Discover Japan
Discover Japan with Sunspot Tours through our Japan escorted tours, Japan solo tours, Japan escorted rail journeys and Japan cruises.
Few journeys are shaped by one attraction alone. In Japan, striking scenery sits alongside local heritage, varied neighbourhoods and regional cooking. Whether your interests lie in Tokyo or Kyoto temples, there are rewarding ways to spend time beyond the usual highlights.
Why visit Japan?
Start with Tokyo, an important part of the destination’s appeal, then make time for Kyoto temples. These contrasting places help explain why visitors can enjoy such varied experiences within one journey.
Other highlights include Mount Fuji and Hiroshima. These places offer contrasting perspectives, from well-known sights to opportunities to appreciate regional landscapes and everyday life.
Culture and character
Culture in Japan is closely connected to tea rituals, craft traditions and lively contemporary culture. These influences appear in local celebrations, historic buildings, crafts and the rhythms of ordinary life. Visiting markets, neighbourhood streets and smaller communities can reveal details that are easy to miss when moving quickly between major sights.
Respectful curiosity goes a long way. Taking time to learn about local customs, dress appropriately at religious or historic places where required, and support small businesses can make a visit more rewarding for travellers and hosts alike.
Food and drink
Food offers another way to discover the destination. Look out for ramen, sushi and tempura, while exploring how ingredients and recipes change between regions and communities. Local restaurants and markets can be especially useful places to try everyday dishes rather than relying only on familiar international menus.
If you have dietary requirements, check ingredients and preparation methods before ordering. Sampling seasonal produce and local drinks, where suitable, can add another memorable dimension to the trip.
When to visit Japan
The most suitable travel dates depend on your interests and the places you plan to visit. As a general guide, spring blossoms and autumn foliage; summers often humid. Weather can differ between coastal, inland, mountain and urban areas, so check conditions for the specific stops on your itinerary rather than relying on one countrywide forecast.
Practical information
Sightseeing days may involve uneven paving, steps or longer road journeys. Comfortable walking shoes, layers suited to local weather and a small day bag are sensible additions to your luggage.
Before leaving the UK, check current entry and passport requirements, travel insurance and official travel advice for Japan. Confirm payment arrangements, any recommended vaccinations and how you will get around between the places you wish to visit.
Why visit Japan with Sunspot Tours?
Planning a journey through Japan is easier when the main arrangements are organised in advance. Explore the options available with Sunspot Tours and compare the routes, inclusions and departure dates that best match the experiences you want. Where offered, escorted tours can help visitors travel between key sights with local insight and a structured itinerary.
Take a closer look at the available Japan holidays and start planning a journey that reflects what you most want to see.
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Your Japan Questions Answered
Find out more about visiting Japan with the answers to these frequently asked questions.
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Japanese cuisine is diverse, from sushi and ramen to tempura and traditional kaiseki meals. With fresh ingredients and regional specialties, there’s something for every palate, whether you’re a seafood lover or prefer vegetarian options.
It is generally safe to eat food in Japan, especially at reputable restaurants and hotels. As with any destination, it’s a good idea to stick to fresh, well-cooked food and drink bottled water.
Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended. It provides coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage, ensuring peace of mind during your travels.
Japan’s must-see attractions include the historic temples of Kyoto, the bustling city of Tokyo, and the iconic Mount Fuji. Explore the ancient city of Nara, and the hot springs of Hakone for a blend of nature and culture.
In Japan, bowing is a common form of greeting. It’s also polite to remove your shoes when entering someone’s home or certain traditional establishments.
Pack comfortable shoes for walking and lightweight clothing in layers, as weather can vary. Bring a small bag for daily items, and consider carrying a light rain jacket. For temple visits, it’s helpful to have slip-on shoes, as many require removing footwear.
The best times to visit Japan are spring (March to May), when cherry blossoms are in bloom, and autumn (September to November), when the fall foliage is vibrant. These seasons offer pleasant weather for sightseeing.
Japan is very safe for tourists, with low crime rates and a high level of public courtesy. Even so, it’s best to take standard precautions, such as keeping an eye on personal belongings and respecting local customs and etiquette.
The official language is Japanese. In major tourist areas, some people speak English, and you’ll often find English signage. Learning a few basic Japanese phrases can help enhance your experience, especially when visiting rural areas.
The currency used in Japan is the Japanese Yen (JPY). Credit cards are widely accepted in urban areas and at most hotels and restaurants, but it’s advisable to carry cash for small purchases, especially in rural areas and smaller establishments.