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Holidays to Japan

A gracious and traditional country, Japan is an astonishing blend of the modern and the ancient where futuristic cities, sacred temples and snow-capped mountains all form part of the fabric of everyday life.

It is this diversity merged with the complexity of Japanese customs, a hard to decipher language and a suite of societal rules, many seemingly cryptic and enigmatic, that can leave even the best travelled visitor perplexed and baffled. Yet this...

It is this diversity merged with the complexity of Japanese customs, a hard to decipher language and a suite of societal rules, many seemingly cryptic and enigmatic, that can leave even the best travelled visitor perplexed and baffled. Yet this is part of the charm of a holiday to the country with Japanese hospitality, friendliness and willingness to help legendary. Comprising of around 4000 islands, with main island Honshu one of the largest in the world, four-fifths of the country covered in mountains, internationally recognised cuisine, an ancient national sport of sumo, onsen hot springs, the most populous megacity on earth and no less than 26 UNESCO World Heritage Sites there is almost an infinite number of things to see and do.

Tokyo is one of the most dazzling modern cities on earth and, day or night, hums with a vibrancy that is contagious. Discover world-class museums, ancient shrines, imperial palaces, gardens and markets, framed by the almost surreal backdrop of snowcapped Mount Fuji. Further south is Kyoto, home to a collection of the country’s best known cultural sites and a place that defines the moniker of ‘old Japan’. An ancient capital for over a thousand years, this beautiful city harbours a wealth of Japanese history and tourist attractions with over 2000 temples and shrines and a whole plethora of palaces and museums.

Head to Honshu’s mountainous interior, visit the charming towns of Takayama and Matsumoto, experience the Japanese Alps and stay in a traditional ryokan, encounter mischievous snow monkeys, bathe in hot springs and discover picturesque thatched villages or head to the coastal city of Kanazawa, foodie Osaka or Hiroshima to visit Miyajima Island. For those searching for lesser-known and little-visited Japan, head north to the geothermal springs and volcanic landscapes of the island of Hokkaido. Speak to a travel specialist regarding a tailor-made tour to Japan.

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Where to visit in Japan

There is more to Japan than futuristic cities, high-speed bullet trains, sumo wrestling and cutting-edge cuisine and travelling away from the main tourist centres opens a whole new side to the country. Most visitors initially arrive in Tokyo with its world-class museums, tourist attractions, shops, temples, gardens and palaces. Mt Fuji emerges in the distance and the surrounding Hakone National Park offers fine views and plenty of outdoor activities.

Further south, Kyoto rightly lays claims to being Japan’s cultural centre. Here there are an astonishing collection of UNESCO World Heritage Sites and over 2,000 shrines. The coastal city of Kanazawa is home to a 400 year old castle then travel on to Hiroshima – a name forever synonymous with the events of 1945. The pretty towns of Takayama and Matsumoto are the gateway to the walks and wildlife of the Japanese Alps whilst northern Hokkaido Island is known for its volcanic landscapes and hot springs.

Booking with Pettitts Travel
1

Getting to know you
A crucial part of our process, discuss your plans with us either by phone, video or in person.

2

Helping you to design your trip
Entirely tailor-made, there is complete flexibility to incorporate all your requirements.

3

On-hand support, when you need it
Our team are on hand to answer any questions and ensure you are fully ready, and excited, for your trip.

4

Full confidence whilst you are away
Enjoy full support from our UK team and trusted local partners throughout your journey.

We’re pleased to confirm that Pettitts Travel will not apply any surcharges to our package holidays when we are operating as a tour operator, regardless of changes in global costs. The price you agree at the time of booking is the price you will pay, a commitment we have proudly upheld for the past 38 years.

Meet our Japan Travel Consultants

Paul
Senior Travel Consultant
Katie
Senior Travel Consultant
Helen
Senior Travel Consultant

Your holiday in Japan

All of our holidays to Japan are arranged on a tailor-made basis which means that each itinerary is individually curated to ensure it fits your exact requirements and interests. Our Japan holidays are largely self-guided making them a great way for independent travellers to explore the country and interact with its people. Upon arrival, you will be provided with maps in English and directions to get to your hotel and for transfers between cities, train or bus schedules will be provided as well as recommended routes. Sightseeing will be suggested and can also be used in conjunction with an offline smart-phone application. Alternatively, we can provide a fully tailor-made service in Japan which can include sightseeing throughout with an English-speaking guide and entrance fees, private transfers between transport hubs and hotels and luggage forwarding. When on holiday you will have the support and assistance of our Japan partners as well as our UK office.

