Japan: Where Ancient Traditions Meet Modern Wonder
Japan is a country of striking contrasts where centuries-old shrines stand quietly beside sleek skyscrapers, and futuristic trains race past rice paddies and misty mountains. It’s refined, graceful, and deeply respectful of its traditions, yet constantly moving forward.
From the serene beauty of Kyoto’s temples to the buzzing neon streets of Tokyo, from volcanic peaks and peaceful onsens to coastal villages and artisan ryokans, Japan offers a journey that’s as enriching as it is surprising. It’s a place where attention to detail is a way of life and where the smallest moments often leave the biggest impression.
Whether you’re travelling for food, art, architecture, nature or simply to soak in the atmosphere Japan really is unforgettable.
Highlights of Your Japanese Adventure
Kyoto & Nara: Wander through moss-covered temples, attend a tea ceremony, or visit a bamboo forest in Kyoto. Nearby Nara offers quiet charm, ancient deer parks, and some of Japan’s oldest shrines.
Tokyo: A city of constant contrast from Michelin-starred sushi, tiny back-alley izakayas, traditional gardens, contemporary art galleries, and one of the best food scenes in the world. Tokyo is never just one thing.
Hakone & Mount Fuji: Soak in a steaming onsen with views of Mount Fuji, take the ropeway across volcanic landscapes, or stay in a peaceful lakeside ryokan.
The Japanese Alps: Alpine villages like Takayama and Shirakawa-go offer a step back in time with their wooden houses, riverside markets and rural hospitality. A wonderful place for hikes, sake tastings and slowing down.
Naoshima Island: This tiny island in the Seto Inland Sea is a must for lovers of art and design. Home to world-class contemporary museums, open-air installations and Tadao Ando architecture.
Hokkaido: In winter, head north to Hokkaido for powder-soft snow, hot springs, snow monkeys and remote alpine lodges. In summer, it’s a haven for hiking, lavender fields and fresh seafood.
Okinawa: If you’re craving warmth and sand, Okinawa’s subtropical islands offer a completely different pace of life with coral reefs, peaceful beaches, and a unique island culture.
Off the Beaten Track
Kiso Valley – Follow the ancient Nakasendo Trail through post towns like Tsumago and Magome walking in the footsteps of samurai on this peaceful, forested route.
Shikoku Island – Often overlooked, this rural island offers spectacular walking, coastal temples, and traditional hospitality along the 88 Temple Pilgrimage route.
Iya Valley – A hidden gem of deep gorges, vine bridges, and thatched-roof mountain homes. Great for hiking and escaping the crowds.
Kanazawa – With its preserved samurai and geisha districts, excellent art museums, and lush Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa is like Kyoto without the foot traffic.
Cuisine & Culture
Food is an art form in Japan from the seasonal kaiseki dining of Kyoto to street-side yakitori in Tokyo. Try fresh-caught sushi at Tsukiji Market, partake in ramen in a tiny Sapporo joint, or warm up with hot sake on a snowy night.
Culture here is quiet, thoughtful and deeply layered. Whether it’s watching the tea ceremony unfold, staying in a ryokan, or admiring the simple elegance of Japanese design there really is beauty in the detail.
Best Time to Visit
Japan is truly a year-round destination, with each season offering its own allure:
March–May (Spring) Cherry blossom season, mild temperatures, and blooming gardens. Book early this is one of the most popular times to visit.
June–August (Summer) Great for festivals, mountain hikes, and island escapes. Hot and humid in the cities, but cooler in the mountains and Hokkaido.
September–November (Autumn) Rich autumn colours, crisp air and fewer crowds. One of our favourite times to travel.
December–February (Winter) – Snow-covered landscapes, onsens, skiing, and fewer tourists. Magical in Hokkaido and the Japanese Alps.
Our Top Tips
Stay in a ryokan at least once – Tatami mats, futon beds, and an incredible multi-course dinner, it’s a quintessential Japanese experience.
Try everything once – Even the convenience store sushi (which is surprisingly good!), the vending machine ramen, or that snack you can’t quite identify.
Pause and observe – Japan rewards slow travel. Watch how the locals queue, how the food is presented, how the seasons are celebrated it’s all part of the experience.
Regional Highlight: The Philippines
Just a short flight from Japan, the Philippines offers a completely different rhythm, soft island breezes, turquoise lagoons, and a warmth that goes beyond the climate. It’s the perfect extension for those craving beach time after cultural immersion. Whether it’s snorkelling with sea turtles in Palawan, kayaking through limestone coves in El Nido, or retreating to a barefoot-luxury island hideaway, the Philippines delivers that peaceful, off-the-beaten-path feel without sacrificing comfort.