Imagine Japan and you’ll bring to mind a sea of spring trees laden with cherry blossom, snow capped mountains, symmetrical temples residing in immaculately landscaped gardens and cuisine that brings together the flavours of the orient with ancient preparation skills. Imagine no longer, for the reality exists throughout this stunning sliver of Northeast Asia - Welcome to Japan, land of the rising sun, neon cities, and rich heritage.
Central city Tokyo has earned its reputation for being a fast paced modern capital, and it shows no signs of abating. Cutting edge technology and a 24-hour culture bring this metropolis alive, with sleek bright lights and futuristic robotics not only evident in consumables but reflected in the fashion forward nature of the local Tokyoites.
To see the city at its best, take in the panoramic views from worlds tallest tower, the Tokyo Skytree, which at 634 metres rewards spectators with an amazing birds eye view. Spread far below, the modern streets turn to traditional in the old alleyways of Asakusa, home to the famous Imperial Palace and Senso-Ji temple of the Edo era. Just outside central Tokyo, pretty Hamarikyu gardens sit within a moat that reveals tidal duck ponds, arched bridges and a classical wooden teahouse neatly populating the spaces against a backdrop of spring blossom.
From Tokyo the bullet trains whistle directly to an antithesis of the modern age, arriving in historical Kyoto within hours. The contrast between the cities is palpable, for this ancient capital of Japan is home to 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Golden Pavillion of Kinkaku-Ji Temple, the Zen gardens at Ryoan-Ji and the scarlet gates of Shimogamo. Kyoto is also the ancient author of important Japanese traditions including the tea ceremony, Kabuki and Geisha, integral to the country’s history.
On the Pacific coast lies majestic Mount Fuji, dormant for over 300 years, and set above the calm waters of Fuji’s Five Lakes. An iconic landmark with a snow capped peak, the mountain is accessible for climbers keen to view the perfect cone between June and August.
Ensure your trip takes in the hot springs of Yudanaka Onsen on the east coast, where you’ll see Japanese Macaques - snow monkeys - enjoying daily frolics in the waters with their young. Paths wind through the rising springs and forest tracks of the park, and nearby Shibu Onsen offers an authentic insight into the hidden Japan. Stroll through the atmospheric 700 year-old streets, passing locals in traditional kimonos, and enjoy lunch amongst cobbled streets and wooden inns.
A country so unique, yet so easily accessible, Japan will leave a lasting impression that will make you want to return, if only for the flutter of blossom, and just one more sushi roll.
Tell us more about your Japan travel plans, and we'll create a tailor-made holiday, just for you.
Call us:
A TOUR OF JAPAN
16 NIGHTS
FROM £ per person, incl flights
Tokyo/ Yudanaka/ Matsumoto/ Takayama/ Kanazawa/ Kyoto/ MT. Koya/ Hiroshima/ Osaka
JAPAN- OFF THE BEATEN TRACK
15 NIGHTS
FROM £ per person, incl flights
Hokkaido/ Tokyo/ Obuse/ Kyoto/ Hiroshima/ Osaka
HIGHLIGHTS OF JAPAN AND CHINA
23 NIGHTS
FROM £ per person, incl flights
Tokyo/ Hiroshima/ Kyoto/ Osaka/ Beijing/ Xian/ Guilin/ Chengdu/ Yangtze River Cruise/ Shanghai
Our Hotel Highlights :
ZABORIN
Zaborin is a secluded luxury ryokan in the
Hanazono woods in Hokkaido, part of the
area spanning the resorts of Niseko. Subtle,
contemporary architecture and interiors
complement the peace and harmony of the
surrounding nature. The 15 separate villas give
a greater privacy than normal rooms, each with the luxury of its own private indoor and open-air hot spring baths (onsen). This is a great place to enjoy peace and relaxation and visit local onsen
AMAN TOKYO
Located within the Otemachi Tower, occupying the top six floors of this tower, in the Financial
District of Tokyo, is the Aman. This hotel is
minimal and sleek. There are 84 rooms, each one taking inspiration from Japanese Residences. They are large, airy and comprise of wood and glass offering panoramic views across the city. The spa at the Aman really is special, it spans over two floors of the hotel and really is the epitome of relaxation and serenity.
Interested in one of the Japan itineraries above, or want to build your own tailor-made trip? Give us a call or fill out our contact form.
Build Your Tailor-Made Holiday to Japan
As well as family holidays and honeymoons, we've also built many different Japan itineraries for those who want to see the best parts the country has to offer.
The holiday itineraries above are examples of ones we have created previously, and give you a good idea on the time needed to see many of the idyllic places mentioned above. If you would like more information on a specific area, or a certain hotel, please get in touch with us.
OUR SELECTED HIGHLIGHTS OF JAPAN:
Mount Fuji
Ryokan
Cherry Blossom
Bamboo Forest Kyoto
Perfect for:
Adventure, culture, cities, beach, honeymoon, family and wellness
Time difference:
GMT+ 9 hours
When to go:
March to May
International Airports:
Tokyo (HND), Osaka (ITM) , Fukuoka(FUK)
Flight duration:
12 hours approx
Vaccinations:
Some are recommended or required by the Centres for Disease Control and the World Health Organisation (WHO).
Tailored Journeys is about helping you explore one of the most fascinating and beautiful regions on earth, in style. Even if – especially if – you don’t know where to start, call us now to talk about creating your own Tailored Journey – and let the dream begin.
