asia
SampleJapan
Japan rewards the unhurried traveller: ancient capitals and alpine villages, punctual trains and some of the most considered food on earth.
Why go
Sample copy. Japan pairs deep tradition with effortless modern comfort. Temples and tea houses sit a short train ride from some of the best restaurants in the world, and the rail network makes independent travel genuinely easy.
Regions at a glance
Sample copy. Honshu holds Tokyo, Kyoto and the Japanese Alps. Hokkaido is for powder snow and wide skies. Kyushu and Shikoku reward a second visit with hot springs and quieter coastal roads.
When to go
Sample copy. Late March to May for blossom and mild days; October to November for maples and clear skies. Winter suits skiers, summer is hot and humid in the cities.
Getting there
Sample copy. Direct flights from London to Tokyo Haneda take around 13 hours 40 minutes. Osaka Kansai is the alternative gateway for a Kyoto-first trip.
Getting around
Sample copy. The shinkansen and limited-express network covers almost everywhere worth going. A rail pass bought before you travel saves money on longer itineraries.
Where to stay
Sample copy. Mix a design-led city hotel with a traditional ryokan and at least one night in a mountain or onsen town. Our hotel reviews are linked below.
Suggested itineraries
Japan itineraries
Cities and regions
Where to go in Japan
Where to stay
Hotels we rate in Japan
Speak to a specialist
Plan it with someone who has been
Scott Dunn
Tailor-made luxury travel, designed around you
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Original Travel
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Questions
How many days do I need in Japan?
Sample answer. Seven days covers Tokyo and Kyoto; fourteen lets you add the Alps or an onsen town without rushing.
Is Japan easy for independent travellers?
Sample answer. Yes. Signage is excellent, trains run to the minute and our itineraries include station-by-station guidance.
Do I need to speak Japanese?
Sample answer. No, though a few phrases are appreciated. Hotels and stations in the main cities have English-speaking staff.
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