Why visit Japan?
Japan blends ancient castles, tranquil gardens, and neon skylines in one compact, welcoming country. You can move easily between quiet historic quarters and high-tech districts in a single day.
What to expect
First-time visits often focus on Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, with side trips to cities like Nagoya and Fukuoka. Each region offers its own mix of cultural sights, coastal scenery, and modern entertainment.
Plan your trip
Japan is well connected by rail and domestic flights, making multi-city itineraries simple to plan. It also works well as part of a wider Asia journey when you connect via Singapore.
Discover Japan
Discover Japan
Top experiences in Japan
Explore Tokyo's vibrant districts
Move between the quiet lanes of Asakusa, the shopping streets of Shibuya, and the towers of Shinjuku in a single day.
Immerse yourself in Osaka's urban energy
Stroll along the canals of Dotonbori, discover Osaka Castle, and enjoy the city's lively entertainment districts.
Discover Nagoya's castles and museums
Visit Nagoya Castle, explore modern museums, and enjoy spacious shopping and dining areas near the main station.
Unwind in coastal Fukuoka
Combine city attractions with seaside promenades, green parks, and relaxed neighbourhoods by the water.
Visit traditional towns and gardens
Take day trips from major cities to historic streets, landscaped gardens, and peaceful temples and shrines.
Ride Japan's famous bullet trains
Experience fast and punctual shinkansen services linking Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, Fukuoka, and beyond.
Enjoy seasonal festivals and colours
Plan around spring blossoms, summer festivals, or autumn foliage to see Japan's landscapes at their most photogenic.
Experience Japan's way of life
Getting around
High-speed shinkansen trains link Tokyo, Nagoya, Osaka, and Fukuoka with frequent departures. In cities, you can rely on punctual metro lines, local trains, and buses, supported by clear signage and rechargeable transport cards.
Local life & culture
Neighbourhoods feel distinct, from business districts and shopping arcades to quiet residential streets. Daily life balances efficiency with attention to detail, and you will notice courteous queues, tidy public spaces, and a strong sense of local pride.
Where to unwind
In and around big cities you will find riverside walks, landscaped parks, and easy day trips to hill or coastal areas. Public gardens and viewpoints offer calm escapes, with clearly marked walking paths and resting spots.
A taste of Japan
National dishes & specialties
Japan is known for dishes such as sushi, ramen, tempura, and grilled skewers, each with regional variations. Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka all have their own signature noodle styles and local comfort foods.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In major cities you can eat in compact counter restaurants, lively food streets, and bright department store food halls. You will find everything from quick lunches near train stations to modern spots that blend Japanese and international flavours.
Signature & scenic dining
Many restaurants focus on seasonal ingredients and carefully presented set menus in refined spaces. In high-rise districts and by the waterfront, you can dine with impressive city views, especially after dark.
Retail therapy in Japan
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka offer multi-storey malls and station complexes with international brands and local designers. These hubs often combine fashion, lifestyle shops, bookstores, and large electronics stores in one place.
Markets & local crafts
Across cities you will find shopping streets and covered arcades selling regional snacks, textiles, and traditional crafts. Areas around historic quarters and older neighbourhoods often feature small specialist shops and independent makers.
Evening retail scene
In the evening, bright signage and illuminated storefronts keep shopping districts lively. Many malls and streets stay open late, creating a relaxed atmosphere for browsing after a day of sightseeing.
Best time to visit Japan
Peak season: March to May offers mild spring weather around 10–22°C (50–72°F) and popular blossom viewing, especially in Tokyo, Osaka, Nagoya, and Fukuoka.
Shoulder season: September to November brings comfortable autumn days around 12–24°C (54–75°F) with clear skies and colourful foliage in many regions.
Low season: December to February is cooler, typically 0–10°C (32–50°F) in major cities, with crisp days and quieter sightseeing, especially away from ski areas.