Japan Holidays

Who is Japan best for?

Japan holidays are, above all, an immersion in Japanese culture. Enjoy bewitching encounters with Edo-era 'floating world' culture; Japanese cinema; the imagery of Kabuki theatre or a tea ceremony; the subtle symbolism of a traditional kimono motif or Ikebana flower arrangement; and the often-enigmatic universe of Japanese writers and illustrators. Lovers of nature will also be captivated by Japan's majestic, romantic scenery, we’re talking cherry blossom petals carpeting the streets, perfectly manicured Japanese gardens and surrounding park areas. For travellers who love a new and original experience, a stay at an onsen (hot spring spa), a ryokan (traditional inn) or a Buddhist temple is the perfect way to reiterate that this country really is like no other place on Earth. Known as a profoundly spiritual place, Japan is perfect for anyone looking to find themselves, or their inner peace. Japan is also a superb family holiday destination, and ideal for teens particularly thanks to the abundance of adolescence, Manga, state-of-the-art gadgets, electronics, gaming consoles and inter-active games, robotics, and very creative fashion all ready and waiting for you to explore.

What to do in Japan?

What you can find in Japan that you cannot find anywhere else:

Quite simply, a holiday to Japan is like visiting another planet. It is a country that is both strangely familiar yet totally unpredictable, surprising and original in its traditions, culture and civilisation. Japan is home to an ancient civilisation which is very attached to its values, codes, rituals, beliefs and roots and yet resolutely looks towards the future. Japanese culture is unlike any other, with the contrasts here stronger and more striking than arguably anywhere else in the world. Japan is one of the few countries that speaks as much to the heart as they do to the head. It’s a destination to visit and discover.

The best things to discover on your Japan holidays:

The best option for Japan holidays when it comes to flights, accommodation and train passes is a combination of slick organisation and freedom to ensure you have the best experience. Many often find themselves gravitating towards a Japanese excursion during July but it really is exquisite all year round, essentially there is always a right time to visit. Despite the language barrier, the Japanese will do their best to listen to your needs and you will find that they are as interested in listening as they are about anything else. A typical 15-day itinerary and tour could include Tokyo, Hakone, Takayama, Kanazawa, Kyoto, Mount Koya-san, Miyajima Island and Osaka, staying alternately in international hotels and ryokan traditional inns, and with one night staying in a temple.

What are the best options for a Japan holiday?

Few places in the world offer visitors such a diverse a range of experiences as Japan, from the snow-covered mountains of Hokkaido in the north to the pristine beaches of Okinawa 2,000 miles further south. A tour here is unlike any other and with so much to see and do in the archipelago visitors simply do not have the luxury of enough time to see it all in one visit. Despite the wonders (particularly to someone from Britain) of the Japanese railway system, a nation that stretches some 2,000 miles from north to south is just too big to see all at once, and that's where we come in, with expert knowledge on which bits you should prioritise and which you should save for next time. In fact, of all the destinations in the Original Travel portfolio, Japan is probably the one that requires the most expert advice, given language barriers and the sheer alien nature (in a good way) of the country.

And what a country it is, with 127 million inhabitants living on increasingly over-crowded coastal plains beneath rugged mountain ranges that stretch the length of the islands, and with these megalopoli some of the most vibrant, innovative city destinations an urban warrior could wish to visit. Equally, those in search of calm and serenity can find respite from the hubbub surrounded by mountain peaks or in one of the country's remarkable Zen gardens or park areas to discover and explore.

