From Tokyo to Okinawa - Sun, Sea and Sights in Japan

There's nowhere in the world quite like Tokyo. On the surface it may come across as almost robotic, but as you delve deeper and search beyond the soaring buildings and business men making their daily commute; you'll soon discover a warmth and incredible sense of community and respect that you'll never think possible in such a huge city.

As you're already in Shinjuku, you should start with exploring Tokyo's western edge. Shibuya Crossing is an iconic destination famed for it's beautiful shopping malls and huge pedestrian crossing, while Harajuku is home to Japan's famous sub-culture fashion and the calming Meiji Shrine in Yoyogi Park. 

Another must-visit shrine is in Asakusa, in the north-eastern edge of the city; head here for the shrine and make your way to the Tokyo Skytree for panoramic views of the buildings below. Anime and gaming fans will love the nearby neighbourhood of Akihabara, and culture lovers can easily stop by the Imperial Palace. All of this and so much more can be enjoyed as part of your Japan holiday, and we can arrange guided tours if you want see it from an expert's perspective!

Compared to the high-rises and bustle of Tokyo, Kyoto will feel like a breath of fresh air. Though modernised in some aspects, Kyoto somehow manages to maintain so much of what makes Japan special; from it's collection of over 2000 temples and shrines, to it's old neighbourhoods that come alive after dark to sound of geisha's sandals clip-clopping down the cobbled paths.

There's so many things to do in Kyoto, we recommend taking the time to visit in-town sights such as the huge Yasaka Shrine and nearby Gion neighbourhood to pick up matcha green tea treats and maybe catch a glimpse of a geisha making her way to a class. After that, definitely considering venturing to Arashiyama to see the incredible Bamboo Forest and the many shrines and temples that decorate the area. Another excellent place to visit is Fushimi Inari; a temple that boasts over 10,000 vermillion red tori gates! Again, we can also arrange any of these activities to make your Japan holiday really special and hassle free. 

Known fondly as the food capital of the Kansai region in Japan; Osaka is unmissable and should be a stop on the itinerary for everyone's first Japan holiday. You'll never go hungry in this incredibly interesting and eclectic city, from Takoyaki octopus balls to Okonomiyaki savoury pancakes; there's plenty of dishes unique to this city just waiting to be tried!

Once you've filled up on food, head to the main park to see the amazing Osaka Castle, one of the most beautiful in the country. Another must-visit destination is Dotonburi, the downtown district that's full of bright lights, busy streets, shopping malls and award-winning restaurants. You'll soon discover there's so many things to do in Osaka that'll make your Japan holiday truly unforgettable. 

Welcome to Okinawa; leave what you know of Japan behind and get ready to embrace a brand new culture and vibe. Okinawa is relaxed, insightful and naturally beautiful. This destination is famed for it's crystal clear turquoise waters, snorkelling visibility and enchanting temples.

To summarise, Okinawa is a chain of islands with it's own unique history and blissful subtropical climate; this is actually the birthplace of karate! Although the main island boasts a peaceful and tranquil main town filled with unique temples and fantastic food, we recommend getting out and discovering the islands that make up this unique archipelago. 

Spend your days exploring mangrove jungles that look like movie sets, snorkelling through beautiful turquoise lagoons filled with kaleidoscopic corals, scuba diving into crystal clear oceans and soaking up the sun along pristine white sands. The islands are best reached by boat and we can arrange these activities for you to make your Japan holiday completely worry-free!