Japan

Japan

Embark on a captivating journey to Japan, a land of ancient traditions, cutting-edge technology, and breathtaking natural wonders. This diverse and enchanting country offers a perfect blend of modernity and tradition. Explore the bustling metropolis of Tokyo, where you can witness futuristic skyscrapers and historic temples coexisting harmoniously. Visit iconic landmarks like the Senso-ji Temple in Asakusa and the famous Shibuya Crossing.

Immerse yourself in Japan’s rich cultural heritage by partaking in traditional tea ceremonies, admiring exquisite cherry blossoms in spring, and experiencing the tranquil beauty of ancient temples and shrines. Discover the ancient city of Kyoto, where you can marvel at well-preserved wooden machiya houses and immerse yourself in the Zen atmosphere of the Golden Pavilion (Kinkaku-ji).

Indulge in the mouthwatering delights of Japanese cuisine, from sushi and sashimi to ramen and tempura. Experience the bustling street food scene in cities like Osaka and Fukuoka, and delight your taste buds with authentic regional dishes.

Whether you’re exploring the vibrant cityscapes, embracing the timeless traditions, or relishing the diverse flavours, holidays in Japan promise an unforgettable experience that will leave you with cherished memories. Plan your dream vacation and let this fascinating country captivate your heart.

Essential Information

BEST TIME TO VISIT

Many will want to be in Japan for the Cherry blossom season in April and May. Summers can be hot and humid, especially in the south – and it will be cold in winter.

FLIGHT TIME

Around 12 hours from the UK

TIME ZONE

GMT/BST +8

CURRENCY

Yen

IDEAL FOR

If you’re looking for a completely different culture, and don’t mind a bit of adventure.

HOW TO GET THERE

Direct flights are available with a number of different airlines to Tokyo – British Airways, Japan Airlines and ANA. Services to other cities can be found by travelling either through the Middle East, or alternatively Finland.

LANGUAGE

Japanese

IDEAL TO COMBINE WITH

There is so much to see and do in Japan that you probably wouldn’t want to leave, but it doe make a good twin-centre with South Korea which is nearby, or you could have some restful time on the beach.

Our Favourite Places in Japan

Suggested Itineraries

Kyoto, Japan

Golden Route

9 day holiday

Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto

This 9-night journey along Japan’s iconic Golden Route offers a superb introduction to the country, tracing the historic Tokaido Road from vibrant Tokyo to serene Kyoto. The adventure begins with a private guide-led exploration of Tokyo’s bustling streets and hidden gems, complemented by an exclusive izakaya experience. You’ll then retreat to the tranquil landscapes of Hakone National Park, where traditional ryokan hospitality, kaiseki dining, and soothing onsen baths offer a taste of refined relaxation.

In Kyoto, immerse yourself in the city’s rich heritage, from ancient temples to the elusive world of geisha, all while enjoying luxury accommodation in the heart of Japan’s cultural capital. The journey concludes back in Tokyo, offering a final glimpse of its dazzling modern skyline and lively urban charm. Throughout the trip, carefully selected hotels and thoughtful touches create a seamless blend of tradition and sophistication.

Miyajima

Best of Japan

15 day holiday

Tokyo, Hakone, Kyoto, Miyajima, Osaka, Takayama

This 14-night self-guided journey through Japan offers a well-rounded introduction to the country’s contrasts – from the ultra-modern to the deeply traditional. Beginning in Tokyo, you’ll uncover a fusion of past and future before heading to Hakone, where open-air museums and hot springs await under the shadow of Mount Fuji. In Kyoto, discover quiet temples, hidden alleys, and the country’s cultural roots, followed by time on the tranquil island of Miyajima, where a traditional ryokan stay offers front-row views of one of Japan’s most iconic shrines.

The itinerary continues to Osaka, where the pace is lively, the food unforgettable, and the atmosphere distinctly relaxed. From there, it’s into the Hida mountains for a taste of rural Japan in Takayama, complete with scenic cycling and exquisite kaiseki dining. The adventure wraps up back in Tokyo, this time in the buzzing district of Shinjuku – a fitting finale for a trip that captures the full range of Japan’s charm, from peaceful nature to sparkling city lights.

