Japan

Personalised Japan holidays, inspired by your interests

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Temples, Sushi and Sakura?
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Where the Past and Future Live Side by Side

Japan is a country of captivating contrasts. In one day, you can witness a Shinto ceremony beneath Kyoto’s ancient torii gates, then ride a bullet train past Mount Fuji toward the neon buzz of Tokyo. Every detail feels deliberate, from the beauty of a tea ceremony to the precision of sushi craftsmanship.

Wander the streets of old-town Kanazawa, soak in a steaming onsen in Hakone, or explore the art islands of Naoshima. Whether it’s cherry blossoms in spring, golden temples in autumn or snow-covered mountains in Hokkaido, Japan offers beauty in every season.

Japan caters to all travel styles. Stay in a sleek city hotel, a countryside ryokan with tatami floors, or a luxury alpine retreat. Try kaiseki dining, late-night ramen, or fresh-caught seafood in morning markets. From anime cafés to ancient castles, your journey can be as modern or traditional as you wish.

Whether you’re travelling as a couple, family or solo explorer, Japan welcomes you with grace, efficiency and quiet wonder. The transport is seamless, the service exceptional and the culture endlessly enriching.

With Nexus Travel, your itinerary is designed to flow smoothly and meaningfully. We combine must-see highlights with hidden gems, ensuring your time in Japan is memorable, peaceful and full of discovery.

Suggested Trips and Tours

Explore our hand-picked selection of suggested trips and tours, designed to help you experience the very best each destination has to offer.

Top Hotels

Explore our curated collection of top hotels, where exceptional comfort meets refined style. Hand-picked for their outstanding service, prime locations and unique character, these properties offer more than just a place to stay – they elevate your entire travel experience.

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Useful Information for your trip to Japan

Entry Requirements

UK passport holders can visit Japan visa-free for up to 90 days. Make sure your passport is valid for the duration of your stay.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (March to May) is ideal for cherry blossoms, while autumn (September to November) offers crisp weather and vibrant foliage. Winters are great for skiing in the north.

Vaccinations

No specific vaccinations are required. Standard boosters such as tetanus and hepatitis A are recommended for general travel safety.

Currency

The local currency is the Japanese Yen (JPY). Credit cards are widely accepted, but having cash is useful for smaller shops and local eateries.

Language

Japanese is the official language. English signage is common in major cities and transport hubs, but learning a few key phrases is appreciated.

Electricity

Japan uses 100V power with Type A and B plugs. A voltage converter may be needed for UK appliances, along with a suitable plug adaptor.

Tokyo

Japan’s capital blends modern skyscrapers with ancient temples, unique subcultures, high-end dining, and bustling street scenes that surprise at every turn.

Kyoto

With over 1,000 temples, Kyoto is the cultural heart of Japan. Wander through bamboo groves, traditional teahouses, and geisha districts like Gion.

Mount Fuji

This iconic volcano is a popular hiking destination and a national symbol. Visit the Fuji Five Lakes area or take a scenic train ride nearby.

Hiroshima

Explore the Peace Memorial Park and Museum, then visit nearby Miyajima Island with its famous floating torii gate and serene walking trails.

Osaka

Known for its food, nightlife, and friendly locals, Osaka is famous for street eats like takoyaki and okonomiyaki as well as its historic castle.

Nara

Just a short ride from Kyoto, Nara offers ancient temples and free-roaming deer in scenic Nara Park, plus the impressive Great Buddha statue.

Getting Around

The Japan Rail Pass offers excellent value for high-speed train travel. Public transport is clean, reliable, and well-connected throughout the country.

Cash vs Card

While cards are accepted in most cities, smaller towns, local restaurants, and traditional inns often prefer cash. ATMs are widely available.

Etiquette

Japanese etiquette values politeness. Remove shoes indoors, avoid speaking loudly in public transport, and bow when greeting or thanking someone.

Accommodation

Options range from modern hotels to traditional ryokans with tatami mats and futons. Staying at a ryokan is a memorable cultural experience.

