Japan Tours & Vacations
Land of the Rising Sun
Japan has a fascinating and multifaceted culture; on the one hand it is steeped in the deepest of traditions dating back thousands of years, long before the Shinto and Samurai traditions while on the other it is a society in a state of rapid flux, with fast changing fashions and unstoppable technological development. All of these combined make it an alluring destination for the modern traveler.
Best Time to Visit Japan
The spring season (March to May) and the autumn months (September to November) are the best times to visit Japan. During these times, Japan comes alive with the contrast of cherry blossoms and bright red foliage dotting the landscape. The peaks of the Japanese Alps and Hokkaido’s wild national parks are perfect for hikers and nature lovers during the summer months (June to August). The weather in other places is warm and moist.
Visit the northern part of Japan between December and February for a completely unique experience. It snows, but the locals make the most of the harsh weather by celebrating all sorts of festivals and other events. It’s also a good idea to consider Japan’s national holidays. People tend to travel more often during the Japanese New Year (Shogaatsu), Obon (either mid-August or mid-July, depending on the locale), and the Golden Week (April 29–May 5).
Month-by-Month Guide for Traveling to Japan
Japan is a wonderful country that values etiquette, ceremony, discipline and tradition. It’s also the place to experience novelty, perfection, and delectable cuisine. In summary, a visit here is sure to leave you amazed and astounded. Discover the wonders of Japan with our seasonal travel guide and enjoy your trip to the fullest!
In April, when the cherry blossoms are at their best, Kyoto and Tokyo look heavenly. Visit the mountain town of Takayama, during its Sanno Festival, when festive floats pass through the town's blossom filled streets. May's Golden Week is a busy time, but the Aoi Festival in Kyoto is worth visiting in spite of the crowds. Join a lively Shinto parade and take photos of memorable moments during Japan's best weather.
Participate in Hiroshima's lantern-floating ritual that solemnizes the anniversary of the atomic bombing of 1945. As the weather cools in September, it's the perfect time to go whale watching in the south or explore the peaceful countryside.
Visit the Imperial Palace in Kyoto and enjoy the harvest festivals around the country druing the dry and bright November days. Learn more about the Shichi-Go-San custom, in which parents take their children to temples to pray for their health and happiness while dressed in traditional Japanese kimonos. Prepare to be embraced by Japan's autumn, with its milder weather, colorful festivals, and delicious food.
For bird lovers, adorable Japanese macaques loudly announce their arrival while enjoying the hot springs in Jigokudani in January. Experience the thrill of the Sumo New Year Basho in Tokyo and the archery performance at the Sanjusangendo Temple in Kyoto. Visit Sapporo in February for the Snow Festival with massive ice sculptures of iconic buildings. If you are a winter-sports enthusiast go skiing in the Japanese Alps and Hokkaido, while in Okinawa you can catch the first glimpses of emerging cherry blossom.
7 days Itinerary to Japan
Recommended sample itinerary to see the wonders of Japan!
Want to change the number of days, stay in palaces, add or swap out activities, no problem! Our travel experts will customize your itinerary keeping your interests in mind.
Day One: Arrival in Kyoto, the traditional and cultural capital of Japan. Famous Shinto and Buddhist shrines, exquisite gardens and intricate wooden houses adorn this laid back city.
Day Two: Explore Kyoto on a private guided tour, starting with the Fushimi Inari Temple – an absolute must. Relax while enjoying a traditional tea ceremony (geisha optional) in the afternoon.
In the evening, talk a walk through the bustling streets of Pontocho. Right next to the Kamogawa River, this area is replete with restaurants and bars offering mouthwatering fare.
Day Three: Arashiyama – you will start your day with a ride on a stunning, open-air train that provides amazing views of both the river and the surrounding forest. You’ll then travel down the Hozugawa Riveron a traditional, three-manned Japanese boat. In March, you’ll be floating past banks lined with white and pink cherry blossoms or vibrant colors of autumn trees in November.
Upon arrival in this beautiful district, you will embark on a tour of some of its more well-known sites. like Tenryuji Temple.
Day Four: A day trip to Nara – explore the Todaiji Temple and other sites in this ancient capital, ending the day watching a fireworks ceremony.
Day Five: Take a train trip to Hiroshima and Nagasaki to explore the sites of these historic “nuclear” cities.
