Japan
10 things you didn't know about Japan
Whether you are visiting for the first time or are already familiar with Japan's culture, there is always plenty to discover about this fascinating country.
Top Five: Places to view Japan’s iconic cherry blossom
Take a trip of a lifetime this spring to marvel at Japan’s iconic sakura (cherry blossoms) which blanket the country with beautiful pink flowers from March to April.
Find inner peace at the stunning temples of Kyoto in 2017
True Japanese culture can be no better expressed than through the sacred temples of Kyoto city. Home to over 1600 Buddhist temples, of which 15 were awarded UNESCO status in 1994, Kyoto is one of the finest destinations in the world to immerse oneself in ancient religious ritual, blissful tranquillity and beauty.
Catering for Gourmets - Ski Safari’s menu for foodie skiers
There are many ingredients required to make the ultimate recipe for a perfect skiing holiday. Mix together fresh powder and mountain scenery, add a sprinkling of sunshine and combine it with convenient accommodation options and heaps to do off the slopes and you almost have the perfect fusion.
Skiing in South Korea and Japan
With happy clients already enjoying the pistes across the world, Ski Safari is excited to announce the arrival of South Korea to this winter’s programme.
Japan's favourite and far-out festivals
From old favourites to far-out events, there is a summer festival (natsu matsuri)for everyone in Japan.
Get the inside track from InsideJapan
InsideJapan Tours can arrange a plethora of cultural experiences across the country, which can be woven into any self-guided or fully tailored trip. Here are a few examples of Tokyo experiences, offered to provide a unique perspective on the city.
Snow monkeys, snow festivals and snowboarding in Japan
Come winter, Japan becomes a sparkling wonderland of unforgettable sights and experiences. Set against the snow, Kyoto’s Golden Pavilion Temple and kimono-clad geisha look even more exquisite, whilst traditional colourful festivals are dedicated to the white stuff. Snow boarders go crazy for the powder, cities are illuminated with extravagant LED displays and the inner grounds of the Imperial Palace are opened to the public for just two days per annum.
Fall for Kyoto this autumn
Containing 17 UNESCO World Heritage sites, over 1600 Buddhist temples, more than 400 Shinto shrines and postcard perfect landscapes, Kyoto, is undoubtedly one of Japan’s most popular tourist attractions.
Discover the slopes of Japan
As Japan is known more for its contrasting futuristic high-tech cities and ancient culture and traditions, the country's ski resorts remain a well-kept secret.
New rooms, suites and a spa for Okura Hotels in Japan
Okura Hotels & Resorts, the Japanese luxury hotel group have undertaken an extensive renovation programme at four of its 16 hotels across Japan to refurbish the rooms and suites, as well as reopen a spa.
Experience Japan's autumnal glory on a garden tour
Japan's stunning cherry blossom season in spring is well known but, come autumn, when the maple trees blaze into vivid displays of scarlet, saffron and gold, the gardens of Japan also put on a spectacular show of autumnal colours.
Be Hyper in Japan with InsideJapan Tours
InsideJapan Tours teams up with the UK’s biggest Japanese contemporary cultural event to produce the first official HyperJapan tours.
Japan Journeys launch new 12-night family holiday
Japan Journeys, a leading specialist operator of tailor-made holidays and escorted tours to Japan, has launched a new 12-night dedicated Family Holiday package combining the best of Japan’s cultural and modern experiences for discerning families, starting from £5,895 (total for two adults and two children aged 11 or under).
Japan’s natural galleries
Feast your eyes on Japan’s little-known visual arts scene and the natural aesthetic delights of her islands and mountains: the unique Setouchi Triennale Arts Festival and two new itineraries from specialist InsideJapan Tours - the self-guided Japan Arts Trail and the escorted Historic Mountains Trail – provide the perfect introduction.