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JAPAN
DESTINATION GUIDE
As the world leader in travel experiences since 1947, we connect you to the real Japan in a way like no other. A bewitching blend of old and new, Japan takes you on a journey from timeless traditions to gleaming futurism. The country’s beautiful landscapes range from the snow-capped peak of Mount Fuji to gorgeous cherry blossom gardens, while the history stretches for centuries. Discover feudal castles, the customs of the geisha and samurai, the WWII tragedy of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and the modern rebirth into a land of astonishing technology. A Japan holiday with Trafalgar takes you from the neon skyscrapers of Tokyo to the historic Ameyoko Street Market, and from the high-speed bullet train to the ancient Buddhist temples of Kyoto. Meet a Tea Master and discover the art of the Japanese tea ceremony, and enjoy a kaiseki dinner in a traditional ryokan in the mountains. From learning how to make sushi, to sampling sake on the Edo-style streets of Takayama, we’ll reveal all the intriguing layers of Japan. Travel with us and unlock the infinite possibilities thanks to our exclusive Triploves Highlights.
"Japan is one of the most captivating places on earth, where you can go from Tokyo's flashy streets to the snowy peak of Mount Fuji or a traditional ryokan in a day."
Travel Director
Japan at a
glance
Currency
Japanese yen
Winter avg temp
2°C
Summer avg temp
27°C
Time Zone
GMT +9
Capital City
Tokyo
Language
Japanese
Good Morning
Ohayōgozaimasu
Good evening
Konbanwa
A bewitching blend of old and new, Japan takes you from timeless traditions to gleaming futurism. Join your expert Trafalgar Travel Director as you discover snow-capped Mount Fuji, gorgeous cherry blossoms, feudal castles, astonishing technology, ancient tea ceremonies, high-speed bullet trains and traditional ryokans.
Our top 3 things to do in Japan
Our Japan tours take you from the dizzying heights of Mount Fuji and the bustle of the Ameyoko Market, to the tranquility of a Japanese tea ceremony.
Admire the snow-capped Mount Fuji
See the towering peak of Mount Fuji, the tallest mountain in Japan and a UNESCO-listed site. We’ll take you up to the 5th station of Mount Fuji, a spectacular vantage point at 2,300 metres, before taking a ride on the Kachikachiyama Ropeway with views of Mount Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi.
Experience a traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony
We’ll introduce you to a professional Tea Master who has spent many years learning the craft of the tea ceremony. You’ll learn about the history of Japanese tea making, and watch how the matcha is prepared with a bamboo whisk. You’ll even have a go at making (and tasting) your own tea.
Take a high-speed bullet train to Kyoto
Board the high-speed bullet train to Kyoto, the former capital of Japan and the ancient epicentre of Japanese culture. After whizzing through the country, you’ll meet the locals at a traditional ryokan and learn about traditional Japanese customs, then explore the Gion District and glittering Kinkakuji Temple, the symbol of Kyoto.
Best museums in Japan
A Japan tour package with Trafalgar takes you through the country’s top museums, from one of the world’s best collections of Asian art, to the ornate temples of Tokyo.
Tokyo National Museum
The largest and oldest museum in Japan, Tokyo National Museum holds one of the world’s best collections of art and archaeological artefacts from Asia. There are over 110,000 items, including 87 National Treasures of Japan, and you can find everything from art along the Silk Road to medieval Japanese art.
Sensoji Buddhist Temple
One of the most famous temples in Japan, the Sensoji Buddhist Temple is the oldest Buddhist temple in Tokyo. It was originally built in 628 but was rebuilt after being destroyed in WWII. Today, you’ll find a beautiful five-storey pagoda, woven with incense and crimson eaves.
Kotokuin Temple
Located in the city of Kamakuru, the Kotokuin Temple is a Japanese Buddhist temple of the Jodo sect. It’s home to the ‘Great Buddha’ or ‘Daibutsu’, an 11.4-metre bronze statue of Amida Buddha, constructed in 1252. The towering statue is a National Treasure and one of the most iconic sights in Japan.
Best food in Japan
A Japan group tour with Trafalgar will have you indulging in the country’s fantastic cuisine, from fresh sushi to piping hot ramen.
Sushi
Although sushi is now a popular dish around the world, you’ve never really tried it until you’ve eaten the best in Japan. Our Local Specialists will help you navigate the endless varieties of this iconic dish, from raw vegetables to fresh fish wrapped in rice and seaweed.
Ramen
A beloved dish found all over the country, ramen is a delicious Japanese noodle soup. Each region has a different variation and it usually involves a tasty pork or chicken broth, seasoned with plenty of rich flavours like miso, soy sauce and spring onions.
Hida Beef
Hida beef comes from a Japanese breed of black-haired cattle raised in the fresh air and pure water of Gifu Prefecture. Hailed as the best beef in Japan, we’ll take you to the top restaurants to try one of the beautifully tender and marbled Hida beef steaks.
Versatile clothing
Japan’s weather ranges hot and humid to freezing cold, with mild springs in between. Pack versatile layers to be prepared for all conditions on your Japan holiday.
An adaptor plug
In Japan, the standard voltage is 100 V and the power plugs and sockets are of type A and B. The standard frequency is 50 / 60 Hz.
Comfortable sandals
Japanese culture requires you to take off your shoes when entering traditional restaurants, temples and ryokans. Bring a comfortable pair of sandals so you can easily slip them off all day.
Japanese phrasebook
Learning a few Japanese phrases will help you connect with the friendly Japanese locals, and offers the chance for some rewarding interactions.
Japanese yen
Most shops and restaurants in Japan primarily accept cash, so it’s best to come prepared with some Japanese yen for your trip.
What to pack for Japan
Other things to know before you go
Depending on your nationality, you'll need a valid passport and may also need visas to enter. Please check this well in advance of your trip departure date here. Some countries also require passports to have 3-6 months left on them before the given expiry date, so be sure to double check this before booking your travels.
Road Trip Adventures
Slide into your seat, grip the wheel, start the engine, and hit the open road. From Norway to South Africa, the tundra to the rainforest, there is no limit to what you can reach with four wheels and an adventurous spirit. The road trip is no longer a means to get from point A to point B in your country; it crosses borders into new places, allowing for pure freedom in exciting destinations. Measure your next journey in viewpoints, road signs, and the people you'll meet along the way!
Guide to Japan Visa Application
Learn about the types of visas and the step by step process of obtaining a visa for Japan and quarantine regulations in this comprehensive guide.
This includes types of visa applications, what to declare, and what is prohibited.
Keep in mind these handy tips for a smart, stress-free, and on-time visa application experience!