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Few destinations in the world are as uniquely alluring as Japan, a place where time-honoured traditions exist alongside cutting-edge modernity, and futuristic skyscrapers soar above tranquil temples. Boasting ancient history, compelling culture, and world-class cuisine, Japan is perfect for an unforgettable and inspiring holiday.
Because there’s so much to see and do, it’s also one of the best destinations for a tailor-made tour. While some people may be drawn to Japan’s energetic megacities, and be keen to see as much as possible, others might prefer to venture off the beaten path, exploring the quieter corners of the country in a meaningful and unhurried way. You might even want to combine the two, pairing a city break with a mountain escape.
If that sounds tempting, why not consider taking a tour with Audley, multi-award-winning specialists in tailor-made travel? While Japan’s lifestyle and language can feel vastly different, having experts to guide you through its cultural nuances allows you to experience the country on a deeper level. All Audley’s Japan specialists know and love the country intimately, and many have lived or worked there, so whether you want help navigating the cities and transport systems or deciphering a menu, their insight can turn your trip from a simple holiday to a transformative journey.
Here’s why Japan should be on your travel wish list.
1. You can explore vibrant cities like Tokyo, Kyoto, and Hiroshima
In Japan’s iconic cities, history and modernity constantly collide. Tokyo, the futuristic capital, dazzles with its neon-lit neighbourhoods, soaring skyscrapers, and grand palaces. You can spend days wandering the Asakusa district’s historic streets, browsing traditional crafts shops, or relaxing in the pristine gardens of the Imperial Palace. As one of the world’s great culinary capitals, it’s also the perfect place to sample Japan’s famous street food.
In Kyoto, Japan’s cultural heart, a sense of history lingers in the cobblestone streets. There are over a thousand temples and shrines here, but a highlight for most visitors is touring Gion, the geisha district. And, in Hiroshima, visitors can explore another side of Japan’s spirit: resilience. The Peace Memorial Park and Museum are powerful reminders of the past, while the city itself now radiates vitality and hope.
2. You can sample mouthwatering cuisine like sushi, ramen, and teppanyaki
To visit Japan is to embark on a culinary pilgrimage like no other. It’s not just about tasting new dishes but experiencing food as art, where every bite is part of a multisensory journey meant to be savoured, never rushed. From the crackle of sizzling teppanyaki and the umami-rich aroma of miso to the vibrant gleam of sashimi and the silky softness of agedashi tofu, dining in Japan is a feast for the senses.
A tour can take you to bustling markets, Michelin-starred restaurants, and traditional inns, each offering a different take on Japan’s food culture. Start with familiar dishes – sushi, ramen, tempura – before tucking into local delicacies like Hiroshima-style okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes), Hokkaido’s buttery seafood, and Kobe’s famous wagyu beef. Osaka’s street food is particularly delicious, while in Kyoto, you can enjoy the refined elegance of kaiseki, multi-course dining.
3. You’ll be mesmerised by the beauty of the Japanese Alps, Mount Fuji, and coastal Okinawa
Home to rugged mountains, pristine beaches, and ancient forests, Japan is wonderfully diverse. Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure or quiet reflection, there are all kinds of opportunities to connect with nature. The iconic Mount Fuji is unmissable, and gazing up at its snowcapped summit, or watching its reflection ripple across the still waters of Lake Kawaguchi, is genuinely awe-inspiring.
The hiking trails around the lake provide picture-perfect views of the towering volcano from every angle. For those who love walking, the historic Nakasendō Highway winds past lush valleys, rushing rivers, and mountain passes, offering some of the most rewarding trails in Japan. Further west, the Japanese Alps hide glittering lakes, forested valleys, and natural hot springs, while to the south, the white sand beaches of Okinawa feel like another world. Here, coral reefs and gin-clear waters teem with tropical fish, making it a paradise for swimmers and divers.
4. You can get immersed in the captivating culture – from tea ceremonies to sumo matches
One of the most exciting aspects of visiting Japan is the chance to get immersed in its rich traditions. Kyoto is arguably most famous for its geisha performances, but the city’s teahouses also preserve the elegant rituals of Japanese tea culture, and experiencing a chadō (tea ceremony) is a highlight for many. Or why not try ikebana (flower arranging) and calligraphy, two of Japan’s most revered arts?
In traditional post towns like Tsumago, staying at a ryokan (traditional inn) also offers a fascinating glimpse into Japanese hospitality. Sleep on tatami mats, wear a kimono, and enjoy delicious multi-course dinners made from local ingredients. In contrast, Tokyo offers a contemporary insight into Japanese culture. Why not watch a sumo match, dive into the world of anime and manga, visit world-class museums, or uncover the city’s creativity at themed restaurants?
