Ancient meets modern in Japan, a land of amazing Asian contrasts, ranging from the ultra-modern city of Tokyo to the ancient shrines and temples of captivating Kyoto. Marvel at the mountainous, volcanic scenery of this amazing island nation, hike up iconic Mount Fuji, bathe in hot springs, see stunning ornamental gardens, take in traditional temples and pagodas galore and spot a geisha or two as you wander through the ancient streets of Gion. Take one of our Japan group tours and head to the land of sake, sumo, skiing, shrines and buzzing cities on your Japan gap year and explore the extremes of Asian experience in vibrant Japan.
Read more in our Japan Travel Guide.
Japan Trips and Tours
Journey Through Japan
10 or 14 days from £1,669
5.0 37Explore the Land of the Rising Sun over 10 or 14 days
Join this unforgettable group tour of Japan for the experience of a lifetime! From the neon lit streets of Tokyo to Kyoto, Mount Fuji, Osaka, Hiroshima and more.
Japan Express
9 days from £969
5.0 10Affordable adventure in the Far East's most intriguing country
Explore Japan on a shoestring with this epic journey through Japan's biggest highlights. Travel from Tokyo to Osaka over 9 days, with temple visits, street food tours, Mount Fuji, monkeys and more!
Japan & Korea Discovery
24 days from £3,275
4.5 7Explore the highlights of two amazing Asian countries
Looking for bucket-list moments? This trip has them in spades. Look into North Korea from the DMZ, stay in a Buddhist monastery, make sushi in Tokyo, meet geisha in Kyoto and much, much more.
Japan & Korea Discovery 2025
25 days from £3,425
Explore the highlights of two amazing Asian countries
Looking for bucket-list moments? This trip has them in spades. Look into North Korea from the DMZ, stay in a Buddhist monastery, make sushi in Tokyo, meet geisha in Kyoto and much, much more.
Japan Facts
Capital City
TokyoCurrency
Japanese Yen (JPY)Language
JapaneseDialling Code
+81Plug Type
A & BJapan Highlights
Tokyo
Tokyo is a cultural and culinary powerhouse. Encounter exciting contrasts throughout this megacity, from the swift speed of Shibuya Crossing to the serenity of Senso-ji Temple. Slurp noodles served by robots, or dine at centuries-old establishments. And if you’re an anime fan, then the Pokemon Center and Shuga Shrine stairs are calling your name.
Mount Fuji
Japan’s highest mountain is the source of legend. This active volcano is a sacred spirit in the Shinto faith and features in Japan’s most iconic artwork, The Great Wave. Mount Fuji’s snow-capped peaks are easily accessible on a guided hike or can be admired from the five lakes and iconic Chureito Pagoda viewpoint.
Cherry Blossoms
There is something special about Japan in the spring from March to May. Partake in the tradition of Hanami (“flower viewing”) during Sakura season. With live performances and picnics, Japan’s spring festivals are a once-in-a-lifetime experience for travellers. If you miss out on seeing them on your trip to Japan, then it’s a good reason to go back.
Kyoto
Discover old-world Japan in Kyoto. From the Golden Pavilion to the Imperial Palace and Miyama Village, this destination is like stepping into another century. Learn about ancient samurai culture, enjoy a traditional tea ceremony and wear a kimono while exploring this ancient capital with a rich history.
Fushimi-Inari Shrine
Stepping inside the Fushimi-Inari shrine is a one-of-a-kind experience. Take in the enchanting scenery as you wander through 1000 Torii gates, each as vibrant as the next. This magical path whisks you through Mount Inariyama, with the crowds dispersing the higher you hike. You can see Kyoto at the summit and even spot Mount Fuji in the distance!
Arashiyama Bamboo Forest - Kyoto
Towering bamboo shoots, winding paths and captivating soundscapes make this forest one of Japan’s most magical destinations. The endless emerald scenery and tranquil atmosphere are unlike anything you have experienced before. While beautiful photos are taken here, nothing compares to visiting this natural wonder in person.
