Japan is open to visitors again, and this vast country of contrasts offers a wealth of experiences. Enter the experts at Audley who are on-hand to help you find your perfect Japan trip with their advice...
With Japan now open to travellers again, the incredible and diverse country is set to be a popular travel spot in 2023 and beyond. Beyond the bright lights of Tokyo and the iconic sights, there is so much more of Japan just waiting to be explored, where you can experience the culture first-hand and really get under the skin of this eclectic country. That’s why we have teamed up with the experts at Audley who have given their top six tips for travel to Japan to help you make the most of your time here and to discover the fundamentals of Japanese culture. Read on to discover what they recommend...
“Kyoto-by-the-Sea is a hub for artisans, nestled between the mountains and the sea on the Kyotango peninsula. I stayed in Ine, in a funaya boathouse along the bay. From here you can visit Nippon Genshosha to meet three exceptional swordsmiths, learn about the making of exquisite kimonos in Tamiya Raden, and visit the family-run Takeno Sake Brewery. You’ll also learn about the history of the village and its innovative sustainable fishing process, including how to prepare traditional sashimi.”
– Audley Japan Specialist Jo
“Sushi is just the tip of a cuisine that’s garnered UNESCO heritage status. Japan has a plethora of culinary experiences, from an evening street-food tour in Tokyo to a time-honoured tea ceremony in Kenroku-en, Kanazawa. To bring a taste of Japan home with you, I recommend taking an izakaya cooking class with the Women’s Association of Kyoto. Classes take place in a traditional machiya.”
– Audley Japan Specialist Charlie
“A stay in a Ryokan, or traditional Japanese inn, is often the highlight of a trip to Japan. From the warm hospitality and exquisite food to bathing in the steaming waters of an onsen, it’s a uniquely Japanese experience. I particularly like The Beniya Mukayu in Kaga Onsen for its tranquil setting and kaiseki-style cuisine.”
– Audley Japan Specialist Clio
“With snow-tipped mountain tops, turquoise streams and majestic pine forests, Kamikochi in the Japanese Alps is a beautiful part of the country to visit. There are several scenic trails for hikers of any level to enjoy, and the resident families of wild snow monkeys roaming freely throughout the area are quite happy to pose for photos. One of the most enjoyable activities is rewarding yourself after a long day’s hike with a glass of warm sake next to the fire in any of the cosy alpine lodges dotting the riverside.”
– Audley Japan Specialist Laura
“Surrounded by rice fields and mountains, Takayama feels a world away from the bright lights of busy Tokyo. A visit to Takayama should always include a trip to its morning market, which takes place next to the crystal-clear river that runs through the town. As well as local handicrafts and vibrant flowers, the market traders sell fruit from the surrounding areas, including peaches in the summer and a huge variety of crisp apples in the autumn. The old town is very popular for its beautifully preserved streets, but my favourite thing to do in Takayama is to wander into the surrounding hills and walk through the ancient trees to visit temples that you will likely have all to yourself."
– Audley Japan Specialist Jo
“My most vivid travel moment was waking up at 5.30 am and stumbling, bleary eyed, out of my tent to watch the sun rise over Mount Fuji. I had brought all my fluffy jumpers and coats with me, so even in early November I was quite toasty. I was offered a hot coffee by my host and encouraged to sit on the deck and watch the slow reveal. The mountain was bathed in red morning light and the snow on top glittered. It was a once in a lifetime experience and I am so glad I made the effort to roll out of bed.”
– Audley Japan Specialist Hollie
The Japan specialists at Audley have all travelled extensively around the country, returning each year to build on their knowledge and find new and different ways for you to experience your destination. It means they can arrange immersive tours and off-the-beaten-path activities to help you get at the authentic soul of a place. Audley also works with the best local guides, some of whom have become long-time friends of the company, and can suggest the most interesting hotels, homestays and lodges.
Speak to Audley’s experts now to start planning your dream visit to Japan.
Get the very best of Wanderlust by signing up to our newsletters, full of travel inspiration, fun quizzes, exciting competitions and exclusive offers.