Recognition & Awards
Japan blends ancient traditions with futuristic innovations. Known for its rich culture, scenic landscapes, and vibrant cities, it offers a unique and diverse travel experience.
Explore Japan’s ultra-modern cities where dazzling neon and busy streets co-exist with tranquil parks, ancient temples, futuristic museums and quirky pop culture.
Experience Japanese culture with expert guides, from Japanese food tours, to visiting a sumo stable, a hands on calligraphy workshop or a family Anime experience.
Savour the authentic Japan and stay in a traditional ryokan, relax in a yukata, sleep on tatami mats, enjoy local cuisine, and unwind in a serene onsen with private hot spring baths available
Escape by bullet train past Mount Fuji into the Japan Alps or the southern islands and walk in a countryside of hidden villages, hot springs and manicured gardens.
At any time of year there are festivals and different things to see, from ice sculptures in Sapporo, to the famous cherry blossom and Kyoto’s summertime Gion festival.
Travellers are drawn to Japan for its ultra-modern cityscapes, intense cultural experiences and a way of life that blends ancient traditions with a quirky counter-culture and 21st-century vibrancy.
Begin your journey in Tokyo where neon-lit skyscrapers tower over historical temples and bustling markets sit alongside tranquil gardens. Breakfast at the fish market, get your Instagram shot at the four-way Shibuya crossing, then walk to the serene Meiji Shrine.
The bullet train journey past Mount Fuji brings you to Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan. Explore the Fushimi Inari Shrine with its thousands of red torii gates, the Golden Pavilion and the Arashiyama bamboo grove. Gion district offers a glimpse into the world of geishas and traditional tea houses.
The famous shinkansen (bullet train) makes travelling between cities quick and convenient, easily connecting Hiroshima, Osaka and Kanazawa on the east coast. Or head into the mountains for epic scenery and old wooden villages in Hakone National Park and the Japan Alps.
And don’t miss some of Japan’s unique activities, from staying in a ryokan or onsen hot spring resort to tea ceremonies, sushi making, calligraphy classes and sumo stable visits.
With a similar climate to Europe yet more extremes, the best time to visit is Spring and Autumn. These seasons however are much busier with tourists, especially the Spring cherry blossom season. Winter brings cold temperatures, yet more clear days and it can be a pleasant and less busy time to travel. July to September is hot, wet and humid with the threat of tropical storms.
In the heart of the vibrant city, just steps from Osaka Umeda station, the Intercontinental is a luxurious base. With spacious rooms featuring Japanese touches, a selection of casual and fine dining, an extensive spa and spectacular skyline views.
Set within the hills above the city, yet just a short walk from the Kiyomizu temple and down the hill to Gion, the Banyan Tree Higashiyama enjoys a distinctive location combining the city with gardens and green space. A boutique hotel with 57 rooms, modern facilities and comfort are incorporated into a distinctive 21st Century Japanese design.
Six Senses Kyoto is an urban retreat situated in the historic Higashiyama district, close to Kiyomizu temple and the city's historic landmarks. Seamlessly blending traditional Japanese design with modern luxury, the hotel offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city. Guests can recharge at the world-class Six Senses Spa, savor organic micro-seasonal dining at Sekki, and enjoy craft cocktails at the rooftop bar.
The Kimpton Shinjuku is located in the vibrant heart of Tokyo’s iconic skyscraper district, near Meiji Shrine and Yoyogi Park. Inviting guest rooms blend Manhattan-style creative flair with artisanal Japanese woodwork and modern design. The hotel features dynamic casual-style dining venues and a 24-hour fitness center, delivering an art-infused sanctuary amidst the city's energy
With each room featuring a private onsen, and with an attractive location on the Haya River, the Hotel Indigo Hakone Gora is ideal for those looking for the comfort and modern facilities of the IHG brand, paired with traditional Japanese touches. The hotel is a short walk from the Hakone cable car, the Suwa shrine and the museums and galleries of Hakone. With a range of facilities and varied dining, this is a ideal mountain resort style hotel.
Swissotel Nankai Osaka is a deluxe 36-storey hotel sitting directly above Nankai Railway's Namba Station in the heart of Osaka's entertainment district. It features 546 guestrooms, including executive rooms and suites with lounge access. Guests enjoy five restaurants, three bars, a café, and the Pürovel Spa & Sport wellness facilities. Flexible event spaces cater to up to 1,400 people.