Whether you're dreaming of cherry blossom-lined streets, peaceful temples, or futuristic skylines, Japan has a magical way of giving you everything at once. This is a country where tradition and modernity live side-by-side, and every region offers a unique flavour of adventure and culture. If you’re planning a luxury escape to Japan, here’s a curated guide to the most unforgettable experiences you’ll want on your journey.

Cities like Tokyo and Osaka are a rush of energy, colour and style. In Tokyo, explore high-end fashion in Ginza, street culture in Harajuku, and the dazzling lights of Shibuya. Osaka, on the other hand, is famous for its nightlife, street food and warm, down-to-earth energy. Don’t miss the view from Abeno Harukas or a quiet moment in Osaka Castle Park during cherry blossom season.

Our Experience Japan tour blends the excitement of these vibrant cities with unforgettable cultural encounters. You’ll journey through Osaka, Nara, Kyoto, Mount Fuji and Tokyo, with hands-on experiences like tea ceremonies, origami, fan painting, and local miso and sake tastings.

While Tokyo’s neon lights and Osaka’s vibrant streets often steal the spotlight, Japan’s natural beauty is equally captivating. Wander through the peaceful bamboo groves of Arashiyama, hike the rugged trails of the Japanese Alps, or escape to Hakone - the closest hot spring retreat from Tokyo. Set in a mountainous region, Hakone is known for its volcanic landscapes, where you can watch sulphur vents steaming at Owakudani before soaking in a soothing onsen nearby.

Japan’s calendar is packed with vibrant, unforgettable festivals. If you’re travelling in July, Kyoto’s Gion Matsuri fills the streets with colour, music and centuries-old traditions. In winter, the Sapporo Snow Festival is a true spectacle, with giant ice sculptures, glowing lanterns, and steaming cups of sake to keep you warm.

Japan is a haven for art lovers and design enthusiasts. In Tokyo, explore contemporary spaces like the Mori Art Museum or 21_21 Design Sight. Head to Kanazawa for its thriving arts scene or visit Naoshima Island, home to some of the most innovative art installations in the world.

Step into a world of tranquillity with a visit to some of Japan’s most sacred sites. Kyoto’s Fushimi Inari Shrine, with its endless tunnel of red torii gates, is a must-see. Add to that the majestic Himeji Castle or the peaceful grounds of Nara’s Todai-ji Temple, and you’ve got a spiritual experience that goes far beyond sightseeing.

No trip to Japan is complete without experiencing the legendary Shinkansen. Sleek, seamless and remarkably fast, the Shinkansen isn’t just efficient - it’s a symbol of Japan’s blend of precision, innovation and hospitality. Gliding at up to 320 km/h, the bullet train offers a seamless ride through Japan’s beautiful and ever-changing landscapes.

Our Japan by Rail itinerary is the ultimate top-to-toe tour of Japan, covering three islands, Kyushu, Honshu, and Hokkaido, all by bullet train. Experience the history of Nagasaki and Hiroshima, the serenity of Kyoto’s temples, snow monkeys in the Japanese Alps, and the vibrant cities of Tokyo, Sendai, Hakodate, and Sapporo. This is a rail journey that captures the full breadth of Japan - ancient, modern, and everything in between.

At First Class Holidays, we believe a trip to Japan should be seamless, inspiring and unforgettable. Whether you’re exploring the Golden Route, experiencing local life in Tokyo, immersing yourself in the cultural heart of Japan, or discovering the northern charm of Sapporo, we’ll help you create a journey that’s seamless, enriching and unforgettable.

Ready to plan your first-class Japanese escape? Get in touch with our team today and let’s build a journey filled with beauty, meaning, and once-in-a-lifetime memories.