A tour to Japan is an unforgettable encounter with a country that is both deeply traditional and strikingly modern – a destination that has the power to amaze you time and time again.
Experience the essence of Japan short and sweet with the most important cultural cities: Tokyo and Kyoto. The contrasts between the ultra-modern and the old traditions truly amazes most people.
You get Japan to your very core on this big tour. Experience famous highlights like Tokyo, Kyoto, Hiroshima, Kanazawa and Osaka spiced with less famous pearls like Okayama and Naoshima.
An experience for life with big contrasts between ultra-modern Tokyo, exquisite temples and gardens, maiko in kimonos and traditional tea houses in Kyoto, and the samurai town of Kanazawa.
On this tour to Japan’s main island, you’ll experience a carefully selected collection of the country’s most remarkable highlights. Honshu offers everything from sacred temples and magnificent Japanese gardens to fascinating culture and vibrant cities.
Gain a unique insight into Japan’s many faces with visits to two of the country’s most fascinating cities, where Kyoto’s timeless traditions meet Tokyo’s modern rhythm.
Embark on a magnificent tour through Japan’s many facets, unfolding like chapters in a living story. From sacred temples and breathtaking mountain landscapes to historic castles and vibrant metropolises.
On a tour to Japan, you’ll experience a remarkable contrast between peaceful, minimalist traditions and a dazzling explosion of colourful sensory impressions.
From teahouses, shrines, temples, Japanese gardens, and breathtakingly beautiful scenery on one side, to cutting-edge technology, high-speed trains, and futuristic architecture on the other – Japan is a destination that stimulates all the senses.
Japan is also famous for its exceptional food culture and flavourful Japanese dishes. Food here is bound to be a major part of your adventure – whether you’re tucking into a steaming bowl of ramen, savouring freshly made sushi, or sipping a cup of matcha tea, you’ll find that even the simplest meal feels like something truly special in Japan.
“To me, Japan is like a captivating book you can never quite put down. With each chapter, my curiosity deepens, and for every answer I find, another question arises.
Each region of the country fascinates me with its own unique blend of everything that makes Japan so distinct: the meeting between tradition and modernity, the respectful rituals, and the aesthetic simplicity, contrasted with the cities’ unrivalled efficiency and energy. And of course, the incredible Japanese cuisine – different in every region – alongside the colours of the changing seasons, from the soft pink of the cherry blossoms and the lush summer greenery to the warm glow of the autumn leaves and silent beauty of the winter snow.”
– Mikkel, travel expert and Product Manager for Japan
Our tours in Japan are designed to give you the perfect mix of the country’s highlights and its hidden gems, without you having to plan transport, accommodation, or logistics yourself. We’ve walked the streets, taken the trains, and stayed in the hotels – so we know what makes a tour to Japan truly memorable.
These tours combine iconic cities, historic regions, spectacular landscapes, and rich cultural experiences. In addition to planned, guided excursions, you’ll also have plenty of time to explore independently and follow your own travel dreams.
Below, you can read about selected highlights and attractions in Japan.
Japan’s vibrant capital, Tokyo, with around 33 million residents, is one of the world’s most populous cities and a treasure trove of iconic attractions.
What makes this city so special is that each of the districts in Tokyo has its own distinctive character – and no matter what kind of city person you are, there’ll be an area that speaks to you.
See the famous Shibuya Crossing surrounded by sleek skyscrapers, wander through lively Shinjuku (with its bustling Korea Town), admire the luxury boutiques in Ginza, or enjoy a coffee by the river in trendy Nakameguro.
Tokyo is a paradise for food lovers, shoppers, and fans of modern culture alike, and its ultra-efficient transport system makes getting around a breeze.
Kyoto, Japan’s former imperial capital, still bears the mark of its imperial past today.
Often called the cultural heart of Japan, Kyoto brims with world-famous temples and shrines. You can stroll the sloping streets of Sannen-zaka and Ninen-zaka in the Higashiyama district with views of the stunning Kiyomizu-dera temple, or visit the iconic Kinkaku-ji and Ginkaku-ji temples – known as the Golden and Silver Pavilions.
It’s also in Kyoto that you can walk through the thousands of vermilion Torii gates at Fushimi Inari or explore the famous bamboo forest of Arashiyama.
Kanazawa is often referred to as “Little Kyoto”, and as soon as you wander through its atmospheric neighbourhoods, you’ll understand why.
The city offers a fascinating insight into traditional Japanese culture. In the historic Higashi Chaya district, you can stroll past beautiful wooden facades, or visit Kenroku-en – considered one of Japan’s three most beautiful gardens – where gently trickling streams, stone lanterns, and carefully pruned trees form a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city.
Kanazawa also boasts vibrant markets such as Omicho Market and a tempting array of excellent restaurants.
Beautifully nestled in the Japanese Alps, Shirakawa-go is one of Japan’s most picturesque villages – visiting feels like stepping back in time.
This UNESCO world heritage site is surrounded by mountains and is renowned for its distinctive gassho-zukuri houses, with steep thatched roofs designed to withstand heavy winter snowfalls.
Many of these houses have been preserved for generations; some are open to visitors, offering a glimpse into how families have lived and worked here for centuries. And if you’d like to take home a keepsake, look for a sarubobo – a small, faceless doll believed in Japanese folklore to bring good fortune, love, and a happy marriage, originating from the Takayama region where Shirakawa-go is located.
While Japan is often celebrated for its ancient history, the country also holds moving stories from more recent times – most notably from World War II, when Hiroshima and Nagasaki were bombed.