It's the contrast between technology and tradition that makes Japan such an alluring destination for luxury travel, but with so much to see, careful planning is required. For the ideal 'beginner's guide to Japan' the starting point has to be Honshu - the main island - and home to Tokyo, Kyoto and even more cities worth seeing. For the time-pressed, there's a lovely loop taking in Tokyo, the beautiful rural area of Hakone (home to magnificent Mount Fuji), venerable Kyoto and then most likely the harrowing Hiroshima and elegant Miyajima island. A well-trodden route, but understandably so given what a perfect combination of experiences this represents - ultra-modernity, ancient capitals, urban energy and rural idylls, and a superb range of accommodation options from luxury hotels in Tokyo taking up the top floors of skyscrapers to luxury ryokan traditional Japanese inns in pristine countryside. For the smitten (trust us, you will be) looking to return, or the fortunate few with longer to explore, we passionately urge exploration beyond the above. Honshu itself has other unmissable luxury travel highlights, from bathing hot spring snow monkeys and skiing in Nagano to the UNESCO World Heritage old town of Takayama, confirming that this is a place to explore.

Further afield the islands of Hokkaido, Kyushu, Shikoku and Okinawa are all fascinating as well. For luxury skiing in Japan, the place to visit is northerly Hokkaido, and in particular the resort of Niseko. Beer drinkers, it’s worth noting that Hokkaido is also home of the Sapporo brand. Kyushu island, to the south west of Honshu, is renowned for onsen hot springs, spectacular volcano lakes (as seen in the classic Bond You Only Live Twice) and the beautiful southern city of Kagoshima, known as the 'Naples of Japan' thanks to its coastal setting and brooding volcano. Kyushu is already well off the tourist trail, and neighbouring Shikoku island even more so, but the place to go for temples and long distance walking trails; and then there's Okinawa for a taste of the tropics. Stay in a luxury ryokan by the beach for the ultimate in original beach holidays (that are perfect in July) and escape from the busyness of the cities.

FAQs

Things to do

What can I experience in Japan?

Immerse yourself in Japanese history and culture by seeking out experiences you can’t get anywhere else. Take in a performance at a Kabuki theatre, where the actors present plays about moral conflict, attend a tea ceremony, or admire perfectly manicured Japanese gardens. You can stay at an onsen (hot spring spa), ryokan (traditional inn) or Buddhist temple.

Japan is known for its blend of the traditional and the futuristic, so you can also head in the opposite direction and seek out their state-of-the-art gadgets, games and fashion.

When is cherry blossom season in Japan?

Japan’s cherry blossom season is between the end of March and the middle of May. Peak times vary from region to region (and year-to-year), so do check the specifics for your destination to ensure you get the best views of the stunning Sakura trees.

Culture

What food and drink should I try in Japan?

Fish is a staple of the Japanese diet, as are rice and noodles. Some restaurants specialise in sushi or sashimi (raw fish slices). For a tasty takeaway lunch, bento boxes are popular. Traditionally they include rice or noodles, protein, pickled and cooked vegetables, and some fruit.

Tea is the most traditional drink and it is still popular today; tea houses have traditional green tea with delicate handmade sweets, or you can even attend a tea ceremony which is a huge part of Japanese culture. When it comes to alcohol, Japanese beer is excellent, and you can find some of the world’s best whiskey here, too.

What is Japan famous for?

Japan is known for a multitude of fascinating – and often contrasting – things, including its impressive natural world (Mount Fuji, cherry blossoms), modern convenience (vending machines), art (manga and anime), and history and culture (temples, shrines, geishas, tea ceremonies, onsen).

What is the national flower of Japan?

The national flower of Japan is the cherry blossom, known locally as the Sakura.

Planning your trip

Where can I stay in Japan?

Accommodation in Japan is unlike anywhere else. Experience heartfelt hospitality, known as omotenashi, at thousands of lodgings across a country that seamlessly blends ancient traditions with modern marvels.

- For a traditional experience: Ryokans are classic inns made from wood, with sliding paper doors and views of elegant gardens. Or why not stay in a shukubo – lodgings in the serene grounds of Buddhist temples.
- For a deeper understanding of Japanese culture: Minshukus are family-run guest houses that offer comfortable rooms, home-cooked meals and the opportunity to interact with locals.
- For comfort, convenience and excellent service: Japan boasts a wide range of hotels, catering to all budgets and preferences, from luxurious five-star properties or boutique hotels to budget-friendly options.

Read more about accommodation in Japan in our guide.

