Japan
Ancient customs and contemporary culture sit in quiet harmony, shaping a layered perspective.
About Japan
Japan balances centuries-old tradition with extraordinary modernity, creating a destination defined by quiet refinement, precision, and cultural depth. From the neon intensity of Tokyo to the serene beauty surrounding Mount Fuji, contrasting experiences exist in remarkable harmony. Supported by world-class infrastructure, seamless transport, and one of the world’s most revered culinary scenes, Japan offers a journey rich in artistry, ritual, and atmosphere.
Sapporo
Sapporo is a dynamic northern city best known for its excellent ski scene and the renowned Snow Festival held each February. Beyond winter, its cooler climate makes it an appealing summer escape from Japan’s hotter cities. Spacious, modern and easy to explore, Sapporo offers a refreshing change of pace.
Sendai
Sendai was planned and built in the 1600s by samurai Date Masamune, who created an elegant city with broad, tree-lined avenues and countless pavement cafes. Its appeal is universal, with world-class entertainment alongside hilltop ruins, serene temples and fabulous coastal views in nearby Matsushima.
Niseko
Niseko is famed for its reliable powder snow and striking views of Mount Yotei. Beyond the winter season, it offers hiking, rafting and other adventurous pursuits, alongside cosy chalet-style accommodation and soothing hot springs, making it an appealing destination throughout the year.
Shiretoko
This UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site in the remote far east of Japan features an abundance of wildlife along with rugged coastlines and vast forests shaped by strong seasonal shifts. Drifting sea ice, waterfalls and volcanic cliffs make Shiretoko one of Japan’s most extraordinary wilderness destinations.
Tokyo
Japan’s capital is a city of striking contrasts, where dense urban energy and deep-rooted tradition exist in remarkable harmony. Futuristic skyscrapers, dazzling neon lights, manga culture and cutting-edge trends sit alongside tranquil parks and gardens, as well as centuries-old shrines and temples, creating one of the world’s most characterful cities.
Nagoya
Nagoya is a hotbed of modern craftsmanship and innovation, populated by dynamic high-tech firms, cutting-edge contemporary architecture, vast shopping districts, amusement parks and a vibrant restaurant scene. Yet it has numerous peaceful corners and offers ideal transport links to central Japan’s charming countryside.
Takayama
Set amid the mountains of Gifu Prefecture, Takayama provides a beautifully preserved glimpse into traditional Japanese life. The quaint charm of the Edo period is reflected in its historic old town where narrow lanes, wooden merchant houses, sake breweries and craft shops are waiting to be explored.
Nikko
North of Tokyo, the small town of Nikko grew around an ornate shrine complex built to honour the Tokugawa shogunate during the peaceful Edo period. A sense of serenity still defines the area, with cedar forests, tranquil lakes, waterfalls and hot springs. Nikko is also recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Osaka
Osaka is best known for its magnificent 16th-century. Nowadays it features a busy trading port, some intriguing underground shopping arcades and Japan’s oldest temple. It has earned a reputation for its outstanding street food, while its proximity to Kansai Airport provides quick connections across Japan.
Kyoto
One of the best-preserved cities in Japan, Kyoto is Japan’s former capital and the imperial residence for centuries. This cultured city has an abundance of ornate gardens, temples and shrines, with more than 2,000 religious buildings in total, 17 of them named as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Kanazawa
Kanazawa is a refined city where artistic heritage and historic charm remain beautifully preserved. Home to one of Japan’s Three Great Gardens, it also features elegant geisha teahouses, well-preserved samurai residences and a thriving contemporary art scene, creating a destination that feels both timeless and culturally vibrant.
Nara
Some historians consider Nara Japan’s first capital, and it remains one of the country’s most treasured historical destinations. Renowned for its ancient temples, wooden architecture and some of Japan’s oldest Buddhist art, the city is also distinctive for the deer that roam freely around many of its most famous sites.
Hiroshima
Hiroshima is a prosperous and welcoming city defined by leafy boulevards, peaceful parks and a calm, resilient spirit. Blending modern appeal with historical significance, it also serves as the gateway to scenic Miyajima Island, one of Japan’s most celebrated coastal landmarks and home to the iconic Itsukushima Shrine.
Setouchi
Creativity is at the forefront at this serene coastal region around the Seto Inland Sea. Amid cleverly curated art landscapes, it hosts a global contemporary art festival and is home to creative island communities. Relaxed cycling routes, island escapes and exceptional seafood are all close by.
Matsuyama
Matsuyama has long attracted scholars and poets, lending the city a refined, old-world atmosphere. Its highlights include Dogo Onsen, one of Japan’s oldest bathhouses, and the Shiki Memorial Museum, which honours Masaoka Shiki, widely regarded as one of Japan’s greatest masters of haiku.
Takamatsu
Set on the shores of the Seto Inland Sea, Takamatsu has been thoughtfully revitalised, with a lively waterfront complementing its historic gardens. Its standout attraction is Ritsurin Garden, a masterpiece of landscape design with tranquil ponds, elegant bridges and sculpted pines set against striking mountain views.
Fukuoka
Fukuoka is an ultra-modern city that is still booming and thriving, with a youthful population, cosmopolitan atmosphere and eclectic nightlife. Even in a country where food is a passion, the offerings here are exceptional. Fukuoka’s compact size and extensive subway make it particularly easy to explore.
Nagasaki
Nagasaki has a long history as one of Japan’s most internationally connected port cities, giving it a distinctive cosmopolitan character. European-influenced architecture, diverse cuisine and a rich cultural heritage reflect these global ties, while scenic harbours and lively bayside neighbourhoods add further charm to this characterful and atmospheric destination.
Naha
Naha has reinvented itself as a lively and welcoming city, known for its energetic atmosphere, bustling boulevard of bars, hotels, shops and restaurants, and rich Ryukyu heritage. A key highlight is Shuri Castle, a symbol of Okinawan history and part of the UNESCO World Heritage listing in the area.
Ishigaki
This island in southwestern Okinawa is known for emerald waters, vibrant coral reefs and a laid-back atmosphere. Pristine beaches, marine sanctuaries, lush inland scenery, together with warm hospitality and fresh local cuisine, make Ishigaki a perfect paradise island.
Our team in Japan
Our teams of travel enthusiasts in Japan draw upon unmatched local insight and long-standing partnerships to create standout journeys. Their unwavering support ensures every experience is exactly as you planned.
Justin
Chang
Japan
Olivia
Hernandez
Japan
Minako
Unno
Japan
Theo
Dunkley
Japan
Experience Japan
From Kyoto’s temple-lined streets to Tokyo’s evolving neighbourhoods and the wild landscapes of Hokkaido, Japan reveals a depth of culture, nature and craft. Each experience is designed to inspire and can be fully tailored to suit your clients’ needs and interests.
What’s new in Japan?
Explore our latest Japan news, including destination developments, new itineraries, sustainability updates and more.
Discover Japan
Our interactive ebook contains the latest updates from Japan, along with links to country factsheets, maps and key destination information.
Connect with our specialists in Japan
Our team can assist with creating tailormade journeys in Japan, offering expert advice, creative ideas, and deep destination knowledge to help bring your vision to life.