The Rising Sun
Japan
Japan was voted the best country in the world in the 2023 Readers' Choice Awards
Japan is an island of cultural heritage is steeped in centuries-old traditions that continue to thrive today, from ancient temples and shrines to captivating geisha districts, the country offers a glimpse into its rich past.
Tokyo boasts some of the best restaurants globally
World-Class Restaurants: Tokyo boasts some of the best restaurants globally, offering a wide range of cuisines from traditional Japanese to international fusion, from Michelin-starred restaurants such as Sukiyabashi Jiro in Tokyo to humble izakayas, there's something to suit every palate and budget.
Omakase Dining: Omakase, meaning "I'll leave it up to you" in Japanese, is a dining experience where customers entrust the chef to select their meal, this practice showcases the chef's creativity and expertise in selecting and preparing the freshest ingredients.
Shokunin Spirit: Japanese chefs are known for their dedication to their craft, often spending years perfecting their skills, the shokunin spirit emphasises the pursuit of perfection and mastery in one's work, which is reflected in the meticulous preparation and presentation of dishes.
Experience The Japan
The Excitement Of Travelling Japan
Traveling to Japan offers a plethora of unique and exciting experiences that cater to a wide range of interests, here are some of the amazing adventures we can book whilst visiting Japan:
Explore Tokyo: Begin your journey in Tokyo, Japan's bustling capital city. Visit iconic landmarks such as the Tokyo Tower, Meiji Shrine, and Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa, exploring the diverse neighbourhoods like Shibuya, Harajuku, and Shinjuku, each offering its own distinct atmosphere and attractions.
Savour Japanese Cuisine: We love Indulging in the culinary delights of Japan, from sushi and sashimi to ramen, tempura, and kaiseki multi-course meals, make sure you don't miss the chance to try local specialties like okonomiyaki in Osaka, takoyaki in Kyoto, and street food in Hiroshima's Miyajima Island.
Experience Traditional Culture: Immerse yourself in Japan's rich cultural heritage by attending a traditional tea ceremony, trying on a kimono, or learning about the art of bonsai or ikebana (flower arranging), visiting the historic landmarks such as Kyoto's Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) and Nara's Todai-ji Temple.
Enjoy Nature: Japan boasts stunning natural landscapes, from cherry blossom-filled parks in spring to colourful foliage in autumn, exploring the scenic spots like Mount Fuji, the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and the Japanese Alps. Relax in hot springs (onsen) in places like Hakone or Beppu.
Visit Historic Sites: Discover Japan's fascinating history by exploring ancient castles, temples, and shrines, with the amazing highlights such as Himeji Castle, Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park, and the ancient capital cities of Kyoto and Nara, home to numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Engage in Modern Entertainment: Experience Japan's vibrant pop culture scene by visiting anime and manga shops in Akihabara, attending a sumo wrestling match, or exploring the interactive exhibits at Tokyo's teamLab Borderless digital art museum.
Travel on High-Speed Trains: Ride the world-famous Shinkansen (bullet train) for a fast and efficient way to travel between cities, admiring the scenic views of Japan's countryside while enjoying the comfort and convenience of high-speed rail travel.
Participate in Festivals: Joining the Japanese festivities at traditional festivals (matsuri) celebrated throughout the year, experiencing the lively events like the Gion Matsuri in Kyoto, the Nebuta Matsuri in Aomori, and the Sapporo Snow Festival in Hokkaido.
Shop for Souvenirs: There is nothing better than searching for gifts to take home a piece of Japan by shopping for unique souvenirs such as traditional crafts, ceramics, textiles, and culinary treats like matcha tea and regional snacks. Explore shopping districts like Tokyo's Ginza, Osaka's Dotonbori, and Kyoto's Nishiki Market.
Interact with Locals: Engaging with the friendly locals, learn about Japanese customs, traditions, and daily life, striking up a conversation at a local izakaya (pub) or participating in a cultural exchange program, interacting with locals can enrich your travel experience.
These are just a few of the many incredible things to do while travelling in Japan, a country that seamlessly blends ancient traditions with modern innovations, offering something for every traveller to enjoy, and Exclusive Travel Holidays can prepare a bespoke holiday, or one of our created holidays which takes in the key sites you wonr want to miss travelling Japan.
Tokyo
As the capital city and Japan's largest metropolis, Tokyo offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and style, the popular areas to stay include Shibuya, Shinjuku, Ginza, and Asakusa, each offering a unique atmosphere and easy access to attractions, dining, and shopping.
Hakone
Located near Mount Fuji, Hakone is a popular destination for hot springs (onsen) and scenic landscapes, staying in a ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) for an authentic experience, complete with tatami rooms, kaiseki meals, and relaxing hot spring baths.
Kyoto
Known for its rich history, traditional architecture, and cultural attractions, Kyoto is a top destination for travellers seeking a more tranquil and traditional experience. Stay in areas like Gion (the historic geisha district), Higashiyama (near famous temples and shrines), or Arashiyama (known for its bamboo grove and scenic beauty).
Osaka
As Japan's second-largest city, Osaka is a vibrant hub of food, entertainment, and shopping, Namba and Dotonbori are popular areas to stay, offering easy access to nightlife, street food, and shopping arcades. Umeda and Osaka Castle are also great options for accommodation.
Hiroshima
Explore the historic and resilient city of Hiroshima, home to the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, staying near Hiroshima Station for convenience, or opt for accommodation on Miyajima Island for a more scenic and peaceful experience.
Sapporo
Located on the northern island of Hokkaido, Sapporo is famous for its beer, snow festivals, and outdoor activities, staying in the bustling Susukino district for nightlife and dining options, or explore the scenic landscapes of nearby ski resorts like Niseko or Furano.
Okinawa
For a tropical getaway, head to Okinawa, a chain of islands in the southernmost part of Japan. Stay in resorts along the coast for stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant coral reefs, or opt for a traditional minshuku (guesthouse) for a more local experience.
Sapporo
Located on the northern island of Hokkaido, Sapporo is famous for its beer, snow festivals, and outdoor activities. Stay in the bustling Susukino district for nightlife and dining options, or explore the scenic landscapes of nearby ski resorts like Niseko or Furano.