Japan Holidays

Japan holidays offer all sorts of exciting things to do. Whether you’re seeking natural wonders, cultural sites or family fun, this place ticks all the boxes.

One absolute must-see is Mount Fuji. For the best view, head to Hakone National Park – just outside Tokyo – where you’ll find hot springs and fantastic vistas of Japan’s highest peak. Make sure you also tick off some of Japan’s other iconic landmarks, including Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto and Tokyo Imperial Palace. And spend a quiet day at Hiroshima, where you can read moving accounts about Japan’s involvement in World War Two and walk through the poignant Peace Memorial Park.

Taking the kids with you? Tokyo Disneyland is one of the best places to visit in Japan, with rides, shows and entertainment for all ages. Or you could head to Universal Studios Japan in Osaka to discover SUPER NINTENDO WORLD™, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter™ and more. Alternatively, if you fancy some downtime, the sugary beaches of Okinawa and Shikoku are ideal for sunbathing, swimming and snorkelling.   

No holiday to Japan would be complete without some time in Tokyo. This energetic capital city seamlessly blends traditional customs and cutting-edge technology – a contrast which means you’ll find delicate Shinto shrines surrounded by space-age skyscrapers, and peaceful gardens dotted between neon streets. It’s great knowing exactly where to go and what to see, but half of Tokyo’s charm lies within the hidden gems that you’ll stumble across unexpectedly.

There are so many things to do in Tokyo. To see this bustling metropolis in action, head to Shibuya Crossing at rush hour and watch as dozens of commuters, shoppers and tourists walk across the vast intersection. Or go to the top of Tokyo Skytree and admire the sprawling city from above.

When you want to chill out, stroll around Yoyogi Park or Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, where landscaped lawns are peppered with pretty plants and serene ponds. Make sure you also visit Senso-ji – the oldest temple in Tokyo – and mooch around the cafés, restaurants and boutiques in Nakameguro. And tea-lovers must take part in a traditional tea ceremony at Hamarikyu Onshi Teien.

Tokyo is merely the first step on a thrilling Japan holiday. If you hop on the world-famous Shinkansen Bullet Train, you can easily reach some of the country’s other top destinations, including Kyoto and Osaka.

If, when you imagine your Japan trip, you envisage tranquil temples and idyllic gardens, Kyoto should be on your list. Boasting a whopping 1,600 Buddhist temples and 400 Shinto shrines, this former capital city is a UNESCO-protected treasure trove. You can gaze at the iconic Golden Pavilion Temple, visit Nijo Castle, and stroll around Kyoto Imperial Palace. And don’t forget to walk through the orange gates of Fushimi Inari-taisha – it makes for a fantastic photo.

Further south, Osaka is a haven for foodies. You can tuck into traditional dishes and a tasty street food, including barbecued beef yakiniku, octopus takoyaki – a dumpling-like snack – and freshly-made Osakan pancakes, called okonomiyaki. There are plenty of things to do in Osaka, though, besides eating. You could stroll around Osaka Castle or marvel at the wildlife at Osaka Aquarium KAIYUKAN. The largest in the world, the aquarium is home to tropical fish, rays, seals, turtles and more.

Japan holidays are popular all year round. You can ski during winter, see blossoms in spring, go sightseeing in the glorious summer sun, and admire fiery leaves in autumn. So the best time to go to Japan really depends on how you want to spend your time.

If you want to see Japan’s iconic sakura cherry blossoms, you should plan your trip between March and May. The blossom season isn’t exact but, chances are, you’ll be able to see the gardens in bloom. Temperatures in Tokyo hover between 13°C and 20°C at this time of year, while Osaka and Kyoto are even warmer. Just bear in mind that you may want to avoid travelling to Japan during Golden Week. Starting on 29th April and lasting until early May, this period incorporates several of Japan's national holidays – so you’ll find that everywhere is very busy, and some attractions might be closed.

Alternatively, you could go to Japan in autumn to see the country’s gardens turn red, orange and gold. Or, if skiing and snowboarding are on your agenda, book your holiday between mid-December and early-April. Summer is ideal for hiking and sightseeing – but you may need to pack a waterproof, as June and July are also the wettest months of the year.

Visa: British passport holders do not need a visa for trips to Japan lasting 90 days or less
Language: Japanese
Currency: Japanese Yen (JPY)
Time difference: GMT +9 hours
Flight duration from London: A direct flight to Tokyo takes 12 hours
Capital city: Tokyo