Food Sensitivities

English menus are common in cities, but food allergies or dietary restrictions may require a translated card to show at restaurants.

Public Behaviour

Eating on the go is uncommon. It is more polite to eat meals while seated, even if it’s a takeaway from a convenience store.

Efficient Transport

Japan’s train system is world-renowned for punctuality and speed. The Shinkansen (bullet train) can reach speeds of over 300km/h.

Cherry Blossom Season

The annual sakura bloom is a major cultural event. Parks and riversides become popular picnic spots during this short-lived but stunning spectacle.

Rich Cultural Heritage

Japan offers a fascinating mix of Shinto shrines, Buddhist temples, samurai castles, and festivals that reflect its deep-rooted traditions.

Vending Machines

With more than 4 million vending machines across the country, you can find drinks, snacks, umbrellas, and even hot meals on the go.

Pop Culture Powerhouse

Japan has influenced global pop culture through anime, manga, fashion, and video games. Dedicated districts in Tokyo celebrate these vibrant scenes.

Impeccable Cleanliness

Despite limited public bins, streets are spotless thanks to cultural pride in cleanliness and respect for shared spaces.

Day 1: Arrival in Tokyo

Arrive in Japan’s capital and enjoy a local dinner in bustling Shinjuku.

Day 2: Tokyo Highlights

Visit Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, Shibuya and enjoy views from the Tokyo Skytree.

Day 3: Culture and Food

Explore Tsukiji Market, Senso-ji Temple, and try a sushi or izakaya experience.

Day 4: Day Trip to Nikko

Discover ornate shrines and beautiful nature in the UNESCO-listed town of Nikko.

Day 5: Hakone and Fuji

Cruise Lake Ashi, ride the ropeway and enjoy Mount Fuji views and hot springs.

Day 6: Travel to Kyoto

Ride the bullet train to Kyoto and explore the historic Gion district.

Day 7: Temples and Gardens

Visit the Golden Pavilion, Zen gardens and stroll along the Philosopher’s Path.

Day 8: Arashiyama Day Trip

Walk through the Bamboo Grove and visit Tenryu-ji Temple by the river.

Day 9: Fushimi Inari and Tea

Climb red torii gates, then enjoy a traditional tea ceremony in Kyoto.

Day 10: Nara Day Trip

See the Great Buddha, Nara Park’s deer and beautiful ancient temples.

Day 11: Hiroshima and Miyajima

Visit the Peace Memorial Park, then ferry to Miyajima Island’s floating shrine.

Day 12: Explore Miyajima

Ride the ropeway up Mount Misen and try local oysters and snacks.

Day 13: Osaka Highlights

Visit Osaka Castle, then enjoy street food and nightlife in Dotonbori.

Day 14: Departure from Osaka

Transfer to Kansai Airport after breakfast or some last-minute shopping.