Kanazawa

Traditional Japan

15 day holiday

Tokyo, Kanazawa, Shirakawago, Takayama, Matsumoto, Tsumago, Kyoto

This 14-night self-guided itinerary through Traditional Japan focuses on heritage, craftsmanship, and rural charm, offering a deep dive into the country’s historic roots. Starting in Tokyo’s Asakusa district, you’ll be introduced to centuries-old temples before heading to Kanazawa, where preserved geisha quarters and samurai residences offer a glimpse into the past. From there, travel into the mountains to stay in a gassho-zukuri farmhouse in the UNESCO-listed village of Shirakawago, followed by time in the artisan town of Takayama, known for its wooden architecture and alpine culture.

The journey continues to Matsumoto to explore its striking black castle, then onwards to Tsumago for a taste of Edo-period life along the Nakasendo trail. In Kyoto, immerse yourself in Japan’s spiritual and cultural heart, with ancient temples and traditional townhouses around every corner. The trip ends with a return to Tokyo—this time in the bustling district of Shinjuku—providing a modern contrast to the serene, time-honoured experiences that define this itinerary.

Nikko, Japan

World Heritage

18 day holiday

Tokyo, Nikko, Kyoto, Mount Koya, Himeji, Hiroshima, Kanzazwa, Shirakawago

This 17-night self-guided adventure through Japan is designed around its most iconic World Heritage Sites, offering an immersive blend of cultural heritage, sacred landscapes and traditional architecture. The journey starts in Tokyo’s historic Asakusa district before moving to Nikko, where ornate shrines sit amidst natural beauty. Kyoto follows, with the chance to explore a remarkable collection of 17 UNESCO-listed sites, from serene temples to moss gardens. Then it’s on to sacred Mount Koya, where you’ll stay in a working temple and wander through the atmospheric Okunoin cemetery.

From there, the itinerary takes you west to Himeji to marvel at its famous white castle, then to Hiroshima, a city shaped by resilience and reflection. Kanazawa offers more traditional charm with its preserved districts and samurai heritage, followed by a night in a thatched farmhouse in the picturesque alpine village of Shirakawago. The trip ends back in Tokyo, this time in the futuristic surrounds of Shinjuku—an energetic finish that contrasts beautifully with the depth of history experienced throughout the journey.

Miyajima, Japan

Secrets of Shikoku

13 day holiday

Kyoto, Miyajima, Matsuyama, Kotohira, Iya Valley, Takamatsu, Osaka

This 13-night self-guided journey through the “Secrets of Shikoku” combines cultural heritage with off-the-beaten-track exploration. The adventure begins in Kyoto, with time to explore its renowned temples and the option to visit nearby Nara or Uji. You’ll then head to Hiroshima and sacred Miyajima Island before crossing the water to Matsuyama on Shikoku Island, where a soak in Japan’s oldest onsen bathhouse offers a taste of timeless tradition.

From Matsuyama, you’ll begin a self-drive experience through the island’s rural heart. Stops include Kotohira, home to Shikoku’s most revered shrine, and the remote Iya Valley, known for its vine bridges and deep gorges. The journey continues to Takamatsu with its exquisite landscape gardens, before wrapping up in vibrant Osaka—a modern contrast to the quiet countryside and traditional inns that define much of the trip.

Biel

Wild Hokkaido

15 day holiday

Tokyo, Utoro, Lake Kussharo, Mount Asahi, Biel, Sapporo, Hakodate

This 14-night self-guided journey through Wild Hokkaido takes you from the urban sprawl of Tokyo to the remote and dramatic landscapes of Japan’s northernmost island. After a brief stay in the capital, you’ll fly to the Shiretoko Peninsula—renowned for its untouched wilderness and rich wildlife—before heading into the volcanic scenery of Akan National Park and the serene shores of Lake Kussharo. The adventure continues west to Mount Asahi in the Daisetsuzan mountains, where hiking and alpine views await, followed by a stay in Biei, known for its rolling patchwork fields and seasonal flower displays.

The second half of the trip offers a shift in pace, beginning in the lively city of Sapporo—Hokkaido’s modern hub with great food, culture and parks—before moving south to the historic port town of Hakodate. The journey concludes with a return to Tokyo, this time in Shinjuku, where neon lights and buzzing energy offer a final contrast to the tranquil, rural landscapes of Hokkaido explored throughout the trip.

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We would be delighted to talk about your holiday arrangements over the phone. You can contact us between 8am and 10pm every day (outside of office hours may not be immediate).

01442 879787

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Our office is open 9:30am to 5pm Monday to Saturday (excluding Bank Holidays). If you wish to make an appointment, please either call or send a message, although it’s not compulsory.

254 HIGH STREET, BERKHAMSTED

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