How far in advance should I book a trip to Japan?

We advise booking as far in advance as possible. Japan is a very popular destination, so you’re more likely to experience everything you want to and find availability in your preferred properties if you plan ahead and book early.

What's the best way of getting around in Japan?

A testament to the country’s commitment to efficiency, innovation and customer satisfaction, transport in Japan sets the bar high.

- For speedy long-distance travel: The shinkansen, commonly known as the bullet train, is the pride of Japan’s railways and one of the country's iconic symbols. From its sleek and futuristic design to its impeccable punctuality, riding a bullet train allows you to traverse vast distances in a fraction of the time it would take by car or plane.
- To reach areas not easily accessible by rail: While trains dominate Japan’s transport landscape, buses play a crucial role, too. City buses are a convenient way to explore Japan’s cities and towns, while long-distance buses offer a comfortable and scenic option.
- To explore the islands: Japan’s archipelago of 6,800 islands is a paradise for ferry fans. From the iconic Tokyo Bay ferries to the remote islands of Okinawa, boats are a scenic way to explore the country.

Read more about transport in Japan in our guide.

What side of the road does Japan drive on?

You must drive on the left side of the road in Japan. The reason for this dates back to before cars had even been invented, when the country had rules for which side of the footpath pedestrians could walk on. These rules existed because the samurai wore their swords on the left side of their bodies. If two samurai passed each other on the right side of the footpath there was a chance their swords would bump into each other, so it was easier to stay on the left. These rules remained as transport evolved.

How fast is the bullet train in Japan?

Most bullet trains, known locally as Shinkansen, travel at a maximum speed of 186mph, but some reach 200mph.

Local information

What is the capital of Japan?

The capital of Japan is Tokyo. Tokyo is part of the Kanto region and is known for its intriguing blend of traditional and modern. Interestingly, Japan’s capital city has changed multiple times throughout the country’s history - former capitals include Edo and Kyoto.

What language is spoken in Japan?

The official language of Japan is Japanese. It is the first language of most residents - 99.2% of people in Japan have Japanese as their first language. There are still a few lesser-spoken languages across the islands, including: Amami, Kyukyu, Kikai and Miyako.

What plugs are used in Japan?

There are two different types of plug which can be used in Japan. A has two flat parallel pins, while B has two flat parallel pins and a grounding pin. The voltage is 100 volts which is about half of the voltage you get in the UK. A universal adapter is required.

What currency does Japan use?

Japan uses a currency called yen (JPY). Japan is still very much a cash-based society, so it’s wise to carry some yen with you while on your trip, especially if you’re visiting the suburbs or countryside. VISA and MasterCard credit cards are accepted in major hotels, department stores and higher end restaurants in major cities and tourist areas. We recommend buying as much yen as possible before departure as the exchange rate is better in the UK.

What's the time zone in Japan?

Japan uses Japan Standard Time year round. This is nine hours ahead of GMT (eight hours in the summer during British Summer Time).

Travel information

Where can I find the latest travel advice for Japan?

The latest travel advice for Japan is available on the UK government’s foreign travel advice pages.

How long does it take to fly to Japan from the UK?

Flights to Japan from the UK normally arrive in Tokyo or Osaka. It takes over 11 hours to fly to Tokyo directly. Flights to Osaka have one connection and take a little longer, at 13 hours and 50 minutes, including connection time.

Do I need a visa to visit Japan?

If you have a British passport you can get a 90-day tourist visa when you arrive in Japan - there’s no need to apply for one before you go. Upon arrival, it’s fairly common to be asked to show evidence of your return or onward journey.

If you’re staying longer than 90 days you can apply for a 90-day visa extension at an immigration office. Your passport must be valid for the extra 90 days.

What are the passport requirements for visiting Japan?

Your passport must be valid for the duration of your stay and have a blank page for the visa stamp.

Do I need vaccinations to visit Japan?

NHS Fit for Travel advises your courses and boosters for life in Britain are up to date, and suggests considering vaccines for Hepatitis B and Tetanus.