Stay overnight here.
Day Six: Take a Shinkansen train to Tokyo and visit the shrine of Sensoji. Stop at the Imperial Palace hotel for tea, Then end the day visiting the glitzy bars, malls and cafes in the Ginza or Golden Gal or Shibuya districts.
Day Seven: Go on a scenic train ride to Hakone to take in the best views of Mount Fuji. Next stop at the mystical Hakone Shrine and Old Tokaido Road with a final stop at the Hakone Hot Springs.
Day Eight: Departure
People, food and culture
Japan is famed for its ethnic and social homogeneity while today Japanese society is an epitome of diversity. It includes minority groups such as the Ainu of Hokkaido and the Ryukyuans of Okinawa, but also other nationalities such as the Koreans, Chinese, and Brazilians. The country’s culture has changed greatly over the millennia from the country's prehistoric period to its contemporary modern culture which absorbs influences from Asia, Europe, and North America. Japanese cuisine is renowned around the world - popular dishes such as Ramen, Udon, Sushi, and Tempura need no introduction. Apart from the mainstream dishes there are also local specialties arising from the smaller towns and cities be it a type of sweet, fish, noodle, seaweed or tofu. Tokyo and Kobe consistently give birth to some of the best eateries in the world. You will never be far from a great meal. It is also a country of drinkers. Whilst “sake” (rice wine) is the national drink, lager-beer is the most popular. And let’s not forget that Japanese single malts have that captivated the palates of the scotch drinking world by storm. It is not just the alcoholic drinks that are popular though. Sado, for instance, is a Japanese green tea ceremony and an ancient tradition with roots traced back to Zen Buddhism. The ceremony involves the preparation and drinking of tea, including the widely celebrated powdered tea, Matcha.
Languages spoken:
Japanese
Fun Fact
Japan is an archipelago consisting of 6852 islands out of which only 430 are inhabited!
One reason you should go here
Go forest-bathing, or shinrin-yoku, a traditional practice that has proven to have immense health benefits! And let’s forget the spectacular scenery that greets one everywhere you go.
Travel FAQs on visiting Japan
Japan is in East Asia, consisting of a chain of islands off the eastern coast of the Asian mainland.
Japan is known for its rich cultural heritage, technological innovations, delicious cuisine (such as sushi and ramen), traditional arts like tea ceremonies and kabuki, beautiful cherry blossoms, and advancements in anime and gaming. And let’s not forget the discipline in everything they do.
While Japanese is the dominant language, English is also commonly used, particularly in major cities and popular tourist destinations.
For US and UK citizens, visiting Japan for tourism or business purposes is visa-free for up to 90 days. US citizens can take advantage of the Visa Waiver Program, while UK citizens can enter without a visa. It is important to have a valid passport, a return or onward ticket, and evidence of adequate funds for the duration of the stay.
The best time to visit Japan depends on personal preferences and the desired experiences. Spring (March to May) is popular for cherry blossoms, while autumn (September to November) offers stunning fall foliage. Winter (December to February) is ideal for skiing and hot springs, and summer (June to August) offers vibrant festivals. Consider the weather, cultural immersions and activities you wish to engage in when deciding the best time for your visit.
Riding a bullet train (Shinkansen) in Japan is a convenient and efficient way to travel between cities. To ride a bullet train, you need to purchase a ticket at the station or through a ticketing machine. Make sure to check the train schedule, platform number, and destination. Board the designated train and find your seat. Bullet trains are known for their punctuality, so be prompt and enjoy the exhilarating journey.
Mount Fuji is a unique and iconic feature of Japan’s landscape. It is the highest mountain in the country, standing at 3,776 meters (12,389 feet). Mount Fuji is renowned for its symmetrical volcanic cone shape, often capped with snow, and its significant cultural and spiritual significance in Japanese history. It is considered a sacred site and has been depicted in various artworks and literature. Many visitors climb Mount Fuji during the summer months to witness breathtaking sunrise views from its summit.
When packing for a trip to Japan, essentials include comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing (layers for changing temperatures), adaptors for electronic devices (Japan uses Type A and Type B sockets), toiletries, any personal medications, and a valid passport. Additionally, consider packing a pocket Wi-Fi device for convenient internet access and a Japan Rail Pass if planning to travel extensively by train.
