A country of glorious contrasts, Japanese culture, heritage and traditions are unlike anywhere else in the world.
It’s a destination that appeals to young and old alike, so whether you’re planning a tailor-made vacation to Japan with your family, are keen to take in the world-famous cherry blossom or are simply hoping to explore on a budget, our Japan country guides are an invaluable reference. From a stay in a traditional ryokan to sampling some of Japan’s tasty cuisine, experiences are plentiful.
Start planning your tailor-made trip by contacting one of our Japan specialists
Our travel guides share our specialists' passion and knowledge for Japan. We travel here regularly to discover new experiences, explore untried areas and dig deeper into the better-known places and attractions. At the same time, we gather advice and up-to-date information on the best-quality guides, new hotels and restaurants, and the most memorable forms of transportation.
Driving in Japan: Hokkaido Island
Hokkaido, Japan’s northernmost island, is a volcanic, alpine-forested wilderness with bubbling hot springs and vivid-blue caldera lakes. Japan specialist Toby explains how you can make the most of your visit by self-driving across the island.
Driving in Japan: the logistics
In this how-to guide, our Japan specialist Toby explains what it’s like driving around Japan. We’ve asked him some practical questions about traffic, navigation and the quirks of Japanese motoring.
On foot in Japan: walking trails for all abilities
Exploring Japan on foot gives you access to hallowed pilgrimage trails, panoramic mountain passes and some of the oldest trees in the world. Our Japan specialists share their pick of the best, from gentle strolls to multi-day hikes.
Gardens of Japan
From Kenrokuen’s venerated views to gardens hidden deep in the countryside, specialist Amanda recommends her preferred gardens to visit in Japan. She also explains what makes Japan’s gardens so interesting and why gardening is an important national art form.
Stay in a ryokan
A stay in a ryokan, or traditional Japanese inn, is often the highlight of a trip to Japan. From the warm hospitality and exquisite food to bathing in the steaming waters of an onsen, Japan specialist Tesia talks you through the experience.
What to do in Japan: our highlights guide
Having lived and traveled across the country, our Japan Specialist Caitlin has compiled her highlights, from observing centuries-old rituals to the learning about the most modern technology.
Japan’s seasons: cherry blossom and beyond
Each Japanese season brings a raft of distinct experiences, from spring’s cherry blossom to winter’s snow crab delicacies. Japan specialist Laura shares the highlights of each time of year to help you decide when to visit Japan.
Japan: a year in festivals & celebrations
Japan specialist Rachael had time to take part in many festivals and celebrations while living in the country. She explains why attending such an event in Japan is an ideal way to explore Japanese culture, and discusses a few of her most memorable celebrations.
Three days of Japanese arts and culture in Kanazawa
Ever since the Edo-era ruling clan invited artisans from across Japan to work in Kanazawa, the city has quietly become one of Japan’s pre-eminent cities of culture. Japan specialist Rebecca suggests a three-day itinerary to see the best of the city.
Japan, the Joanna Lumley way
Spotting red-crowned cranes on a snow-dusted field, riding the ultra-modern bullet train, swimming with female free divers who represent a centuries-old tradition… Inspired by the 2016 docuseries Joanna Lumley’s Japan, Audley’s specialists share some like-minded experiences to include on a Japan trip.
Family holidays to Japan
A futuristic and vibrant country, Japan is a destination that appeals to family members of all ages. Safe, clean and with a good infrastructure, there are plenty of ways to explore. Japan specialist, Jake, talks us through how to get the most of your family vacation in Japan.
Japan’s bullet trains: an all-you-need-to-know guide
Japan has long been celebrated for its high-speed train innovations. Japan specialist Phil explains why, for him, Japan’s bullet trains are an ideal way to see the country. He shares his experiences riding the trains through Japan and how to incorporate them into your trip.
Value Japan: how to make your money go further
Japan specialist Rory explains how, by visiting his recommended places to eat and stay, and choosing the time you travel wisely, a good-value trip to Japan is more achievable than ever.
Honeymoons in Japan
Honeymoon couples looking for a cultural adventure will be spoiled for choice in Japan. Country specialist, Layla, discusses some of the highlights for those wishing to honeymoon here.
Luxury vacations in Japan
Japan is a country where historic traditions and modern living blend seamlessly, and there are a number of ways to combine luxury and culture. One of our Japan specialists, Katherine, details some of the most appealing ways to indulge in this unique destination.
What it’s like to stay in a machiya, a traditional Kyoto townhouse
If you’re after a typically Japanese stay during your time in Japan, a ryokan isn’t your only option. Japanese specialist Clio describes what it’s like to stay in a machiya, a traditional wooden townhouse that’s a signature of Kyoto.
What to eat in Japan: sushi and beyond
You might know your sushi, but it’s just the tip of a cuisine that’s garnered UNESCO heritage status. Our Japan specialists delve into some of the culinary experiences Japan has to offer, from kaiseki multi-course dinners to convenience-store specialties.
Top 9 trips to Japan
An authentic tea ceremony in Kyoto, Tokyo’s neon-lit streets, the volcanic landscapes of Kyushu… where will your trip to Japan take you? We’ve curated our specialists’ top tour ideas to inspire your travels.
Mount Fuji
Mount Fuji is, along with geisha, sushi and the bullet train, one of the most iconic images of the country. We can offer advice on where to view Japan's most famous landmark, as well as how to incorporate some of these other sights into a tailor-made trip to Japan.
11 best places to visit in Japan
To help you decide where to go in Japan, we’ve put together a list of our top places to visit. You might stay in a Buddhist temple on Mount Koya, learn how to make udon noodles in Shikoku, or attend an authentic tea ceremony in Kanazawa.
Highlights of Kanagawa
Just outside of Tokyo, Kanagawa includes Hakone National Park and the sleepy seaside town of Kamakura. Japan specialist Rebecca explains how an overnight visit here gives you the chance to rest and reset after the capital’s frenetic rush.
