Japan is the holy grail for travellers; a country that remains resolutely, uncompromisingly different. That doesn't mean it's not welcoming; from the snowy wastes of Hokkaido in the north, to the Caribbean style beaches in the southern islands, Japanese people are incredibly friendly and welcoming. Head to the capital, Tokyo, for a snapshot of Japanese life at its most frenetic and futuristic, while Kyoto is the place to glimpse the country's exotic past.
In all my years of travelling, I've never been anywhere quite like Japan. Everything is different, from breakfasts of salmon roe, rice porridge and pickled ginger, to the nightlife, where bars and restaurants are packed onto different floors in high-rise buildings, with little clue as to what to expect until you step out of the lift. My dream trip? To visit Kyoto in cherry-blossom season, when the city shimmers in pink and the whole nation celebrates.
InsideJapan's bestselling 14-night tour is the perfect introduction to the diversity of Japan, carefully balancing traditional and modern elements of Japanese culture.
Ever-welcoming and always fascinating, Japan is a land of ancient cultures, austere traditions and groundbreaking technology
On this deluxe 10 night tour, you’ll explore Japan’s classic sights in style and have access to the very best accommodation, cuisine, experiences, guiding and private transfers at every stage of your trip.
Visit Japans southern islands with fantastic walking and plenty of opportunity to experience Japanese cultural and historical features.
• Be captivated by Kyoto’s Golden Pavilion, whose top floors shimmer with gold leaf, and the Silver Pavilion, once the retirement villa of a 13th century shogun
• Absorb the enchanting atmosphere of mountain-based Takayama, a World Heritage site containing a beautifully preserved old town
Japan is famous the world over for its gastronomic and cultural delights. This itinerary combines unique cookery classes, including a lesson from an expert soba chef and a sushi making master-class. Alongside this, plenty of time will be spent experiencing Japanese cuisine including a visit to Tsukiji, the world’s largest fish market.
Cultural discovery and on foot adventures in Japan, the Land of the Rising Sun
Ancient wooden temples, raked-pebble Zen gardens and chanting Buddhist monks juxtaposed with space-age towers, neon lights and bullet trains; Japan’s captivating blend of old and new is legendary
Best of Japan from Japan is an exhilarating holiday in Japan. Available from 16 Apr 2019 to 13 Jun 2030 this 17 day trip costs from £3,520.
Comprehensive tour of Japan
Explore the best of Japan from the historic shrines and temples to the stunning Mt Fuji and heritage rich Kyoto. Enjoy hot onsen baths, stay in a Japanese-style ryokan, watch a Geisha performance, witness the monks at prayer in Koyasan, visit the delightful towns of Takayama, Kanazawa and Shirakawa-Go
