Japan blends ultramodern cities with tranquil temples, mountain landscapes, and coastal towns. You find meticulous design, warm hospitality, and a deep sense of tradition alongside cutting-edge technology.
Discover Japan
Discover Japan
Why visit Japan?
What to expect
From Tokyo's neon skylines to Kyoto's historic districts, Osaka's lively waterfront, Fukuoka's relaxed bayside vibe, and Nagoya's castle quarter, each region offers its own pace, scenery, and cultural charm.
Plan your trip
Use major gateways such as Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka to explore the country by rail and domestic flights. Japan also works well as part of a wider Asia itinerary thanks to efficient connections.
Top experiences in Japan
Explore Tokyo's contrasting districts
Stroll between historic Asakusa, fashionable Shibuya and Harajuku, and the waterfront views of Odaiba to experience Tokyo's many faces in a single day.
Visit castles and samurai streets in Nagoya
Discover Nagoya Castle and its gardens, then wander nearby historic quarters to see how Japan's feudal history still shapes the modern city.
Enjoy Osaka's canals and city views
Cruise along Dotonbori, ride up to Umeda Sky Building's observation deck, and explore Osaka Castle Park for a fresh view of the city.
Relax by the sea in Fukuoka
Walk along Momochi Seaside Park, visit Ohori Park's lakeside paths, and enjoy the easy-going pace of this Kyushu port city.
Seek nature and hot springs
Use cities like Osaka and Fukuoka as gateways to mountain valleys and hot spring towns, where forest trails and outdoor baths provide quiet escapes.
Experience seasonal highlights
Plan around cherry blossoms in spring, lush green mountains in summer, vivid autumn leaves, or snow-dusted landscapes on winter getaways.
Discover neighbourhood shopping streets
Explore covered arcades and local shotengai in cities across Japan for independent boutiques, snack stalls, and everyday street life.
Experience Japan's way of life
Getting around
High-speed Shinkansen trains link major cities such as Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka in comfort and with frequent departures. Within cities, you can rely on clean, punctual metro and suburban rail networks, with buses and taxis for shorter hops.
Local life & culture
You notice order and politeness everywhere, from quiet train carriages to tidy neighbourhood streets. Traditional arts, seasonal festivals, and everyday rituals like public bathing and tea appreciation sit naturally alongside pop culture, design, and contemporary fashion.
Where to unwind
Across Japan you find landscaped gardens, riverside promenades, and coastal parks offering calm breaks from the city. Hot spring resorts in the mountains, peaceful shrines, and urban green spaces such as large city parks give plenty of places to slow down and reset.
A taste of Japan
National dishes & specialties
Japan is known for sushi, sashimi, tempura, ramen, and grilled skewers, with each city adding its own twist. Tokyo offers variety, Osaka is famed for street favourites, Fukuoka is known for hearty noodles, and regional seafood is a highlight across coastal areas.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka, you can eat well in department store food halls, small counter restaurants, and contemporary bistros. From quick noodle bars to creative cafés, it is easy to try different flavours in a single day.
Signature & scenic dining
Look for city-view restaurants on high floors, intimate chef's counters, and waterfront dining districts that light up after dark. Tasting menus, seasonal ingredients, and carefully crafted presentations turn a simple meal into a memorable part of your journey.
Retail therapy in Japan
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Around major stations in Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka you find multi-level malls and department stores with international labels, Japanese fashion, lifestyle brands, and elegant basement food halls.
Markets & local crafts
Historic shopping streets and markets across cities showcase textiles, ceramics, stationery, and traditional crafts. In Tokyo, Osaka, and Fukuoka, you can pick up regional snacks, handmade goods, and thoughtful souvenirs directly from local makers.
Evening retail scene
After dark, shopping districts such as central Tokyo and Osaka's downtown glow with neon signs, late-opening stores, and lively entertainment streets, while smaller cities offer relaxed promenades and illuminated riverfront malls.
Best time to visit Japan
Spring (March to May) is a shoulder season, with mild days around 10–20°C (50–68°F) and blooming flowers across many regions. Summer (June to August) is peak season in many cities, with warm, humid weather around 20–30°C (68–86°F) and lively festivals. Autumn (September to November) is a shoulder season, offering comfortable temperatures around 10–22°C (50–72°F) and colourful foliage. Winter (December to February) is a low season in most cities, with crisp days around 0–10°C (32–50°F), though certain snow regions are busier for winter sports.