Overview

With a heart steeped in ancient traditions and a mind focused on futuristic modernity, Japan is utterly unique. You'll discover grand palaces and serene temples sit alongside towering skyscrapers and neon-lit streets. Historic customs like sumo wrestling and geisha dancing are blended with contemporary ones, like karaoke, fusion dining, and excellent shopping. Luxury holidays in Japan offer a one-of-a-kind experience.

Situated in the Pacific Ocean, Japan is an island nation with a stunning landscape featuring snow-capped mountains, mirrored lakes, rippling rice fields and a coastline of idyllic beaches. Alongside the spectacular landscape, you'll find uber modern cities, such as the futuristic capital, Tokyo. Tokyo's a lively place with glittering superstructures and renowned neon-hued entertainment and shopping districts, such as Shinjuku. You'll find a wealth of museums, classical art galleries, theme parks, temples and many opportunities to immerse yourself in local traditions like kabuki theatre. Heading east, past the iconic summit of Mount Fuji, you'll arrive in Kyoto in just over 3 hours on the super-fast and famous Shinkansen bullet train.

The old capital, Kyoto, is a place where the past shines brightly, and attractions like the gold leaf adorned Kinkaku-ji and the cliff-perched Kiyomizu-dera await you. Stroll the historic Gion district for a chance at seeing geisha, and dine in one of the vaunted restaurants there. Then head to beautiful Arashiyama, and tour the temples, and the lovely bamboo grove.

In Hiroshima, enjoy the thriving cosmopolitan spirit of a city that's filled with iconic sights. Expect perfectly manicured gardens, tranquil parks, multi-tiered temples, decorative bridges and endless shopping avenues, such as Hondori Arcade. Be sure to visit the Peace Memorial Park, a memorial to the past with an informative museum.

When To Visit

Japan can be visited year-round, as each season brings its own magic. In spring, there's little rainfall, clear skies and rows of blossoming cherry trees. In the summer, the sun brings average highs around 30 degrees Celsius.

In autumn, trees turn golden and Japanese maples burst with vibrant reds, whilst the days are dry and bright. In winter, temperatures drop, seeing snowfall in several regions. The country is never more beautiful than with a layer of snow creating a pristine atmosphere.

Food & Drink

With a luxury holiday to Japan, you'll get to try some of the best food the country has to offer prepared by sushi masters and expert chefs. Try renowned Japanese specialities like sashimi, tempura and teppanyaki and sample international dishes, including favourites from French and Chinese cuisine.

Enjoy farm-to-table culinary experiences with spectacular views of Japan, like that of Tokyo's cityscape, or the peak of Mount Fuji. Unwind with live music and take part in a traditional tea ceremony, where you can experience the Way of Tea ritual.

Passport & Visas

As with any holiday, it's a good idea to carry some identification with you, and keep a photocopy of your passport on your person. British citizens don't need a visa to enter Japan for stays up to 90 days. Visit GOV.UK for more advice on passports, visas and travel.