Experiences in Japan

Fusing the futuristic with the traditional, Tokyo is a sprawling megacity bursting with a seemingly limitless number of things to do

A business and cultural megacenter that’s home to tens of millions of people, Tokyo is also the crossroads where the Japanese interact with citizens from all over the world. The media love to focus on Harajuku’s vibrant fashion, robot restaurants, maid cafes and the passionate uberfans known as otaku. As fast-paced as Tokyo’s innovation is, the metropolis is just as devoted to preserving tradition through its historical gardens, shrines and temples.

Known for its extreme attention to detail, Japan’s capital is home to some of the best Japanese food in the country, with 234 Michelin-starred restaurants—more than any other city. Whatever your cultural interests are, Tokyo is likely to have you covered. Home to many world-class art galleries and museums, staggeringly diverse nightlife options and cutting-edge technology, you’ll never be stuck for things to do or places to go in Tokyo.

Nikko – Where magnificent architecture, deep history and untouched nature merge

Where magnificent architecture, deep history and untouched nature merge
Nikko’s beautiful setting and sacred mountains have been the backdrop of Shinto and Buddhist worship since at least the 8th century. Its most famous shrines and temples, among the most magnificent in Japan, are a UNESCO World Heritage site. The surrounding national park is a destination for hikers of all levels.

Don’t Miss
– Taking in Nikko’s World Heritage architecture.
– Crossing into the Futarasan Shrine grounds at Shinkyo Bridge.
– Hiking Nikko’s sacred surroundings.

Kyoto – The old imperial capital and cultural heart of Japan

Kyoto is the former capital city of Japan and world-famous for its refined culture, dining, and charm of rural Japan

Kyoto City attracts millions of local and international visitors each year looking for traditional Japanese culture. Temples and shrines such as Kiyomizudera Temple and Kinkakuji draw lots off attention from visitors, as do the bamboo groves of nearby Arashiyama. Stay in a traditional ryokan, take a dip in a rejuvenating onsen, and enjoy the seasonal changes of cherry blossoms and brilliant autumn foliage. Kyoto’s magic is only a short bullet train ride from Tokyo. Beyond the city lie Kyoto Prefecture’s many attractive rural areas. In the north, Amanohashidate has long been considered one of Japan’s three most scenic places. Nestled in the mountains, Miyama is one of the last towns with thatched-roof farmhouses, many of which are still inhabited. Enjoy delicious local vegetables and the famous green tea grown in Uji.

Sapporo & Around
A winter wonderland and summer haven, Sapporo is all about outdoor fun, great food and famous beer

A winter wonderland and summer haven, Sapporo is all about outdoor fun, great food and famous beer
Snow and Sapporo are inextricably entwined: the city hosted Asia’s first-ever Winter Olympics in 1972, and the annual Sapporo Snow Festival wows visitors from the world over. In other seasons, Sapporo’s green expanses and blossom displays are equally breathtaking. This young, wide-open city is also famous for its beer, beef, ramen, seafood and fresh produce.

Don’t Miss
– The Sapporo Beer Museum and Beer Garden for a brew, and lamb barbecue.
– Susukino, the biggest entertainment and nightlife district north of Tokyo.
– The Sapporo Snow Festival’s elaborate snow and ice sculptures.

Osaka – Bright, gaudy and playful: Osaka provides ample amusement with little pretension

Osaka is a charming, relaxed city best known for its food, fun and nightlife—with some history and culture peeking through

Osaka is only a short shinkansen ride from Tokyo, but has a very different personality to Japan’s capital city. Hop off the bullet train into an area of exciting nightlife, delicious food and straight-talking, friendly locals. Along with plenty of shopping and modern attractions, Osaka also has a historical side, the highlight of which is Osaka Castle. The castle is a great place to discover more about Japanese history and to wander the beautiful grounds, especially during cherry blossom season in April when the sakura blooms and the weather is often at its best.

Hokkaido – Explore Japan’s northernmost prefecture

The wilderness of Hokkaido provides numerous outdoor pursuits, and its cities, nestled against the backdrop of mountains and lakes, provide culinary delights and a dose of culture

Hokkaido offers many things to do throughout the year. The mild weather in summer is great for exploring the green hills and national parks. Visit the lakes, rivers and mountains for hiking, mountain biking, canoeing and rafting. See animals and birds in their natural habitats and bathe in volcanic waters with picturesque backdrops. In winter you can enjoy world-class skiing at the many resorts on the island. Alternative winter sports, like snowshoeing, dog-sledding and snowmobiling, are also available and you can attend one of the grandest festivals in Japan—the Sapporo Snow Festival.

Kansai

There are many things to do in the Kansai region. Experience fantastic nightlife, peaceful temples and shrines, and soul-searching pilgrimages

Kansai is Japan’s spiritual and cultural capital, shaped by towering Osaka and Himeji castles, Zen gardens and arduous journeys to enlightenment. The nation’s ancient capitals of Kyoto and Nara are filled with cultural and historical sites, while Koyasan in Wakayama has been a religious destination for centuries. Just a short distance away, you can revel in the raucous nightlife of Osaka’s entertainment districts and take in panoramic views of the Kobe cityscape.

Don’t Miss
– The beauty and tranquility of Koyasan and the Kumano Kodo trails in Wakayama.
– Nara’s UNESCO World Heritage sites.
– Osaka’s piping-hot takoyaki—fried balls of batter stuffed with octopus.
– The peaceful waters of Japan’s largest lake, Lake Biwa, in Shiga.