5. It has a rich history that goes back millennia
From ancient temples to samurai castles, reminders of Japan’s glorious past are everywhere. Tokyo may seem overwhelmingly modern today, but its historic roots run deep. The city’s oldest temple, Sensō-ji in Asakusa, was founded in 645, while Edo Castle, with its moats, stone walls, and beautiful gardens, stands as a testament to the city’s feudal past. And a few hours west is Matsumoto Castle, one of Japan’s most important fortresses, which remains just as impressive today as it was in its heyday.
Meanwhile, Kyoto is an absolute treasure trove of history. Japan’s imperial capital for over a millennium (794–1868), it’s home to an extraordinary concentration of historical sites. Highlights include the Kyoto Imperial Palace, former residence of the emperors, and the 8th-century Kiyomizu-dera Temple. Strolling through Gion, the geisha district, with its wooden machiya houses and traditional teahouses, can have you thinking you’ve stepped back in time.
6. Its cutting-edge innovation is awe-inspiring
For all its revered traditions and deep-rooted history, Japan is incredibly forward-thinking, and from the moment you arrive in Tokyo, you’re immersed in cutting-edge technology and design. Iconic landmarks such as Tokyo Tower and the soaring Skytree showcase this glitzy capital’s modern face, while even things as ordinary as a vending machine demonstrate Japan’s innovative and creative spirit.
When night falls, the city transforms. Skyscrapers gleam against the dark sky, and neon lights and LED displays glitter in a colourful tapestry on the streets. On many Audley tours, you’ll also travel on the legendary Shinkansen bullet train, which reaches speeds of up to 200 mph, and it is perhaps the shining example of how Japanese innovation improves not just efficiency, but convenience and quality of life.
7. Its seasonal beauty is breathtaking
Japan captivates year-round, with each season offering something unique. Spring is most popular, when cherry blossoms blanket the country in soft pink, turning hills and parks into dreamy pastel landscapes. This fleeting beauty is best enjoyed the local way: with a hanami (flower-viewing) picnic beneath the trees before summer makes way for matsuri (festivals) and fireworks. It’s also the best time to climb Mount Fuji or unwind on Okinawa’s sun-drenched beaches.
In autumn, Japan becomes a canvas of blazing reds, oranges, and golds, and the fiery foliage makes historic sites, like Kyoto’s temples, even more photogenic. Winter brings a quieter magic; snow blankets the Japanese Alps, creating perfect conditions for skiing and snowboarding, while glowing illuminations light the city streets, adding a warm, festive glow.
4 incredible tours to get you started
Whether you’re eager to delve into Japan’s history or explore its hidden corners, Audley’s diverse tours offer something for every traveller. You’ll speak to one of their tour specialists, who will have a deep connection with Japan, plan your trip down to the finest detail, choosing experiences that call to you.
Hot springs hold a special place in Japanese culture, and on Audley’s Honshu Culture & Hot Springs tour, you can experience this restorative ritual by bathing in the natural waters of Kinosaki. You can also explore the vibrant metropolis of Tokyo, ride the famous bullet train, and sample exquisite Japanese cuisine.
For a wilder adventure, the Wildlife & Hot Springs of Hokkaido tour combines hiking in the Daisetsuzan National Park, skiing in Furano or Niseko on world-class powder, and wildlife encounters, from watching red-crested cranes mating rituals in Kushiro to perhaps even glimpsing bears in Shiretoko.
Alternatively, on Japan’s Hidden Island: Temples & Festivals in Shikoku tour, you can explore a different side of this remarkable country; go white-water rafting in Oboke Gorge, visit Naoshima Island’s famous art museums, and soak in the restorative hot springs of Matsuyama.
For those seeking a truly epic journey, the 22-Day Grand Tour of Japan is an unforgettable voyage through everything that makes Japan great. Walk the Nakasendo Highway between Tsumago and Magome, visit Kanazawa’s beautiful Kenrokuen Garden, stay in a traditional Buddhist temple lodging, spot geisha in Kyoto with an expert guide, and spend several days in cosmopolitan Tokyo.
Final thoughts…
Japan is a country of endless discovery, and with Audley, you can experience it in the ways that most speak to you. From wandering ancient temples and sampling world-class cuisine to participating in tea ceremonies and admiring snow-capped volcanoes, each day offers moments designed to stay with you for a lifetime.
Whether your interests lie in history, culture, cuisine, or nature, Japan has something for everyone. And because no two travellers are alike, no two journeys should be either. The Audley specialist designing your trip will take time to understand what’s inspiring your journey to Japan, then craft your journey from scratch, ensuring it reflects the destinations you want to explore, the activities you enjoy, and the pace and flexibility that suit you best.
Audley’s expert guides do far more than just show you around. Their expertise, personal insight, and genuine passion for this special country bring every destination to life, allowing you to enjoy a deeper, more meaningful travel experience. Your visit goes far beyond sightseeing; it’s an opportunity to connect with the true spirit of Japan, leaving you with memories that you’ll cherish forever.