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FAQs

    Where is Japan and why should I visit?
    Japan is an island nation in East Asia, located in the Pacific Ocean to the east of China and Korea. It’s a country where ancient traditions meet futuristic innovation, offering a unique blend of serene temples, bustling cities, beautiful landscapes and exceptional cuisine. From cherry blossom-lined streets and historic castles to bullet trains and neon-lit districts, Japan is a captivating destination for culture seekers, food lovers, nature enthusiasts and anyone drawn to a country that effortlessly balances old and new.
    What are the must-visit places in Japan?
    Tokyo is a vibrant capital full of cutting-edge technology, fashion, food and pop culture. Kyoto is the heart of traditional Japan, known for its shrines, tea houses and geisha districts. Hiroshima offers moving history and nearby Miyajima Island, famous for its floating torii gate. Osaka is loved for its street food and lively personality, while Nara is home to ancient temples and friendly deer. Hakone and the Fuji Five Lakes region offer hot springs and views of Mount Fuji. The Japanese Alps, Hokkaido and the islands of Okinawa reveal Japan’s natural beauty and diversity.
    When is the best time to visit Japan?
    Spring (March to May) is one of the most popular times to visit, thanks to the cherry blossom season and mild weather. Autumn (September to November) is equally beautiful with colourful foliage and comfortable temperatures. Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, especially in the cities, but is ideal for exploring the mountains and islands. Winter (December to February) offers excellent skiing in Hokkaido and the Alps, along with peaceful temple visits and onsen (hot spring) experiences. Japan is truly a year-round destination with something special in every season.
    What can I do in Japan besides sightseeing?
    Japan offers a wide range of immersive activities. You can join a tea ceremony, try your hand at sushi-making or watch a sumo match. Visit an onsen town for a relaxing soak in natural hot springs, or hike through ancient pilgrimage routes like the Kumano Kodo. Explore samurai castles, join a cooking class, or shop in everything from luxury boutiques to quirky themed cafés. In rural areas, you can stay in traditional ryokan inns, cycle through rice fields, or take scenic train journeys through the countryside.
    Where can I combine Japan with for a twin-centre holiday?
    Japan combines well with other Asian destinations such as South Korea, Taiwan or Vietnam. A popular pairing is Japan and Thailand, offering cultural contrast and tropical beaches. Hong Kong or Singapore make convenient stopovers en route. For a more extended journey, you could combine Japan with Australia or New Zealand. Tokyo is also a major hub, so options for multi-centre holidays are plentiful, whether you’re after culture, relaxation or adventure.
    What should I absolutely not miss?
    Watching the sunrise over Mount Fuji, whether from a lakeside view or on a hike, is unforgettable. Experiencing the tranquillity of a Kyoto temple, especially during cherry blossom or autumn season, is deeply moving. Walking through the gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine, visiting the historic Peace Memorial in Hiroshima, and exploring the buzzing streets of Tokyo’s Shibuya or Akihabara districts are musts. Sampling ramen, sushi and street snacks like takoyaki is essential. A night in a traditional ryokan, complete with tatami mats and kaiseki dinner, is a true taste of Japanese hospitality.
    What kind of accommodation can I expect in Japan?
    Japan offers a wide variety of accommodation, from luxury hotels and modern city apartments to traditional ryokan inns and capsule hotels. In cities, you’ll find sleek international hotels, boutique properties and budget-friendly options. In the countryside or hot spring towns, staying in a ryokan offers a unique cultural experience, often with multi-course dinners and communal baths. Capsule hotels are a quirky and efficient option for solo travellers. Cleanliness and service are consistently high across all types of accommodation.
    Is Japan suitable for families and first-time travellers?
    Yes, Japan is an excellent destination for both families and first-time visitors. It’s one of the safest countries in the world, with clean cities, reliable public transport and a welcoming culture. Families will enjoy interactive museums, theme parks like Universal Studios and Disneyland, and attractions such as samurai shows and animal cafés. First-time travellers will appreciate the balance of modern convenience and traditional charm, with English signage in most public areas and helpful locals. Organised tours or guides can enhance your experience but aren’t essential for confident travellers.
    What should I know before I go?
    British passport holders can enter Japan without a visa for stays of up to 90 days. The local currency is the Japanese Yen (JPY), and while Japan is largely cash-based, card acceptance is growing, especially in cities. ATMs are widely available in convenience stores. Trains are the most efficient way to travel, and a Japan Rail Pass can offer excellent value if visiting multiple cities. It’s polite to remove shoes indoors, bow instead of shaking hands, and avoid talking loudly on public transport. Tipping is not customary.
    Final inspiration – Why Japan?
    Japan is a land that stirs the imagination – where ancient temples sit beside neon-lit skyscrapers and tradition lives in harmony with innovation. Whether you’re wandering through bamboo forests, tasting world-class cuisine or marvelling at the precision of a bullet train, Japan delivers unforgettable moments with quiet elegance. It’s a place that both surprises and soothes, with depth, grace and a unique charm that leaves travellers wanting more. Whether it’s your first trip or your fifth, Japan always finds a new way to inspire.

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