Nara Park
Befriend the locals inside Japan’s sacred deer sanctuary. Valued as sacred messengers in the Shinto faith, over a thousand Sika deer roam around this charming park. Well-accustomed to photos, the deer confidently approach visitors and are happy to bow in exchange for a rice cracker – sold at the vendors set up around the park.
Osaka Castle
Symbolic of Japan’s samurai past, Osaka Castle’s origin story is fascinating. This majestic fortress was constructed in celebration of Japan’s unification and has been burned down and rebuilt multiple times throughout history. Today, this ivory castle embellished with gold is a mesmerising contrast to Osaka’s vibrant cityscape.
Itsukushima Shrine - Miyajima Island
Only 45 minutes away from Hiroshima is the spectacular island of Miyajima, where you will discover the world-famous Itsukushima Shrine. Built over water, the floating Torii gates transform with the high and low tides. If you have the chance to see this awe-inspiring shrine at sunset, take it.
Japan Travel Advice
Climate & Weather
Japan’s climate varies depending on which area you visit, making this country an exciting all-season destination. While the East and West of Japan both have hot and humid summers, the East experiences heavy snow during the winter. Japan’s southern islands - Kyushu, Amami and Okinawa - have subtropical climates, while the northern island of Hokkaido has freezing winters and refreshing summers.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Japan’s main islands is during the spring from March until May, or in the autumn months of September to November. This is when the weather is cool and dry but still sunny. From the famous Sakura blossom in the spring to the lesser-known red foliage in autumn, Japan’s scenery is especially colourful during these times of year.
Customs & Culture
Japanese culture is deeply respectful and hierarchical. It is polite to bow to greet someone and to accept gifts with both hands. Always remove your shoes before entering someone’s home, and try to avoid eating, blowing your nose and loud behaviour while in public. It is customary to show up to events and meetings 5-10 minutes early.
Passports & Visas
British passport holders can stay in Japan for up to 90 days. You will receive a visa in your passport on arrival and do not need to apply for one before travelling. To stay longer, you must meet the Japanese government’s entry requirements and apply for a visa extension.
Your passport must be valid for the length of your stay. You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen. Stay up to date with FCDO advice before you arrive in Japan.
Health & Safety
Check before travelling that you have any necessary vaccinations at least 8 weeks prior to arrival. Healthcare in Japan is of high quality but expensive, so travellers are highly encouraged to purchase comprehensive travel insurance.
Natural disasters are uncommon but can happen, so travellers are recommended to familiarise themselves with safety procedures and follow the advice of local authorities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Flights to Japan from the UK generally take 14 hours and it is possible to find non-stop flights from London to Tokyo. There are also flight options that include one layover.
While you can generally expect to pay similar prices to the UK while in Japan, it is more than possible to travel around Japan on a budget. There are a tonne of high-quality and cheap restaurants throughout the country, and most of the country’s major attractions can be visited for free.
The cherry blossom season in Japan takes place during the spring. Sakura festivals typically begin around March and finish in May, with the specific dates changing every year with the flowers!
Japan is an extremely safe destination with low crime rates. We encourage our travellers to take general safety precautions whilst travelling.
Absolutely! Whether you’re a first-time traveller or looking to explore more of Asia, Japan is an amazing choice for gap year travel. From the Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines to the exciting modern cities, Japan has an exhilarating blend of activities and scenery. While this destination is worth visiting by itself, you could also add on a tour to South Korea and China for the ultimate East Asia experience!
Tipping is not customary anywhere in Japan and can be considered impolite.
Japan Trip Reviews
Read more about Japan
A-Z of Japan; Everything you need to know
Japan is a thrilling country of contrasts containing endless discoveries. It is full of culture, whether you want to see the older traditional parts or the new and modern ones! Japan is home to one of the world’s most astounding cities - Tokyo. This city is known for its entertainment, shopping districts, cleanliness and the cityscape. Let's...
Last updated: 12th February 2024
The Incredible Temples and Shrines of Japan
Japan is one of the world’s most magical destinations to explore, and part of that is down to the country’s rich and fascinating cultural heritage. Any trip to Japan is incomplete without visiting at least one sacred site, especially since you’re spoiled for choice with around 80,000 shrines and 75,000 temples to choose from. If you...
Last updated: 13th August 2024
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