Flights from Auckland (AKL) to Japan

Discover Japan

Discover Japan

Why visit Japan?

Japan brings together ancient castles, serene temples, neon cities, and cutting-edge design, offering you a rich mix of tradition and modern life in a compact, easy-to-explore country.

What to expect

From the energy of Tokyo and Osaka to the historic charm of Kyoto and the coastal appeal of Fukuoka and Nagoya, you can expect efficient transport, clean cities, and well-organised attractions wherever you go.

Plan your trip

Use Japan as both a destination and a gateway to explore surrounding regions, with fast domestic trains, regional airports, and well-connected cities making multi-city itineraries simple to arrange.

Top experiences in Japan

Explore Tokyo's diverse neighbourhoods

Wander from the bright lights of Shinjuku and Shibuya to the quieter streets of Asakusa and Yanaka, each area revealing a different side of Tokyo life.

Discover Osaka's waterfront and city views

Stroll along the Dotonbori canal, take in the skyline from observation decks, and visit Osaka Castle for sweeping views over the city.

Visit historic Kyoto from Osaka

Use Osaka as a base for day trips to nearby Kyoto, where you can walk through atmospheric streets lined with wooden townhouses and centuries-old landmarks.

Unwind in Fukuoka's seaside districts

Relax along the city waterfront and parks, then explore compact neighbourhoods that blend contemporary architecture with local charm.

Experience Nagoya's urban heritage

Visit Nagoya Castle, modern museums, and lively shopping streets that reflect both the city’s industrial history and its creative present.

Enjoy seasonal landscapes

Plan your trip around spring blossoms, lush green summers, autumn colours, or crisp winter days for very different views of the same cities.

Soak in an onsen town

Add a stay in one of Japan’s many hot spring towns, where you can unwind in mineral-rich baths and enjoy a slower pace between city visits.

Experience Japan's way of life

Getting around

High-speed Shinkansen trains, extensive local rail networks, and punctual buses link Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Fukuoka, and beyond, while domestic flights connect more distant regions and islands efficiently.

Local life & culture

You will find a strong sense of courtesy and attention to detail, from quiet residential streets and neighbourhood festivals to design-focused shops, galleries, and everyday rituals like public bathing and seasonal celebrations.

Where to unwind

Escape to landscaped gardens, riverside promenades, and nearby mountains or coastal trails, where you can slow down, enjoy wide views, and experience Japan’s changing seasons in a more relaxed setting.

A taste of Japan

National dishes & specialties

You can discover sushi and sashimi in Tokyo, okonomiyaki in Osaka, ramen in Fukuoka, and regional favourites in Nagoya, each city offering its own take on well-loved Japanese flavours.

Casual & modern dining hubs

Food halls, station complexes, and side streets around major train hubs in Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka offer everything from quick bites to contemporary dining, making it easy to eat well between sightseeing.

Signature & scenic dining

Look for restaurants with views over city skylines, riverfront promenades, or tranquil gardens, where careful presentation and seasonal ingredients turn each meal into a memorable part of your journey.

Retail therapy in Japan

Malls & lifestyle hubs

Large complexes in Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka gather international brands, Japanese labels, cafés, and lifestyle stores under one roof, usually linked directly to major train stations for easy access.

Markets & local crafts

Browse arcades and shopping streets in Osaka, historic districts near Tokyo, and neighbourhood shops in Nagoya and Fukuoka for ceramics, textiles, stationery, and locally made goods.

Evening retail scene

After dark, districts like Shinjuku and Shibuya in Tokyo and central Osaka stay brightly lit, with shops, arcades, and department stores open late, creating a lively atmosphere for evening strolls and last-minute finds.

Best time to visit Japan

Spring (March to May) is a shoulder season, with mild weather around 10 to 20°C (50 to 68°F) and blossoming trees drawing visitors to parks and gardens. Summer (June to August) is peak season in many cities, bringing warm, humid days around 25 to 32°C (77 to 90°F) and lively outdoor events. Autumn (September to November) is another shoulder season, offering comfortable temperatures of about 12 to 22°C (54 to 72°F) and colourful foliage. Winter (December to February) is a low season in most cities, with temperatures often between 0 and 10°C (32 to 50°F), clearer skies, and colder conditions especially in northern and inland regions.

Frequently Asked Questions