Japan Holidays

It’s no surprise that Tokyo is a top destination in Japan, known for its fast-paced, futuristic vibe and endless shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. Tokyo is Japan at full volume: the famous scramble of Shibuya Crossing, the boutiques of Harajuku, and the glittering towers of Shinjuku lit up after dark. Slow down and you'll find a gentler side too - the serene Senso-ji Temple in old Asakusa and tiny lantern-lit alleys serving the best ramen of your life. Shinjuku and Shibuya are best to stay in for their buzz and transport links whilst Asakusa offers more traditional charm.

Kyoto was Japan's imperial capital for over a millennium; become enchanted with its traditional tea houses, serene gardens, and more than 1,600 temples. Walk through thousands of red gates at the iconic Fushimi Inari Shrine, see the gold-leaf Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion) reflected in its lake and wander the towering Arashiyama Bamboo Grove.

Kyoto is one of the most beautiful places in Japan during cherry blossom season, occurring in late March-early April, however it is best to book early, as these are its busiest weeks of the year.

Osaka stands out for its lively nightlife and delicious street food. Osaka is warm, loud and wonderfully welcoming - the place where locals tell you to "eat until you drop." The neon-soaked Dotonbori district is the beating heart of it all, reflected in the canal below. Osaka is a great base for day trips to Nara, Hiroshima and Universal Studios Japan.

If you want to explore Japan even further, here are more of our top destinations:

Hakone: hot-spring resorts and picture-perfect views of Mount Fuji, an easy add-on from Tokyo
Nara: ancient temples and friendly wild deer roaming the parks, perfect as a day trip from Osaka or Kyoto
Hiroshima: a moving, unmissable piece of history
Hokkaido: Japan's northern wilderness, home to world-class skiing, snow festivals and soothing onsen in winter
Kanazawa: stunning gardens and preserved samurai districts, often called "little Kyoto"

For most travellers, spring (March to May) is the best time to visit Japan, as this is when the famous cherry blossoms bloom, creating a breathtakingly beautiful atmosphere in parks and along riversides. The weather is mild, and the country is full of vibrant festivals, like Hanami.  Autumn (September to November) is another great time, with cooler weather, less crowds, and stunning fall foliage painting the landscapes in reds, oranges, and yellows. If you’re wanting a skiing holiday to Japan, then the picturesque snowy mountains in the North are a popular destination in the winter months.

Most first-time visitors spend 10 to 14 days in Japan, which is enough to enjoy the classic Golden Route of Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka with a side trip to Hakone, Mount Fuji or Hiroshima. A shorter 7-day trip covers the highlights at a brisk pace, while 2 to 3 weeks lets you slow down and explore beyond the big three. Our Hays Travel experts can help you build the right length of trip around your time and budget.

Japan's cherry blossom season (sakura) is one of the world's great natural spectacles. For a few magical weeks, parks, riversides and ancient temples burst into clouds of soft pink and white. Timing is everything, and it's different every year. As a rough guide:

Tokyo & Kyoto: late March to early April
Osaka & central Japan: early April
Hokkaido: late April into early May

Because the bloom only lasts a week or two in each place, and the exact dates shift with the weather, cherry blossom holidays are best booked 9 to 12 months ahead.

Japan’s culture is as rich as its landscapes. Take time to explore historic landmarks like Kyoto’s ancient temples and the breathtaking gardens of Kanazawa. Whether you're relaxing in an onsen (hot spring), participating in a traditional tea ceremony, or visiting art galleries in Tokyo, Japan invites you to slow down and soak in its history and heritage. Embrace the local customs and enjoy the country's famous hospitality. Every holiday in Japan offers a unique experience that makes it the perfect destination to create memories you’ll never forget.

Indulge in Japan's world-famous cuisine; from the freshest sushi and sashimi to savoury bowls of ramen, Japanese food is a feast for the senses. Osaka, known as the food capital, offers iconic street foods like Takoyaki (octopus-filled dough balls) and okonomiyaki (savoury pancakes). For something sweet, treat yourself to delicate matcha-flavoured desserts. Whether you're dining in a high-end restaurant or exploring bustling food markets, the diverse flavours of Japan will leave you craving more.