A Cultural Journey Through Japan

Where to begin? That's often the question of most first-time travellers to Tokyo. A fusion of the modern and the traditional, this vast megacity is an eclectic mix of futuristic shopping districts, ancient heritage sites and beautiful natural wonders; whatever your interests, there's something for everyone in Tokyo!

Japanese kawaii (literally meaning 'cute') has permeated the globe, and there's no better place to experience this unique culture than Harajuku, the most trendy and 'kawaii' district in Japan. With brightly-coloured street art and a vibrant fashion scene, you can have lunch at one of the many boutique cafes in the district before heading to the iconic Shibuya Crossing for a monumental selfie! 

To make sure you don't miss out on any top Tokyo attractions on your Japan holiday, you can embark on a sightseeing bus tour with an English-speaking guide, where you'll be able to view the city skyline from the Tokyo Tower and enjoy a cruise up the Sumida River to see the Senso-ji Temple; all these Tokyo excursions are included on your Japan itinerary! 

Takayama is a breath of fresh air, a remote city steeped in ancient Japanese customs with spectacular rugged surroundings. Considered as one of the few cities in Japan to retain a truly traditional feel, Takayama is a must-see destination for a cultural journey across Japan. 

When in Takayama, the first place you should visit is the the city's beautifully preserved Old Town. Known as Sanmachi Suji, this quaint district dates back to the Edo Period and is comprised of traditional Japanese houses, shops, coffee houses and sake breweries. A luxury travel expert can arrange a sake brewery tour and tasting session for you, where you'll be able to sample over five different types of sake on your Japan holiday! 

To explore the sublime mountain scenery of the region, you can take a ride on the Shinhotaka Ropeway, travelling 2,200 meters above sea level. Ideal for a romantic Japan honeymoon you'll pass alongside Japan's stunning Northern Alps from an iconic double-decker cable car; a luxury travel expert can arrange this excursion for you!

With over 2000 Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples, Kyoto oozes history and culture, great for a fully-immersive retreat on your Japan holiday. 

For scenes reminiscent of Arthur Golden's hit novel Memoirs of a Geisha, you should head to Gion, Kyoto's most famous geisha district; you'll see geisha's adorned in their traditional costume wandering through the streets as well as authentic geisha performances in ochaya, Japanese traditional teahouses. 

For ultimate tranquility, you can take a trip to Fushimi Inari Shrine, an important Shinto shrine in southern Kyoto, and wander amongst the vermilion torii gates. If you'd like to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the region on a Japan honeymoon, then you can head to the Sagano Bamboo Forest, where serene temples sit tucked in amongst the dense bamboo thicket. All of these excursions are included on your Japan holiday!

Osaka is the laid-back cousin of Tokyo, with world-famous restaurants, ancient temples and an exuberant culture that doesn't take itself too seriously. 

Known as 'Japan's Kitchen', Osaka is the home of the best Japanese food. Included in your itinerary is a trip to the iconic Kuromon Ichiba Market, where you can indulge in takoyaki (fried octopus balls) authentic sushi or sweet pastries. If you want to have a dabble in the Japanese culinary art yourself, then a luxury travel expert can arrange a Osaka cooking class for you, where you'll learn how to make key dishes such as okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes) and miso soup.

To escape the hustle and bustle of the city, you can visit Minoo Park, a forested valley on the outskirts of Osaka, included on your Japan holiday. If you visit in the second half of November, you'll be able to see the forest ablaze in beautiful autumn colours; imagine vivid reds, deep oranges and elegant pinks, perfect for a Japan honeymoon! 

Tokyo is definitely best visited twice on a holiday to Japan, as there is so much within the city to see and do! If you're in the Tokyo in late March/early April, then a luxury travel expert can arrange for you to see the blooming cherry trees in the 'hip' Meguro River area; the elegant pink blossom, reflected in the river, is simply mesmerising!

To continue your cultural journey, included in your Japan itinerary is a trip to Hanazono Jinja, a vividly red Shinto shrine dedicated to the god of fertility and worldly successes. Afterwards, you can visit the Thermae-Yu Hotspring in Shinjuku within Tokyo's centre, where you can feel tranquil as you soak in the six baths!

With excellent transport links, Tokyo is a great base to explore the surrounding area. Included on your Japan holiday is a Mount Fuji and Hakone Full Day Tour; perfect for a romantic Japan honeymoon, you'll cruise on the pristine Lake Ashi before taking a trip to Mount Fuji's 5th Station at an elevation of 2,300 meters!