Geishas walking through the streets of Kyoto, Japan

Japan’s cherry blossom season

Cherry blossom season, or sakura, is one of Japan’s most celebrated times of the year that has been important to Japanese society for thousands of years. This beautiful spectacle otherwise known as hanami, typically occurs from late March to mid-April. The fleeting beauty of the blossoms, which only last for a week or two, symbolises the transient nature of life. Some of the best places to see Japan’s cherry blossom include Tokyo’s Ueno Park, famous for its expansive sakura tree-lined paths, and Kyoto's Maruyama Park which is home to a beautiful weeping cherry tree. In Hiroshima, the Peace Memorial Park offers a poignant setting for the blossoms whereas Mount Fuji’s surrounding areas including the Chureito Pagoda, provide breathtaking views of cherry blossoms framed against the iconic mountain. No matter where you go, the cherry blossoms truly create a magical and unforgettable atmosphere across Japan.

Cherry blossom in Kyoto, Japan

UNESCO sites of Japan

From commanding castles and historic villages to national parks and natural landmarks, Japan is home to an impressive 26 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, each offering insight into Japan’s culture and history. Among the most famous is the beautiful city of Kyoto. Renowned for its temples, shrines, traditional wooden houses and beautiful gardens, this UNESCO site wonderfully preserves Japan’s cultural heritage and seamlessly blends the city’s ancient architecture with the surrounding natural beauty. An hour south of Kyoto lies the prominent ancient Buddhist temples of Nara, including Todai-ji, which is home to one of the world’s largest bronze Buddha statues. Other noteworthy UNESCO sites in Japan include the historic villages of Shirakawa-go and Gokayama which are both known for their gassho-zukuri farmhouses that have been preserved for centuries, Himeji Castle, a well-preserved example of feudal architecture and Mount Fuji, Japan’s iconic peak.

Shirakawa-go village, Japan
Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Kyoto, Japan
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Speak to a Japan Travel Consultant

When is the best time to visit Japan?

Depending on where you are planning to travel, Japan can be visited throughout the year, however, generally the best times to visit are between March and May or from August to early January. Spring heralds the arrival of cherry blossom season and autumn spectacular fall colours. Summer temperatures can be very hot and, in certain places, humid too whilst winters cooler and clear but very cold in the far northern island of Hokkaido. The months of June and July are considered rainy season, however, rainfall is not consistent and there will be plenty of dry spells.

Do I need a visa to travel to Japan from the UK?

British citizens do not need a visa to travel to Japan for visits of up to 90 days.

How long is the flight to Japan from the UK?

Direct flights between the UK and Japan are approximately 12 hours. Indirect flights that stop en-route have a longer duration.

What currency is used in Japan?

The official currency of Japan is the Japanese Yen. Despite the country’s modernity, Japan is still largely a cash society and although credit and debit cards can more readily be used in larger towns or cities, in rural or less visited areas it is unlikely that they will be accepted. ATM machines can be found throughout Japan.

Is English spoken in Japan?

English is not as widely spoken in Japan as it is elsewhere in Asia. In small towns and rural areas very few people will speak or understand English whilst in larger cities or places used to receiving foreign visitors a greater number of people should have a basic understanding of the language. However, this is one of the joys of travel to Japan and should be embraced as it is an excellent opportunity to learn a few Japanese words and phrases. Not only will it add to the enjoyment of your holiday but will also be enthusiastically received.

When is cherry blossom season in Japan?

Hanami, the viewing of cherry blossom, known as sakura, is an important event in the Japanese calendar and is when the country is at its most enchanting. Cherry blossom season runs from around the end of March to the end of April although exact timings fluctuate.

Should I take a Shinkansen bullet train?

Japan’s rail network is envied the world over and its famed Shinkansen bullet train is the jewel in its crown. Punctual, efficient and tranquil the Shinkansen network covers the length and breadth of Japan and is an excellent way to travel around the country.

Book with confidence with Pettitts Travel

We are here to take the stress out of your holiday, to provide you with impartial well-informed advice and assist you in navigating regulations and guidelines to ensure your trip goes as planned.
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