Hiroshima was the site where the world’s first atomic bomb was dropped in 1945. Here, you can visit the Atomic Bomb Dome, designated a UNESCO world heritage site in 1996, as well as the Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park and Peace Memorial Museum.
In addition to its wartime history, Hiroshima offers beautifully restored attractions such as Hiroshima Castle and Shukkeien Garden.
From Hiroshima, you can also take a day trip to Miyajima Island, where you’ll find the famous floating Torii gate that stands in the sea at high tide and can be reached on foot at low tide. The island’s charming streets and friendly local deer add to its appeal.
Surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Japanese Alps, Nagano is a city steeped in spirituality and natural beauty.
One of its main attractions is Zenko-ji Temple, one of Japan’s most visited temples, which houses the first Buddha statue ever brought to Japan in the 7th century. Though the original statue is hidden, visitors can see a replica.
About 50 minutes by express train from Nagano lies the serene mountain town of Yudanaka, known for its abundance of onsen hot springs. A short bus ride and a scenic 30-minute walk from Yudanaka will bring you to the Jigokudani Monkey Park, where, between December and March, the famous snow monkeys bathe in the warm springs surrounded by snow and steam. The park is also delightful in other seasons when you can watch the monkeys play on the slopes and by the river.
Depending on your chosen tour, there are many other unforgettable experiences awaiting you in Japan:
Before travelling to Japan, you may naturally have questions — from transport options to the best time to visit.
Here, we’ve gathered answers to some of the most common questions, to help you prepare for your upcoming Japanese adventure.
No, as a UK citizen, you don’t need a visa for short stays in Japan. You simply have to fill out an arrival form either at the airport or online before departure.
Stay updated on the latest entry requirements on our practical information page or via the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office’s website.
Possibly. Whether you need vaccinations depends on several factors, including which vaccinations you’ve previously had.
We therefore recommend consulting a specialist doctor, your GP, or an authorised vaccination clinic for advice on which vaccinations are necessary before your tour.
The best time to travel to Japan is in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to December) when the weather is most pleasant.
That said, Japan can be enjoyed all year round, with each season offering something special – so the best time really depends on what you want from your tour.
Read more about the best time to travel to Japan.
In general, tipping in Japan is not a common practice, and it’s not expected.
That said, our experience shows that tipping is slowly becoming more accepted, especially in contexts that involve international guests – such as when using tour guides or staying in ryokans.
The easiest way to travel around Japan is by train.
Japan boasts an incredibly efficient and reliable public transport network covering the entire country. The train system is fast, easy to use, and the world-famous Shinkansen high-speed trains connect major cities in no time.
On our tours, train travel is included, including an IC card loaded with 4,500 JPY for use on trains and city metro systems.
TIP: Use Google Maps to check public transport routes – it works brilliantly here!
Yes, most places in Japan accept payment by debit or credit cards such as Visa. In many convenience stores like 7-Eleven, you can also pay with your IC card, which you may also use for public transport in Japanese cities.
However, we recommend always carrying some cash, as smaller restaurants, markets, and shops sometimes only accept cash. You can easily withdraw money at local 7-Elevens, Family Marts, or Lawson stores – you’ll find them on nearly every street corner.
Japanese etiquette is rooted in respect and consideration for others. Don’t worry about knowing every unwritten rule; locals are used to visitors and provide plenty of clear signs and guidance. Simply observe and follow the lead of those around you – you’ll rarely go wrong.
A few basics to keep in mind: Speak quietly on public transport and avoid phone calls. Queue politely and always tidy up after yourself. When visiting temples, shrines, or private homes, you’ll often be asked to remove your shoes – just look for signage or follow others’ example.
When you choose TourCompass for your journey to Japan, you’ll travel with a tour operator that has years of experience creating well-thought-out tours in the country. We’ve offered tours to Japan since 2017, and every itinerary is carefully crafted based on our personal experiences. Our goal is to create the perfect balance between Japan’s iconic landmarks and the authentic, atmospheric experiences we’ve fallen in love with ourselves – with time built in for you to explore the corners of Japan that speak most to you.
We work closely with our local partner in Japan, who has over 30 years of experience in Asia. The local guides we collaborate with are deeply rooted in Japanese culture and provide the kind of insight into everyday life that you simply can’t find in any book.
If you have questions about what a tour to Japan involves – from the best travel season to the legendary train journeys or Japanese etiquette – our travel specialists are ready to help you find the tour that fits you perfectly.
Has Japan been on your wish list for years? Then now’s the time to go for it.
Explore our tours above – and if you’re unsure which one suits you best, our travel specialists are here to assist you.
TourCompass – From tourist to traveller
You can check out the itinerary and dream yourself away in photos and videos of all our tours. You can read more about accommodation, combination options and all the practicalities – and see prices and departure dates for the next 18 months.
You are always welcome to call or write to us. We are here to answer all your questions, listen to your wishes and provide you with honest and competent advice based on our extensive travel experiences with Africa, Asia and Latin America.
You will receive a detailed quote for the tour, which you can save, print out or share with your travelling companions. If you decide to go ahead and book the tour, you can do this easily via the quote itself.
Millie’s passion for travel sparked when she was little, and now she loves to help others fulfil their travel dreams
We know your time is precious. That's why we strive to provide personalised, attentive service to ensure your comfort and safety throughout your tour. From the moment you book to the moment you return home, we’re here to handle every detail with the utmost care.
We offer a diverse array of destinations, each promising its own unique story, shaped by its local cultures, fascinating wildlife, and natural beauty.
We design every tour based on the extensive research and first-hand experiences of our travel specialists and experts. Each tour is crafted to showcase the best each country has to offer.
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