Known for its vibrant culture and rich history, Japan combines the splendour of modern life with ancient traditions to offer travellers an unforgettable experience abroad.
From exploring the country’s culinary scene, wandering through majestic temples or experiencing the hustle and bustle of Tokyo’s lively streets, Japan will keep you entertained 24/7.
Incredibly easy to explore, visitors can travel all the way from the southern tip of Kyūshū up to Hokkaidō, simply by using the immaculate and efficient shinkansen network — fast and reasonably priced — therefore making any part of Japan comfortably accessible.
To help you experience a truly luxurious escape in this awe-inspiring country, we have created the perfect guide to Japan for you to use — no expenses spared.
Where to stay
If you have been longing to visit Japan, yet have had difficulties deciding where to go, then we suggest travelling either to the imperial city of Kyoto, where famous monuments and temples await, or to the bustling capital of Tokyo where new dimensions of culture lie ahead.
Located within the remote forests on the border of Kyoto, by the Oi river, you will find the serene and romantic Hoshinoya hotel, which has been impeccably designed to impress its guests.
This riverside hotel is designed to be a luxuriously traditional Japanese retreat, where elegance and serenity are combined to create a resort where guests can discover an entirely new world.
Embark on a boat journey that will take you to the divine Hoshinoya hotel and expect to be treated as if you were royalty — perfect for those wanting to experience a peaceful and memorable retreat where you can relax, and if you find yourself in need of some entertainment, then you can try your luck in some of the best online casinos in Japan.
If you would prefer to be closer to the dazzling bright lights of Tokyo, then the pristine Mandarin Oriental is the ideal hotel for you.
Overlooking Japan’s capital city lies the five-star luxury hotel that will take your breath away — expect to be impressed with impeccable service, contemporary styles and fantastic facilities, including the hotel’s renowned spa.
This hotel is perfect for those who want to be far enough from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo to be peaceful, but close enough to be perfectly convenient.
Where to eat
No matter where you decide to stay when visiting Japan, Tokyo is a must-visit place for food lovers. Overflowing with Michelin stars and dripping with flavours, the city’s culinary world varies from traditional Japanese cuisine to refined Chinese, exceptional Italian and heavenly French — you’re wonderfully spoilt for choice.
Step into Shirosaka, a classic Japanese restaurant, and watch as Chef Hideki Ii produces magic right in front of you. Combining traditional and modern techniques into his very own personal style, the food that Tokyo-born Ii prepares at this exquisite restaurant will surely leave you wanting more.
Situated along the cobbled streets of Kagurazaka, restaurant Ishikawa is all about the details, which is perhaps why it has continued to hold its three Michelin stars since it made its debut in 2008.
Perfect for more celebratory occasions, Ishikawa offers an exquisite 10-course ‘season-changing’ tasting menu and each dish is created with the highest-quality Japanese ingredients.
What to do
Believe us when we say that you will never be bored when visiting Japan, as there are endless possibilities for entertainment.
Once the capital of Japan, Kyoto is home to luscious gardens and many of the country’s imperial palaces, thereby making it an ideal location to visit. It is also home to the famous Nishiki Market, where you can shop endlessly.
Whilst visiting Kyoto, ensure that you travel to the Bamboo Forest in Arashiyama, as it is a site worth visiting. The forest is perhaps one of the most photographed areas in Japan, and rightfully so, as the green tunnels are truly an unparalleled sight.
Head to the Odaiba for a breathtaking experience at the Mori Building. Here you will find the teamLab digital art museum, where over 50 breathtaking artworks will astound you.
For a more traditional experience, visit the Imperial Palace, as the walls and moats surrounding the estate will transport you back in time — take a stroll in the public East Gardens, where you will find the peaceful Ninomaru Garden and the Suwano-chaya Tea House.
If you are searching for a breathtaking moment whilst you’re visiting, then simply head to Mount Fuji. Known to be one of the more popular tourist’s sites in the country, the active volcano is classed as one of Japan’s three sacred mountains.
Whilst viewing Mount Fuji from a distance will be a beautiful moment, the option of hiking it will leave you with even better memory — although it may set you back 3 to 4 hours, the vistas that you will see at the top are worth every second.
Visiting Japan is an incredible experience that we believe everyone should enjoy, so what exactly are you waiting for?
