Flights from Christchurch (CHC) to Japan

Discover Japan

Discover Japan

Why visit Japan?

Japan blends ultramodern cities with serene temples, forests, and coastlines. You can experience meticulous hospitality, refined design, and a deep sense of tradition alongside cutting-edge technology.

What to expect

From the neon energy of Tokyo and Osaka to the historic streets of Kyoto and the laid-back charm of Fukuoka and regional towns, Japan offers efficient transport, safe streets, and clearly signed attractions for visitors.

Plan your trip

Japan rewards both first-time explorers and repeat visitors, with distinct seasons and regional character in every direction. It is also a convenient gateway for exploring wider East Asia and the North Pacific.

Top experiences in Japan

Explore Tokyo's diverse neighbourhoods

Stroll from the pop culture streets of Shibuya and Harajuku to the more traditional lanes of Asakusa, discovering fashion, galleries, and city views along the way.

Discover Osaka's waterfront and cityscapes

Enjoy riverside promenades and lively entertainment districts, then head to observation decks for sweeping views over Osaka Bay and the city skyline.

Unwind in Fukuoka's coastal districts

Walk along seaside parks, modern waterfront malls, and leafy neighbourhoods that give this southern city a relaxed, liveable feel.

Visit historic quarters in and around Nagoya

Explore reconstructed castles, museums, and preserved streets that showcase the region's samurai, merchant, and industrial heritage.

Experience seasonal landscapes

Time your trip for cherry blossoms in spring, lush green mountains in summer, fiery foliage in autumn, or snow landscapes and winter illuminations.

Relax in hot spring towns

Travel out from major cities to onsen resorts, where you can soak in mineral-rich baths and stay in traditional inns surrounded by nature.

Discover art islands and design districts

Seek out contemporary art museums, open-air installations, and carefully designed public spaces that reflect Japan's love of craft and aesthetics.

Experience Japan's way of life

Getting around

Japan's rail network, including shinkansen bullet trains, links Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka quickly and reliably, while extensive metro and bus systems make local travel straightforward.

Local life & culture

You will notice a focus on consideration for others, punctuality, and attention to detail, from quiet commuter trains to neighbourhood festivals and everyday rituals at parks, shops, and public spaces.

Where to unwind

Find calm in landscaped gardens, riverside paths, mountain trails, and coastal promenades, as well as public baths and hot spring towns that invite you to slow down between city days.

A taste of Japan

National dishes & specialties

Japan is known for dishes such as sushi, ramen, tempura, and okonomiyaki, with each region, from Tokyo and Osaka to Fukuoka and Nagoya, adding its own distinctive styles and flavours.

Casual & modern dining hubs

Across Japan's cities you can browse department-store food halls, casual eateries, standing bars, and modern cafés serving everything from quick snacks to creative seasonal menus.

Signature & scenic dining

Look for counter-style restaurants where you watch chefs at work, high-floor venues with skyline views, and intimate spots overlooking rivers, gardens, or historic streetscapes.

Retail therapy in Japan

Malls & lifestyle hubs

Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka feature large shopping complexes and department stores that bring together international brands, Japanese designers, lifestyle goods, and gourmet food halls.

Markets & local crafts

Seek out neighbourhood streets and covered arcades in cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, where you can find ceramics, textiles, stationery, and regional crafts made by local artisans.

Evening retail scene

After dark, major districts light up with illuminated storefronts, late-opening malls, and lively shopping streets where you can browse fashion, lifestyle goods, and souvenirs into the evening.

Best time to visit Japan

Spring and autumn are shoulder season, typically from March to May and October to November, with mild temperatures around 10–20°C (50–68°F) and clear days that suit city walks and countryside trips. Summer, from June to early September, is peak season in many regions, especially for festivals and coastal breaks, with warmer, humid conditions ranging from about 20–32°C (68–90°F). Winter, from December to February, is low season in many cities, with colder weather from about -5–10°C (23–50°F) depending on region, and excellent snow conditions in northern and mountain areas.

Frequently Asked Questions